Why Kenyan families look for international school scholarships

Nairobi, Mombasa and other Kenyan cities have a strong network of British, IB and international schools. Fees can be high relative to local incomes, so scholarships and bursaries are important tools for families seeking premium education without full fees.

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1. Scholarship types

• Academic scholarships for high performers in KCSE, IGCSE or internal exams.
• A Level/IB awards for strong applicants entering senior years.
• Needs‑based bursaries for families unable to pay full fees.
• Limited talent scholarships (sport, music, arts) at some schools.

Examples of Kenyan schools with scholarship programmes

Nairobi:

• Aga Khan Academy Nairobi – Offers academic scholarships and needs‑based bursaries, typically 10–50% fee reduction. Applications usually October–December for the following academic year. Bursaries are means‑tested and highly competitive.
• International School of Kenya – Academic excellence scholarships available, typically 10–40% of tuition. Applications often due September–November. Also offers sibling discounts (typically 5–10% per additional child).
• Braeburn School Nairobi – Merit scholarships, usually 10–30% coverage. Applications typically October–December.
• St. Mary’s School Nairobi – Academic scholarships typically 10–35% fee reduction. Applications often September–November.

Mombasa:

• Coast Academy – Academic excellence scholarships, typically 10–30% of fees. Applications usually October–December.
• Braeburn School Mombasa – Merit scholarships available, usually 10–25% coverage.

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2. Typical percentage of fees covered

Based on the schools listed above, typical coverage ranges are:

• Academic scholarships: 10–40% tuition discounts, with higher percentages (up to 60%) for exceptional senior‑school students.
• Bursaries: Partial relief based on income and circumstances.

Non‑tuition costs (transport, meals, exam fees) are usually not fully included.

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3. Eligibility and competition

Schools generally evaluate:

• Academic results and teacher feedback.
• Conduct, attendance and engagement.
• Financial need for bursary applications.
• For sporting/talent scholarships: evidence of high‑level performance (competition results, portfolios, graded exams, coach references).

Competition levels:

• Premium schools like Aga Khan Academy Nairobi and International School of Kenya receive many applications; competition is strong (see school examples above for specific requirements).
• Bursaries are competitive and require demonstrated financial need.
• Sporting scholarships are limited and often require national‑level representation or equivalent achievement.

Scholarship spaces can be limited, especially at the best‑known schools in Nairobi.

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4. How to apply and when

Typical steps:

1. Review schools’ scholarship/bursary policies online.
2. Gather reports, exam certificates, references and income documentation.
3. Submit applications before deadlines (often early in the year for the following academic year).
4. Complete any required tests or interviews.

Starting the process 9–12 months ahead is advisable.

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5. Duration and renewal

• Awards are generally annual, with renewal depending on grades, behaviour and ongoing need.

Always ask schools how often they reassess scholarships and bursaries.

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How Tutopiya helps Kenyan families

Tutopiya supports Kenyan students by:

• Providing high‑quality online tutoring for IGCSE, A Levels and IB.
• Helping students reach the academic standards expected of scholarship recipients.
• Linking international‑school scholarship planning with future university pathways in Kenya and abroad.

If you are exploring international school scholarships in Kenya, Tutopiya can help your child present a strong, consistent academic profile.