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How to Pay Kenya Institute of Mass Communication Commitment Fee on eCitizen: All You Need to Know

  • BY Norah Waceke
  • July 12, 2025
Kenya Institute of Mass Communication

The Kenya Institute of Mass Communication (KIMC), established in 1961, is a leading public institution under the Ministry of Information, Communications, and Digital Economy, renowned for its practical, hands-on training in media and communication. Located in Nairobi, KIMC offers certificate, diploma, and postgraduate programs in fields such as journalism, film production, and broadcast engineering, preparing students for dynamic careers in the media industry. For students admitted to KIMC for the 2025/2026 academic year, paying the commitment fee is a critical step to secure your place. This fee, payable through the eCitizen platform, confirms your intent to join KIMC and is a prerequisite for admission.

Why the KIMC Commitment Fee Matters

The commitment fee is a non-refundable payment required by KIMC to confirm your acceptance of the admission offer. It secures your place in your chosen program (e.g., Diploma in Journalism, Certificate in Broadcast Journalism, or Postgraduate Diploma in Mass Communication) and is typically a portion of the total fees, ranging from Kshs. 5,000 to Kshs. 10,000, depending on the program. Key reasons why the commitment fee is crucial include:

  • Confirms Admission: Paying the fee signals your intent to enroll, ensuring your slot is reserved.
  • Enables Registration: The payment receipt is required during admission to complete registration and access the KIMC student portal.
  • Facilitates Financial Planning: Early payment allows you to apply for funding, such as Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) loans or scholarships, using the receipt as proof of admission.
  • Streamlines Processes: The eCitizen platform ensures secure, transparent payments, reducing the risk of fraud.

The commitment fee must be paid through the official KIMC eCitizen portal (kimc.ecitizen.go.ke), which integrates with Kenya’s eCitizen platform for efficient government service transactions. Below, we outline the detailed process for paying the commitment fee, tailored for both applicants with existing eCitizen accounts and those creating new accounts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Paying the KIMC Commitment Fee on eCitizen

KIMC requires all applicants, whether placed through the Kenya Universities and Colleges Central Placement Service (KUCCPS) or as self-sponsored students, to pay the commitment fee via the eCitizen platform. The process varies slightly depending on whether you or your parent/guardian already have an eCitizen account. Follow the steps below, based on the official KIMC guidelines.

A. For Applicants/Parents/Guardians with an eCitizen Account

If you or your parent/guardian already have an eCitizen account, follow these steps to pay the KIMC commitment fee:

  1. Access the KIMC eCitizen Portal:
    • Open a web browser (e.g., Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge) and visit kimc.ecitizen.go.ke.
    • Ensure a stable internet connection to avoid interruptions during the payment process.
  2. Sign In to Your eCitizen Account:
    • Click the “Sign In” button on the portal’s homepage.
    • Enter your username (typically your National ID number) and password.
    • If you’ve forgotten your password, click “Forgot Password” and follow the prompts to reset it via your registered email or phone number.
  3. Select the Commitment Fee Option:
    • Once logged in, navigate to the “Course Commitment Fee” section on the dashboard.
    • This option is specifically for the commitment fee payment for KIMC programs.
  4. Confirm Your Course:
    • Select the program you’ve been admitted to (e.g., Diploma in Broadcast Journalism, Certificate in Film Production).
    • Verify that the course matches the details in your KIMC admission letter.
  5. Reconfirm Your Details:
    • Choose whether you’re paying for yourself or on behalf of someone else (e.g., a parent/guardian paying for a student).
    • Enter your personal details, including your full name and National ID number, if paying for yourself, or the applicant’s details if paying on their behalf.
  6. Enter Required Information:
    • Input your KCSE index number in the format 12345678901/2024 (where 2024 is your KCSE year).
    • Provide the reference number from your KIMC admission letter, which can be downloaded from kimc.ac.ke or the KUCCPS portal (students.kuccps.net).
    • Select the program again to confirm accuracy.
  7. Choose the Payment Method:
    • Select your preferred payment option from the eCitizen platform, including:
      • MPesa: Ensure your MPesa account has the exact amount indicated, as partial payments are not accepted.
      • Visa/MasterCard: Use a debit or credit card for secure transactions.
      • Airtel Money: An alternative mobile money option.
      • Bank Deposit: Via KCB, Equity Bank, or Pesalink.
    • Follow the prompts to complete the payment. For MPesa, you’ll receive a prompt on your phone to enter your PIN.
  8. Download and Print the Receipt:
    • After successful payment, download the payment receipt from the eCitizen portal.
    • Print at least one copy of the receipt, as it is required during admission at KIMC’s Nairobi campus (Uholo Road, Off Mombasa Road).

