The Kenya School of Law (KSL) has suspended applications for the Advocates Training Programme (ATP) for the 2027/2028 academic year following interim High Court orders in a legal dispute over admission criteria.
In a notice issued on Thursday, October 15, 2026, the institution said it had temporarily stopped receiving applications pending further directions from the court and the determination of the case.
“The Kenya School of Law hereby informs all prospective applicants and other stakeholders that, following the issuance of interim orders by the High Court in relation to the advertised ATP intake, the receipt of applications for admission to the ATP Class of 2027/2028 academic year has been temporarily suspended,” the notice stated.
The suspension comes weeks after KSL opened applications for the next intake, which was scheduled to begin on February 1, 2027.
The legal dispute centres on the admission requirements advertised by KSL, with petitioners questioning the legality of alternative pathways introduced for applicants seeking entry into the programme.
On October 6, 2026, the High Court reportedly issued interim orders restraining KSL and the Council of Legal Education (CLE) from processing applications or admitting students under the contested criteria.
Justice John Onyiego issued the orders following legal challenges to the admission requirements, including a petition filed by Elizabeth Achieng and Kioo Cha Jamii.
The petitioners questioned whether KSL could introduce new admission pathways through an annual advertisement without an adequate legal or regulatory framework.
The disputed criteria reportedly include alternative routes combining secondary school grades, additional academic qualifications and the Pre-Bar Examination.
The applicants argue that admission requirements must be grounded in applicable laws and regulations rather than introduced solely through an annual admission notice.
KSL said the suspension would remain in force pending further court directions and the determination of the matter.
The institution apologised for the inconvenience and urged affected applicants to remain patient as the legal process continues.
The school also assured prospective students and other stakeholders that updates would be communicated through its official channels.
The suspension leaves applicants seeking admission to the 2027/2028 ATP intake awaiting further clarification on the eligibility requirements and the resumption of the application process.
