The Ministry of Education announced the opportunity on Monday, November 9, 2026, after receiving word from the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in Kenya.
The ministry said applicants must meet the admission rules of their chosen universities. Those rules cover academic ability, language skills, and other criteria. Candidates must first apply to a university and secure an admission letter or pre-admission document. Kenya's Ministry of Education will screen the applications first.
The Chinese Embassy will then test and interview the shortlisted candidates in written examinations and interviews.
Undergraduate applicants face an extra hurdle. They must register for the China Scholastic Competence Assessment (CSCA) at www.csca.cn. The test includes Chinese Language and Mathematics, plus optional Physics and Chemistry papers.
It takes place on December 19, 2026. Each applicant must obtain a CSCA score report, which the scholarship application requires.
Eligibility depends on the level of study. Undergraduate applicants need a KCSE mean grade of at least B (Plain) or its equivalent. They must be 25 or younger and must have finished secondary school within the past three years.
Master's applicants need a bachelor's degree with at least Second-Class Upper Division. They must be under 35. PhD applicants need a relevant master's degree from a recognised university and must be under 40.
Applicants must apply online through the China Scholarship Council website at www.campuschina.org. They should create an account, choose the Scholarship Application for Students option, and complete the Chinese Government Scholarship application form.
During the process, they must select Programme Category Type A and enter Agency Number 4041.
The application package is extensive. Applicants must upload a passport information page valid for more than a year beyond the expected start date. They also need notarised academic certificates and transcripts, plus admission documents from their Chinese universities. Undergraduate candidates must submit a study plan of at least 200 words.
Postgraduate applicants must submit one of at least 800 words. Master's and PhD applicants also need two recommendation letters from professors or associate professors. Every applicant must provide a completed Foreigner Physical Examination Form and a valid Certificate of Good Conduct.
Interested students should check the China Scholarship Council's directory of participating universities early. Securing an admission letter can take time, and the paperwork is detailed.
