Courses You Can Do With D+, D or D- in KCSE: Certificate and Artisan Options

A mean grade of D+, D or D- does not qualify you for a degree through KUCCPS, but it does not close every door. Here is how to look at your options.

What these grades mean

On the KCSE scale, D+ is 4 points, D is 3 points and D- is 2 points per subject. With these mean grades, degree and most diploma courses are usually out of reach, because they ask for higher mean grades. Certificate and artisan programmes ask for lower grades.

Levels that may be open

According to our course data on CourseChecker, most certificate programmes ask for around a D, and many artisan programmes accept grades as low as E. Entry grades differ between courses and institutions, so check each one.

• Certificate (TVET): practical programmes in trades, business, ICT and more
• Artisan: short, skills-based programmes in trades
• Short courses and skills training: for example computer packages and digital skills

How to use this level well

• Pick a skill with real demand in your area, such as electrical installation, plumbing, welding or computer skills.
• Get practical experience through attachment or small jobs.
• Build up: certificates can lead to diplomas, and diplomas to degrees. Ask the institution about progression and credit transfer.
• Consider retaking KCSE subjects as a private candidate if you want a higher grade. Ask KNEC about dates and fees.

Check the exact course

Always read the minimum mean grade and subject requirements for the course you want, and confirm with the institution or the official KUCCPS portal.

Find your options

Enter your grades at coursechecker.co.ke to see certificate, artisan and other courses you qualify for. See also coursechecker.co.ke/kcse-grade for what each KCSE grade can study.

Sources

• Business Today Kenya, "KCSE 2024 grading system for higher education", for the grade points
• CourseChecker course data for entry grades by level; confirm with the institution