University Options in Nairobi for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – International & Local Campuses

Nairobi offers diverse university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers international branch campuses and local universities that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

International branch campuses in Nairobi

British universities:

• University of Nairobi – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes (various departments), Kenya’s top public university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences

Other international programmes:

• Strathmore University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Law, Sciences
• United States International University (USIU) Africa – accepts A Levels, IBDP; US-style education, strong in Business, IT, Psychology, International Relations

Size and establishment of international branch campuses

Well-established campuses:

• University of Nairobi – established 1956 (over 69 years); 84,000+ students; Kenya’s top public university, English-medium programmes available
• Strathmore University – established 1961 (over 64 years); 6,000+ students; well-established private university
• United States International University Africa – established 1969 (over 56 years); 5,500+ students; well-established US-style university

Note: Nairobi’s international programmes and English-medium offerings are well-established with proven track records. Most have been operating for 56–69+ years and have 5,500–84,000+ students, providing a stable, international learning environment in Kenya’s capital.

Local universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Top-tier universities:

• University of Nairobi – accepts A Levels, IBDP; Kenya’s top public university, strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business, Sciences
• Strathmore University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established private university, strong in Business, IT, Law, Sciences
• United States International University Africa – accepts A Levels, IBDP; well-established US-style university, strong in Business, IT, Psychology, International Relations

Other universities:

• Kenyatta University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Education, Business, Sciences, Engineering
• Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Engineering, Agriculture, Technology
• Catholic University of Eastern Africa – accepts A Levels, IBDP; English-medium programmes, strong in Business, IT, Social Sciences

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically need 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. For competitive programmes, A/A* grades may be required.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades AAB-BBB depending on the programme. Competitive programmes may require AAB or higher.

IBDP: Typically 24-30 points minimum, with higher points (30+) for competitive programmes. Some programmes require specific Higher Level subjects.

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme). Some universities require Kiswahili language proficiency for programmes taught in Kiswahili.

Additional requirements: Many universities require entrance exams, interviews, or essays.

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Local universities:

• University of Nairobi: KES 150,000–400,000 per year (approximately USD 1,200–3,200). Public university, significantly lower fees.
• Strathmore University: KES 300,000–600,000 per year (approximately USD 2,400–4,800). Private university, higher fees.
• United States International University Africa: USD 3,000–6,000 per year. US-style university.
• Private universities: KES 200,000–500,000 per year (approximately USD 1,600–4,000).

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme and university type (public vs private). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships (university-specific scholarships) that can cover 10–50% of tuition. Kenyan citizens may receive government support. Always check current fees directly with universities as they change annually.

Why choose Nairobi?

• Quality education – home to Kenya’s top universities
• International environment – diverse student body, many English-medium programmes
• Cultural experience – immerse in Kenyan culture while studying
• Career opportunities – strong job market in Technology, Finance, Agriculture, Tourism, Healthcare
• Affordable cost of living – more affordable than many other major cities
• Strategic location – East Africa’s commercial hub, gateway to African markets

Tips for expat families

• Language considerations – many programmes are English-medium, but learning Kiswahili enhances opportunities
• Entrance exams – prepare for university-specific entrance exams
• Scholarships – explore university-specific scholarships and government support (for Kenyan citizens)
• Accreditation – ensure the university is recognised by Kenya Commission for University Education
• Cost of living – Nairobi is moderately affordable; factor in accommodation and living costs
• Visa requirements – ensure proper student visa documentation

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.