Study abroad
Study in Kenya
Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.
About studying in Kenya
Kenya is in East Africa, and its universities and colleges welcome students from many countries. International students can look at undergraduate, postgraduate and, in some fields, research programmes, as well as shorter courses where institutions offer them. Study options span broad areas such as business, engineering, health, the sciences and the humanities, with digital technology, agriculture and tourism shaping much of the country’s economy.
Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu are among the places students often consider. English is widely used in teaching, which many international students find helpful. Use this guide to explore subjects, typical intakes, costs, scholarships and visa steps, then check the details with each institution.
Why study in Kenya?
There is no single reason to study in Kenya. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in East Africa, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.
- Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Computing & Information Technology, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences and Hospitality, Tourism & Events, with options differing between universities.
- Industry context: Digital technology, agriculture and tourism matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
- Cities and campus life: Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
- Culture and language: living in Kenya means everyday contact with English and Swahili and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.
Kenyan higher education includes both public and private universities, and Nairobi has a lively technology and start-up scene.
Compare the structure of each programme, how it is assessed and what support is available for international students before you decide.
Top subjects to study in Kenya
Here are some subject areas that fit well with study in Kenya. We chose them editorially, with digital technology, agriculture and tourism in mind, so treat them as ideas rather than a ranking.
- Computing & Information Technology
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
- Hospitality, Tourism & Events
- Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies
- Business & Management
- Engineering
Because digital technology, agriculture and tourism matter locally, students in related fields may find useful context for projects and internships. Each subject has its own page for Kenya on this site, with its specializations.
Before settling on a subject, compare a few programmes side by side: their modules, how they are taught and assessed, and the options they open up after graduation.
Universities in Kenya
- Kenyatta UniversityNairobi, Kenya
- THE 2026 1501+
- University of NairobiNairobi, Kenya
- THE 2026 1501+
Scholarships to Study in Kenya
Some international students in Kenya receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.
- government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by Kenya
- universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
- foundations, charities and international organisations
- research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students
Most scholarships are competitive and have their own eligibility rules, so none can be taken for granted. Read the conditions carefully, apply early and check whether funding covers tuition, living costs or both. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.
Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.
Intakes to study in Kenya
Start dates in Kenya are set by each institution, and they can change from year to year.
Plan early. Popular courses can close well before the start date, and international applicants usually need extra time for translations, language tests, scholarship applications and visas. Each institution publishes its own deadlines, so check them for every course on your list.
Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.
A simple planning checklist:
- shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
- prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
- apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
- allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation
Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.
Cost of studying in Kenya
Fees for international students in Kenya are set by each institution and can differ considerably between programmes.
When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:
- application and registration fees
- course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
- health insurance and any visa or permit costs
- accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme
Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.
It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.
Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.
Student visa requirements to study in Kenya
Before you travel, check what kind of study permission Kenya requires for your nationality and course.
Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:
- an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
- a valid passport and passport photos
- evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
- health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
- proof of language ability or previous qualifications
Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. The embassy or consulate of Kenya in your country, and its official immigration authority, are the right places to confirm what applies to you.
Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.
Cost of living in Kenya
Your everyday budget in Kenya will depend on your city, your accommodation and your lifestyle. Costs in Nairobi can differ noticeably from those in Mombasa or Kisumu and smaller towns.
The main costs to plan for are:
- Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
- Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
- Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
- Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
- Insurance and health: any required health cover
- Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life
Current cost estimates from your institution and official sources will help you build a realistic budget for the whole course.
Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.
FAQs about studying in Kenya
Why should I study in Kenya?
It depends on your goals. Kenya offers programmes across many subjects, a location in East Africa and study in English and Swahili. Students interested in digital technology, agriculture and tourism may find the local context especially relevant.
What subjects can I study in Kenya?
Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Computing & Information Technology, Agriculture & Environmental Sciences, Hospitality, Tourism & Events and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies. The subjects page for Kenya lists every subject available here with its specializations.
When do courses start in Kenya?
Start dates vary between institutions. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.
How much does it cost to study in Kenya?
Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.
Do international students need a visa to study in Kenya?
Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources and the embassy or consulate of Kenya.
Are scholarships available for international students in Kenya?
Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.
Which cities are popular with students in Kenya?
Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.
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