Study in Kenya: the ultimate guide for a PhD in 2025
Kenya

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in Kenya in 2025

Browse all PhD programmes in Kenya

  • Sep-Jun Academic Year
  • Unavailable Listed Institutes
  • 2 Ranked Universities
  • 7,000 Int. Students
  • Unavailable Students
  • 56,215,000 Population

Study in Kenya

Kenya, is an African country, situated on the East African equator with dynamic and multicultural capital city Nairobi. Kenya has been described as "the cradle of humanity", as some of the most famous fossils of early humans have been found here. Kenya is named for Mount Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa.

The education system has highly developed and today Kenya is a large provider of higher education programmes, drawing a significant number of international students. You can choose from numerous accredited programmes available at both undergraduate and graduate degree level.

Your study abroad experience in Kenya will be complemented by the fantastic scenery of the African wilderness. Find the best information about what it’s like to study in Nairobi, including degree course offers, career opportunities, student life, living costs, and more.

Education system

With more than ten public universities and over twenty private universities, students have plenty of options from where to choose to get a higher education degree. Applicants can select from the following types of higher educational institutions: universities, colleges of higher education, vocational colleges and polytechnic universities.

Kenya has been attracting a high number of international students from all over the world. The multicultural environment has played an important part in continually increasing the number of students.

The language of instruction used in universities is English. The academic year runs from September to June. Depending on the chosen field of study, a Bachelor's programme can take four to six years, and they often end with a research project.

The education system in Kenya is managed by two ministers: Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Technology.

General Application Requirements

All foreign students are required to have a Kenyan pupil pass before admission (required for all non-diplomatic families or for children who are in Kenya solely for the purpose of education), validated by The Principal Secretary Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government of Kenya.

After acquiring the pupil pass, the next step is to complete the process for university submission.

Here is a list with the required documents:

  • A completed application form
  • Copies of certificates (certificate from the last graduated school)
  • Two/three passport size photographs
  • Two copies of the application fees receipt

Sometimes reference letters (one academic and one professional) may be required in addition to the rest of the documents; it is always best to check with the university you are interested in regarding their list of necessary submission documents.

The usual entry requirements are: International Baccalaureate, or any final secondary/high school examination certificate equivalent to the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education as recognized by the Kenya National Examinations Council or any internationally recognized examination body.

Study options

Some of the most popular study abroad programmes in Kenya are related to sustainability, humanities, urbanization, health and human rights areas, but you can also find numerous degrees in: history, communications, linguistics, marketing, finance, philosophy or computing. The palette of degree levels covers Bachelor and Master degrees, MBA and Executive MBA, PhD courses.

Check out the following links and learn more about the international scholarship opportunities:

Aga Khan Foundation, The School for Field Studies

Language of instruction

Kenya recognises over sixty different languages, with Swahili and English being the national standard and the official languages. However, in Kenyan universities, most programmes and courses are taught in English and applicants from non-English speaking countries will be required to deliver a certificate stating a high level of English proficiency, such as TOEFL, IELTS, and others.

English language preparation for studying in Kenya

Develop your academic English language skills in order to meet the English language requirements at Kenyan universities offering degree studies for international students. Choose an English language school anywhere in the world and pick your preferred English exam preparation course from diverse language course options

Living in Kenya

  • Tuition fees at Kenyan universities are between 1,380 USD – 5,000 USD per year.
  • The cost of living for an average student ranges between 400 and 600 USD per month.
  • According to the latest regulations from Kenya, international students are not allowed to work.
  • Discover Kenya’s fabulous culture by attending the Mombasa Carnival, an amazing spectacle with parades and dancing.
  • In Kenya, you can admire wonderful World Heritage sites like Fort Jesus, (built in order to guard Mombasa), the Sacred Mijikenda Kaya Forests, or sacred and fortified villages.
  • While in Kenya, you should check out the Donakey Sanctuary where you can see around 3,000 working donkeys and visit various museums dedicated to the culture of Swahili.
  • Kenya is a unique mix of cultures, as it is home to over forty tribes that speak different languages. However, only six of these tribes, making up more than half of the population, have largely influenced Kenya’s culture and traditions.
  • Kenyan environmentalist professor Maathai was the first African woman who won a Nobel Peace Prize in 2004.
  • Before going to Kenya, you need to complete several mandatory immunizations (usually against polio, measles and diphtheria).
  • For Kenyans, coffee is considered an export product and not something for local consumption. They much rather prefer tea and beer, despite the fact coffee is the biggest income generator.

