CUEA January 2026 Intake Details

Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) January Intake 2026 Application Form, Courses Offered, Admission Entry Requirements, Eligibility, How to Apply, Application Closing Date, Admission List, Student Portal, FAQs, and Fees Structure for Government (KUCCPS) Sponsored and Self-sponsored Students for the 2026/2027 Academic Year Intake.

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa, CUEA, is widely recognised as one of the leading faith-based universities in the region, combining strong academics with values-driven formation and a vibrant multicultural community. Located in Langata, Nairobi, and accredited by Kenya’s Commission for University Education, CUEA attracts students from across Kenya, East Africa and beyond.

The January 2026 intake is already open, with the university announcing limited spaces for new students for both the September 2025 and January 2026 entry periods. This means that if you are planning to begin your studies in early 2026, this is the time to prepare your application, organise your documents and secure your place.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Catholic University of Eastern Africa January 2026 intake, including programmes on offer, entry requirements, application steps, key timelines, fees and funding options, campus life and practical tips to submit a strong application.

Overview of CUEA and the January 2026 Intake

CUEA is a private, chartered university founded on the intellectual and moral tradition of the Catholic Church. Its philosophy emphasises the search for truth, holistic formation and service to society. The main campus sits along Bogani East Road in Langata, Nairobi, with additional campuses and centres serving different regions and specialised programmes.

The January intake is ideal if

You completed your secondary education in late 2025 and do not want to wait until September
You are a working professional looking for a fresh academic start at the beginning of the year
You are transferring from another institution and want a clear transition point
You are an international student, aligning your travel and visa plans with the new calendar year

For January 2026, CUEA is receiving applications for a wide range of certificate, diploma, undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including theology, education, business, computer science, law, arts, social sciences, health-related programmes and professional short courses.

Why Choose the Catholic University of Eastern Africa in 2026

When you select a university, you are not only choosing a place to study, you are choosing a community, a network and a formation that will shape your career and your character. CUEA stands out for several reasons.

Strong academic reputation
CUEA has been operating for decades, with a track record of training leaders for the Church, government, NGOs and corporate sectors across Eastern Africa. Its programmes are regularly reviewed to stay aligned with industry needs and accreditation standards.

Values-based education
As a Catholic institution, CUEA embeds ethical reflection, social justice and service into its teaching and community life. Students are encouraged to grow intellectually, spiritually and socially, becoming professionals who can make principled decisions in complex environments.

International and regional diversity
CUEA hosts students from over thirty nationalities in the wider region, creating a rich learning environment where you interact with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Vibrant student life
Beyond the lecture halls, CUEA offers clubs, sports, chaplaincy activities, leadership opportunities and community outreach initiatives. This helps you develop soft skills such as teamwork, communication and leadership, which are highly valued in the job market.

Flexible study options
Through its main campus, regional centres and open, distance and e learning options, CUEA provides flexibility for full-time students, part-time learners and working professionals.

Programmes Available for the January 2026 Intake

CUEA’s January intake typically mirrors many of the programmes available in other intakes, especially at the certificate, diploma and undergraduate levels, with selected postgraduate programmes also admitting new students at the start of the calendar year. While the exact list for January 2026 may be refined by departments, you can expect opportunities in the following broad areas.

Undergraduate degree programmes

Business and Management, such as the Bachelor of Commerce and related specialisations
Theology and Religious Studies
Education, including various subject combinations
Arts and Social Sciences, such as Geography, History, Sociology, Development Studies and related disciplines
Computer Science and Information Technology
Law and related legal studies
Health-related programmes, such as Nursing and Community Health, where available and accredited

Diploma and certificate programmes

Diplomas and certificates are ideal if you are building foundational skills, planning to upgrade later to a degree or seeking practical, job-oriented training. CUEA offers diplomas in areas such as education, business, early childhood development, communication, social work and others, each with specific subject requirements.

Postgraduate programmes

For January 2026, selected master’s and postgraduate programmes will also admit new cohorts, for example, in education, business administration, theology, social sciences and other fields where classes can conveniently start at the beginning of the year. Entry into these programmes usually requires a relevant bachelor’s degree with at least Second Class Honours, often with either Upper Division or Lower Division, plus work experience, depending on the programme.

To confirm whether your specific programme of interest is accepting students in January 2026, you should check directly with the relevant faculty or the admissions office, using the contacts provided on the official university communication channels.

General Admission Requirements for January 2026

Although each programme has its own detailed requirements, there are general minimum thresholds that applicants must meet for different levels of study. These are aligned with national standards for university education in Kenya.

Undergraduate degree programmes

Typical minimum requirements include

A Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education, KCSE, mean grade of C plus or higher, with subject combinations specified by each programme
Or, an Advanced Certificate of Education, GCE or A levels, with at least two principal passes and a subsidiary pass in relevant subjects
Or, a recognised diploma or professional certificate in a relevant field from an institution approved by the university senate
For non-Kenyan systems, an equivalent qualification evaluated by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority or other recognised bodies

Certain programmes have stricter subject requirements. For example, law, education, computer science and health-related courses may demand higher grades in particular subjects such as English, Kiswahili, Mathematics, Physics, Biology or Chemistry.

