Bridging: How to Join University With a KCSE Grade of C (Plain) & Below

Bridging: How to Join University With a KCSE Grade of C (Plain) & Below

Joining a university after high school is one of the ambitions of many young Kenyans looking to better their lives, but not all are successful in gaining admission to prestigious universities.

Those who do not achieve the required grades for a degree during their Kenya Certificate Secondary Education (KCSE) tests are sometimes left in limbo, unsure whether they will be able to pursue a university education.

But all hope is not lost. Candidates can use bridging to achieve the requisite grade to level up to the university of their interest.

Understanding Bridging Courses in Kenya

A bridging course is designed for students who did not meet the required grades in specific subjects during their Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE). The goal is to enhance performance in critical areas such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and English. Students then receive a Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC) or KCSE Bridge Certificate, enabling them to apply for higher-level academic programs.

For instance, students aiming to pursue medical-related courses must meet minimum subject grades. Bridging offers a second chance to qualify for such courses. One KMTC official noted that “many students still inquire about bridging programs, but the college now focuses on upgrading rather than bridging.”

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A candidate can complete this programme in six to twelve months and then transfer to their desired university.

Mathematics, Biology, Physics, and Chemistry are just a few of the courses a candidate can bridge. For example, those who want to pursue a profession in accounting but did not achieve the minimum required grade in Mathematics can bridge the gap and gain admission to a university.

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However, unlike other courses, there is no minimal need to bridge a subject. Candidates are recommended to ensure that they achieve the minimal overall grade for the selected university programme while following the course.

In Kenya, there are numerous learning institutions that provide bridging courses that are accredited by the Kenya National Examination Council (KNEC).

However, applicants should be aware that a bridging credential may not be recognized by international universities.

Critics of the bridging course chance argue that the candidate should repeat form four in order to improve their grades.

The Ministry of Education assured all candidates that they would be enrolled in higher learning institutions, including TVETs, to help them develop technical skills that would be useful in their entrepreneurial journey.

KMTC Position on Bridging Courses

KMTC previously provided bridging courses for students lacking minimum qualifications in cluster subjects. However, the institution has since shifted its focus. As of 2025, KMTC no longer offers bridging courses but instead provides short and upgrading programs aimed at certificate holders who wish to advance to diploma levels.

For example, those with a Certificate in Community Health Nursing can enroll in an upgrade program to obtain a Diploma in the same field. This pathway allows them to qualify for registration with the Nursing Council of Kenya.

Bridging courses in nursing enable students to qualify for diploma or degree programs by improving grades in essential subjects. These include Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English. Students often seek bridging programs when they fail to meet KMTC’s subject-specific requirements.

One administrator at a partnering college explained that students often ask, “Can I still join a nursing program with a D in Biology?” and they are advised to bridge the subject before applying.

Available Bridging Courses in Kenyan Colleges

Kenyan institutions offer bridging programs in five core subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and English. These courses are tailored for students pursuing either arts or science courses and vary in duration from 3 to 6 months depending on the subject and institution.

1. Bridging Biology

Biology is vital for students aiming to pursue courses in the medical field, particularly Nursing. A C- (minus) in Biology is the minimum requirement for a Certificate in Community Health Nursing at KMTC. Students who fall short can bridge the subject at:

• Chuka University
• Bridge College
• University of Kabianga
• University of Eldoret
• Nairobi Aviation College

To qualify, students need a mean KCSE grade of C- and at least a D- in Biology. The course typically lasts six months.

2. Bridging Chemistry

Chemistry is critical for entry into Pharmacy programs. KMTC requires a C in Chemistry and a mean grade of C for admission into its Diploma in Pharmacy program. Students who scored lower, such as a D in Chemistry, can enroll in a bridging course offered at:

• Chuka University
• University of Kabianga
• Bridge College
• Karatina University
• Nairobi Aviation College

The bridging course can last from two to six months, with both full-time and part-time options.

3. Bridging English

English proficiency is a requirement for admission into higher education institutions in Kenya. A C- in English is required for certificate programs at KMTC, while a C is needed for diploma courses. Although fewer institutions offer bridging courses in English compared to sciences, students can apply at:

• University of Kabianga
• Nairobi Aviation College

Most institutions substitute English with Kiswahili only in rare cases.

4. Bridging Mathematics

Mathematics is generally required for most academic programs, with the exception of courses like Psychology and History. KMTC requires a D in Mathematics for certificate courses and a C- for diploma programs. Students can bridge Mathematics at:

• The Eldoret National Polytechnic
• Bridge College
• Chuka University
• University of Kabianga
• Karatina University
• University of Eldoret
• Nairobi Aviation College

Applicants must have a KCSE mean grade of C- and at least a D- in Mathematics. The course takes about three to six months.

5. Bridging Physics

Physics is crucial in many medical disciplines due to its application in medical technologies. KMTC expects at least a D- in Physics for certificate courses and a C or C- for diploma programs. Bridging Physics is possible at:

• Chuka University
• University of Kabianga
• Karatina University
• Bridge College

The program duration varies but generally spans 3 to 6 months.

Important Bridging Guidelines

Minimum Requirements

To bridge a subject, students need:

• A D (plain) in the failed subject.
• A mean grade of C+ for bridging into a degree program.
• A C- for diploma bridging.
• A D for certificate bridging.

Number of Subjects

Most institutions allow students to bridge one or two subjects based on their intended course of study.

Options After Bridging

Students who successfully complete a bridging course can apply for related diploma programs, including Clinical Medicine, provided the institution accepts the improved subject grades.

Availability at Public and Private Institutions

Kenyatta University

Kenyatta University offers an English bridging course under its School of Humanities and Social Sciences. However, it does not provide bridging in sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, or Physics.

Private Colleges Offering Bridging Courses

Several private institutions in Kenya offer bridging programs, including:

• International Centre of Technology (ICT)
• Braeburn Schools
• KCA University
• Machakos Institute of Technology (MIT)

These colleges provide flexible schedules and tailored support to help students achieve their educational goals.

Fees and Costs

The cost of bridging courses varies by institution and course. Interested students should visit official websites—such as that of JKUAT or individual colleges—for the most current fee structures and related information.

Conclusion: KMTC’s Role in 2025

As of 2025, KMTC does not offer any bridging courses. Students must enroll in certified external institutions for subject bridging to qualify for KMTC programs. Upon successful completion, they can proceed to pursue their desired medical courses using their updated academic credentials.

Would you like a table summarizing the institutions and subjects for easier reference?

Bridging: How to Join University With a KCSE Grade of C (Plain) & Below