Following the opening of the Kenya University and Colleges Central Placement (KUCCPS) on January 8, 2024, many students willing to apply for degree, diploma and certificate courses raised several issues regarding the process.
KUCCPS opened the application until February 20, 2024, urging students to apply early to avoid last-minute rush.
The Placement body noted that the application targeted two select groups; form four leavers from 2000 to 2022 and the 2023 Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) students.
However, hours later, students complained of a downtime of the portal, which denied them a chance to apply. In response, KUCCPS encouraged the students to continue cross-checking as the portal is experiencing high traffic.
Another issue brought to the front was the difference between cut-off points and cluster points and how one can access each for the degree or certificate course of their choice.
Kenyans.co.ke gives a breakdown of the process and the difference between the two:
What is the difference between cut-off points and weighted cluster points?
According to KUCCPS, cluster points are a graduate's computed performance in four subjects required for admission to a given degree programme against that of the best candidates in a particular KCSE exam year.
The points are based on cluster subject requirements and overall candidates' performance. To reduce the chances of applicants tying on points, the Placement Body computes the figure to three decimal places.
On the other hand, cut-off points are the weighted cluster points of the last competitively placed student in a given degree programme.
How to check cut-off points at the KUCCPS portal
The KUCCPS student portal automatically calculates cluster points when a student applies for a course. The portal also displays placement results on the dashboard.
To check for the cut-off points, log in to the student portal at students.kuccps.net
Select the Programmes option.
This provides a list of degrees, diplomas and Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET programmes).
Based on your preference, click on the programme of your choice.
This provides the minimum entry requirements for the programme as well as the 2023 cutoff points for the courses.
What are the minimum entry requirements for KUCCPS in the placement process?
Students seeking to join tertiary institutions will be required to have attained a minimum grade to pursue the course of their choice.
This is categorised as below:
Degree Programmes: mean grade of C+ (plus)
Diploma Programmes: mean grade of C - (minus)
Craft Certificate Courses: mean grade of D (plain)
Artisan Certificate courses: mean grade of E
