Scholarship Overview
Higher education financial support in Kenya is currently facing significant budget deficits. State funding for university students is divided between the Universities Fund, which administers scholarships, and the Higher Education Loans Board (HELB), which manages student loans. According to Treasury figures for the 2026/27 budget, HELB received an allocation of Sh56.3 billion (about US$435 million) against a required Sh112.1 billion (about US$866 million), resulting in a Sh55.8 billion (about US$431 million) shortfall. Additionally, the Universities Fund faces a deficit of Sh16.26 billion (about US$126 million). Together, these funding gaps total Sh72.06 billion (about US$556 million), which could leave nearly 689,000 students without full financial support.
In addition to student funding gaps, Kenya's public universities report over Sh100 billion (about US$770 million) in unpaid state arrears under the Student-Centred Funding Model introduced in 2023. Following a lack of written funding commitments for a new pay agreement, the Universities Academic Staff Union (UASU), led by Secretary-General Dr. Constantine Wasonga, announced a nationwide lecturer strike starting 2 October. International students, foreign researchers, and exchange partners at Kenya's more than 30 public universities should expect teaching disruptions and consult their institutions regarding schedules.
Who Can Apply
Not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Benefits
Under Kenya's Student-Centred Funding Model, state support is structured through government scholarships, student loans, and household contributions. Specific individual award amounts and coverage details are not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
How to Apply
Not specified in the source; please check the official notice.
Source: fully funded scholarships 2026 - BingNews · Published September 27, 2026
Always confirm deadlines and eligibility on the official scholarship website.