Scoring a D+, D plain, D- or E in your Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) examination does not mean the end of your education or career opportunities. There are several technical and vocational courses you can pursue in Kenya, even with a low KCSE grade.
Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions offer practical courses in fields such as engineering, information technology, business, hospitality, construction, fashion design and automotive technology. These courses equip learners with skills that can lead to employment, self-employment or further education.
Depending on your KCSE grade, you can enrol for an Artisan Certificate or Craft Certificate course and progress to higher qualifications after meeting the relevant requirements.
This article highlights marketable TVET courses you can consider if you scored D+, D plain, D- or E in KCSE, their general entry requirements and important considerations when choosing a course.
Artisan and Craft Certificate Courses in Kenya
Before choosing a course, it is important to understand the difference between Artisan and Craft Certificate qualifications. They are offered at different levels of the Kenya National Qualifications Framework (KNQF) and have different entry requirements.
1. Artisan Certificate Courses (Level 4)
Artisan courses equip learners with basic practical and technical skills in specific occupations. They are suitable for candidates who scored lower grades in KCSE and those seeking hands-on vocational training.
KUCCPS generally lists D- and E as the minimum KCSE grades for placement into Artisan Certificate programmes. Some vocational training pathways may also admit learners with KCPE qualifications, depending on the programme and institution.
Examples of artisan courses include:
- Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation
- Artisan Certificate in Plumbing
- Artisan Certificate in Masonry
- Artisan Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery
- Artisan Certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanics
- Artisan Certificate in Catering and Accommodation
- Artisan Certificate in Baking Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Welding and Fabrication
- Artisan Certificate in Building Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Fashion Design and Garment Making
- Artisan Certificate in Information Communication Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Storekeeping
Artisan Certificates are classified at Level 4 under the KNQF. The training period depends on the course, curriculum and institution.
2. Craft Certificate Courses (Level 5)
Craft Certificate courses provide more advanced technical, vocational and practical skills than Artisan programmes. They prepare learners for skilled employment, technical occupations and self-employment.
The general KCSE entry grades for Craft Certificate programmes are D plain and D+. However, exact requirements depend on the course, examining body and institution.
Examples of Craft Certificate courses include:
- Craft Certificate in Automotive Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Computer Servicing and Maintenance
- Craft Certificate in Information Technology
- Craft Certificate in Human Resource Management
- Craft Certificate in Sales and Marketing
- Craft Certificate in Supply Chain Management
- Craft Certificate in Business Administration
- Craft Certificate in Social Work and Community Development
- Craft Certificate in Secretarial Studies
- Craft Certificate in Storekeeping
- Craft Certificate in Fashion Design and Garment Making
- Craft Certificate in Baking Technology
- Craft Certificate in Food and Beverage Production and Service
- Craft Certificate in Catering and Accommodation
- Craft Certificate in Building Technology
- Craft Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery
Craft Certificates are classified at Level 5 under the KNQF. Course duration varies depending on the curriculum and institution.
Marketable Courses You Can Study with D+ and D Plain in KCSE
If you scored D+ or D plain in KCSE, you can explore various Craft Certificate programmes in public and private TVET institutions in Kenya.
Engineering and Technical Courses
- Craft Certificate in Automotive Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Mechanical Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- Craft Certificate in Electrical Installation
- Craft Certificate in Computer Servicing and Maintenance
- Craft Certificate in Welding and Fabrication
- Craft Certificate in Building Technology
- Craft Certificate in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning
Business and Management Courses
- Craft Certificate in Business Administration
- Craft Certificate in Human Resource Management
- Craft Certificate in Sales and Marketing
- Craft Certificate in Supply Chain Management
- Craft Certificate in Storekeeping
- Craft Certificate in Secretarial Studies
- Craft Certificate in Social Work and Community Development
ICT and Computer Courses
- Craft Certificate in Information Technology
- Craft Certificate in Computer Servicing and Maintenance
- Craft Certificate in ICT Technician Training
- Craft Certificate in Information Communication Technology
Hospitality, Fashion and Creative Courses
- Craft Certificate in Catering and Accommodation
- Craft Certificate in Food and Beverage Production and Service
- Craft Certificate in Baking Technology
- Craft Certificate in Fashion Design and Garment Making
- Craft Certificate in Interior Design
- Craft Certificate in Graphic Design
Important: These are examples of vocational training areas and course titles. Not every institution offers all the programmes, and some courses have additional subject requirements. Check the exact course requirements on the KUCCPS Student’s Portal before applying.
Marketable Courses You Can Study with D- and E in KCSE
Scoring D- or E does not automatically disqualify you from pursuing further education. You can consider Artisan Certificate programmes offered by vocational training centres, technical training institutes and other approved TVET institutions.
Engineering and Construction Courses
- Artisan Certificate in Electrical Installation
- Artisan Certificate in Plumbing
- Artisan Certificate in Masonry
- Artisan Certificate in Carpentry and Joinery
- Artisan Certificate in Building Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Welding and Fabrication
- Artisan Certificate in Motor Vehicle Mechanics
- Artisan Certificate in Automotive Mechanics
- Artisan Certificate in Motor Vehicle Wiring
Hospitality and Food Production Courses
- Artisan Certificate in Catering and Accommodation
- Artisan Certificate in Baking Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Food Production
- Artisan Certificate in Food and Beverage Service
Business, ICT and Creative Courses
- Artisan Certificate in Information Communication Technology
- Artisan Certificate in Storekeeping
- Artisan Certificate in Fashion Design and Garment Making
- Artisan Certificate in Tailoring and Dressmaking
- Artisan Certificate in Office Administration
Some institutions also offer short vocational courses and trade-test programmes in areas such as tailoring, welding, carpentry and mechanical work. Their admission requirements and certification arrangements may differ from those of formal Artisan Certificate programmes.
