Last updated on January 11, 2026
Yes — diploma students in Kenya can get financial support, and there are real scholarships for diploma students in Kenya, even if they do not always look like traditional university scholarships. Most help comes through government bursaries, TVET support, institutional aid, subsidised loans, and community programmes designed to reduce the cost of studying.
This article explains how those options work, who qualifies, and where students should realistically look first — without false promises or outdated lists.
An investment in knowledge pays the best interest
Quick Glance
- Yes, diploma students can get funding
- Support depends on financial need
- Apply through official systems and county bursaries
- Beware of fake “agents” asking for money
Table of Contents
Understanding TVET and Diploma Education in Kenya
TVET stands for Technical and Vocational Education and Training.
It covers practical, career-focused learning and includes:
- certificate courses
- diplomas
- higher diplomas
- artisan and craft programmes
Diploma programmes fall inside the TVET system. They are meant to teach skills that lead to real work opportunities — fields like hospitality, ICT, mechanics, beauty therapy, construction, health support, and many others.
Most TVET institutions are registered with the Ministry of Education and are part of the national training system. That means students in approved institutions can qualify for recognized financial support.
Understanding that connection is important, because it explains why diploma students are still considered for funding, even when the term “scholarship” is not always used.
Scholarships for Diploma Students in Kenya: Where Funding Actually Comes From
Kenya has shifted toward what is called a student-centered funding approach.
Instead of giving the same amount to everyone, support is now based on:
- level of financial need
- total cost of the course
- type of institution
- student background and vulnerability
Depending on assessment, a student may receive:
- a government scholarship portion
- a bursary portion
- a loan component
- and sometimes, a household contribution
The goal is to ensure students who genuinely cannot afford fees still have a pathway to complete their training.
Diploma and TVET learners are part of this model, which means they are not excluded simply because they did not choose a university degree. There are genuine scholarships for diploma students in Kenya, but they are often structured differently from university awards.
Many diploma programmes also run through blended learning, so students may use online portals for coursework, such as zetech elearning.zetech.ac.ke for Zetech learners.
Types of Funding Available for Diploma Students in Kenya
Instead of chasing individual advertisements that expire every year, it helps to understand the main sources of support. These categories remain stable, even when specific programmes change.
Government scholarships and bursaries through formal systems
Students enrolled in accredited TVET institutions may qualify for government-supported funding. This normally starts once a student has been admitted into a recognized course.
Funding is guided by financial assessment. Colleges often have financial aid officers who help students apply and understand what they qualify for. Documentation such as results slips, admission letters, national identification, and proof of need is usually required.
This is one of the most dependable paths because it runs through official national systems rather than temporary campaigns.
Loans with partial scholarship components
Some students receive loans designed specifically for TVET learners.
These loans sometimes come with partial subsidy elements, meaning the government helps cover part of the study cost while another part becomes repayable after graduation.
Loans are helpful — but they are different from free scholarships. Anyone considering a loan or scholarship should think carefully about repayment capacity and future earnings.
County and constituency bursaries
Most Counties and Constituency offices across Kenya allocate bursaries each year. While many target basic and secondary education, a portion often extends to TVET and diploma students, especially those from low-income families.
- proof of residence
- admission confirmation
- parent or guardian details
- statements showing need
Applying at the local level can feel slow, but many students get meaningful fee support through this route.
Institutional or college-based support
Many TVET colleges have internal hardship support funds for students who suddenly cannot manage their fees.
Support may include:
- partial tuition relief
- exam fee assistance
- flexible payment arrangements
These are not always advertised widely. Students usually learn about them by asking at the bursar’s or financial aid office once enrolled.
NGO and community support programmes
Some Kenyan and international organisations fund skills-based training projects, especially for vulnerable youth.
They may offer help in forms such as:
- tuition assistance
- uniforms or tools
- training equipment
- stipends during training
These programmes may not exist everywhere and usually focus on specific counties or groups, but they are worth exploring when they align with your field of study.
Current Funding Options for Diploma Students in Kenya (2026)
| Option | Who It Helps | What It Covers | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| Government TVET Funding | Diploma/TVET students in public colleges | Need-based scholarship + bursary + loan mix | Official funding portal (after admission) |
| HELB (TVET) | Needy diploma students | Loan + limited scholarship top-up | HELB application portal |
| Institutional Bursaries | Students already admitted | Partial fee support | Financial aid/Dean’s office at college |
| County Bursaries | Residents from low-income households | Partial fee contribution | Local county offices |
| NGO / Community Support | Selected needy/vocational students | Varies (tuition/materials) | Verified NGO programmes only |
What Most Providers Look For Before Funding You
Even though each provider is different, the same core questions are usually asked.
