PUEA January 2026 Intake Details

Presbyterian University of East Africa (PUEA) 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.

If you are planning to begin or advance your academic journey in early 2026, the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake offers a strategic opportunity to start the year with clear focus and momentum. PUEA, located in Thogoto Kikuyu in Kiambu County near Nairobi, is a faith-based chartered university that combines academic excellence with strong Christian values and student-centred support.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake, including programmes available, entry requirements, application steps, documents you will need, study modes, financial planning and practical tips to get ready. The article is written with prospective students in mind, whether you are a recent KCSE candidate, a working professional seeking flexible study, or an international student considering a reputable Kenyan university.

About the Presbyterian University of East Africa

The Presbyterian University of East Africa, often shortened to PUEA, is a private faith-based institution that has grown steadily as a respected centre of higher learning in Kenya. The university is guided by Christian values, yet welcomes students from all backgrounds who are seeking quality education, disciplined learning, and an environment that nurtures character as well as competence.

PUEA operates to produce holistically trained graduates, people who are professionally competent, ethically grounded, and socially responsible. The university offers a wide range of programmes, including certificate, diploma, undergraduate, master and PhD options across several schools, such as Business, Education, Theology, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Hospitality and Tourism, Communication Studies and others.

The campus at Thogoto provides a serene learning environment with lecture facilities, a modern library, computer and skills laboratories and spaces for quiet study and reflection. For students who prefer to study while working or who live far from the main campus, PUEA supports flexible modes such as evening, weekend and Open, Distance and e Learning where applicable.

Why Choose PUEA January 2026 Intake

Starting your studies in January has several advantages. The Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake aligns with the beginning of the calendar year, which makes it easier to set academic and personal goals for the entire year and track your progress.

Some key reasons to consider the PUEA January 2026 intake include

Regular intakes with a trimester system
PUEA has intakes in January, May and September every year, and the trimester structure allows motivated students to progress faster by taking units across three sessions in a year, subject to programme rules.
Wide choice of programmes
Whether you are interested in business, education, nursing, computer science, theology, hospitality, criminology, community development or communication, you are likely to find a suitable programme at certificate, diploma, degree or postgraduate level.
Flexible study modes
Many programmes are offered in different modes, including day, evening and weekend options, and some are available through open and distance learning, giving working students and those with family responsibilities room to balance study and life.
Supportive, value-driven environment
As a faith-based university, PUEA emphasises integrity, discipline, service and stewardship. Students benefit from mentorship, chaplaincy services and a culture that encourages responsible behaviour and respect for others.
Strategic location
The campus in Thogoto Kikuyu is close to Nairobi yet enjoys a calm, less congested environment that is conducive to study.

By joining the January 2026 intake, you position yourself to complete your academic year in an organised way, and if you fully use the trimester system, you may even shorten the total time it takes to graduate, depending on programme design.

Programmes Available for January 2026 Intake

PUEA offers programmes at several academic levels. While specific advertised lists for January 2026 may be updated closer to the intake date, you can expect offerings that reflect the existing portfolio of certificate, diploma, undergraduate, master and PhD programmes.

Certificate programmes

Certificate programmes are ideal if you have a KCSE mean grade of D plus or equivalent and wish to build foundational skills in a specific area. PUEA offers diverse certificate courses such as

Business Administration
Business Information Technology
Christian Education
Classical Education
Communication and Public Relations
Computer Science
Counseling Psychology
Criminology and Fraud Management
Early Childhood Development Education
Education Arts
Education Science
Hospitality Management
Journalism and Mass Communication
Special Needs Education
Theology
Tourism Management

Most certificate programmes run for about one year of study. They can help you enter the job market with practical skills or progress to related diploma or degree programmes later.

