15 Cheapest Universities in Kenya for International Students

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In Kenya, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Kenya without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Kenya, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 63 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Kenya, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Kenya for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Kenya ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Nairobi 15,000 KES - 17,200 KES 89%
Umma University 60,000 KES - 225,000 KES 53%
Scott Christian University 64,800 KES 49%
Multimedia University of Kenya 67,500 KES - 276,700 KES 47%
South Eastern Kenya University 72,000 KES - 84,000 KES 43%
Islamic University of Kenya 74,000 KES 42%
Lukenya University 84,000 KES - 210,000 KES 34%
Maasai Mara University 86,900 KES - 270,500 KES 31%
Meru University of Science and Technology 90,000 KES - 150,000 KES 29%
Kenya Highlands University 90,000 KES - 210,000 KES 29%
Gretsa University 100,000 KES - 110,000 KES 21%
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology 100,000 KES - 130,000 KES 21%
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology 100,000 KES - 140,000 KES 21%
University of Kabianga 100,000 KES - 180,000 KES 21%
Chuka University 100,000 KES - 140,000 KES 21%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 125,700 KES for universities in Kenya.

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1. University of Nairobi

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.

2. Umma University

Umma University is the first Islamic institution of higher education in Kenya. It was initially founded in 1998 as the Thika College for Sharia and Islamic Studies and gained charter status in 2013. The main university campus is in Kajiado County, and its two study centers are in Garissa and Mombasa.

As an Islamic university, it offers a holistic approach to education. In addition to academic excellence, its students are trained to hone their individual talents and moral principles, instill the value of hard work, and foster competitive skills.

3. Scott Christian University

Scott Christian University was founded in 1962 and named after Peter Christian Scott, an African-American missionary who founded the African Inland Mission, which was an agency dedicated to serving the East African region. In addition to theology and religious studies, Scott Christian University also offers some programs in other disciplines, such as business and education. The university aims to nurture its students and guide them towards overall personal growth – intellectually, professionally, emotionally, and spiritually.

4. Multimedia University of Kenya

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.

5. South Eastern Kenya University

South Eastern Kenya University is a fully-fledged institution of higher learning in Kenya. It was chartered in 2013 but opened its doors as early as 1976 when it was established as the Ukamba Agricultural Institute. The university’s main campus and the Migwani Center are located in Kitui Town, while the Wote campus and the Mtito Andei Center are in Makueni County. Led by its motto, “Arid to Green … Transforming Lives,” this institution commits to providing accessible, quality education with emphasis in the fields of dry-land agriculture, natural resources, and environmental management.

6. Islamic University of Kenya

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.

7. Lukenya University

Lukenya University is a residential university founded by the Late Honourable. Rtd Justice Kasanga Mulwa and his wife Martha Kasanga Mulwa in Machakos, Kenya. Its story began in 1991 when it opened as a primary school on the founders’ cattle farm. The institution transitioned to become Lukenya College, which offered diplomas and certificates in various courses and was accredited in 2015. It was granted a full-fledged university status in 2021 with four schools.

Through the years, this institution continues to impart an enriching educational experience to its students. Curriculums are updated to keep up with the industry trends, ensuring that its students are equipped with relevant skills and knowledge.

8. Maasai Mara University

Maasai Mara University is a public institution of higher learning specializing in tourism, environmental resource management, and conservation studies. It was established in 2008 as the Narok University College and was granted chartered, fully-fledged university status in February 2013. The university envisions becoming a world-class institution delivering academic excellence and producing graduates who can valuably contribute to society. It drives toward this goal through innovative teaching, research, and fostering community development.

9. Meru University of Science and Technology

Studying at Meru University of Science and Technology means receiving a holistic approach to learning. It trains and prepares its students for real-world challenges by integrating practical and current industry knowledge into its curriculums. This public university of higher learning consistently partners and collaborates with other institutions, opening opportunities for its students to enrich their educational experiences further. Student-led clubs and societies are welcomed and nurtured on the campus, cultivating a tight-knit community and fostering personal development.

10. Kenya Highlands University

Kenya Highlands University, previously known as Kenya Highlands Evangelical University, is a fully accredited higher education institution supported by the Africa Gospel Church. Integrating faith with education, the university aims to produce Christian professionals who can contribute to society’s well-being. To achieve this goal, this institution offers industry-focused programs, modern training facilities, top-quality educators, and a serene environment conducive to learning. In addition to academic excellence, students are afforded various opportunities to develop their cultural, ethical, and social skills through the Holiday Ministries program, conferences, and its roster of international faculty members.

