Missing the January or May intake doesn’t mean your education journey has to wait another year. Many universities offering September intake in Kenya provide excellent opportunities for students who need flexible admission schedules.
Whether you’re a KCSE leaver who missed earlier deadlines, a working professional looking to upgrade your skills, or someone who needs more time to sort out finances and documentation, the September intake offers a practical solution.
This guide explains everything you need to know about September intake universities Kenya, including which institutions offer this option, admission requirements, courses available, and how to apply successfully.
What September Intake Means in Kenya
September intake refers to the third major admission period in Kenya’s higher education calendar, typically running from September to October each year.
Most Kenyan universities operate on three main intake dates: January (the largest intake), May (mid-year intake), and September (late admission intake). Some institutions also offer rolling admissions throughout the year.
The September intake is particularly important because it accommodates:
Students who completed KCSE but missed earlier application deadlines
Those who were initially waitlisted or didn’t secure placement through KUCCPS
Working professionals who want to start their studies later in the year
Students upgrading from diploma to degree programs
International students with different academic calendars
The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) typically handles government-sponsored placements for January intake. However, most September intake admissions are through direct university applications on self-sponsored or private basis.
Who Should Consider the September Intake Option
The September intake is ideal for:
• KCSE leavers who missed January and May deadlines or are still deciding on their career path
• Working professionals who prefer to start studies in the third quarter of the year to align with work schedules
• Diploma holders looking to upgrade to degree programs without waiting until January
• Students who didn’t meet KUCCPS cluster points but qualify for self-sponsored programs
• Career changers who want to pursue a different field and need flexible timing
• Parents and guardians planning for their children’s education with more time to arrange finances
• International students whose academic calendars differ from Kenya’s main intake periods
• Students who need time to complete application documents, secure funding, or meet other requirements
List of Universities and Colleges Offering September Intake in Kenya
Below is a comprehensive table of institutions commonly known to offer ongoing university admissions Kenya during the September period:
| Institution Name | Type | Popular Courses Offered | Mode of Study | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Nairobi | Public | Business, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine | Full-time, Part-time, Distance | Nairobi |
| Kenyatta University | Public | Education, Health Sciences, Business, IT | Full-time, Part-time, Open Learning | Nairobi |
| Moi University | Public | Engineering, Medicine, Education, Agriculture | Full-time, Part-time | Eldoret |
| Egerton University | Public | Agriculture, Education, Science, Business | Full-time, Part-time | Njoro, Nakuru |
| Jomo Kenyatta University (JKUAT) | Public | Engineering, IT, Agriculture, Health Sciences | Full-time, Part-time | Juja |
| Strathmore University | Private | Business, IT, Law, Accounting | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi |
| United States International University (USIU) | Private | Business, Psychology, IT, International Relations | Full-time, Evening, Weekend | Nairobi |
| Daystar University | Private | Communication, Business, Education, Theology | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi, Athi River |
| Mount Kenya University | Private | Business, Health Sciences, Education, IT | Full-time, Part-time, Online | Thika, Multiple campuses |
| Kenya Methodist University | Private | Business, Health Sciences, Education, IT | Full-time, Part-time | Meru |
| Catholic University of Eastern Africa | Private | Business, Education, Theology, Social Sciences | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi |
| Kabarak University | Private | Business, Education, IT, Health Sciences | Full-time, Part-time | Nakuru |
| Multimedia University | Public | IT, Journalism, Business, Film Production | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi |
| Technical University of Kenya | Public | Engineering, Business, IT, Applied Sciences | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi |
| Zetech University | Private | Business, IT, Hospitality, Architecture | Full-time, Part-time, Online | Nairobi |
| Riara University | Private | Business, Education, Psychology, IT | Full-time, Evening, Weekend | Nairobi |
| KCA University | Private | Business, IT, Hospitality, Aviation | Full-time, Part-time, Online | Nairobi |
| Africa Nazarene University | Private | Business, Theology, Education, Music | Full-time, Part-time | Ongata Rongai |
| Pan Africa Christian University | Private | Business, Theology, Education, Communication | Full-time, Part-time | Nairobi |
| Dedan Kimathi University | Public | Engineering, Business, IT, Pure Sciences | Full-time, Part-time | Nyeri |
Note: Intake availability may vary depending on the program and year. Always confirm directly with the institution before applying.
Admission Requirements for September Intake
Minimum KCSE Grades
Certificate Programs: D plain (or equivalent qualification)
Diploma Programs: D+ and above (varies by course)
Degree Programs: C+ and above for most courses; B plain and above for competitive programs like Engineering, Medicine, Law
Postgraduate Programs: Bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class (Lower Division) for Master’s programs
Required Documents
When applying for late admission universities Kenya, you’ll typically need:
• Original and copies of KCSE certificate or equivalent qualification
• National ID or birth certificate
• Passport-size photographs (usually 2–4 copies)
• Transcript from previous institution (for diploma/degree holders upgrading)
• Recommendation letters (for postgraduate applications)
• Personal statement or motivation letter (for some programs)
• Application fee payment receipt
• Medical examination report (for some institutions)
Application Process
Step 1: Visit the university’s official website or admissions office
Step 2: Fill out the online application form or collect a physical form
Step 3: Attach all required documents (scanned copies for online applications)
Step 4: Pay the application fee (ranges from KES 1,000 to KES 5,000)
Step 5: Submit the application before the deadline
Step 6: Wait for admission letter (usually 2–4 weeks)
Step 7: Accept the offer and pay registration fees to secure your slot
Typical Intake Dates for Universities in Kenya
| Intake Period | Months | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| January Intake | January – February | October – December (previous year) |
| May Intake | May – June | February – April |
| September Intake | September – October | June – August |
Important: Some universities operate rolling admissions, meaning you can apply anytime and start when the next cohort begins.