Diploma programmes

Diploma options provide more in-depth professional training and typically require a KCSE mean grade of C plain or, in some cases, C minus with specific subject combinations. Examples include

Diploma in Early Childhood Development Education
Diploma in Special Needs Education
Diploma in Education, Arts and Science
Diploma in Clinical Pastoral Education
Diploma in Community Health and Development
Postgraduate Diploma in Education for degree holders who wish to become teachers

Diplomas usually take about two years to complete, and are offered in flexible study modes such as day, evening, Saturday and distance learning where applicable, which is especially convenient for teachers and professionals who are already in employment.

Undergraduate degree programmes

PUEA offers several bachelor’s degree programmes that are fully accredited by the Commission for University Education and other relevant professional bodies. These include programmes such as

Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies
Bachelor of Arts in Counselling Psychology
Bachelor of Business Administration
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
Bachelor of Education Arts
Bachelor of Education Science
Bachelor of Education in Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
Bachelor of Theology and related programmes

These programmes usually span four academic years for full-time students, although the duration can vary slightly depending on specific course structures and any exemptions or credit transfers granted.

Postgraduate and professional programmes

For graduates who wish to specialise further, PUEA offers postgraduate options such as

PhD in Business Administration
Master of Business Administration
Master of Education in Educational Management
Master of Science in Occupational Therapy
Master of Theology with various options
Master of Arts in Mission and Cultural Studies
Master of Arts in Religion and Ecology
Master of Ministry
Postgraduate Diploma in Education
Professional and short courses, including Certified Public Accountant and digital literacy training

Many postgraduate programmes are deliberately structured to accommodate working professionals, with classes often held in the evenings or weekends.

For the January 2026 intake, prospective students should consider these broad categories and then narrow down to the exact programme that matches their academic background, career plans and personal interests.

Entry Requirements for January 2026 Intake

Entry requirements vary by level of study. While specific programmes may have additional subject combinations or higher grades, the general patterns are as follows, based on current PUEA guidelines.

General academic requirement

In most cases, to gain admission to PUEA, you must have completed a recognised secondary school qualification, such as the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education or an equivalent foreign qualification. For higher levels like postgraduate programmes, you will need a relevant bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from a recognised institution.

Certificate level requirements

For certificate programmes, the typical minimum requirement is

KCSE mean grade of D plus or an equivalent qualification

This entry point is designed to give students with modest grades an opportunity to access higher education and grow step by step toward a diploma and degree.

Diploma-level requirements

Diploma programmes normally require a stronger academic background than certificates. For example, several education and community-related diplomas at PUEA require

KCSE mean grade of C plain or C minus, often with at least a C plain in English or relevant teaching subjects
For some health and community programmes, specific subject grades in Biology, English or Kiswahili, Chemistry and either Mathematics or Physics are needed

If you already hold a teacher training certificate such as ECDE or P1, you may be eligible for admission into certain diploma programmes even when your KCSE performance is slightly lower.

Undergraduate degree requirements

Although the detailed requirements differ by programme, most bachelor’s degrees at PUEA expect

KCSE mean grade of C plus or higher, with strong passes in relevant subjects
An equivalent qualification from another examination system, evaluated to match the Kenyan C plus level
In some cases, holders of related diplomas with good grades may be admitted into degree programmes, sometimes with credit transfers that reduce the time needed for completion

Professional health programmes such as Nursing and Occupational Therapy may have additional subject and grade requirements, as well as professional registration conditions.

Postgraduate requirements

For master’s programmes

A relevant bachelor’s degree from a recognised university, often with at least second class lower division or its equivalent
In some cases, relevant work experience is an added advantage, especially for programmes like the Master of Business Administration or the Master of Education in Educational Management

For PhD programmes

A relevant master’s degree in the area you wish to pursue
A clear research proposal that aligns with the university’s research priorities and available supervision

Because entry requirements can change slightly with new regulations, always confirm the exact criteria for your chosen programme when you begin your application for the January 2026 intake.

Study Modes, Campus Life and Student Support

One of the reasons many students choose the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake is the flexibility in study modes combined with a supportive campus environment.

