Universities have begun preparing to receive first-year students for the 2026/2027 academic year, with different institutions issuing reporting dates and joining requirements.
While most universities require students to present academic and identification documents, complete medical and registration forms, and pay the required fees, additional requirements vary by institution and course.
Students should therefore use their admission letters and the latest joining instructions as the primary guide before travelling to campus.
The checklist below provides a general guide on what first-years may need to prepare.
Documents to Carry
Students should organize their documents before reporting and keep the originals in a secure folder.
For example, Kenyatta University requires newly admitted students to present their original admission letter, original and copies of relevant academic certificates or result slips, an original and copy of their identification document, and duly completed joining instructions during registration.
Essential Documents
Depending on the university, students may need:
- University admission letter
- KUCCPS placement letter, where applicable
- National ID or passport
- Birth certificate, particularly for students who do not have an ID
- KCSE certificate or official result slip
- KCPE certificate or result slip, where required
- Secondary school leaving certificate
- Other academic certificates or transcripts
- Completed medical examination form
- Fee payment receipt or bank deposit slip
HELB and Fees for University Students
The fee structure for public universities may include tuition, registration, examination, medical services, computer or laboratory charges, student activity and union fees, identity card, caution money, accommodation, meals, fieldwork, clinical training and attachment charges.
For JKUAT, the fee requirements show that students may incur tuition and other programme-related charges, with the amount varying depending on the student’s programme and category.
Apply for HEF and HELB Funding
Students who need government financial assistance should check their eligibility and complete the relevant applications before reporting.
Government-placed students are eligible to apply for government scholarships, loans and bursaries depending on their level of need.
The university requires students seeking the funding to submit applications through the official HEF portal.
“As a Government-placed student, you are eligible to apply for a Government scholarship, loan and bursary to support your university education depending on your level of need. To benefit from Government funding, you MUST submit an application for consideration through the official scholarship and loan application portal at www.hef.co.ke. After the assessment of your application, the University will inform you of the household fee component that you should pay,” reads part of JKUAT instructions to first-year students.
What to Pack for University
Requirements differ between universities and accommodation facilities, so students should check their joining instructions before buying anything.
Bedding
Students living in university accommodation should first confirm what the institution provides.
Where necessary, they can carry bedsheets, blankets or a duvet, a pillow and pillowcases, towels, a laundry bag, hangers and padlocks.
For example, South Eastern Kenya University (SEKU) provides students with a bed and mattress only, so those joining its accommodation should bring their own bedding and personal effects.
Clothes
Pack everyday clothes, underwear and socks, sleepwear, a sweater or jacket, comfortable shoes, slippers, smart clothes for presentations, one formal outfit, sportswear and a raincoat or umbrella.
Students heading to colder areas should also carry warm clothing.
Basic toiletries should include a toothbrush and toothpaste, bathing soap, laundry detergent, tissue, deodorant, hair-care products, sanitary products, towels, shower slippers and a reusable water bottle.
Also Read: Best Budget Laptops for University Students in Kenya 2026: Under KSh50,000–80,000 Options
Academic Supplies
Basic stationery can include notebooks, pens, pencils, rulers, highlighters, files, a calculator where required, and a backpack.
Students should check their course requirements before purchasing specialized academic equipment.
Students who already have the necessary equipment can carry a laptop, charger, phone charger, power bank, flash disk and earphones.
The University of Nairobi advises first-years to arrange a suitable gadget, such as a tablet, iPad, or computer/laptop, under its Bring Your Own Gadget policy.
Some programmes require additional equipment. SEKU, for example, requires science-based students to bring two white laboratory coats, while engineering students have additional requirements such as drawing sets, scientific calculators, safety boots, and other technical equipment.
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