A recent survey has shown that Nairobi University ranks the highest as the most preferred institution for international students in Kenya.
Results of the Survey
The survey, which was conducted by the CPS Research International has also revealed that the United States International University (USIU), Strathmore University and Mount Kenya University (MKU) were ranked second, third and fourth respectively. Kenyatta University closed the top 5 positions in terms of appeal to foreign students.
From the results of the study, University of Nairobi (UON) had an estimated number of 6,202 foreign students while USIU and Strathmore University registered 1,100 and 660 foreign learners respectively. MKU had a total of 560 foreign students. Kenyatta University had 472 foreigners only.
Factors Attracting International Students to Kenyan Universities
According to the report, international students chose Kenyan universities based on the affordability, global ranking, institutional culture, holistic culture, good placement, and internship opportunities. The ease of accessing accommodation, the type of courses offered, cost of living, the availability of international students’ help desk are also some of the factors that international students consider when choosing a preferred learning institution in Kenya.
There are also other macro factors that determine international students’ university choices in Kenya. They include:
- National security
- Culture of the country
- Employment opportunities
- Immigration rules
Countries of Origin
In terms of geographical distributions, Uganda has the highest number of foreign students studying in Kenya. Other countries that send their citizens to study in Kenya include: Tanzania, South Africa, Somalia, Nigeria, and South Sudan.
This population of international students studying in Kenya is majorly composed of young people aged between 18 and 24 years. Most of them are pursuing undergraduate courses.
Mount Kenya University Continues to Shine
Mount Kenya University is the youngest university to feature among the top 5 Universities in the list, ranking ahead of bigwigs such as Kenyatta University, Moi University, Jomo Kenyatta University, and Egerton University.
The recently installed Vice-Chancellor Prof. Deogratius Jaganyi has lauded the tremendous success of the institution. He says that the institution has invested in online education to enhance easy access to learning across the globe.
“MKU has heavily invested in necessary ICT support systems with online connectivity and strong hotspots within the Campuses and Open Distance and Electronic Learning Centres,” Janganyi said.
The University has campus across Kenya and other East African countries, taking the institution to the world and bringing the world to the institution. MKU also has a digital library and an online portal where learners can access resources and personalized learning platform with ease wherever they are.
Here is a Summary of the Top 5 Universities for International Students in Kenya:
1) University of Nairobi (UON)
2) United States International University (USIU)
3) Strathmore University (SU)
4) Mount Kenya University (MKU)
