Table of Contents
✅ Introduction
Getting the message “KUCCPS not placed” can feel like the end of your academic dream — but it isn’t. Each year, thousands of KCSE candidates find themselves unplaced after the first course selection cycle. If this has happened to you, don’t panic — you still have options, and this guide will walk you through them.
Whether you want to understand why you weren’t placed, how to fix it through second revision, or what to do if all else fails, this article has your back.
❓ What Does “KUCCPS Not Placed” Mean?
The message “You have not been placed by KUCCPS” means that the system couldn’t match you to any of the courses you applied for. This usually happens when:
- You didn’t qualify for your selected programs based on cluster points
- You picked very competitive courses (e.g., medicine, engineering) but had borderline grades
- You missed the first or second revision windows
- You didn’t apply at all through the KUCCPS portal
So, what next?
🔁 Step 1: Check Eligibility for KUCCPS Second Revision
If you saw “KUCCPS not placed,” go back to the KUCCPS student portal and log in:
What to Look For:
- A message that says: “You have not been placed. Please revise your choices.”
- This means you’re eligible for second revision.
How to Apply:
- Click “Application” > “Second Revision”
- Choose courses marked as available (with open slots)
- Select a mix of competitive and fallback options
- Pay the revision fee via MPESA
🎯 Use realistic choices. If your grade was a C, avoid all B+ programs.
✅ This is your best shot at being placed in a course you qualify for.
See more on KUCCPS Second Revision Guide
🏫 Step 2: Consider TVET or Certificate Programs
If KUCCPS doesn’t place you in a degree program, don’t overlook TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) options:
- Offered at polytechnics, national training institutes, and TVETA-accredited colleges
- You can apply for:
- Diploma (C- and above)
- Certificate (D to D+)
- Artisan (D– and below)
Benefits:
- Shorter, practical training
- HELB loans available
- High employment potential (plumbing, ICT, hairdressing, nursing, hospitality)
Many students who were not placed by KUCCPS in degree programs succeed through TVET.
🧭 Step 3: Wait for Inter-Institutional Transfer (Only If You Get Placed Later)
This doesn’t apply yet — but if you later get placed during second revision and dislike your institution or course, KUCCPS will open a transfer window.
Here’s how it works:
- Apply online for inter-university or inter-college transfer
- Must be approved by both current and receiving institution
- Done through KUCCPS portal
📝Related: How to Change Course After KUCCPS Placement
❌ Step 4: If Still Not Placed After Revisions
If you went through both first and second revisions and still weren’t placed:
You Still Have Options:
- Apply directly to a private university or college
- Check if your county government offers bursaries for self-sponsored students
- Consider online programs or open learning
- Prepare for the next KUCCPS cycle
Being not placed by KUCCPS doesn’t mean you can’t continue learning — only that you may have to use alternate entry paths.
☎️ Step 5: Contact KUCCPS for Help
Still stuck? Don’t guess — ask KUCCPS directly.
KUCCPS Support Contacts:
- 📞 020 5137400
- 📧 info@kuccps.ac.ke
- 🕹️ Visit the nearest Huduma Centre with a KUCCPS desk
🛠️ Have this info ready:
- KCSE Index Number
- Year of Exam
- ID or Birth Certificate Number
- Screenshot of error/message
They can confirm your status and whether you’re eligible for TVET, another revision, or private admission.
Related: how to apply for helb
💡 Tips to Improve Your Chances of Being Placed
| Tip | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Choose a mix of competitive and less popular programs | Increases chance of automatic placement |
| Prioritize TVET if you have C plain or below | Many diploma slots remain open |
| Monitor KUCCPS announcements | Don’t miss second revision or transfer window |
| Read course cluster points guides | Match your grade to realistic course levels |
| Avoid last-minute revisions | Give yourself time to research and apply wisely |
🙋♀️ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why was I not placed by KUCCPS?
Likely due to low cluster points, missing revisions, or highly competitive course choices.
Can I be placed after the first message?
Yes, if you’re eligible for second revision — apply as soon as it opens.
Can I appeal KUCCPS not placing me?
There is no formal appeal, but contacting KUCCPS can help clarify your status.
Can I go to college without KUCCPS placement?
Yes — private colleges, TVETs, and self-sponsored programs are still open.
Will I get HELB if not placed?
Only if you join a HELB-accredited institution. KUCCPS placement is not the only eligibility factor.
Can I still get placed after first KUCCPS revision?
Yes. KUCCPS opens a second revision phase — check their portal regularly during the cycle.
Does not being placed mean I failed KCSE?
Not necessarily. You might have qualified but missed cut-offs for selected programs.
What’s the alternative if KUCCPS doesn’t place me?
You can apply for TVET colleges, private universities, or consider short professional courses.
🧾 Conclusion
Getting a “KUCCPS not placed” message can be upsetting — but it’s not the end. You still have several lifelines:
- Apply for second revision
- Consider TVET programs
- Explore private or self-sponsored colleges
- Contact KUCCPS for direct help
- Explore online learning in Kenya.
Stay proactive, stay hopeful — and don’t let one system determine your entire academic future.
Oyugi Phelix Riaga
Application for HELB