- This unexpected decline in university applications comes on the heels of the 2024 KCSE results, which saw improved overall performance compared to previous years
- Out of the 244,463 candidates who scored the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above in the 2024 KCSE examinations, only 201,695 students submitted applications for university placement.
- As an education expert, I dare warn that the increasing number of KCSE students shunning university placements is not just a temporary setback, but a symptom of deep-rooted systemic issues in Kenya’s education system.
As the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) opened its portal for 2024 university applications, a concerning trend has emerged—thousands of eligible Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) candidates are opting out of the process altogether. Despite over 200,000 students attaining the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above, recent statistics indicate that more than 35% have not applied for placement into degree programmes.
This unexpected decline in university applications comes on the heels of the 2024 KCSE results, which saw improved overall performance compared to previous years. Yet, instead of celebrating seamless transitions into higher education, stakeholders are grappling with a sobering reality: the university dream is losing its appeal for many young Kenyans.
Historical Context
For decades, gaining admission to a public university in Kenya was considered a major milestone, often symbolizing the beginning of a promising future. The KUCCPS, formerly known as the Joint Admissions Board (JAB), has traditionally managed the centralized placement of KCSE candidates into public universities. Once students received their results, KUCCPS would guide their placement based on merit, program choices, and available capacity—often with little room for negotiation.
Initially, admission to university was highly competitive, and demand far outstripped supply. With limited slots in public universities, only the top-performing students—often those with grades of B+ and above—secured placement. Over time, as more universities were established and capacity increased, KUCCPS placement was expanded to include a broader range of students meeting the minimum university entry requirement of C+.
However, a notable shift has occurred over the past five years. Despite consistent or even improved KCSE performance, university applications have steadily declined. In 2019, over 90% of eligible students applied for university placement. By 2023, that number had dropped to just under 70%. The 2024 cycle has seen an even more dramatic reduction, with early figures suggesting that more than a third of eligible students have chosen not to apply at all.
Current Scenario
Despite the government’s continued push to increase university enrollment, recent data from the KUCCPS paints a worrying picture. Out of the 244,463 candidates who scored the minimum university entry grade of C+ and above in the 2024 KCSE examinations, only 201,695 students submitted applications for university placement. This means that over 42,000 eligible students—approximately 17% of those qualified—did not apply for admission into degree programmes.
This decline in applications is particularly alarming considering that placement slots across universities and colleges exceeded the number of qualified applicants, with KUCCPS confirming availability of over 1 million spaces in degree, diploma, and certificate programmes across the country.
The trend has triggered concern among education stakeholders. Speaking during the release of the 2024 placement report, Kenya’s Education Cabinet Secretary Ezekiel Ogamba noted:
“It is worrying that a significant number of qualified candidates are not taking advantage of the available opportunities for higher education. We urge parents, teachers, and community leaders to encourage students to apply and take full advantage of the diverse career pathways available through KUCCPS.”
These statements signal growing alarm among stakeholders. Even with reduced tuition fees—by as much as 40% under the new funding model—questions remain as to why so many students are still refusing to pursue university placements.
Reasons for Shunning University Placement
A deeper look into why thousands of qualified KCSE candidates are opting out of university placement reveals a mix of economic, social, and systemic factors. While university education has long been viewed as the main pathway to success, changing realities are reshaping student choices and aspirations.
One of the most cited reasons is the high cost of pursuing a university degree. Tuition fees in public universities have steadily increased, and when combined with the rising cost of living—including accommodation, transport, and food—many students and their families are finding higher education financially unsustainable.
Compounding the problem is the uncertainty around student funding, particularly the delayed disbursement of HELB loans. Many needy students rely on the Higher Education Loans Board to cover fees and upkeep, but frequent delays leave them stranded on campus or at risk of dropping out altogether. As one parent in Bungoma put it, “If we can’t afford the basics at home, how can we send our child to university where even HELB is not guaranteed?”
Another growing concern among students is the limited job opportunities after graduation. With the job market already saturated, unemployment and underemployment among university graduates has become a norm rather than an exception. There is a growing perception that university degrees no longer guarantee jobs, especially in fields like arts, humanities, and social sciences. Employers increasingly demand experience and practical skills that many degree holders lack. This disconnect between academia and industry is pushing students to reconsider the value of a four-year degree.
As university degrees lose some of their shine, Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions are rising in popularity. These courses are seen as more practical, skills-based, and aligned with job market needs. From electrical engineering to hospitality and ICT, TVET programmes are equipping learners with competencies that lead directly to employment or self-employment. Moreover, the government has heavily subsidized TVET programmes, offering capitation and scholarships to ease the financial burden. This has made TVET an attractive and affordable option for many students who might otherwise have struggled through university.
In a shift from traditional paths, a growing number of school leavers are choosing entrepreneurship. With support from family or savings, some students are starting small businesses—ranging from online retail to agribusiness—rather than pursuing higher education.
Others are seeking opportunities abroad, through student exchange, casual work, or even relocation to join relatives. A third group is entering the informal sector or helping out in family enterprises, valuing immediate income over long-term academic investment.
Finally, a lack of flexibility in placement options is discouraging many students. KUCCPS placement is often based on cluster points and national competitiveness, which may force students into courses they never wanted. Some feel boxed into career paths that don’t align with their passions or personal strengths, leading to frustration even before they begin their university journey. This mismatch can result in disinterest or outright refusal to take up the placement.
These reasons reflect a changing education landscape in Kenya, where students are increasingly pragmatic in choosing paths that offer immediate relevance, affordability, and personal fulfillment.
As an education expert, I dare warn that the increasing number of KCSE students shunning university placements is not just a temporary setback, but a symptom of deep-rooted systemic issues in Kenya’s education system. My argument is that, unless bold reforms are undertaken, universities may continue to lose relevance in the eyes of learners.
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The Author is a Professor of Chemistry at University of Eldoret, a former Vice-Chancellor, and a Higher Education expert and Quality Assurance Consultant. okothmdo@gmail.com
