The Ministry of Education has extended the tertiary funding deadline for first-time university and TVET applicants from 31 August 2026 to 21 September 2026. Eligible first-time students should submit applications via the Universities Fund and HELB platforms before the new cut-off to be considered under the current Student-Centred Funding Model.
Key Takeaways
- The application window for first-time university and TVET funding now closes on 21 September 2026.
- The Ministry received 789,422 applications by the original deadline but extended the window to reach more eligible students.
- Continuing students have already received disbursements — Ksh. 22.12 billion was paid for first semester/term support.
- First-time applicants will be processed under the Student-Centred Funding Model until Parliament enacts the new funding law.
What the tertiary funding deadline extension means
The extension gives eligible first-time applicants nearly three more weeks to complete and submit funding applications. For many students from low-income households, meeting the funding deadline determines whether they can report to campus or defer admission. The Ministry’s move aims to reduce that risk and allow more time for application, verification and submission.
Why the deadline was extended
Officials said the extension responds to evidence that a significant number of eligible students had not applied by 31 August. Contributing problems include limited internet access in rural areas, confusion around the application portals, delays in document verification, and general unfamiliarity with recent changes to the funding approach. The extension is intended to reduce exclusions caused by these administrative and access issues.
How applications will be processed
The Ministry confirmed that first-time applications received during the extended window will be assessed under the Student-Centred Funding Model (SCFM). That means award decisions will continue to use means-testing and banding to determine the mix of grants, loans and household contributions. Applicants should expect the same criteria and processes that were used before the extension.
Funding for continuing students
While first-time applicants work to complete their submissions, the government has moved to reassure the public that continuing students are receiving support. The Education Ministry disclosed that Ksh. 22.12 billion has been disbursed for first semester/term funding to continuing university and TVET students. Institutions and students should monitor payment confirmations and institutional capitation updates closely.
What applicants should do now
- Complete and submit applications by 21 September 2026 on the HELB and Universities Fund portals.
- Check that all required documents are uploaded and verified to avoid delays in assessment.
- Seek help at local education offices or guidance centres if you have limited internet access or unclear instructions.
- If you are a TVET candidate studying for exams, use available revision resources such as past TVET exams materials to stay on track academically while you wait for funding decisions.
Pending law and future changes
The Ministry noted that any shift to a new Universal Access and Funding Framework will require the passage of the Tertiary Education Placement and Funding Bill, 2026. Until Parliament passes that bill, the SCFM remains in effect. Students and parents should therefore prepare under current rules; changes in banding, loan-to-scholarship ratios or eligibility will only apply after the law is enacted and transitional mechanisms are announced.
How this affects students across programmes
First-time university and TVET students are both covered by the extension. If you are entering university, maintain communication with your institution and confirm admission conditions. If you are joining a TVET programme, ensure your course registration details match your funding application and consider reviewing subject-specific resources like the university exam practice papers and CBC resources for related foundational topics.
Final notes and practical tips
Time is limited. Treat the extended window as the final chance to apply under the current funding rules. Keep digital copies of all documents, take screenshots of submission confirmations, and follow up with the funding portals if verification stalls. If a household lacks internet, visit a county education office, a school guidance office, or an internet café early to avoid last-minute technical problems.
Meeting the revised tertiary funding deadline can determine academic plans for the year. Submit accurate applications, monitor verification, and use official support channels if you encounter problems.
