How to Apply for a Government Bursary as a University Student in Kenya

Types of Government Bursaries Available

County Government Bursaries: Each of Kenya’s 47 county governments allocates funds for residents pursuing higher education. Amounts range from KSh 5,000 to KSh 50,000 per year depending on the county and annual allocation. NG-CDF (National Government Constituencies Development Fund) Bursaries: Each constituency receives NG-CDF funds, a portion of which goes to education bursaries for constituents. Amounts: KSh 5,000 to KSh 30,000. National Government Bursary Fund: The national government periodically runs specific bursary programs targeting needy students. These are less consistent than county and NG-CDF bursaries but worth monitoring. University-specific bursaries: Many Kenyan universities have their own student financial aid programs — check with your university’s student finance office.

County Bursary Application Process

Step 1 — Timing: County bursary applications typically open at the start of the county financial year (July) or at the beginning of academic years (January and August). Monitor your county government’s website and social media for announcements. Step 2 — Documents: Admission or enrollment letter, national ID, parents’/guardians’ IDs, KCSE certificate, evidence of financial need (parents’ income declaration, death certificate if applicable, disability certificate if applicable). Step 3 — Application: Visit your ward administrator’s office or the county education office. Some counties now have online application portals. Complete the bursary application form and submit with all required documents. Step 4 — Follow up: Check back with the ward office for disbursement timelines — county bursaries are typically disbursed directly to your institution or via Mpesa.

NG-CDF Bursary Application Process

NG-CDF bursary applications are handled through each constituency’s office. Step 1 — Find your constituency office: Locate your MP’s constituency office address (usually in your constituency’s main town). Step 2 — Documents: Admission or enrollment letter from your institution, national ID, KCSE certificate, completed NG-CDF application form (obtained from the constituency office). Step 3 — Timing: NG-CDF bursary windows are announced through local radio, community meetings, and sometimes county/constituency social media. They are less predictable than county bursaries — regular monitoring and relationship with your ward representative helps. Step 4 — Submit: Submit in person at the constituency office during the announced window.

How to Maximize Your Bursary Income

Apply to multiple sources simultaneously — county bursary and NG-CDF bursary are from different funds and you can receive both. Apply every year of your studies, not just in year one — bursary programs are annual and continuing students are eligible. Maintain good academic standing — some bursary programs require a minimum GPA for renewal. Build relationships with your ward and constituency offices — being known and engaged in your community improves awareness of application windows.

Complete Document Checklist

For most government bursary applications: original and copy of current university/TVET enrollment letter, national ID (or birth certificate if under 18), parent/guardian national IDs, original and copy of KCSE certificate, recent passport photos (2–4), completed application form, financial need evidence (parent’s employment letter with salary, or affidavit of unemployment/low income), and for special categories: death certificate (deceased parent), disability certificate (disabled parent or student), or single-parent declaration.

Frequently Asked Questions

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