Thousands of students placed in universities through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) are expected to begin the admission process after the release of the 2026/2027 placement results.
As they prepare to report to their respective universities, many will also apply for Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans, scholarships, and bursaries to support their studies.
Most universities require students to present original documents alongside photocopies during registration.
Missing any of the required documents could delay admission or the processing of financial aid applications.
Here are some of the key documents students should have.
List of Documents Required During University Admission
Original Admission Letter
The admission letter is one of the first documents checked during registration. Students should carry the original copy and keep several photocopies for future use.
National Identity Card
Universities require students to present both the original National Identity Card and a photocopy during registration.
The ID is also needed when opening a bank account, applying for HELB, and accessing other government services.
Students who have not yet received their IDs should keep their waiting cards and continue following up with the registration authorities.
KCSE Certificate and Result Slip
Students should carry the original KCSE certificate together with photocopies.
Where the certificate has not yet been issued, universities may accept the KCSE result slip during registration.
Diploma, Degree Certificates and Transcripts
Students admitted through diploma or degree entry should carry their original certificates, academic transcripts and photocopies when reporting to the university.
School Leaving Certificate
Many universities ask for a school leaving certificate from the student’s former secondary school.
Students who have not collected the document should do so before reporting.
KCPE Certificate
Some universities also require the KCPE certificate during registration.
It is advisable to carry both the original and photocopies.
Birth Certificate
Students should also have their original birth certificate and photocopies for identity verification, especially those who lack National IDs.
Passport-Size Photographs
Several recent passport-size photographs are usually required for registration, student identification cards, and other administrative records.
They may also be needed during HELB and scholarship applications.
Social Health Authority (SHA) Card or Family Medical Cover
Some universities require students to present their SHA card or provide their family health insurance policy number during registration.
Bank Account Details
Students applying for HELB should have an active bank account, as loan disbursements are made through bank accounts.
Some universities also use bank details when processing refunds or other payments.
Medical Examination Forms
Many universities require first-year students to submit completed medical examination forms.
The forms should be signed by a registered medical practitioner before reporting are usually included in the admission package.
HELB and Scholarship Application
Students planning to apply for HELB should have the following:
- A recent passport-size photograph in JPEG, PNG or JPG format.
- A copy of the applicant’s National ID or Maisha Card (both sides) in PDF format.
- Valid bank account details or an active M-Pesa number registered under the applicant’s name and National ID.
- Parents’ National ID numbers and registered mobile phone numbers.
- A copy of a parent’s death certificate in PDF format, where applicable.
- A copy of the applicant’s birth certificate in PDF format for applicants who are minors.
- National ID numbers and registered mobile phone numbers of two guarantors, who may include the applicant’s parents.
- A copy of a secondary school sponsorship letter in PDF format, where applicable.
Also Read: How First-Year Students Can Download University Admission Letters
Keep Copies of Your Documents
Students should keep both printed and digital copies of all important documents.
Saving scanned copies in email or cloud storage can help if the originals are lost or misplaced.
Check Your University’s Admission Instructions
Admission requirements differ slightly from one university to another.
Students should read their joining instructions carefully and ensure they carry all the documents listed, including the originals and the required photocopies, when reporting to campus.
Follow our WhatsApp Channel and X Account for real-time news updates.