Diploma programmes

Diploma courses generally require

A KCSE mean grade of around C plain or C minus, depending on the specific programme
Or, a certificate in a related field with a good pass, from a recognised institution

Specialised diplomas, such as a diploma in law or a diploma in early childhood development and education, may set particular grade thresholds in languages or key subjects.

Certificate programmes

Certificates usually admit applicants with lower KCSE grades who still meet the minimum criteria set by CUEA and the regulator. These programmes are often shorter and designed as stepping stones into diplomas or degrees.

Postgraduate programmes

For master’s level programmes, typical requirements include

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant area, normally with at least Second Class Honours, Upper Division
Applicants with Second Class Honours, Lower Division, may also be considered if they have several years of relevant work experience or hold a postgraduate diploma in a related field

Requirements for International Applicants

CUEA welcomes students from across Africa and other parts of the world. International applicants for the January 2026 intake should pay attention to a few additional points.

Academic certificates must be equivalent to the Kenyan minimum entry requirements for the chosen level of study. In many cases, qualifications need to be equated or recognised by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority or similar bodies.
If your previous education was undertaken in a non-English speaking system, you may be required to demonstrate proficiency in English, either through recognised test scores or by undertaking an English language course approved by the university.
You will need a valid passport, a study visa and any other immigration documents required by Kenyan authorities.
Because processing visas and travel arrangements can take time, international students are encouraged to apply early for the January 2026 intake to avoid last-minute complications.

How to Apply for the Catholic University of Eastern Africa January 2026 Intake

CUEA has streamlined its application process using an online admissions portal, making it easier for prospective students within Kenya and abroad to apply from wherever they are. (Admissions)

You can expect the process to follow steps similar to these

Create an online account
You start by visiting the official CUEA admissions portal and creating a personal account using your active email address and a secure password. Once you confirm your details, you can log in to the portal.

Start a new application
After logging in, you select “New Application” or the equivalent tab for the January 2026 intake, choose the level of study, such as certificate, diploma, undergraduate, or postgraduate, then choose your desired programme and campus.

Fill in your personal and academic details
You will be guided to enter your personal information, contact details, national ID or passport number, and your academic history, including KCSE or other national exam results, A-level grades or previous university qualifications, as applicable.

Upload supporting documents
You will be asked to upload scanned copies of key documents, typically including

academic transcripts and result slips
school leaving certificates
a copy of your national ID or passport
passport-sized photographs
Any professional or diploma certificates you are using for entry
for some programmes, a medical certificate of good health or proof of English proficiency for non-English speaking backgrounds

Pay the application fee
Your application will only be processed after payment of a non-refundable application fee. The portal will display the acceptable payment methods, such as mobile money, bank deposit or direct online payment. After payment, you should keep your receipt or transaction code.

Submit and track your application
Once you have provided all details and uploaded documents, you submit the application through the portal. You can then log back in to check the status under “My Applications” or the equivalent section, where updates such as “under review” or “offer made” may appear when decisions are reached.

Key Dates and Timelines for January 2026

Exact reporting dates and detailed deadlines may vary slightly from year to year, and each programme can have specific timelines, especially for postgraduate or specialised courses. However, for a January intake, you can expect the following general pattern

Application window, open throughout 2025, with communication that the January 2026 intake is ongoing, and spaces are limited
Shortlisting and issuance of admission letters, on a rolling basis as applications are received and processed
Fee payment and confirmation of acceptance, to be completed ahead of the official reporting date indicated in your admission letter
Orientation and registration, typically scheduled around the official start date of the semester, during which new students complete formal registration, receive student ID cards and attend induction sessions
Start of lectures, immediately after orientation, following the academic calendar for the 2025 to 2026 year

Because the January 2026 intake has limited spaces as announced in recent communications, you are strongly encouraged to apply early, pay careful attention to instructions in your admission letter and meet any deadlines given by the admissions office.

Fees, Scholarships and Financial Planning

Tuition and related fees at CUEA vary depending on the programme, level of study, mode of delivery and campus. For example, some professional or laboratory-based programmes often have higher tuition or additional charges for materials and equipment, while arts and humanities programmes may be more moderate. Fee structures are periodically reviewed to reflect inflation, quality improvements and regulatory requirements, so it is important to consult the most recent official fee schedule when planning your budget.

When preparing for the January 2026 intake, you should plan for

tuition fees for the first semester, which are usually clearly indicated in your admission letter
registration and examination fees, where applicable
library, ICT and activity fees, which support student services
accommodation, either on campus, where available or off-campus housing in nearby areas
meals, transport and personal expenses
books, stationery and any programme-specific materials

CUEA and its partners may offer different forms of financial support, such as bursaries, partial scholarships, work study opportunities or discounts through church institutions and sponsoring dioceses. Availability and criteria vary, so prospective students should enquire directly with the scholarships or finance office and monitor official notices.

If you are an international student, you should also factor in visa costs, travel expenses and medical insurance, as well as potential currency fluctuations between your home currency and Kenyan shillings.

