How to Apply for TVET Trainees Funding

In 2024, the Kenyan government introduced a new funding model for TVET students to make education more accessible and inclusive. Here are the key highlights of the new model and how to apply for it:

Key Features of the New Funding Model

1. Student-Centered Funding:
   • The new model finances students based on their level of need, categorized into four levels: vulnerable, extremely needy, needy, and less needy.
   • Students from needy households joining TVETs will receive government scholarships up to a maximum of 50% and 30% in loans. Their households will pay 20% of the costs.
   • Less needy students will be funded 32% for government scholarships, 48% for loans, and their households will pay 20% of the costs.
2. Means Testing Instrument (MTI):
   • The MTI assesses students’ financial needs based on household income, geographic location, poverty levels, and other socioeconomic indicators.
   • Scholarships range from 30% to 70% based on the level of need.
3. Increased Budgetary Allocation:
   • The budget for TVETs has increased from Ksh 5.2 billion to Ksh 10 billion in the 2023/24 financial year.
   • This translates to Ksh 67,189 per year per trainee, down from Ksh 71,420 for the new intake of May 2023.
4. Application Process:
   • Students eligible for government scholarships, loans, and bursaries can apply through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB).
   • Complementary funding from other sources, such as county governments, the National Government Constituency Development Fund, and private companies, is also available.
5. Transparency and Information Disclosure:
   • TVET institutions are required to disclose and provide information on the cost of their academic programs to KUCCPS.
   • This information is published to assist students in making informed choices about courses and institutions.

How to Apply for the New Funding Model

1. Eligibility:
   • You must be a Kenyan citizen and a KCSE exam candidate.
   • You must have been assigned by KUCCPS to study for a diploma, craft certificate, or artisan course at an approved public TVET institution.
2. Required Documents:
   • A copy of your admission letter from the TVET institution.
   • Your national ID card.
   • Your KCPE and KCSE index numbers.
   • Your parent’s/guardian’s registered telephone numbers.
   • Your birth certificate.
   • A passport photo.
   • Death certificate of your parents, if applicable.
3. Application Steps:
   • Visit the KUCCPS website and access the Student’s Portal.
   • Register and fill out the application form for government scholarships and loans.
   • Submit the required documents online.
   • For HELB loans, download the HELB App from Google Play Store or use the USSD Code *642# to register and apply.
   • Follow the instructions to complete the application process.

How to Apply for TVET Scholarships and Funding in Kenya: A Step-by-Step Guide

Applying for TVET scholarships and funding in Kenya can be a straightforward process if you know where to look and what to do. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

1. Government Sponsorship

The Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) offers government sponsorship to students enrolling in TVET colleges. This opportunity is available to Kenyan youth with any grade in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the KUCCPS website and access the Student’s Portal.
2. Register and fill out the application form for government scholarships and loans.
3. Submit the required documents online.
4. Follow the instructions to complete the application process.

2. HELB Loans and Bursaries

The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) provides loans and bursaries to students pursuing certificate and diploma courses in select public universities, polytechnics, and technical training institutes.

Steps to Apply:

1. Register on the HELB website.
2. Fill out the TVET Loan Application Form (TLAF) online.
3. Print two copies of the completed form.
4. Have the form signed and stamped by the relevant authorities.
5. Submit one copy of the form and the necessary documents to the HELB Student Service Centre or a designated Huduma Centre.

3. KCB Foundation’s 2Jiajiri Programme

The KCB Foundation offers vocational training scholarships under the 2Jiajiri Programme. This initiative is designed to empower Kenyan youth with marketable vocational skills and entrepreneurship training.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the KCB Foundation’s 2Jiajiri Programme website.
2. Register and fill out the application form.
3. Submit the required documents online.
4. Follow the instructions to complete the application process.

4. County Government Loans

Many county governments in Kenya offer loans and bursaries to students pursuing TVET courses. These loans are aimed at supporting students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the website of your county government or contact the county education office.
2. Check for available TVET loans and bursaries.
3. Fill out the application form provided by the county government.
4. Submit the required documents, such as identification cards, academic transcripts, and proof of residence.
5. Follow the instructions to complete the application process.

5. Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Sponsorship

The Constituency Development Fund (CDF) provides financial support to students pursuing TVET courses. This sponsorship is aimed at helping students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds within specific constituencies.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit your local CDF office or the website of your constituency.
2. Check for available TVET sponsorships and bursaries.
3. Fill out the application form provided by the CDF office.
4. Submit the required documents, such as identification cards, academic transcripts, and proof of residence.
5. Follow the instructions to complete the application process.

6. Institutional Scholarships

Many TVET institutions offer their own scholarships and financial aid programs. Check with the institutions you are interested in to see what scholarships are available and how to apply.

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the institution’s website or contact their admissions office.
2. Fill out an application form.
3. Provide necessary documents such as academic transcripts and recommendation letters.
4. Submit the application form and documents as instructed.

7. Private Organizations and NGOs

Several private organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) offer scholarships and funding for TVET students.

Steps to Apply:

1. Conduct online searches for scholarships specific to your field of study.
2. Network with industry professionals who may know of available scholarships.
3. Check with local community organizations and foundations.
4. Follow the application instructions provided by each organization.

Application Tips

• Start Early: Begin your search and application process well in advance to meet all deadlines.
• Gather Documents: Ensure you have all necessary documents, such as identification cards, academic transcripts, and recommendation letters.
• Follow Instructions: Carefully read and follow the application instructions for each scholarship or funding opportunity.
• Seek Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from teachers, career counselors, or professionals in your field.

By following these steps, you can increase your chances of securing scholarships and funding for your TVET education in Kenya. Good luck!