24 Best Universities In Nairobi For International Students 2025

Nairobi is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in Kenya. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences. With more than 24 universities and colleges in Nairobi, you’ll surely have a wide range of choices.

Out of 24 universities in Nairobi, University of Nairobi and Kenyatta University are the top-performing schools in Nairobi. This list covers both public and private institutions in Nairobi.

To help you narrow down your school options, we’ve compiled the best universities in Nairobi. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Nairobi.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Nairobi?

Applying to the universities in Nairobi involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Nairobi to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Nairobi?

Tuition fees at Nairobi’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 15,000 KES to 535,500 KES , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 21,000 KES to 435,600 KES. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Nairobi!

As we cover the best universities in Nairobi for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Nairobi for International Students

Considered the largest university in Kenya, the University of Nairobi is a leading public university dedicated to serving the needs of Kenyan society as well as the entire African region. It currently has seven campuses in the nation’s capital city and offers over 300 academic programs tailored to impart students with the knowledge, skills, and values necessary for them to thrive in the professional world. The university also takes pride in its strong research culture and vast network of industry connections.

Founded in 1965, Kenyatta University is a prominent institution in Kenya that operates across 13 locations, with its main campus situated in Nairobi County. The primary campus, which covers over 1,000 acres, offers a peaceful and well-equipped environment conducive to educational growth. The university is widely respected for its outstanding programs and esteemed faculty, earning global acclaim. It emphasizes hands-on learning and skill development, fostering strong partnerships with industries to provide real-world experience. The university is accredited by reputable organizations and is committed to providing high-quality education, promoting academic excellence, and instilling ethical principles for sustainable personal and societal progress.

Strathmore University is a well-known institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. The university originated in 1961 as Strathmore College, established by a team of professionals aiming to create a diverse educational institution offering a wide variety of subjects. Over the years, Strathmore University has gained recognition for its outstanding accounting program, which has produced numerous CPA finalists in Kenya. In 2002, Strathmore achieved university status, with a Faculty of Commerce, and a Faculty of Information Technology. The university received its official charter in 2007, solidifying its position as a respected institution of higher education. Today, Strathmore University is celebrated for its exceptional education in commerce and information technology.

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) is a public university located in Juja, Nairobi, Kenya. It was established in 1981 as Jomo Kenyatta College of Agriculture and Technology (JKCAT) and has since evolved into a well-regarded university. With a strong focus on education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, JKUAT equips students for success in diverse fields such as Agriculture, Engineering, Technology, Health Sciences, and Social Sciences. The university aspires to be a global hub of excellence in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, making significant contributions to both national and global development.

Established in 1969, the United States International University – Africa (USIU-Africa) is a well-regarded private university located in Nairobi, Kenya. It was originally founded in 1927 as Balboa Law College and has since evolved into a prominent global university. USIU-Africa is dedicated to providing an international educational experience and has campuses in Mexico City, London, Tokyo, and Nairobi. The university offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs and is committed to delivering high-quality education through global research partnerships and collaborations, preparing students for success in an interconnected world.

The Technical University of Kenya (TU-K) has a rich legacy and played a key role in establishing the first three higher education institutions in East Africa. Its history dates back to the 1920s when leaders in the East African Territories advocated for improved access to higher education. Their efforts led to the upgrading of Makerere Institute to Makerere University College in 1949, as well as the founding of the Royal Technical College of East Africa (RTCEA) in Nairobi in 1952. Today, TU-K is committed to providing high-quality technological education and training and strives to make significant contributions to society through research and innovation. The university’s motto, “Education and training for the real world,” reflects its dedication to preparing students for practical success.

The Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA) is located in Kenya and is a prominent global university with nearly 40 years of history. It was initially established as the Catholic Higher Institute of Eastern Africa (CHIEA) on 3 September 1984, focusing on graduate-level theology studies. In 1992, the institution was granted a Civil Charter and was renamed the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. The university is known for providing comprehensive value-based education and producing innovative and employable graduates. It is accredited by the Commission for University Education and offers flexible study options, outstanding learning resources, and a supportive environment that prioritizes student well-being. Emphasizing both moral and intellectual growth, CUEA aims to cultivate influential leaders for both the church and society.

Daystar University, established in 1994, is a prestigious Christian institution located in Nairobi, Kenya. Its primary mission is to nurture and equip Christian servant leaders who are committed to making a positive impact on both the church and society. Daystar University places great importance on the seamless integration of faith and education, aiming to develop graduates who possess transformative leadership qualities. The university’s academic programs, teaching methodologies, and research endeavors are all deeply rooted in Christian principles and values, providing students with a holistic and values-based education.

KCA University, previously known as Kenya College of Accountancy (KCA), was established in 1989 by the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK). It is a private, non-profit institution located in Nairobi, Kenya, with the objective of providing specialized training for accountants in the nation. In 2007, KCA University received a Charter from the Kenyan government, officially transitioning into a comprehensive university. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs including accounting, business, information technology, law, and social sciences. KCA University is accredited by the Commission for University Education and is recognized for its academic excellence, research, and community engagement.

Africa Nazarene University (ANU) is a Christian university in Kenya that is privately owned and affiliated with The Church of the Nazarene Colleges and Universities around the world. Guided by the principles of the Wesleyan holiness tradition, ANU offers a tranquil campus nestled in the Maasai savannah, near the renowned Nairobi National Park. ANU holds full accreditation from the Commission for University Education and the International Board of Education, ensuring that students receive a comprehensive education within a Christian-focused atmosphere. The university offers 36 programs in different fields and aims to prepare leaders for the Church while providing a holistic education focused on character, competence, and community. 