Campus Life and Student Support at CUEA

Joining CUEA in January 2026 means entering a community that goes far beyond academics. The university pays attention to student welfare, pastoral care and holistic development.

Spiritual and pastoral life
As a Catholic institution, CUEA provides chaplaincy services, daily Mass for those who wish to attend, retreats, recollections and opportunities for service in parishes and communities. Students of all faiths are welcomed and respected, and the spiritual life of the campus contributes to a reflective and ethical environment.

Clubs and societies
You will find academic clubs, cultural associations, creative arts groups, debate and leadership forums, as well as community service clubs that engage in outreach and charity initiatives. These give you spaces to apply your talents and meet like-minded peers.

Sports and recreation
CUEA encourages participation in sports and physical activities through facilities for football, basketball, athletics and other games. Sports days and tournaments help build school spirit and teamwork.

Student support services
The university offers guidance and counselling, academic advising, career services and mentorship. These support systems are particularly important for first-year students joining in January, as they adjust to university life, manage workloads and plan their academic pathways.

Learning resources
CUEA’s library, digital resources and e learning platforms support both on-campus and distance learners. As a new student in January 2026, you will be introduced to the student portal and e learning tools so that you can access notes, submit assignments and track your academic progress.

Tips for a Successful January 2026 Application

To make the most of the Catholic University of Eastern Africa January 2026 intake, it helps to be strategic and organised. Here are practical suggestions to guide you.

Choose the right programme carefully
Reflect on your strengths, interests and long-term goals. Study the curriculum structure, core units and potential career paths associated with your preferred programme. If you are uncertain, reach out to the admissions office or faculty representatives for guidance.

Meet and exceed minimum requirements
While the university has minimum grade thresholds, some programmes are competitive and may consider higher performance, especially for law, health sciences and certain education or business specialisations. Present your grades honestly and highlight strengths in relevant subjects.

Prepare your documents early
Gather your academic transcripts, certificates, ID or passport copies, passport-size photos and any supporting letters well in advance. Ensure that your scans are clear and legible to avoid delays during verification.

Write clearly wherever narrative responses are needed
For some postgraduate applications, you may be asked to submit a statement of purpose or brief essays. Use this opportunity to explain your motivation, career plans and why CUEA is your chosen institution.

Respect deadlines and instructions
Read all instructions on the admissions portal and in your offer letter attentively. Submit your application before the soft closing dates for January 2026 and pay your application fee and acceptance fee promptly once you are admitted.

Plan financially
Create a realistic budget that covers fees, accommodation, food, books and transport. Discuss with your parents, guardians or sponsors early, so that fee payment does not become a last-minute obstacle to registration.

Engage with current or former students
If possible, talk to people who are already studying or have studied at CUEA. They can offer first-hand perspectives on programmes, lecturers and campus culture, helping you make informed decisions.

Frequently Asked Questions about CUEA January 2026 Intake

Is the January 2026 intake really open now?
Yes, the university has communicated that the September 2025 and January 2026 intakes are open with limited spaces, which means applications are being accepted ahead of those start dates.

Can I apply if I am still waiting for some exam results
In many cases, you will need final and official exam results to receive a full offer, especially for KCSE or A-level-based admissions. However, you may be able to start an application profile and then upload your results as soon as they are released. It is best to confirm with the admissions office for your specific situation.

Do I have to be Catholic to study at CUEA?
No, CUEA admits students from all faiths and backgrounds. While the university’s identity is Catholic and its values shape campus life, academic programmes are open to all qualified applicants and religious freedom is respected.

How long does it take to receive an admission letter
Processing times vary depending on when you apply, how complete your application is and how quickly departments review your documents. Submitting a complete, accurate application with all required documents and payments generally leads to faster decisions.

Can I transfer credits from another university?
If you have studied at another recognised institution, you may be eligible for credit transfer, subject to evaluation by CUEA. You will typically need official transcripts and course outlines for the units you wish to transfer. Decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

Are there hostels for January intake students
CUEA and partner institutions make accommodation arrangements for students, but availability can be limited, especially at the main campus. January intake students should enquire about on-campus or affiliated housing early and also explore safe off-campus options in the Langata area.

Is there support for international students joining in January
Yes, CUEA guides admissions, registration, immigration documentation and academic orientation for international students. Many faculties and student groups also help new students from abroad settle into campus life.

NOTE:

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa January 2026 intake offers a powerful opportunity to begin or advance your academic journey in a supportive, values-centred and globally minded university. Whether you are a recent high school graduate, a diploma holder seeking to upgrade, a working professional aiming for a postgraduate qualification or an international student searching for a welcoming academic home in Nairobi, CUEA provides a wide range of options.

By understanding the admission requirements, preparing your documents, applying early through the online portal and planning your finances, you can position yourself strongly for admission and a smooth start in January 2026.

If you commit to making the most of the teaching, mentorship and community life that CUEA offers, your January 2026 intake will not just be a date on the calendar; it will be the start of a transformative chapter in your life, one that prepares you to serve, to lead and to thrive in the Church and society.

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