Kenya’s youth are abuzz with questions over the recently launched NYOTA Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test (EAT). The test, a critical step in accessing the Ksh50,000 business grant under the National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) program, has stirred curiosity and confusion.
The government has now addressed nine frequently asked questions to help applicants understand how the process works. Through this clarification, officials aim to ensure that every eligible youth can complete the test smoothly and fairly, regardless of their location or device type.
Understanding the NYOTA Aptitude Test and Its Purpose
The NYOTA Aptitude Test is a mandatory assessment for young Kenyans applying for entrepreneurship grants. It evaluates the entrepreneurial mindset, problem-solving ability, and financial awareness of applicants.
By completing the test, applicants demonstrate their readiness to manage a business and make effective use of government grants. According to officials, this process helps the state identify 100,000 deserving beneficiaries from the massive pool of applicants across the country.
To take the test, participants must send the word NYOTA to 40270 and follow the prompts until all 19 questions are answered. The questions aim to gauge one’s business instincts and decision-making approach rather than academic knowledge.
However, since its rollout, the test has generated widespread queries ranging from technical glitches to general concerns about cost and accessibility. The government has now moved to provide clear, simple answers to the most common questions.
1. What to Do When You Do Not Get a Response
Many applicants have reported not receiving a response after sending the word “NYOTA” to 40270. The government explained that this problem often happens when promotional messages are deactivated on the phone.
To fix it, users should dial *100#, then select option 5, followed by 2, and finally 5 to activate promotional messages. Once activated, they can resend the NYOTA message and expect a response shortly after.
2. How to Handle Language and Technical Challenges
Applicants have also asked if they can switch languages during the test. The government clarified that while participants can choose their preferred language at the beginning, they cannot change it once the test starts. This measure ensures uniformity and prevents confusion mid-test.
Another concern is what happens if a phone switches off before completion. Officials reassured users that they can resume from where they left off once the device powers back on, provided the same SIM card is used.
In addition, the government confirmed that participants may use a different phone to continue the test, so long as they insert the same SIM card used to register for the program.
3. Cost, Time, and Test Integrity
Contrary to popular belief, the NYOTA Aptitude Test is completely free of charge. The government emphasized that no airtime or payment is required to take part. Any message or person requesting money for participation should be treated as fraudulent.
On timing, most participants report completing the 19 questions in 15 to 30 minutes, depending on their reading speed and network strength.
Officials also addressed two key questions on integrity: retakes and corrections. Once submitted, an applicant cannot retake the test or edit answers. The system only accepts the first set of responses. Therefore, applicants are urged to take time, read carefully, and confirm each answer before final submission.
Finally, on device compatibility, the government confirmed that both smartphones and feature phones can access and complete the test successfully, making it accessible to youth from all regions, including rural areas.
About the NYOTA Program
The National Youth Opportunities Towards Advancement (NYOTA) initiative is a five-year government program funded by the World Bank. It aims to empower Kenyan youth by tackling unemployment, promoting self-reliance, and supporting small-scale enterprises.
During Mashujaa Day celebrations in Kitui on October 20, 2025, President William Ruto announced that the first round of NYOTA grants will be disbursed starting November 4, 2025. He also confirmed that the government, together with the World Bank, has allocated Ksh20 billion to fund youth-driven enterprises across the country.
Ruto said the NYOTA initiative is designed to equip young Kenyans with business skills and provide access to capital, enabling them to create jobs for themselves and others. The Entrepreneurship Aptitude Test plays a key role in this mission by identifying applicants with genuine entrepreneurial potential.
Government officials added that the test results would help tailor future training and mentorship programs for beneficiaries, ensuring the funds are invested wisely.
Empowering Kenya’s Future Entrepreneurs
Through the NYOTA Aptitude Test, the government hopes to instill a sense of responsibility, innovation, and resilience among Kenyan youth. By combining digital testing with transparent grant allocation, the NYOTA program demonstrates Kenya’s commitment to using technology to drive inclusive economic growth.
As thousands of young Kenyans complete the test, officials continue to emphasize fairness, accessibility, and opportunity for all. The initiative marks a new chapter in youth empowerment, where determination and business acumen pave the way for lasting transformation.