They want to see:
- genuine financial need
- seriousness about the course
- proof of admission to a recognized institution
- past school performance and effort
- recommendation or verification from local leaders or school authorities
When many students search for scholarships for diploma students in Kenya, they often find mixed information. The fact is that you do not always need perfect grades. Many support options exist mainly to prevent students from dropping out because of money.
Step-by-Step: How a Diploma Student Should Apply for Funding
A simple way to think about the process:
1. Secure your admission
Make sure your course and college are accredited. Funding bodies rarely support unregistered institutions.
2. Gather key documents
Keep copies of:
- KCSE/KCPE results
- admission letter
- ID or birth certificate
- parent or guardian details
- fee structure
- proof of income or supporting letters
Having these ready makes every application easier.
3. Apply through official systems
Use recognized portals and college offices to submit scholarship or bursary applications. Avoid shortcuts or “agents.”
4. Add local bursaries as support
Apply for county and constituency bursaries as soon as announcements are made in your area.
5. Ask your college about internal aid
Colleges know their students’ struggles and sometimes provide quiet support forms that people outside the school never hear about.
6. Keep records and follow up
Track who you applied to, dates, and responses. Reapply when cycles reopen. Funding success often happens after several tries, not just one.
Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.
Common Myths Diploma Students Should Ignore
Many diploma learners give up too early because of misunderstandings.
“Only university students get scholarships.”
False. Many students think scholarships for diploma students in Kenya do not exist — but they do. Diploma students are recognized in the funding system — they just use different channels.
“Without top grades, you cannot get support.”
Not always. Many bursaries focus on need and resilience, not just academic ranking.
“One rejection means you should stop applying.”
Rejection is normal. Funding bodies receive many requests. Applying widely matters.
Loans: When They Make Sense (and When They Don’t)
Loans should be treated as support, but also as responsibility.
They may help when:
- the course leads to stable income
- the remaining balance is manageable
- there are no alternative bursaries available
They may not be wise when:
- repayment will create long-term pressure
- the loan covers living costs rather than core study needs
- there is uncertainty about completing the course
Understanding this difference protects students from stress later.
How to Avoid Scholarship Scams in Kenya
Because many families struggle with fees, scammers prey on desperation.
Be careful of:
- WhatsApp or Facebook “agents” promising guaranteed approval
- demands for high “processing fees”
- scholarships with no official institution behind them
- requests for personal details through unknown links
Real scholarship bodies do not sell application slots. If someone insists on payment to secure a place, it is safer to walk away.
What to Do If You Still Cannot Get Funding
If support does not come immediately, it does not mean your journey must stop.
Possible choices include:
- looking for instalment plans
- applying again during the next cycle
- checking whether a cheaper public TVET alternative exists
- taking short skill courses that help you earn, then continuing later
Many students complete their education in stages. What matters is staying focused and planning smartly.
FAQs
Do diploma students qualify for scholarships in Kenya?
Yes. Funding options exist through government support, bursaries, college hardship funds, and community organisations.
Can I apply once I have already started studying?
In many cases, yes. Some support options allow continuing students to apply.
Do private colleges also qualify?
Only if they are accredited and recognized. Always confirm before paying fees.
How many scholarships should I apply for?
As many legitimate ones as possible. Each application increases your chances.
Final Thoughts
Diploma and TVET students are not left behind when it comes to financial support. The system simply works differently from traditional university scholarships.
Understanding how scholarships for diploma students in Kenya actually work helps students choose realistic options. Stay patient, stay organised, and keep asking questions. Support often reaches students who do not give up.
If you need help finding specific bursary portals or government forms, bookmark this page and check your county office announcements early each year. Persist with multiple applications — the funding landscape can be competitive, but opportunities exist.
Need personalised scholarship guidance?
Comment below with your country, course, and level of study — we’ll point you in the right direction.
Varsha Asrani is a lecturer and education writer with experience as Visiting Faculty at AUPP and ATMC College, and as a Lecturer with TalentEdge and UpGrad. She is the Founder of the Asrani Institute of Education and Counselling. Varsha specializes in scholarships, e-learning, and career guidance for African students and professionals, and regularly visits Africa to gather first-hand insights that shape her research and articles.
