11. Organizations in Kenya that Help Students Apply to US Universities

College access programs are non-profit organizations that guide students in their college applications, e.g., test preparation, essay guidance, college choices, etc. These programs are free to students; their funds come from donations and grants.

These programs do not provide scholarships. Instead, they help students craft stellar applications to top universities. These universities are the ones that grant scholarships.

These programs especially target high-performing low-income applicants. This is largely a matter of who needs more help in completing a college application. That said, Education USA offers guidance to all applicants, whether they are in a college access program or not.

Some of the programs require that students to submit applications, and pass interviews. Once KCSE results are announced, check the programs' websites as their applications tend to open up at that time and close after a couple of weeks.

Unless otherwise specified, the programs only accept applications from students who completed the most recent KCSE.

EaSEP (Education and Social Empowerment Program) ¶

The students stay at a camp in Nandi Hills for weeks at a time. The program also pays for its students' standardized tests .

Class Size: 10 students

Requirements:

• A- or better on the KCSE
• Demonstrated leadership
• Preferably from (or schooled in) western Kenya.

Application Instructions: https://www.easepkenya.org/apply.html

EALP (Equity African Leaders Program) ¶

Requirements:

• Best male and female student in every sub-county in Kenya where Equity has a branch.
• Wings to Fly scholars who have attained A- and above in the KCSE.

Students who meet the above criteria have a paid internship with Equity Bank, and an opportunity to join the College Counselling Program. The College Counselling Program in turn supports students to apply to global universities.

KenSAP (Kenya Scholar-Athlete Program) ¶

The students stay at a camp in Nandi Hills for weeks at a time. The program also pays for its students' standardized tests . Of the college access programs, KenSAP is very selective.

Class Size: 15 - 20 students

Requirements:

• A- of at least 79 points on the KCSE
  • Students that scored between 74 and 78 may still request to apply, but need an additional statement explaining why they should be considered alongside higher scoring candidates.
• B or better in English.

Application Instructions: https://www.kensap.org/apply

Note that, despite its name, KenSAP does not work with students seeking athletic scholarships.

EducationUSA in Kenya ¶

EducationUSA is part of the US Dept. of State, and found at the US Embassy at Gigiri, Nairobi. It offers:

• Monthly Facebook Live info sessions on the US Embassy Nairobi Facebook page .
• Individual advising sessions by appointment.
• Quarterly workshops on the different stages of the application process.
• The EducationUSA Scholars Program .

Note that, despite its affiliation with the US Government, EducationUSA does not provide scholarships.

EducationUSA Scholars Program ¶

Unlike the more general EducationUSA program, their Scholars Program requires an application. It offers more support, e.g., paying for standardized tests .

Class Size: 40 students

Requirements:

• A- in KCSE (74 points or higher)

Application Instructions: Be on the lookout for applications invite on the U.S. Embassy Nairobi Facebook Page , typically after KCSE results are announced.

Zawadi Africa ¶

Requirements:

• A female student
• A- in KCSE (74 points or higher)
• Demonstrated leadership qualities in school and/or community
• Come from a financially needy background
• Completed high school no more than two years before applying.

Application Instructions: https://www.zawadiafrica.org/apply-now/