Introduction
The Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) grading system determines students’ eligibility for university admission and career opportunities. A C+ (C Plus) is a key grade since it is the minimum entry requirement for university admission in Kenya.
In this article, we will cover:
- How many points is a C+
- KCSE grading system and points per grade
- Minimum requirements for university admission
- Courses available for students with a C+
How Many Points is a C+
A C+ (C Plus) is 7 points in the KCSE grading system used by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).
KCSE Grading System in Kenya (2024)
KCSE grades are awarded on a 12-point scale, with A (the highest) being 12 points and E (the lowest) being 1 point.
Here is the full KCSE grading system:
| KCSE Grade | Points |
|---|---|
| A | 12 |
| A- | 11 |
| B+ | 10 |
| B | 9 |
| B- | 8 |
| C+ | 7 |
| C | 6 |
| C- | 5 |
| D+ | 4 |
| D | 3 |
| D- | 2 |
| E | 1 |
Is C+ a Good Grade
Yes, C+ is a good grade since it meets the minimum university entry requirements in Kenya. Students who score C+ and above are eligible for government-sponsored university programs through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS).
What Can I Do With a C+
Students with C+ have many options, including:
1️⃣ University Admission
C+ and above qualifies students for degree programs in public and private universities under KUCCPS sponsorship. Some degree courses you can pursue with a C+ are:
- Education (Arts/Science)
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Bachelor of Arts in Communication
- Bachelor of Science in Agriculture
- Bachelor of Environmental Science
2️⃣ Diploma Programs
If you don’t qualify for your preferred degree, you can join diploma courses in recognized institutions. Some popular diploma courses are:
- Diploma in Nursing* Diploma in Engineering
- Diploma in ICT
- Diploma in Hospitality and Tourism
- Diploma in Business Management
3️⃣ Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Courses
With a C+, you can join TVET institutions like Kenya Institute of Management (KIM), Kenya Technical Trainers College (KTTC), and National Polytechnics to pursue hands-on courses in:
- Electrical Engineering
- Plumbing
- Automotive Mechanics
- Hairdressing & Beauty Therapy
4️⃣ Police and Military Recruitment
A KCSE C+ qualifies you for Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and Kenya Police Service positions that require university or diploma qualifications.
How KCSE Mean Grade is Calculated
The KCSE mean grade is calculated from seven subjects, including:
- English
- Kiswahili
- Mathematics
- Best two sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics)
- Best two other subjects (History, Geography, Business, CRE, etc.)
For example:
| Subject | Grade | Points |
|---|---|---|
| English | B | 9 |
| Kiswahili | B- | 8 |
| Mathematics | C+ | 7 |
| Biology | B+ | 10 |
| Chemistry | C | 6 |
| History | B | 9 |
| Business | B- | 8 |
Total points: (9+8+7+10+6+9+8) = 57
Mean Grade = 57 ÷ 7 = 8.14 ≈ B- (B Minus)
Conclusion
A C+ in KCSE is 7 points and qualifies students for degree programs, diploma courses, TVET training, and professional careers. It is the minimum entry requirement for university admission in Kenya, so it’s a key grade in the education system.