Minimum KCSE Grades for TVET Courses in Kenya
The following table summarises the general minimum KCSE grades for placement into different TVET qualification levels.
| TVET Qualification | KNQF Level | General Minimum KCSE Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Artisan Certificate | Level 4 | D- and E |
| Craft Certificate | Level 5 | D and D+ |
| National Diploma | Level 6 | C- |
These are general placement requirements, not a guarantee of admission to every programme. Some courses have additional subject requirements or alternative entry pathways, including progression from a relevant lower-level qualification.
Can You Upgrade from an Artisan Certificate to a Diploma?
Yes. TVET education provides opportunities for learners to progress to higher qualification levels after completing the required training.
A general progression pathway is:
- Artisan Certificate (Level 4): Start with practical vocational training.
- Craft Certificate (Level 5): Progress to a more advanced qualification after meeting the relevant requirements.
- National Diploma (Level 6): Advance to diploma-level training after obtaining the required qualification.
The progression route depends on the course, awarding body and admission requirements. Completing an Artisan Certificate does not automatically guarantee admission to every Craft Certificate or Diploma programme.
How to Choose a Marketable Course with a Low KCSE Grade
When choosing a course, do not focus on the entry grade alone. Consider the following factors:
- Job opportunities: Research the occupations associated with the course and the skills employers require.
- Self-employment opportunities: Consider practical skills that can help you start a business or offer services independently.
- Personal interests: Choose a field that matches your abilities and career interests.
- Training facilities: Check whether the institution has suitable workshops, equipment and qualified trainers.
- Further education: Consider whether the qualification provides a recognised progression pathway.
Engineering, electrical installation, plumbing, automotive mechanics, ICT, hospitality and fashion design are examples of fields worth exploring. However, employment prospects depend on practical competence, experience, location and market demand.
How to Apply for TVET Courses in Kenya
You can apply for TVET programmes through KUCCPS placement or directly to an institution, depending on the programme and admission arrangements.
- Identify the course you want to pursue.
- Check its minimum KCSE grade and any additional subject requirements.
- Confirm which accredited institutions offer the programme.
- Apply through the KUCCPS Student’s Portal when applications are open, or contact the institution for direct admission procedures.
- Confirm the fees, course duration, examination body and certification arrangements before enrolling.
Before paying admission fees, verify that the institution is registered and licensed by the Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), and that it is approved to offer your chosen course.
You can check approved institutions through the TVETA official website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Which course can I do with D plain in KCSE?
With D plain, you can explore various Craft Certificate courses, including automotive engineering, electrical and electronic engineering, business administration, human resource management, supply chain management, catering and accommodation, and fashion design. Exact entry requirements depend on the programme and institution.
2. Which courses can I pursue with D- in KCSE?
With D-, you can explore Artisan Certificate programmes in areas such as plumbing, electrical installation, masonry, carpentry and joinery, motor vehicle mechanics, catering and accommodation, and welding and fabrication. Confirm the specific course’s admission requirements before applying.
3. Can I join a TVET college with an E in KCSE?
Yes. Candidates with an E in KCSE can apply for eligible Artisan Certificate programmes. Check the KUCCPS Student’s Portal or contact your preferred institution to identify available courses.
4. Can I join a technical college with D+?
Yes. A D+ meets the general KUCCPS minimum grade for Craft Certificate placement. You can explore courses in engineering, ICT, business, hospitality and other vocational fields, subject to individual programme requirements.
5. How long do Artisan and Craft Certificate courses take?
Course duration varies depending on the qualification, curriculum and institution. Check the specific programme details with your preferred college before enrolling.
6. Can I get a job after completing an Artisan or Craft Certificate?
Yes. These qualifications provide practical skills that can support entry into employment or self-employment. Your opportunities depend on the course, your competence, work experience and the availability of jobs in your field.
Final Thoughts
Your KCSE grade should not stop you from acquiring practical skills and building a career. Whether you scored D+, D plain, D- or E, there are TVET training opportunities worth exploring.
Choose a recognised course that matches your interests and career goals, develop practical skills and take advantage of opportunities to advance your qualifications.
I would like to do artisan in carpentry but I have know fees please help me I scored a D plain 2016
application for the course 2022 kcse exam.
Hi. You can check colleges like Nita. Have a look at NITA Kenya Courses, Course Duration, Requirements and Fee Structure
how much school fees required for masonry and plumbing
Hi Karisa. For fees and related courses you can look at: NITA Kenya Courses, Course Duration, Requirements and Fee Structure
Hi,can join your school with D-
I need a certificate in secretarial course or certificate in human resources.. kindly I want to study with you if possible.
Thank you.
hi l got aD_ añ i would like to study as a secretarial . can i gget a chance .
I am happy to learn that I can be placed somewhere for a course with my D+
Hy i scored D- and i would like to study plumbing
Hi I want to apply for catering and I scored a D-Can I join you please thank you
Hi i got a D- and i would like to apply for
catering
Hi, kuccps is open (a day till it closes) for applications of artisan, craft certificate and other courses. Check this article for more information on how to apply: How to Apply for KUCCPS Courses Online: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cerficate in community health and delevopment