For Students For Agencies

University of Nairobi

Nairobi, 🇰🇪 Kenya Public
#1 National #1001 QS World #1501 THE
University of Nairobi campus
84,000 students Multiple Campuses $3k - $6k/yr

About University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi (UoN) is a leading institution of higher learning in Kenya, established in 1970. It is recognized as the oldest and most prestigious university in East and Central Africa, consistently ranking among the top universities on the continent and globally. UoN is committed to scholarly excellence, offering a wide array of market-driven undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs, supported by a strong research culture.

Academics


The University of Nairobi comprises several faculties, including Agriculture, Built Environment, Business & Management Sciences, Education, Engineering, Arts and Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Science & Technology, and Veterinary Medicine. The university is known for programs such as Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Pharmacy, and Architectural Studies. UoN emphasizes a research-driven approach, with a strong focus on interdisciplinary studies and practical application.

International Students


The University of Nairobi hosts students from over 40 nationalities, primarily from Eastern African countries. An International Students Office, located on the 17th floor of the University of Nairobi Towers, provides dedicated support and information to help international students settle in. While English is the primary language of instruction, familiarizing oneself with some Kiswahili can be beneficial for daily life outside campus. The University of Nairobi International Students Association (UoNISA) serves as an umbrella body for foreign students, encouraging participation in various professional and faith-based organizations.

Campus & Location


The University of Nairobi's main campus is strategically located in the Central Business District of Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya. The university also has other campuses spread across serene locations within the city, including Chiromo, Lower Kabete, Kikuyu, Kenyatta National Hospital, Parklands, and Kenya Science. Nairobi offers a vibrant city life, and students can find various amenities and transportation options. On-campus accommodation is available, and students can also seek assistance from the Dean of Students or the International Office for private housing options nearby.

Career Outcomes


University of Nairobi graduates are highly sought after by employers in Kenya, with a 38% employability rate, making UoN the most preferred source of new staff for Kenyan employers. The university consistently ranks well in global graduate employability rankings, recognized for producing graduates with essential skills for the modern workplace. UoN maintains strong industry connections and offers career services, including vocational and career guidance, mentorship programs, and industrial attachments to prepare students for the job market. The university has also launched initiatives like the Silicon Savannah Innovation Park to foster innovation and entrepreneurship among students.

Highlights

  • Oldest, prestigious East African university
  • Diverse, market-driven academic programs
  • Strong research culture
  • International student hub
  • Prime Nairobi CBD location

Subject Areas

MedicineEngineeringLawBusinessAgriculture

Student Life & Support

Visa Support Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Scholarships Available

Photos

University of Nairobi photo 1University of Nairobi photo 2University of Nairobi photo 3University of Nairobi photo 4University of Nairobi photo 5University of Nairobi photo 6University of Nairobi photo 7University of Nairobi photo 8University of Nairobi photo 9

Programs Offered at University of Nairobi (20)

Offers programs in:

Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Education Engineering Law Medicine & Health Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences

Bachelor Programs (9)

Bachelor of Science in Actuarial Science

STEM

Actuarial Science

Actuarial Science
actuarialbabachelorbachelorsbs
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Architectural Studies

STEM

Architecture

Architecture
60 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Arts in Economics

Economics

Economics
bachelor economics kenyaeconomics careerBS economicseconomics programbachelor of economics
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Education (Arts)

Education

Education
artsbabachelorbengbs
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
bachelors engineeringbachelor's engineeringenglish-taught bachelor engineering in kenyabachelor engineeringbachelor in engineering in kenya
60 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Environmental Conservation and Natural Resource Management

STEM

Environmental Science

Environmental Science
bachelor in environmental scienceenvironmental science programstudy environmental scienceenglish-taught bachelor environmental science in kenyaenglish bachelor environmental science
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Laws

Law

Law
babachelorbachelor of lawsbsbsc
48 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery

STEM

Medicine

Medicine
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgerybachelor's medicinebachelor's in medicineundergraduate medicineundergraduate in medicine
72 months English Full-time

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

STEM

Nursing

Nursing
babachelorbachelor's degreebscinternational student
48 months English Full-time

Master Programs (6)

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

Business Administration

Business Administration
administrationbusinessgraduatekenyama
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in Communication Studies

Communication

Communication
artscommunicationkenyamasterstudies
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Computer Science

STEM

Computer Science

Computer Science
masters in computer sciencemasters computer sciencestudy computer science in kenyamasters computer science in kenyamasters computer science in nairobi
24 months English Full-time

Master of Science in Civil Engineering

STEM

Engineering

Engineering
masters in engineeringmasters engineeringmsc engineeringstudy engineering in kenyamasters in engineering in kenya
24 months English Full-time

Master of Arts in International Relations

International Relations

International Relations
master in international relationsinternational relations program kenyastudy international relations in kenyamsc international relationsmaster international relations in kenya
24 months English Full-time

Master of Public Health

STEM

Public Health

Public Health
epidemiologypublic healthnairobi universitymaster in public healthstudy in kenya
24 months English Full-time

PhD Programs (5)

PhD in Agricultural Economics

STEM

Agricultural Economics

Agricultural Economics
agriculturalagricultural economicseconomicskenyanairobi
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Chemistry

STEM

Chemistry

Chemistry
chemistrydoctordoctoraldoctoratekenya
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Law

Law

Law
doctordoctoraldoctoratekenyalaw
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Mathematics

STEM

Mathematics

Mathematics
algebracalculusdoctor of philosophydoctoraldoctorate
36 months English Full-time

PhD in Physics

STEM

Physics

Physics
doctor of philosophydoctoraldoctorateinternational studentkenya
36 months English Full-time

University of Nairobi Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate

5+ IELTS
2.5+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Moderate (40-60%)
Intakes Fall, Spring
Application Deadline August 1, 2025 (for some Masters scholarships)
Tuition (per year) $3k - $6k/yr
Application Fee $50
Teaching Language English
Accreditation
Commission for University EducationCouncil of Legal Education (for School of Law)International Accreditation Organization (IAO) (profile creation phase)

Ready to apply to University of Nairobi?

Abroadly helps you manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched to programs.

Apply Direct →

Frequently Asked Questions About University of Nairobi

Common questions from international students considering University of Nairobi.

What is the acceptance rate at University of Nairobi?

University of Nairobi is classified as "Moderate (40-60%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.

How much does University of Nairobi cost for international students?

Tuition at University of Nairobi ranges from $3k - $6k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.

What is University of Nairobi ranked globally?

University of Nairobi holds the following rankings: QS World #1001, Times Higher Education #1501, #1 in Kenya. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.

What English language requirements does University of Nairobi have?

University of Nairobi typically requires IELTS 5+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.

Are scholarships available at University of Nairobi?

Yes, University of Nairobi offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.

When does University of Nairobi start its semesters?

University of Nairobi has intakes starting in Fall, Spring. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.

How many English-taught programs does University of Nairobi offer?

University of Nairobi offers 20+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.

Where is University of Nairobi located?

University of Nairobi is located in Nairobi, Kenya 🇰🇪. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.

What are the admission requirements for University of Nairobi?

For specific details about University of Nairobi, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

What programs does University of Nairobi offer?

For specific details about University of Nairobi, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.

Need help applying?

AI-powered tools to manage applications, track deadlines, and get matched.

Apply to University of Nairobi with your AI agent

Upload your documents and your AI agent drafts your application to University of Nairobi, fills the forms, and tracks your visa — no agent fees.