Kenya Highlands University (KHU) Admission Requirements 2026-2027
Kenya Highlands University (KHU) Admission Requirements 2026/2027 Intake | The Kenya Highlands University (KHU) courses, application entry requirements, and fees for undergraduate, postgraduate, distant learning courses for the 2026/2027 academic year have been released.
The management of the Kenya Highlands University (KHU) has released the 2026 Intake application entry requirements for successful admission into the undergraduate and postgraduate (Degree, MBA, Ph.D., Master’s, Diploma, Certificate, Short Course, and Non-Degree) programs for the 2026/2027 academic year.
General Undergraduate Admission Requirements
For the 2026 admissions cycle, prospective undergraduate students must meet a set of baseline requirements that apply across all bachelor’s degree programs. These general guidelines help ensure students are academically prepared, even before considering faculty-specific requirements.
The core admission requirement for undergraduate studies is a minimum mean grade of C+ in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. Programs may require additional subject grades in areas relevant to the field of study, particularly for technical, scientific, or professional disciplines. Applicants with qualifications from international education systems, such as IGCSE or equivalent secondary school credentials, must present officially recognized certificates and meet the minimum accepted standards as outlined by the Kenyan education framework.
In addition to academic qualifications, KHU emphasizes a holistic review. This sometimes includes personal statements, evidence of leadership or community involvement, and interviews for select programs such as education or theology. Although academic performance is the foundation, the university values character, communication skills, and the applicant’s willingness to uphold KHU’s ethos.
Faculty Specific Requirements for Undergraduate Programs
Each academic department at Kenya Highlands University sets additional requirements that reflect the nature and demands of its programs. Understanding these details is essential for applicants who wish to gain entry into specialized fields.
School of Business and Economics
Bachelor’s programs within the business faculty typically require applicants to demonstrate competence in mathematics and language subjects. A C in Mathematics and English is often recommended, as coursework includes quantitative analysis, accounting principles, and communication-oriented modules. Students seeking entry into the Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Business Administration programs may also be required to indicate their preferred specialization, although official specialization choices are usually confirmed later in the academic journey.
School of Education
The School of Education is one of the most sought-after faculties. Students applying for a Bachelor of Education, whether primary, secondary, or early childhood specialization, must meet subject-specific requirements based on their teaching areas. Secondary education applicants must have strong grades in the two teaching subjects they intend to pursue. For example, those entering languages, sciences, or humanities must show a solid foundation in those KCSE subjects. Interviews and teaching aptitude assessments may be part of the admission process.
School of Theology and Ministry
Given that KHU has a long and respected history in theological studies, applicants to the theology faculty must demonstrate a passion for ministry, moral integrity, and a willingness to serve. The minimum grade requirement applies, but some applicants may be required to attend interviews or present recommendation letters from spiritual leaders. The goal is to ensure that students entering theological programs have both academic readiness and personal conviction aligned with ministry work.
School of Health Sciences
Health science programs, especially those in community health or applied sciences, typically require applicants to have strong grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics. These programs are rigorous, involving significant practical work, research demands, and community engagement. Students must show clear academic strength in the sciences to be admitted.
School of Computing and Technology
Fields such as computer science and information systems require applicants with solid mathematics backgrounds. A C+ in Mathematics is advantageous and sometimes mandatory, depending on the specific program. These programs emphasize analytical thinking, programming skills, and technological competence, making quantitative readiness essential.
Diploma and Certificate Program Requirements
Diploma and certificate programs provide excellent pathways for students who either did not meet direct degree entry requirements or who want to build foundational skills before transitioning into more advanced studies.
Diploma program applicants must generally hold a minimum mean grade of C in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. Some specialized diplomas may require a C in specific subjects. Certificate programs typically require a D+ mean grade, making them accessible for students seeking entry-level academic training.
These programs are particularly valuable as bridging routes. A student who completes a diploma with strong grades may apply for credit transfer into the first or second year of a related undergraduate program. This structure helps encourage academic mobility and gives students multiple pathways to achieve university qualifications.
Postgraduate Admission Requirements
Kenya Highlands University offers a growing selection of postgraduate programs, including master’s degrees and postgraduate diplomas. Admission into these programs requires applicants to hold a relevant bachelor’s degree from KHU or another accredited institution.
Most master’s programs require a minimum of a second class, upper division in the undergraduate degree. A second class, lower division may be accepted if the applicant has relevant professional experience or additional training in the field. Applicants must also submit academic transcripts, updated CVs, and personal statements outlining their motivation and research interests.
Some postgraduate programs, particularly those in ministry, education, or leadership studies, may require additional evaluations, interviews, or letters of recommendation. The admissions team examines each application carefully to ensure that candidates can handle advanced coursework and research responsibilities.
International Student Requirements
Kenya Highlands University welcomes international students and provides guidelines tailored to applicants outside the Kenyan education system. All foreign academic certificates must undergo verification through recognized qualification authorities to ensure equivalency with Kenyan standards.
In addition to academic credentials, international applicants must show proficiency in English, the primary language of instruction at the university. Students from non-English speaking regions may need to provide evidence of language training. Once admitted, international students must secure proper documentation and comply with immigration regulations to study legally in Kenya.
Credit Transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning
For the 2026 admissions, Kenya Highlands University continues its structured policies for credit transfers. Students transferring from other recognized universities or colleges may be eligible to receive credit for previously completed coursework. To qualify, students must submit official transcripts, course descriptions, and, if necessary, syllabi for evaluation.
Only courses equivalent in content and rigor to KHU offerings can be transferred, and the number of allowable transfer credits is capped depending on the program. Credits from diploma programs may also enable students to enter a bachelor’s program at an advanced stage, usually in the second year.
Recognition of prior learning, particularly for mature applicants with significant professional experience, may be available in select programs. This evaluation ensures that practical skills and real-world experience can be acknowledged, helping students accelerate their academic progress.
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