Study modes

Depending on the programme, you may study in any of these modes

Day classes for students who can attend lectures during normal working hours
Evening classes tailored for working professionals who are free after work
Saturday or weekend classes, especially in programmes like education and theology
Open, Distance and e Learning options for some certificate and diploma courses, as well as selected programmes at higher levels

These modes allow you to continue working, managing a business or caring for your family while making steady progress toward your academic goals.

Campus life

At the Thogoto campus, students benefit from a supportive community with opportunities for

Academic mentorship and consultations with lecturers
Chaplaincy ministries, worship services and spiritual counselling
Student associations and clubs that encourage leadership and teamwork
Access to libraries and online resources for research and assignments
Interaction with peers from diverse backgrounds, which builds social and professional networks

The atmosphere is intentionally disciplined yet friendly, helping students to stay focused on their studies while developing character and life skills.

How to Apply for the PUEA January 2026 Intake

While the university may update its processes as systems become more digital, the core steps for applying to the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake are likely to follow the existing pattern.

Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan your application smoothly

Choose your programme and study level
Review the fields you are interested in, such as business, education, theology, health sciences, computer science, hospitality or communication, and decide whether you will apply for a certificate, diploma, degree or postgraduate programme.
Confirm that you meet the entry requirements
Compare your KCSE grades or other qualifications with the minimum requirements for the programme. If you are not sure, you can seek guidance from the admissions office or a career counsellor.
Decide on your preferred study mode
Decide whether you want day, evening, weekend or distance learning, based on your work schedule, location and family responsibilities.
Obtain the application form
PUEA offers application forms through its official channels, both online and through physical offices at the main campus and town campus. Depending on the latest arrangements for 2025 and 2026, you may be able to submit the whole process online or combine online and manual steps. (puea.ac.ke)
Fill in your personal and academic details carefully
Provide accurate names as they appear on your ID and certificates, contact information, previous schools attended, grades obtained and the programme you wish to join.
Attach the required supporting documents
Prepare copies of your national ID or passport, birth certificate, academic certificates and transcripts, and other documents listed in the admissions checklist, then attach them to your application.
Pay the application fee
PUEA requires a non-refundable application fee, which you pay through the methods given by the university, such as bank deposit or mobile money. Ensure you keep the deposit slip or payment confirmation as proof.
Submit your application
Submit the completed form together with attachments and payment evidence through the channel indicated for the January 2026 intake, whether online upload, email submission or physical delivery.
Await communication from the university
The admissions office will review your application and communicate the outcome. Successful applicants receive admission letters and joining instructions, which explain reporting dates, fees and orientation details.

Applying early is wise, as it gives you time to correct any missing documents and to arrange finances and accommodation.

Documents Needed for Admission and Registration

To complete your application and later your registration for the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake, you will typically be asked to provide several documents. Current guidelines list items such as

Recent passport-sized photographs
A photocopy of your national identity card or passport
A photocopy of your birth certificate
A photocopy of your KCPE certificate
A photocopy of your KCSE result slip or certificate
A photocopy of your parents’ or guardian’s national ID
A reference letter from a religious leader, former teacher, employer or another person who knows you well but is not related to you
Proof of payment for the application fee

For postgraduate applicants, additional documents such as degree certificates, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae and sometimes a brief research concept may be requested.

You should carry both originals and photocopies when reporting to the university, so that verification can be done quickly during registration.

Fees, Scholarships and Financial Planning

Before joining the Presbyterian University of East Africa in the January 2026 intake, it is important to think carefully about fees and how you will finance your studies throughout the programme.

Fee structures

PUEA fee structures vary depending on the level and type of programme. Professional and laboratory-based courses, such as Nursing, Occupational Therapy or Computer Science, tend to be more resource-intensive than some arts-based programmes, so fees may be higher. Fee guidelines usually indicate tuition charges per semester or per trimester, plus registration, examination and other administrative charges.

The university operates a trimester system, and many students pay their fees in instalments before the beginning of each term. It is important to note that students are generally expected to clear a significant percentage of their fees, for example, around sixty per cent, before they can enrol and sit for examinations.