The Africa International University is a Christian higher education institution in Karen, a quiet and peaceful suburb of Nairobi, Kenya. The Association of Evangelicals in Africa founded it in 1983 as the Nairobi Evangelical Graduate School of Theology. It was upgraded to a chartered university in March 2011 and offers programs in business, ICT, development studies, and counselling psychology.

Guided by its motto, “Education with Passion and Integrity,” this institution offers a holistic approach to learning. It aims to train and educate Christ-centered leaders through innovative teaching, relevant and up-to-date curriculums, research, and partnerships with other institutions.

The Multimedia University of Kenya opened its doors in 1948 as the Central Training School. This public institution of higher education underwent several upgrades and transformations before it became a fully-fledged university in 2013. It offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs across several disciplines, including mass media, information technology, business management, and social sciences.

In 2019, the university established the National Institute for Optics and Lasers through an infrastructure grant from the National Research Fund. This specialized and cutting-edge field adds to the university’s prestige, opening further opportunities for its students, faculties, and stakeholders.

The Adventist University of Africa is guided by its motto, “Developing Leaders for Service.” This higher education institution is a Seventh-day Adventist university offering postgraduate studies. Its establishment was to heed the growing demand for committed leaders due to the increasing membership of the Church in Africa. University graduates receive a quality education from a Biblical foundation, preparing them for service to the Church and society. It aims to become a leading institution that provides postgraduate and professional education in the fields of theology, business management, sciences, and technology.

The Co-operative University of Kenya (CUK) is a public university located in Karen, Nairobi. It was established by the Kenyan government under the Universities Act 2012. CUK is committed to providing excellent teaching, research, consultancy, and community outreach services. Its mission is to produce highly skilled individuals and empower communities for socio-economic transformation. CUK strives to become a globally competitive cooperative university that excels in education, training, research, innovation, and outreach.

Amref International University is a private higher education institution in Kenya run by Amref Health Africa, the largest health NGO in Africa. This accredited institution provides health sciences education, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, certificate, diploma, and professional short programs. Guided by its motto, “Inspiring Lasting Change,” the university has nurtured leaders and significantly shaped the future of public health practice in Africa. It remains committed to contributing to the advancement of health sciences in the country through developing relevant and up-to-date programs and research.

Since its establishment in 2012, Riara University has continued to abide by its motto, “Nurturing Innovators,” and has become one of the top private institutions of higher education in Kenya. It is committed to providing its students with an enriching educational experience through relevant curriculums, top-notch educators, and state-of-the-art amenities. Aside from its expansive academic offerings, this university looks after its students’ well-being by providing them with various sports and recreational facilities on campus.

Zetech University was established in 1999 as Zetech College by Engineer Ken Mbiuki. In 2014, this education institution received its Letter of Interim Authority, allowing it to operate as a university with flagship programs that include Bachelor of Information Technology, Bachelor of Business Information Technology, and Bachelor of Business Administration and Management. An important milestone was achieved in 2022 when the Commission for University Education granted the university a fully-fledged university status.

Guided by its motto, “Invent Your Future,” this institution believes in harnessing and nurturing the intellectually curious minds of its students. In addition to providing them with an enriching education experience, the university encourages its students to participate in extracurricular activities. There are 25 active clubs and societies on campus, giving students opportunities to hone their social skills and explore their interests.

International Leadership University, Kenya, is a Christian university committed to raising future leaders of Kenya who possess not only the knowledge and skills but also the values and morals aligned with the teachings of Christianity. It offers academic programs designed to provide a transformative education experience to all of its students. Many of the university’s alumni currently hold prominent positions in various organizations in Kenya and beyond.

Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology is a women’s only higher education institution in Nairobi, Kenya. The establishment of this university was a response to bridging the gap in gender representation in higher education and for these women to create a positive impact in their communities and chosen fields. Its campus sits on a fifty-acre land, providing its students with a serene and conducive environment for learning. In addition to delivering academic excellence, this institution is committed to advancing science and technology through its research initiatives.

The Pan Africa Christian University has a long and rich history that can be traced back to 1978, when it was first established as a Bible College by the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC). It was chartered as a university in 2008, which marked a significant milestone as the first PAOC university in the world. Through the years, the institution has significantly grown from holding classes with only six students to having 56 academic programs, four schools, and over 3,000 students.

The Pioneer International University was established in 2006 as the Pioneer International College. It was founded by Dr. Peter Munga, who had a vision of creating an educational establishment that offers quality programs with flexible modes of teaching and learning. The university continues to pursue academic excellence and envisions becoming one of the top higher education institutions in Kenya. To achieve these goals, it provides its students with highly qualified lecturers, well-equipped and updated academic facilities, and a conducive learning environment.

The East African University is a fully accredited institution of higher learning located in Nairobi, Kenya. Its vision was formed in 2005 by professionals and business people who aspired to meet the growing demands for quality education in the East African region.

Fostering a nurturing environment for its students, this institution aims to continue producing well-rounded graduates who can make a positive impact in their chosen fields. One vision of the university is to become a modern research-driven establishment and be a center of professional excellence.

The Islamic University of Kenya opened its doors in 2016 through the International Trust for Education as an institution for Islamic and Arabic language diploma courses. However, its founders saw the demand for affordable, quality higher education. They heeded this call by expanding its course offerings to include business management, technology, and education degrees. The university continues its mission of producing competent graduates who can contribute to advancing their fields and become advocates for the well-being of society.

KAG East University is a renowned Pentecostal university in Nairobi, Kenya. It emphasizes collaboration and partnerships, enhancing its academic and community engagements. In addition to providing top-quality education, the university encourages its students to pursue extracurricular activities by fostering clubs and societies on campus and providing various sports grounds and amenities. Events like cultural days, chapel services, charity, and concerts are also held to create a tight-knit community, celebrate diversity, and allow students to grow spiritually, socially, and creatively.