Note: The commitment fee must be paid in full, as indicated on the portal. Ensure you have the exact amount for MPesa transactions to avoid delays. If you encounter issues, contact KIMC’s Admissions Office at +254 708 262 895 or info@kimc.ac.ke.

B. For Applicants/Parents/Guardians Without an eCitizen Account

If you or your parent/guardian do not have an eCitizen account, you must create one before paying the commitment fee. Follow these steps:

  1. Access the KIMC eCitizen Portal:
    • Open a web browser and visit kimc.ecitizen.go.ke.
  2. Sign Up for an eCitizen Account:
    • Click the “Sign Up” button on the portal’s homepage.
    • Select the account type as “Citizen” (for Kenyan nationals).
  3. Register Your Details:
    • Enter your National ID number, full names, and year of birth.
    • Provide your contact details (phone number and email address).
    • Create a strong password (at least 8 characters, including letters, numbers, and special characters).
    • Complete the registration process by verifying your email or phone number via a one-time password (OTP) sent by eCitizen.
  4. Log In and Pay the Commitment Fee:
    • Return to kimc.ecitizen.go.ke and sign in with your new credentials.
    • Follow steps 3–8 from Section A above to select the commitment fee option, confirm your course, enter your details, choose a payment method, and download the receipt.

Tip: Save your eCitizen login credentials securely, as you’ll need them for future transactions, such as applying for HELB loans or other government services. If you face issues during sign-up, contact eCitizen support at +254 203 272 920 or support@ecitizen.go.ke.

Post-Payment Steps: Preparing for KIMC Admission

After paying the commitment fee, you must complete additional steps to finalize your admission to KIMC. These include downloading your admission letter, submitting required documents, and preparing for reporting in September 2025.

1. Download Your KIMC Admission Letter

  • Visit kimc.ac.ke or students.kuccps.net to download your admission letter.
  • For KUCCPS students, log in using your KCSE index number (e.g., 12345678901/2024), KCSE year, and password (typically your KCPE index number or birth certificate number).
  • For self-sponsored students, use your application reference number provided during the application process.
  • Save and print the admission letter, which contains your registration number, program details, fee structure, reporting date, and required documents.

2. Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following for submission during admission at KIMC’s Nairobi campus:

  • Printed Commitment Fee Receipt: Proof of payment from the eCitizen portal.
  • Printed Admission Letter: Downloaded from kimc.ac.ke or KUCCPS.
  • Certified Copies:
    • KCSE certificate/result slip
    • National ID or birth certificate (for KUCCPS students)
    • Two passport-size photos
  • Filled Forms: Downloadable from kimc.ac.ke, including:
    • Biodata form
    • Medical form (to be completed by a certified medical practitioner)
    • Acceptance form
    • Hostel booking form (if applying for on-campus accommodation)
  • Application Documents: For self-sponsored students, include copies of the application form and payment receipt for the application fee (Kshs. 1,000).

Note: Ensure all documents are certified by a commissioner of oaths or relevant authority to avoid rejection during registration.

3. Complete Online Registration

  • Log in to the KIMC student portal at kimc.ac.ke using your registration number (from the admission letter) and initial password (typically your National ID or KCSE index number).
  • Update your profile with personal details, upload scanned documents, and register for your courses.
  • Pay at least 50% of the semester fees (as per the fee structure) to complete registration.

4. Book Accommodation

KIMC offers limited on-campus accommodation for regular program students, with priority for first-year students. To book a hostel:

  • Download the hostel booking form from kimc.ac.ke.
  • Pay the accommodation fee (approximately Kshs. 10,000–15,000 per year, as per the 2023/2024 fee structure) via:
    • Bank Deposit: Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), KICC Branch, Account No. 1143244362, Swift Code: KCBKENX, Bank Code 01, Branch 104.
    • MPesa: Follow instructions on kimc.ecitizen.go.ke.
  • Submit the form and payment receipt during admission.

