How to Calculate KUCCPS Cluster Points: A Step-by-Step Guide

What Are Cluster Points?

Cluster points are a weighted score calculated using your KCSE grades and the specific subject requirements for the degree program you're applying for. Each program has its own subject weights, and your total cluster points must meet or exceed the program's cutoff points to qualify.

The KUCCPS Cluster Points Formula

The formula for calculating cluster points is:

Cluster Points = (Subject 1 Grade Points × Subject 1 Weight) + (Subject 2 Grade Points × Subject 2 Weight) + (Subject 3 Grade Points × Subject 3 Weight) + (Subject 4 Grade Points × Subject 4 Weight) + (Mathematics Grade Points × Mathematics Weight) + (English Grade Points × English Weight)

Step-by-Step Calculation

1. Convert KCSE Grades to Points

First, convert your KCSE subject grades to points using the following scale:

2. Identify Subject Weights

Each degree program has specific subject weights assigned by KUCCPS. These weights reflect the importance of each subject to the program. For example:

• Mathematics and English are compulsory and usually have fixed weights (e.g., Mathematics = 2, English = 1).

• The other four subjects (Subject 1, Subject 2, Subject 3, Subject 4) have weights based on their relevance to the program.

3. Multiply Grade Points by Weights

Multiply the points for each subject by its corresponding weight.

4. Sum Up the Weighted Points

Add up all the weighted points to get your total cluster points.

Example Calculation

Let’s say a student scored the following grades in KCSE:

• Mathematics: A (12 points)

• English: B+ (10 points)

• Subject 1: A- (11 points)

• Subject 2: B (9 points)

• Subject 3: C+ (7 points)

• Subject 4: B- (8 points)

And the program’s subject weights are:

• Mathematics = 2

• English = 1

• Subject 1 = 3

• Subject 2 = 2

• Subject 3 = 2

• Subject 4 = 1

Here’s how the cluster points are calculated:

1. Mathematics: 12 × 2 = 24

2. English: 10 × 1 = 10

3. Subject 1: 11 × 3 = 33

4. Subject 2: 9 × 2 = 18

5. Subject 3: 7 × 2 = 14

6. Subject 4: 8 × 1 = 8

Total Cluster Points = 24 + 10 + 33 + 18 + 14 + 8 = 107

How Cluster Points Are Used

Once you’ve calculated your cluster points, compare them to the cutoff points for your desired program. Each program has a minimum cluster point requirement, and students are placed based on their scores and the program’s availability.

Tips for Success

1. Check Subject Weights: Always confirm the subject weights for your desired program on the KUCCPS portal.

2. Aim for High Grades: The better your KCSE grades, the higher your cluster points.

3. Apply Strategically: Choose programs where your cluster points meet or exceed the cutoff.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the KUCCPS cluster points formula is key to securing a spot in your preferred degree program. By calculating your cluster points accurately and choosing programs wisely, you can maximize your chances of success.