15 Cheapest Universities in Nairobi for International Students

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In Nairobi, 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 Nairobi, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 24 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Nairobi, make sure to read more!

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

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Nairobi 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 90%
Multimedia University of Kenya 67,500 KES - 276,700 KES 52%
Islamic University of Kenya 74,000 KES 47%
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa 100,000 KES - 232,400 KES 28%
Zetech University 109,300 KES - 121,300 KES 22%
Pioneer International University 140,100 KES - 156,000 KES -1%
United States International University Africa 142,600 KES - 273,400 KES -3%
Africa International University 145,600 KES - 193,000 KES -5%
KCA University 151,200 KES - 345,600 KES -9%
Pan Africa Christian University 163,000 KES - 188,600 KES -17%
Technical University of Kenya 172,000 KES - 262,000 KES -24%
KAG East University 174,000 KES -25%
Amref International University 175,200 KES - 316,800 KES -26%
Kenyatta University 191,300 KES - 535,500 KES -38%
Riara University 194,600 KES - 207,200 KES -40%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 138,500 KES for universities in Nairobi.

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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. 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.

3. 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.

4. The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

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.

5. Zetech University

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.

6. Pioneer International University

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.

7. United States International University Africa

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.

8. Africa International University

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.

9. KCA University

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.

10. 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.

11. Technical University of Kenya

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.

12. KAG East University

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.

13. Amref International University

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.

14. Kenyatta University

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.

15. Riara University

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.

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

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Nairobi 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 91%
Adventist University of Africa 77,400 KES - 435,600 KES 66%
Pan Africa Christian University 90,200 KES - 282,200 KES 60%
Multimedia University of Kenya 110,000 KES - 172,500 KES 51%
Zetech University 144,000 KES 36%
The Co-operative University of Kenya 150,200 KES - 162,000 KES 34%
United States International University Africa 158,700 KES - 187,700 KES 30%
Technical University of Kenya 170,000 KES - 260,000 KES 25%
Africa International University 219,400 KES 3%
Daystar University 220,800 KES 2%
Amref International University 240,000 KES -7%
KCA University 252,000 KES - 308,900 KES -12%
Kenyatta University 270,000 KES - 408,800 KES -20%
Riara University 279,000 KES -24%
The Catholic University of Eastern Africa 960,000 KES - 320,500 KES -328%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 224,200 KES for universities in Nairobi.

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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. Adventist University of Africa

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Adventist University of Africa. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Adventist University of Africa is 77,400 KES to 435,600 KES.

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.

3. 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.

The tuition fee at Pan Africa Christian University for incoming international master’s students is 90,189 KES to 282,150 KES. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Multimedia University of Kenya

Another affordable university to consider in Nairobi is 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.

The tuition fee in Multimedia University of Kenya for master’s program for foreign students starts from 110,000 KES.

5. Zetech University

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Zetech 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 144,000 KES yearly.

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.

6. The Co-operative University of Kenya

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.

7. United States International University Africa

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.

8. Technical University of Kenya

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.

9. Africa International University

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.

10. Daystar University

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.

11. Amref International University

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.

12. KCA University

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.

13. Kenyatta University

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.

14. Riara University

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.

15. The Catholic University of Eastern Africa

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Nairobi 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 Nairobi?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Nairobi. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Nairobi is the Africa International University, which offers Communication, Translation and Linguistics, Counselling Psychology, and Accounting and Financial Management 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 Nairobi, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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