Note: Self-sponsored students may also access hostels, subject to availability. If on-campus housing is unavailable, explore private hostels near KIMC’s Nairobi campus (Uholo Road, Off Mombasa Road).

5. Prepare for Reporting

  • Reporting Date: Likely September 2025, with specific dates announced on kimc.ac.ke or via student email by August 2025.
  • Orientation: Attend the mandatory orientation program to learn about academic policies, campus facilities, and student welfare services.
  • Required Items: Bring personal items (e.g., bedding, stationery) and comply with KIMC’s dress code and regulations, as outlined in the admission letter.

KIMC Fee Structure and Payment Options

Understanding the KIMC fee structure is essential for financial planning. The commitment fee is separate from tuition and other fees, which vary by program. Below is an overview based on the 2023/2024 fee structure, subject to updates for 2025/2026:

  • Certificate Programs: Kshs. 97,000 per year (Module I), Kshs. 101,000 (Module II).
  • Diploma Programs (Regular/Day): Kshs. 96,000 per year.
  • Diploma Programs (Evening): Kshs. 101,000 per year.
  • Postgraduate Diploma Programs: Kshs. 117,900 per year.
  • Field Attachment Fee: Kshs. 8,100 (optional, for practical training).
  • Accommodation Fee: Kshs. 10,000–15,000 per year (subject to availability).

Payment Options:

  • eCitizen Platform: Use MPesa, Visa/MasterCard, Airtel Money, or bank deposits (KCB, Equity Bank, Pesalink) for tuition and accommodation fees.
  • Bank Deposit: Pay to KCB, KICC Branch, Account No. 1143244362, using your registration number as the reference.
  • Installments: Fees can be paid per semester if opting for installments, but the commitment fee must be paid in full.

Note: Always verify the latest fee structure on kimc.ac.ke or contact the Finance Office at +254 20 6551555 or finance@kimc.ac.ke.

Applying for Financial Aid

To offset costs, consider the following financial aid options:

  • HELB Loans and Scholarships: Apply via hef.co.ke using your KIMC admission letter and commitment fee receipt. KIMC hosts HELB visits for first-year students; check kimc.ac.ke for schedules.
  • County Bursaries: Contact your county government for sponsorship opportunities.
  • KIMC Bursaries: Limited need-based bursaries are available; inquire at info@kimc.ac.ke.
  • Work-Study Programs: Limited on-campus jobs are available; contact the Dean of Students at deanofstudents@kimc.ac.ke.

Tip: Apply for funding early, as processing may take several weeks. The commitment fee receipt is essential for these applications.

Applying to KIMC: KUCCPS and Self-Sponsored Options

KUCCPS Applicants

  • Eligibility: Minimum KCSE mean grade of C (plain) for diploma programs or C– (minus) for certificate programs, with specific subject requirements (e.g., C plain in English and Kiswahili for journalism courses).
  • Application: Apply via students.kuccps.net during the KUCCPS application window (closed June 6, 2025, for the 2025/2026 cycle).
  • Admission Letter: Download from kimc.ac.ke or KUCCPS after placement confirmation.

Self-Sponsored Applicants

  • Eligibility: Same as KUCCPS requirements, with a focus on specific course prerequisites (e.g., C– in English for certificate programs).
  • Application Process:
    1. Download the application form from kimc.ac.ke or collect it from KIMC’s Nairobi campus.
    2. Pay a non-refundable application fee of Kshs. 1,000 via KCB (Account No. 1143244362) or MPesa (instructions on kimc.ecitizen.go.ke).
    3. Submit the form with certified copies of your KCSE certificate, National ID, and two passport-size photos to:
      • Email: admissions@kimc.ac.ke
      • Post: The Director, Kenya Institute of Mass Communication, P.O. Box 42422–00100, Nairobi
    4. Track your application status via kimc.ac.ke or contact +254 708 262 895.

Note: Applications are advertised in daily newspapers in June, with shortlisting and selection completed by August for the September intake.

