All Public universities in Kenya and their location

There are 39 public universities in Kenya chattered by the Kenya Commission for University Education dedicated to providing world-class education in various disciplines at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

These universities have remained competitive in the global higher education space with the majority attracting international students each year.

This article will list all chattered public universities approved by the Ministry of Education. Let’s get to it.

List of public universities in Kenya and location

Here is a list of all the public universities in Kenya, along with their locations:

1. Alupe University – Busia
2. Bomet University College – Bomet
3. Chuka University – Chuka
4. Co-Operative University Of Kenya – Nairobi
5. Dedan Kimathi University Of Technology – Nyeri
6. Egerton University – Njoro
7. Garissa University – Garissa
8. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University Of Science And Technology – Bondo
9. Jomo Kenyatta University Of Agriculture And Technology – Nairobi
10. Kaimosi Friends University – Kaimosi
11. Karatina University – Karatina
12. Kenyatta University – Nairobi
13. Kenyatta University – Mama Ngina University College – Mutomo
14. Kibabii University – Kibabii
15. Kirinyaga University – Kirinyaga
16. Kisii University – KIsii
17. Koitaleel Samoei University College – Nandi hills
18. Laikipia University – Nyahururu
19. Maasai Mara University – Maasai Mara
20. Machakos University – Machakos
21. Maseno University – Kisumu
22. Masinde Muliro University Of Science & Technology – Kakamega
23. Meru University Of Science And Technology – Meru
24. Moi University – Eldoret
25. Multimedia University Of Kenya – Nairobi
26. Murang’a University Of Technology – Murang’a
27. Pwani University – Kilifi
28. Rongo University – Rongo
29. South Eastern Kenya University – Kitui
30. Taita Taveta University – Taita
31. Technical University Of Kenya – Nairobi
32. Technical University Of Mombasa – Mombasa
33. Tharaka University – Tharaka Nithi
34. Tom Mboya University – Homa bay
35. Turkana University College – Turkana
36. University Of Eldoret – Eldoret
37. University Of Embu – Embu
38. University Of Kabianga – Kabianga
39. University Of Nairobi – Nairobi

Download a PDF of all Public and private universities in Kenta via this link.

Admission requirements for public universities in Kenya

To be admitted to a public university in Kenya, students must meet the following minimum requirements:

• Have a minimum of a C+ grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) exam
• Meet the minimum subject requirements for the preferred program if there are any.
• Meet the required cluster point for the course in the selected university

Note that cluster points for courses in different universities vary from year to year. If your calculated cluster points are close to cluster points that we used to place students in the previous year, it’s advisable to apply. This does not guarantee that you will be placed in the selected university for the selected course.

Public university application process in Kenya

All applications for government-sponsored students are done through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).

The portal opens after the release of KCSE results. To apply, you are required to create an account on the KUCCPS website and submit your application online.

During the application, you will be prompted to select a list of your preferred universities and courses. Note that you have to meet the requirements for the courses.

If you are not placed in the first cycle, KUCCPS will open the portal again for the second revision of courses.

If you were placed in the wrong institutions you can do an inter-institutional transfer.

Here is a comprehensive guide to the application process.

Funding options for public universities in Kenya

There are several funding options available for students attending public universities in Kenya. These include:

Government Funding

The Kenyan government is dedicated to funding education for students placed by KUCCPS through the higher education funding program.

HELB loans

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) offers loans to students attending public universities. These loans can cover tuition fees, living expenses, and other costs associated with attending university.

Private scholarships

There are several private scholarships available to students attending public universities. These scholarships are offered by foundations, businesses, and other organizations.

Work-study programs:

Work-study programs are available in almost all universities in Kenya. Through the program, you can work in different departments at the universities enabling you to earn some money to cater for tuition and other expenses.

Bursary

County governments provide bursaries to university students.

Advantages of public universities

• Affordability: Public universities in Kenya are generally more affordable than private universities. Tuition fees for public universities are set by the government and are subsidized by the government. This makes public universities more accessible to students from all socioeconomic backgrounds.
• Quality education: Public universities in Kenya offer a high-quality education. They are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE), ensuring they meet high academic excellence standards. Public universities in Kenya also have a strong track record of producing successful graduates.
• Wide range of programs: Public universities in Kenya offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in a variety of disciplines, including engineering, medicine, agriculture, business, education, and the arts and sciences. This allows students to choose a program that is aligned with their interests and career goals.
• Access to resources: Public universities in Kenya have access to a wide range of resources, including libraries, laboratories, computer labs, and sports facilities. This allows students to learn in a supportive and stimulating environment.
• Opportunities for personal and professional development: Public universities in Kenya offer a variety of opportunities for students to develop their personal and professional skills. These opportunities include student clubs and organizations, leadership programs, and internships.

Conclusion

Public universities in Kenya offer several benefits to students, including affordability, quality education, a wide range of programs, access to resources, and opportunities for personal and professional development.

Students considering attending university in Kenya should carefully consider the benefits of attending a public university.