Course Duration and Fees (Estimated)
The duration and cost of programs vary significantly depending on the institution type, course level, and study mode.
Typical Course Duration
| Program Level | Duration |
|---|---|
| Certificate | 6 months – 1 year |
| Diploma | 1.5 – 3 years |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 3 – 6 years (depending on course) |
| Postgraduate Diploma | 1 – 2 years |
| Master’s Degree | 1.5 – 2 years |
| PhD Programs | 3 – 5 years |
Estimated Fees Range
Fees may vary depending on institution, course, and whether you’re government-sponsored or self-sponsored.
| Institution Type | Certificate | Diploma (per year) | Degree (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Universities | KES 15,000 – 40,000 | KES 30,000 – 80,000 | KES 45,000 – 150,000 |
| Private Universities | KES 30,000 – 70,000 | KES 60,000 – 150,000 | KES 100,000 – 400,000 |
| TVET Institutions | KES 10,000 – 35,000 | KES 25,000 – 60,000 | N/A |
Note: These are estimated ranges. Specialized courses like Medicine, Engineering, and Law typically cost more. Always confirm current fees directly with the institution.
Benefits of Choosing September Intake
Flexibility in Timing
You get additional time to prepare financially, gather documents, and make informed decisions about your course and institution.
Second Chance Opportunity
If you missed earlier deadlines or didn’t qualify through KUCCPS, September intake gives you another opportunity to join university the same year.
Less Competition
September intake typically has fewer applicants compared to January, which may increase your chances of securing a slot in competitive programs.
Immediate Start After KCSE
Students who complete KCSE in November can apply and potentially start university by September, avoiding a long gap year.
Career Advancement
Working professionals can upgrade their qualifications without waiting until the next year, accelerating their career progression.
Diverse Course Options
Most universities offer a wide range of programs during September intake, including popular courses in Business, IT, Education, and Health Sciences.
Flexible Payment Plans
Many institutions offer installment payment options, making it easier for self-sponsored students to manage fees.
Things to Consider Before Applying
Check Accreditation Status
Ensure the university and specific program are accredited by the Commission for University Education (CUE). Accreditation guarantees that your qualification will be recognized by employers and professional bodies.
Verify Course Recognition
If you plan to pursue professional certification (like CPA, ACCA, or engineering registration), confirm that the course meets the requirements of relevant regulatory bodies.
Understand Study Mode Options
September intake universities Kenya offer various study modes:
Full-time: Regular daytime classes, Monday to Friday
Part-time: Evening or weekend classes for working students
Distance/Online: Flexible learning with minimal physical attendance
Blended: Combination of online and physical classes
Choose a mode that fits your schedule and learning preferences.
Consider Your Career Goals
Select a program aligned with your long-term career aspirations. Research job market demand, salary expectations, and growth potential in your chosen field.
Evaluate Location and Accessibility
Consider accommodation costs, transport, and proximity to home or workplace. Some universities have multiple campuses offering the same programs.
Review Admission Requirements Carefully
Ensure you meet all academic and documentary requirements before applying. Missing documents can delay or disqualify your application.
Compare Fees Across Institutions
While quality matters, also consider affordability. Some public universities offer similar programs at lower costs than private institutions.
Check for Scholarship Opportunities
Some universities offer scholarships, bursaries, or financial aid even for September intake students. Inquire during application.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get government sponsorship for September intake?
Most government sponsorship through KUCCPS is allocated during the January intake. However, some public universities accept KUCCPS placement lists for September intake if slots are available. Most September intake students join as self-sponsored or privately sponsored.
Is September intake available for all courses?
Not all programs may be available during September intake. Popular courses like Business, IT, Education, and Social Sciences are commonly offered. Highly specialized or limited-capacity programs like Medicine may only admit in January. Always check with the specific university department.
How do I know if a university is genuine?
Visit the Commission for University Education (CUE) website to verify if the university is chartered and accredited. You can also check the university’s physical location and speak with current students or alumni.
Can I transfer from September intake to January intake?
Transfers between intakes are generally not necessary since all intakes follow the same curriculum. However, if you need to defer or change your study mode, consult your university’s academic registrar.
What is the difference between September intake and supplementary intake?
September intake is a regular admission period scheduled by universities. Supplementary intake refers to additional admissions done when slots remain unfilled after the main intake, which can happen anytime.
Do employers recognize September intake graduates differently?
No. Your graduation certificate doesn’t indicate which intake you joined. What matters is that your degree is from an accredited institution recognized by CUE.
Can international students apply for September intake?
Yes. Most universities welcome international students during all intake periods. You’ll need additional documents like passport copies, visa documentation, and equivalence certificates for foreign qualifications.
Final Thoughts
Universities offering September intake in Kenya provide valuable opportunities for students seeking flexible admission schedules. Whether you’re a school leaver, working professional, or career changer, the September intake allows you to start your educational journey without waiting until the following year.
Remember to research thoroughly before choosing your institution. Verify accreditation status with CUE, compare program offerings across universities, and ensure the course aligns with your career goals.
Start your application process early, gather all required documents, and don’t hesitate to contact university admission offices for clarification. With proper planning and the right information, you can successfully join the university intake that works best for your circumstances.
Take time to explore different institutions, compare their strengths, and make an informed decision that sets you up for academic and career success.