Inter-Institution Transfer Process

If you’ve been placed at another institution but wish to join KIMC, apply for an inter-institution transfer through KUCCPS:

  1. Check Eligibility: Confirm you meet KIMC’s entry requirements (e.g., C plain for diplomas, C– for certificates).
  2. Complete the Transfer Form: Available at students.kuccps.net.
  3. Write a Transfer Request:
    • Address the letter to the CEO of KUCCPS, through the Director of your current institution and KIMC’s Director.
    • Attach your KCSE results slip and cluster points.
  4. Submit the Application: Deliver to KIMC’s Admissions Office or via admissions@kimc.ac.ke.
  5. Await Approval: If approved, download your new admission letter from kimc.ac.ke.

Note: The transfer window for 2025/2026 closed on June 6, 2025, but late applications may be considered. Contact KUCCPS at 0205137400 or info@kuccps.ac.ke.

Key Dates and Deadlines for 2025/2026

  • Admission Letter Download: Available from July 2025, as announced on kimc.ac.ke.
  • Commitment Fee Payment: Due before the reporting date, likely by August 2025.
  • Accommodation Booking: Opens in August 2025; check kimc.ac.ke.
  • Reporting Date: September 2025, with exact dates confirmed via the website or student email.
  • Course Registration Deadline: Early September 2025; verify on the student portal.
  • KUCCPS Application Deadline: Closed June 6, 2025, for the 2025/2026 cycle.

Tips for a Smooth Payment and Admission Process

  • Use a Reliable Device: Access kimc.ecitizen.go.ke on a computer or smartphone with a stable internet connection.
  • Verify Details: Double-check your KCSE index number and reference number to avoid errors.
  • Avoid Fraudsters: Pay only through the eCitizen platform or designated KCB account. Do not send money to individuals claiming to represent KIMC.
  • Save Copies: Keep digital and printed copies of your admission letter, commitment fee receipt, and other documents.
  • Contact Support: For payment issues, contact eCitizen support at +254 203 272 920 or KIMC at +254 708 262 895 or info@kimc.ac.ke.
  • Apply for Funding Early: Submit HELB and bursary applications promptly to meet fee deadlines.
  • Attend Orientation: Participate in KIMC’s orientation to learn about academic resources, media facilities, and student support services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who needs to pay the KIMC commitment fee?

All admitted students, whether KUCCPS or self-sponsored, must pay the commitment fee to confirm their admission.

2. What if I don’t have an eCitizen account?

Create one by signing up at kimc.ecitizen.go.ke, selecting “Citizen” as the account type, and providing your National ID, names, and contact details.

3. Can I pay the commitment fee in installments?

No, the commitment fee must be paid in full, as indicated on the eCitizen portal. Tuition fees can be paid in installments per semester.

4. What documents are required during admission?

Bring your commitment fee receipt, admission letter, certified copies of your KCSE certificate, National ID/birth certificate, two passport-size photos, and filled forms (biodata, medical, acceptance, hostel).

5. What if I encounter payment issues on eCitizen?

Ensure you have the exact amount for MPesa payments. For other issues, contact eCitizen support at +254 203 272 920 or KIMC’s Finance Office at finance@kimc.ac.ke.

Why Choose Kenya Institute of Mass Communication?

KIMC is a premier institution for media and communication training in Africa, offering:

  • Practical Training: Hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities for journalism, film, radio, and TV production.
  • Diverse Programs: Certificates (C–), diplomas (C plain), and postgraduate diplomas in fields like broadcast journalism and advertising.
  • Industry Relevance: Courses designed to meet the demands of Kenya’s competitive media industry.
  • Affordable Fees: Competitive fee structure with financial aid options like HELB and county bursaries.
  • Strategic Location: Located in Nairobi’s South B, easily accessible via Uholo Road, Off Mombasa Road.

Paying the Kenya Institute of Mass Communication commitment fee for the 2025/2026 academic year is a straightforward process when using the eCitizen platform. By creating or accessing an eCitizen account, selecting the commitment fee option, and making a secure payment via MPesa, bank deposit, or card, you can confirm your admission and prepare for a transformative educational experience at KIMC. Ensure you download your admission letter, gather required documents, and apply for financial aid early to streamline your enrollment. For the latest updates, visit kimc.ac.ke or contact the Admissions Office at +254 708 262 895. Congratulations on your admission to KIMC—welcome to a legacy of media excellence!