11. Gretsa University

Situated in Thika, Gretsa University is an institution of higher learning that delivers quality and relevant education in Kenya. It was established in 2006 with registration and accreditation granted by the Commission for University Education.

Dedicated to providing relevant academic programs, this university continues to expand its facilities and update its curriculum to meet the changing demands of the industry. Students of this institution are trained to solve real-world problems through applied learning. They are also molded to become knowledgeable citizens who understand that learning is a life-long journey.

12. Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology is a public higher education institution that provides high-quality and research-driven programs. With a strong belief in the vitality of science and technology in the pursuit of national development, the university facilitates various research and development projects for the improvement of industries and other sectors of society. It currently caters to 15,000 students from different parts of the world.

13. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology

Established in 2009, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) is a prestigious public university located in Bondo, Siaya County, Kenya. Situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria, JOOUST is focused on preserving Kenya’s cultural heritage and utilizing natural resources. Recognized by the Ministry of Education as a leading science and technology university, the university is committed to providing relevant and high-quality academic programs that contribute to socio-economic development. JOOUST is well-known for its excellence in education, research, and community engagement, providing practical and market-driven courses. It maintains a strong stance against corruption, ensuring timely and quality services.

14. University of Kabianga

The University of Kabianga is one of Kenya’s oldest public education institutions. Its roots can be traced back to 1925, when it was established as the Government School, Kabianga. Later, in 1929, it became the Kabianga Teachers’ Training College. The institution underwent several upgrades and transformations until it was granted university status in 2013 and adopted its present name. Currently, the university operates a main campus located in the Kabianga Division and three other campuses located in Kericho, Kapkatet, and Sotik.

15. Chuka University

Founded in 2004, Chuka University is a public institution established to provide more opportunities for the youth in Kenya’s eastern region to gain top-notch education and training. It has a diverse range of program offerings and is most well-known for its courses in agriculture, business, and environment studies. In addition to its state-of-the-art facilities, the university also takes pride in its farms intended for various research projects and agricultural activities.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Kenya for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Kenya ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
University of Nairobi 21,000 KES - 31,500 KES 88%
Scott Christian University 54,000 KES 68%
Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology 62,000 KES 63%
Adventist University of Africa 77,400 KES - 435,600 KES 54%
St. Paul’s University 88,000 KES - 269,500 KES 48%
Pan Africa Christian University 90,200 KES - 282,200 KES 47%
Kenya Highlands University 100,000 KES 41%
Laikipia University 100,000 KES - 140,000 KES 41%
University of Kabianga 100,000 KES - 120,000 KES 41%
Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology 100,000 KES - 140,000 KES 41%
Umma University 110,000 KES - 160,000 KES 35%
Multimedia University of Kenya 110,000 KES - 172,500 KES 35%
Meru University of Science and Technology 115,000 KES - 120,000 KES 32%
Chuka University 119,000 KES - 130,000 KES 29%
University of Embu 120,000 KES - 130,000 KES 29%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 167,100 KES for universities in Kenya.

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1. University of Nairobi

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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, University of Nairobi should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 21,000 KES to 31,500 KES annually for their master's degree.

2. Scott Christian University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Scott Christian University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Scott Christian University is 54,000 KES.

Scott Christian University was founded in 1962 and named after Peter Christian Scott, an African-American missionary who founded the African Inland Mission, which was an agency dedicated to serving the East African region. In addition to theology and religious studies, Scott Christian University also offers some programs in other disciplines, such as business and education. The university aims to nurture its students and guide them towards overall personal growth – intellectually, professionally, emotionally, and spiritually.

3. Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology

Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology is a public higher education institution that provides high-quality and research-driven programs. With a strong belief in the vitality of science and technology in the pursuit of national development, the university facilitates various research and development projects for the improvement of industries and other sectors of society. It currently caters to 15,000 students from different parts of the world.

The tuition fee at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology for incoming international master’s students is 62,000 KES. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Adventist University of Africa

Another affordable university to consider in Kenya is Adventist University of Africa.

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 tuition fee in Adventist University of Africa for master’s program for foreign students starts from 77,400 KES.

5. St. Paul’s University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, St. Paul’s University has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 88,000 KES yearly.