Funding options

To support your study at PUEA, you may explore several funding options

National government loans and bursaries were eligible
County government or constituency bursary schemes
Church based or community scholarships
Employer sponsorship if you are already working
Family contributions and personal savings

Some students may also benefit from the university’s own financial assistance schemes, where available, especially if they demonstrate genuine need and good academic potential.

When planning for the January 2026 intake, draw up a simple budget that includes tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, books and personal expenses. This will help you identify how much support you need and what sources you can tap into.

How to Prepare for Joining in January 2026

Beyond meeting entry requirements and paying fees, preparing well for the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake will help you settle quickly and make the most of your first year.

Here are practical preparation tips

Organise your documents early
Place originals and photocopies of your certificates, identification documents, recommendation letters and financial records in a clearly labelled folder.
Work on your mindset
University life demands greater self-discipline than secondary school. Prepare mentally to manage your own timetable, complete assignments on time and balance social life with serious study.
Strengthen your basic skills
Revise foundational subjects related to your programme. For instance, if you are joining a business course, refresh your mathematics and English skills. If you are heading into computer science, familiarise yourself with basic computer operations and logical thinking exercises.
Plan your accommodation
Decide whether you will stay in campus hostels or in rented accommodation near the university. Confirm costs, safety and transport options before reporting.
Set personal academic and spiritual goals
Since PUEA emphasises holistic growth, think about what you want to achieve academically, professionally, socially and spiritually during your time at the university.
Connect with current or former students
If possible, talk to people who have studied at PUEA or who are currently enrolled. They can give you practical advice about course loads, lecturers, campus life and how to succeed.

By preparing early and thoughtfully, you will enter the January 2026 intake with confidence and a clear sense of purpose.

Frequently Asked Questions about PUEA January 2026 Intake

When does the Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake start
Exact reporting dates are usually indicated in the admission letters and academic calendar for that year. Typically, January intakes begin within the first weeks of the month, with a dedicated orientation period for new students.

Which levels of study are available in the January intake
PUEA normally admits students at certificate, diploma, bachelor’s degree, master and PhD levels during its regular intakes. Availability for specific programmes in January 2026 will follow the university-approved schedule, but you can reasonably expect a broad range across major schools and faculties.

Can I join PUEA in January 2026 as a government-sponsored student
The university admits both government-sponsored students, placed through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service, and self-sponsored students. If you are a recent KCSE candidate who has applied through the placement system and you are allocated to PUEA, your reporting date will align with the regular intake period.

Is it possible to work and study at the same time?
Yes, many PUEA students successfully work and study. The university offers evening and weekend modes, as well as some distance learning options, which are particularly convenient for employed students and those running businesses. It is important, however, to manage your time well and avoid overloading yourself.

Does PUEA accept credit transfers from other institutions
If you have completed post-secondary qualifications such as diplomas or partial degree studies from recognised institutions, you may be eligible for credit transfer into related programmes at PUEA. You will need to provide academic transcripts and course outlines for evaluation by the university.

What support is available for international students
International students can apply for programmes at PUEA and may receive guidance on admission requirements, documents and fee payments. Support often includes assistance with admission letters for visa processing and integration into campus life. Since specific requirements differ by country, international applicants should confirm details directly with the university.

NOTE:

The Presbyterian University of East Africa January 2026 intake presents a valuable chance to align your educational journey with a reputable, faith-based Kenyan university that places equal emphasis on academic excellence, character formation and service to society. Whether you are stepping into higher education for the first time or returning for advanced studies, PUEA offers a range of programmes, flexible modes and a supportive environment that can help you grow.

By understanding the programmes on offer, checking the entry requirements, gathering the correct documents, planning your finances and applying early, you will place yourself in a strong position to secure a place in the January 2026 intake. Once admitted, embrace the opportunities in front of you, use the resources and mentorship available, and commit to making your time at the Presbyterian University of East Africa a season of focused learning and personal transformation.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS USING THE BUTTONS👇👇