How-To Guides

Cluster points determine which degree programmes you qualify for at Kenyan universities. There are 61 clusters, each grouping related programmes (Medicine, Engineering, Law, etc.).

1. 1
   Your KCSE aggregate (max 84) is calculated as: Mathematics + best of (English or Kiswahili) + your next 5 best subjects. Maximum possible = 12 × 7 = 84.
2. 2
   Each cluster uses 4 specific subjects (called core subjects for that cluster). For example, Cluster 9A (Medicine) uses Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics. Your best score from each slot is taken.
3. 3
   The weighted formula is applied:

Where core_subjects = sum of your 4 cluster subject scores (max 48), and aggregate = your total 7-subject aggregate (max 84).

1. 1
   Wait for KCSE results. KUCCPS only opens after KNEC releases results (usually February–March). You cannot apply before this.
2. 2
   Go to kuccps.net and click "Student Portal". Log in using your KCSE index number and year of examination as your credentials.
3. 3
   Review your cluster points. The portal shows your computed cluster points for each cluster. Confirm they match your grades.
4. 4
   Select degree programme choices. You can pick up to 6 degree programmes, ranked 1–6. Rank them in order of preference — KUCCPS places you in the highest-ranked course you qualify for.
5. 5
   Add TVET/KMTC backup choices. You can also apply for up to 3 TVET or KMTC programmes simultaneously. Always add these as a safety net.
6. 6
   Submit and save your confirmation. After submitting, save your application confirmation number. You'll need it to track placement and during revision windows.

1. 1
   Know your cluster points first. Use our calculator. This tells you which programmes are within reach and which are out of range.
2. 2
   Match interests, not just scores. Many students pick Medicine because it's competitive, not because they want to be doctors. Choose a course aligned with what you enjoy — it affects 5+ years of study.
3. 3
   Check the minimum subject requirements. Some courses require a minimum grade in specific subjects (e.g. Biology C+ for Nursing). Check these on each course page before applying.
4. 4
   Use the 1-2-3-safety strategy. Choice 1 = your dream (stretch). Choice 2–3 = realistic matches. Choices 4–5 = comfortable qualifiers. Choice 6 = guaranteed safety.
5. 5
   Consider job market outlook. Ask: what is the employment rate for this course in Kenya? Are there jobs? Clinical Medicine, Nursing, and ICT consistently have high demand.
6. 6
   Think about location and cost. Public universities charge lower fees. KMTC programmes are 2 years. Your county of residence may qualify you for special county-sponsored slots.

After the initial application window closes, KUCCPS opens two revision windows where you can change your programme choices.

1. 1
   1st Revision Window (May–June): You can change any or all of your choices. This is useful if you made mistakes, found better options, or if cutoff points shifted after the first round.
2. 2
   2nd Revision Window (June–July): The final chance to update. Changes here are binding — KUCCPS uses these choices for final placement computation.
3. 3
   Only one change per window: You get one submission per revision window. Plan carefully before making changes.

1. 1
   What HELB covers: HELB provides loans for tuition fees and a small upkeep allowance. Public universities receive tuition directly; you get an upkeep amount each semester.
2. 2
   Who qualifies: Kenyan citizen + KUCCPS-placed student at an approved institution. You must be in your first degree. Income-based assessment determines the loan amount (Ksh 35,000–60,000/yr tuition + upkeep).
3. 3
   When to apply: HELB applications open around July–August each year for the new academic year. Apply at helb.co.ke immediately after placement — don't wait.
4. 4
   Repayment: Loan repayment begins 1 year after completing your course or 2 years after the loan start date, whichever comes first. Interest is 4% per annum.