Established in 1903, St. Paul’s University is a renowned private university. Its rich history dates back to 1888 when it first emerged near Mombasa in Frere Town. Situated in Kiambu County, Kenya, the university offers a peaceful and favorable setting for learning. With a commitment to academic excellence, St. Paul’s University offers a diverse range of programs in fields such as theology, business, communication, education, health sciences, hospitality, and ICT. The university’s strong emphasis on Christian values, along with its vibrant community of students and faculty, fosters a dynamic and nurturing atmosphere for personal growth and education.

6. Pan Africa Christian University

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.

7. Kenya Highlands University

Kenya Highlands University, previously known as Kenya Highlands Evangelical University, is a fully accredited higher education institution supported by the Africa Gospel Church. Integrating faith with education, the university aims to produce Christian professionals who can contribute to society’s well-being. To achieve this goal, this institution offers industry-focused programs, modern training facilities, top-quality educators, and a serene environment conducive to learning. In addition to academic excellence, students are afforded various opportunities to develop their cultural, ethical, and social skills through the Holiday Ministries program, conferences, and its roster of international faculty members.

8. Laikipia University

Laikipia University is located in Nyahururu, formerly Thomson Falls, a town in Kenya. The university’s rich history dates back to 1929 when it was established as a primary school on a large farm. From a primary school, it transitioned to become the Large-Scale Farmers Training College in 1965 and was under the administration of the Ministry of Agriculture and Animal Husbandry. It underwent several transitions and transformations until it became a fully-fledged university in 2013.

Through its rich history, this institution has consistently demonstrated high academic standards. It continues to pursue its mission of serving its students and society through innovative research, relevant and high-quality education, and community outreach.

9. University of Kabianga

The University of Kabianga is one of Kenya’s oldest public education institutions. Its roots can be traced back to 1925, when it was established as the Government School, Kabianga. Later, in 1929, it became the Kabianga Teachers’ Training College. The institution underwent several upgrades and transformations until it was granted university status in 2013 and adopted its present name. Currently, the university operates a main campus located in the Kabianga Division and three other campuses located in Kericho, Kapkatet, and Sotik.

10. Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology

Established in 2009, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) is a prestigious public university located in Bondo, Siaya County, Kenya. Situated on the tranquil shores of Lake Victoria, JOOUST is focused on preserving Kenya’s cultural heritage and utilizing natural resources. Recognized by the Ministry of Education as a leading science and technology university, the university is committed to providing relevant and high-quality academic programs that contribute to socio-economic development. JOOUST is well-known for its excellence in education, research, and community engagement, providing practical and market-driven courses. It maintains a strong stance against corruption, ensuring timely and quality services.

11. Umma University

Umma University is the first Islamic institution of higher education in Kenya. It was initially founded in 1998 as the Thika College for Sharia and Islamic Studies and gained charter status in 2013. The main university campus is in Kajiado County, and its two study centers are in Garissa and Mombasa.

As an Islamic university, it offers a holistic approach to education. In addition to academic excellence, its students are trained to hone their individual talents and moral principles, instill the value of hard work, and foster competitive skills.

12. Multimedia University of Kenya

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.

13. Meru University of Science and Technology

Studying at Meru University of Science and Technology means receiving a holistic approach to learning. It trains and prepares its students for real-world challenges by integrating practical and current industry knowledge into its curriculums. This public university of higher learning consistently partners and collaborates with other institutions, opening opportunities for its students to enrich their educational experiences further. Student-led clubs and societies are welcomed and nurtured on the campus, cultivating a tight-knit community and fostering personal development.

14. Chuka University

Founded in 2004, Chuka University is a public institution established to provide more opportunities for the youth in Kenya’s eastern region to gain top-notch education and training. It has a diverse range of program offerings and is most well-known for its courses in agriculture, business, and environment studies. In addition to its state-of-the-art facilities, the university also takes pride in its farms intended for various research projects and agricultural activities.

15. University of Embu

Established in 2011, the University of Embu (UoEm) has a rich history that can be traced back to 1947 when it was founded as an agricultural training school. Since then, it has grown and transformed into a comprehensive university, offering a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. UoEm is dedicated to providing exceptional training and research opportunities to foster the advancement of humanity. With a strong emphasis on values such as integrity, innovation, professionalism, customer focus, and teamwork, UoEm is fully committed to equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to excel in today’s competitive job market.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Kenya?

Applying to cheap universities in Kenya requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Kenya for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Kenya?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Kenya. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Kenya is the Chuka University, which offers Nursing, Human Nutrition and Dietetics, and Public Health to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Adventist University of Africa offers Applied Computer Science, Public Health, and Business Administration.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Kenya, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Kenya as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Kenya for international students was helpful!