Access to quality university education in Kenya continues to improve, thanks to a growing number of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs designed to support students from diverse backgrounds. As tuition fees rise under the new funding models, scholarships have become more important than ever for learners wishing to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies in 2026.

This comprehensive guide highlights the best scholarships for Kenyan students in 2026, eligibility requirements, and how to apply—all while helping you maximize your chances of securing funding.

Top Scholarships for University Education in Kenya (2026 Complete Guide for Students) (photo credit)

Why Scholarships Matter for Kenyan Students in 2026

Even with the HELB Funding Model offering loans and partial support, many students still struggle to cover:

Tuition fees
Accommodation
Books and learning materials
Transport and living expenses

Scholarships help bridge this financial gap, offering fully funded or partially funded opportunities to students based on:

Merit
Financial need
Region
Field of study
Leadership potential
Disability status

Top Scholarships for University Education in Kenya (2026)

Below are the most reputable scholarships that Kenyan students can apply for in 2026—whether you are joining university, continuing with your degree, or pursuing postgraduate studies.

1. Equity Group Foundation – Wings to Fly & Elimu Scholarship Program (University Transition)

Equity Group Foundation supports high-achieving students from financially challenged backgrounds through:

Full tuition sponsorship
Accommodation and upkeep
Mentorship and leadership development
Career and university transition programs

While primarily a secondary school scholarship, many recipients transition into university support through partnerships and top-up programs.

Ideal for: KCSE top performers from low-income households
Level: Undergraduate

2. HELB Scholarships (Undergraduate & Postgraduate)

HELB offers multiple scholarship categories aside from loans:

Undergraduate bursaries
Masters and PhD scholarships
Programme-specific funding (e.g., for STEM, education, health sciences)
Scholarships for persons with disabilities

These awards target academically strong and financially needy students enrolled in accredited Kenyan universities.

Ideal for: KUCCPS students, continuing learners, postgraduate applicants
Level: Undergraduate / Postgraduate

3. KCB Foundation Scholarship Program

KCB Foundation provides scholarships for learners demonstrating both financial need and high academic potential. Besides tuition coverage, the foundation offers:

Mentorship
Leadership development
Work readiness skills
Internships for select beneficiaries

Ideal for: Students from low-income backgrounds
Level: Undergraduate

4. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Kenyan Universities)

Available in partner institutions such as

University of Nairobi
Kabarak University
Africa Nazarene University
USIU-Africa

This scholarship provides full funding, including:

Tuition
Accommodation
Laptop and learning materials
Monthly stipend
Leadership and entrepreneurship training

Ideal for: High-achieving students from marginalized communities
Level: Undergraduate

5. Aga Khan Foundation International Scholarship Programme

This highly competitive program offers scholarships for postgraduate studies, providing:

50% grant
50% loan
Funding for living expenses, tuition, and materials

Ideal for: Students seeking master’s or PhD opportunities in Kenya or abroad
Level: Postgraduate

6. Jomo Kenyatta Foundation (JKF) Scholarships

JKF supports learners from economically disadvantaged households with a strong academic record. While known for secondary school scholarships, the foundation also offers:

Tertiary education bursaries
Support for needy university entrants

Ideal for: Undergraduates from low-income families
Level: Undergraduate

7. Rattansi Education Trust Bursary

One of Kenya’s oldest education trusts, Rattansi allocates bursaries to students through accredited universities. Awards typically cover:

Partial tuition
Upkeep or accommodation support

Applications are submitted through university financial aid offices.

Ideal for: Needy students in public universities
Level: Undergraduate

8. China Government Scholarship (CSC Program)

The Chinese Government Scholarship provides funding for:

Undergraduate degrees
Masters programs
PhD research

The package includes:

Full tuition
Accommodation
Monthly stipend
Health insurance

Ideal for: Students pursuing engineering, medicine, ICT, business, and science programs
Level: Undergraduate / Postgraduate

9. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)

DAAD remains one of the best options for Kenyan postgraduate students, offering:

Masters and PhD scholarships
Full tuition
Monthly stipends
Travel support
Health insurance

Kenyan students can apply through the DAAD Nairobi Office or partner universities.

Level: Postgraduate

10. Internal University Scholarships (2026)

Many Kenyan universities offer their own scholarships based on merit and need, including:

✔ University of Nairobi (UoN)

Merit-based & need-based awards for top performers and needy students.

✔ Strathmore University

Scholarships, fee waivers, work-study programs, and student loans.

✔ Kenyatta University, MKU, Egerton, USIU-A

Each institution offers internal bursaries and financial aid yearly.

Ideal for: Both new and continuing students
Level: Undergraduate / Postgraduate

How to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship in 2026

✔ 1. Apply Early

Most scholarships close within 4–8 weeks.

✔ 2. Write a Strong Personal Statement

Highlight your achievements, challenges, goals, and leadership qualities.

✔ 3. Prepare Your Documents

Common requirements include:

KCSE certificate
ID/Birth certificate
Parent/guardian financial records
Recommendation letters
University admission letter

✔ 4. Demonstrate Community Impact

Volunteering and leadership roles greatly improve your chances.

✔ 5. Apply to Multiple Scholarships

Increase your chances by diversifying your applications.

Final Thoughts: Your Path to Funding in 2026

Scholarships offer life-changing opportunities for students from all backgrounds. With rising education costs, applying for the right scholarship at the right time can make your university journey far more affordable and rewarding.

Whether you’re a 2026 fresher, a continuing student, or aiming for postgraduate studies, Kenya offers numerous funding opportunities—you just need to identify them, prepare your documents, and apply early.