Application Letter for a Job Vacancy in Kenya: Format and Sample (2026)

A job application letter in Kenya is a formal, one-page letter addressed to the employer that names the exact position and reference number, summarises your qualifications, and lists the documents you have attached. Government, county and parastatal adverts often ask for one alongside your CV and copies of certificates.

It is similar to a cover letter but more formal, and it follows a set layout.

When you need an application letter

You will usually see wording like this in an advert:

Interested and qualified persons should submit their application letter, detailed CV, copies of academic and professional certificates, national ID, and testimonials to...

This is common for:

• County public service board jobs
• National government ministries and departments
• State corporations and parastatals
• Universities, colleges and TVETs
• Many schools and faith-based organisations

For the full public sector process, see our guide on government job applications in Kenya.

The formal layout

Follow this order exactly. Formal letters in Kenya are judged on layout as well as content.

1. Your address (top right or top left): name, P.O. Box, town, phone, email.
2. Date below your address.
3. Employer's address (left): title of the recipient, organisation, P.O. Box, postal code, town. Copy it exactly as written in the advert.
4. Salutation: "Dear Sir/Madam," unless the advert names a person.
5. Subject line, bold or underlined: "RE: APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF [JOB TITLE] – REF: [REFERENCE NUMBER]".
6. Opening paragraph: the post, reference number and where you saw the advert.
7. Qualifications paragraph: your highest relevant qualification and registration.
8. Experience paragraph: years of experience and two or three relevant achievements.
9. Suitability paragraph: how you meet the requirements, including integrity and Chapter Six clearances if requested.
10. Attachments paragraph: list the documents enclosed.
11. Closing: "I look forward to your favourable consideration."
12. Sign-off: "Yours faithfully," then your signature and full name.

Full sample application letter

Mary Njeri Kamau P.O. Box 1234-10100 Nyeri Phone: 07XX XXX XXX Email: mary.kamau@email.com

4 November 2026

The Secretary/CEO [County] Public Service Board P.O. Box [number]-[code] [Town]

Dear Sir/Madam,

RE: APPLICATION FOR THE POST OF ACCOUNTANT II – REF: CPSB/ACC/02/2026

I wish to apply for the above post as advertised in the Daily Nation and on the Board's website. I am a qualified accountant with the skills and experience required for the role.

I hold a Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting) degree and I am a Certified Public Accountant, CPA (K). I am a registered member of ICPAK in good standing.

I have four years of experience in public sector finance. In my current role at a sub-county treasury, I prepare monthly bank reconciliations, process payments through IFMIS, and assist in preparing quarterly financial statements under IPSAS. I also supported the department in responding to audit queries, all of which were resolved within the deadline.

I am a person of integrity, and I am ready to obtain the clearances required under Chapter Six of the Constitution, including tax compliance, HELB, CRB, police and EACC clearances.

Enclosed please find copies of my:

• Detailed curriculum vitae
• Academic and professional certificates
• National identity card
• Testimonials and ICPAK membership certificate

I look forward to your favourable consideration.

Yours faithfully,

[Signature]

Mary Njeri Kamau

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Tips to avoid disqualification

Public service boards receive many applications. Small mistakes can lead to automatic rejection.

• Quote the reference number exactly in the subject line and on the envelope, if posting.
• Use the exact job title from the advert.
• Meet the deadline. Late applications are rarely considered.
• Attach every document listed. Missing one may disqualify you.
• Apply through the stated channel only: online portal, email or hand delivery.
• One post per application unless the advert allows multiple.
• Sign the letter if submitting on paper. For email, a typed name is usually fine.
• Keep it to one page.

Application letter vs CV

The letter introduces you and confirms what you are applying for. The CV holds your full history. Do not paste your whole CV into the letter. Use our CV format guide to make sure your CV matches the letter's level of care.

Getting your clearances ready

Many public jobs ask shortlisted candidates for clearance certificates before appointment. Start early, because some take days or weeks. Our Chapter Six clearance checklist lists what you will usually need and links to a step-by-step guide for each.

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