About Kenya

Kenya lies on the East African equator, with the Indian Ocean as border in the south east, and surrounded by Tanzania, Uganda, South Sudan, Ethiopia, and Somalia. In Kenya, you can explore from urban culture to wildlife-rich savannah grassland.

Kenya is traditionally famous for its safaris and beautiful wildlife reserves and national parks such as the East and West Tsavo National Park, the Maasai Mara, Lake Nakuru National Park, and Aberdares National Park. The country is home to the big five animals: the lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant that can be found particularly in the Masai Mara.

After being under the rule of the Arabians, then the British, Kenya became an independent country under the Kenya Independence Act 1963, and exactly one year later, on 12 December 1964, Kenya became a republic under the name "Republic of Kenya".

Kenya is a presidential representative democratic republic, with the president as both the head of state and head of government, and of a multi-party system. The executive power is exercised by the government.

Kenya has a unique and interesting mix of cultures that include the Swahili on the coast, several Bantu communities in the central and western regions, and Nilotic communities in the northwest. Although forming a small part of the country’s population, tourists mainly know the Maasai tribe, popular for the excessive body decoration.

The economy of Kenya has the largest by GDP in East and Central Africa. The major industries supporting the local economy are: agricultural products, oil refining, aluminium, steel, lead, cement, and tourism.

Kenya's climate is tropical along the coast and temperate inland to arid in the north. Mainly, you can wear summer clothes the whole year.

Interested in scholarships for Kenya? Check out our scholarship search page.

How to Apply to a Master's in Kenya

If you've decided to study a Master's degree at a university in Kenya, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.

What documents do I need to provide to apply in Kenya?

To apply to a university in Kenya you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:

  • birth certificate;
  • recent photos;
  • your passport or national identity card;
  • one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
  • copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor's degree;
  • academic transcripts;
  • letter of intent;
  • Curriculum Vitae;
  • Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.

Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master's, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.

The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in Kenya so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.

Prove your English skills

Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you'll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.

Application deadlines for Kenya

The deadlines for applying to a Master's in Kenya are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.

To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.

Interesting programmes for you

Find PhDs Degrees in Kenya

What subject to study in Kenya?

Recent international policies promote international university cooperation and student exchange between countries worldwide. High-quality study and PhD degrees are made more available to students in order to create a global educational network, achievable through student and staff mobility. Career and research oriented programmes support international student development.

University cooperation enables students study worldwide, for instance in Australia, Asia, Europe and the United States and provides ways of recognizing previous degrees. Different study options offer appropriate alternatives to students, depending on their preferred mode of study.

Many study programmes in Australia, Asia, Europe and North America are English-taught. The most popular international student destinations include the following countries: Australia, Belgium, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, the United States, and more. However, these are not the only countries offering English-taught education. The rest of the world is full of endless study choices, from highly ranked to smaller, more specialized, universities.

PhD (postgraduate) Degrees

If you want further education beyond the undergraduate level or if you want more personal development or a career in academia, you could obtain a PhD degree. PhD degrees are postgraduate programmes that usually follow a Master's, MPhil or MRes, but there might be additional requirements depending on the university. Students are required to do their own research in a chosen topic. With the help of a supervisor, you develop knowledge and analytical skills in a specific or multidisciplinary field and you carry out independent research. The duration of a PhD degree differs per country and institution. Sometimes your own research is accompanied by work for the department such as giving seminars or small group teaching.

PhD students are required to study on campus under close supervision, but there are universities that accept students enrolled into a part-time distance education PhD degree. Studying on campus can also be full-time as well as part-time, in which case the part-time variant is normally twice as long as the full-time study.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
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