Admin As the results of the 2024 KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education) examinations are released, many students are now preparing for the next phase of their academic journey. However, the rising cost of higher education remains a major hurdle for many families. Fortunately, numerous scholarship opportunities—both local and international—are available for deserving students. In this guide, we highlight some of the key scholarships open to KCSE graduates in 2025, their requirements, and how to apply.
1. Local Scholarships
a) Equity Group Foundation’s Wings to Fly Program
The Wings to Fly program provides full scholarships for academically talented but financially disadvantaged students to pursue higher education.
- Eligibility: Must have scored an A or A- in KCSE and come from a low-income household.
- Coverage: Tuition fees, accommodation, and upkeep allowance.
- Application Process: Apply through Equity Bank branches or their official website.
b) The Jomo Kenyatta Foundation (JKF) Scholarships
The JKF scholarships target high-performing students with financial constraints.
- Eligibility: Students with exceptional KCSE grades (B+ and above) who demonstrate financial need.
- Coverage: Covers tuition fees and provides an annual stipend.
- Application Process: Applications are submitted via the JKF website or their offices.
c) Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) Scholarships
HELB offers limited scholarships to undergraduate students in public and private universities.
- Eligibility: KCSE graduates joining local universities with a minimum B grade.
- Coverage: Tuition and upkeep allowance.
- Application Process: Apply online via the HELB portal.
d) County Government Scholarships
Many county governments offer scholarships to students from their regions.
- Eligibility: Must be a resident of the county and have a minimum KCSE grade of B+.
- Coverage: Varies by county but often includes tuition fees and pocket money.
- Application Process: Contact your county offices for details.
2. International Scholarships
a) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation provides scholarships to African students to study in top universities abroad.
- Eligibility: High-achieving KCSE graduates with leadership potential and a commitment to giving back to their community.
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, travel costs, and a living stipend.
- Application Process: Apply directly through partner universities, such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, or Ashesi University.
b) DAAD Scholarships for Kenyan Students
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) offers scholarships to Kenyan students for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Germany.
- Eligibility: Strong academic performance in KCSE (B+ and above).
- Coverage: Tuition, health insurance, travel expenses, and a monthly stipend.
- Application Process: Submit your application through the DAAD Nairobi Office or their online portal.
c) Commonwealth Scholarships
This program supports students from Commonwealth countries to pursue higher education in the UK.
- Eligibility: KCSE graduates with excellent grades (A or A-).
- Coverage: Full tuition, airfare, living expenses, and a research grant.
- Application Process: Applications are made through the Ministry of Education or directly via the Commonwealth Scholarship website.
d) U.S. Government’s EducationUSA Program
EducationUSA helps Kenyan students access scholarships in the United States.
- Eligibility: KCSE graduates with exemplary grades and extracurricular achievements.
- Coverage: Partial or full scholarships depending on the institution.
- Application Process: Visit the EducationUSA centers in Nairobi or through their official website.
3. Application Tips for Scholarships
To increase your chances of securing a scholarship, follow these tips:
- Start Early: Research and apply for scholarships as soon as possible.
- Prepare Required Documents: Most applications require KCSE results, recommendation letters, and a personal statement.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your application to highlight your strengths and alignment with the scholarship goals.
- Leverage Guidance: Seek help from school counselors or organizations like EducationUSA to ensure your application is strong.
4. Final Thoughts
Scholarships provide a gateway to higher education for KCSE graduates who excel academically and demonstrate financial need. With determination and effort, many students can secure funding for their dream courses. Whether through local opportunities like the Wings to Fly program or international ones like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the possibilities are endless.
For more updates on scholarships and educational opportunities, visit Mwalimu Sasa.
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