Kenya’s international schools provide a high standard of education tailored to global citizens. They offer curricula like the International Baccalaureate (IB), British curriculum (IGCSE and A-Levels), and American systems, preparing students for universities worldwide, including Oxford, Harvard, and Yale. These schools are particularly popular in Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu, where expatriate communities and affluent Kenyan families thrive. With state-of-the-art facilities, small class sizes, and a focus on holistic development, international schools in Kenya are a top choice for those prioritizing quality education.
However, the cost of attending these institutions can be significant, often exceeding public school fees by a wide margin. Below, we rank the top 10 most expensive international schools based on tuition fees, drawing from recent data and focusing on their offerings in Nairobi IB schools, British curriculum Kenya, and other key aspects.
Top 10 Most Expensive International Schools in Kenya
Based on the latest available data for the 2025/2026 academic year, here are the top 10 most expensive international schools in Kenya, with a focus on their annual tuition fees (excluding additional costs like boarding or capital levies unless specified).
1. International School of Kenya (ISK), Nairobi
- Location: Kiwara Road, Nairobi
- Curriculum: American and International Baccalaureate (IB)
- Annual Fees: KES 4.6 million (Grades 9–10), KES 4.8 million (Grades 11–12)
- Overview: ISK, established in 1976 by the U.S. and Canadian governments, is Kenya’s most expensive international school. Located on a 40-acre former coffee plantation, it serves over 1,000 students from 67 nationalities, offering a rigorous Nairobi IB school program. ISK’s IB Diploma graduates consistently secure placements in top global universities.
2. Brookhouse School, Nairobi
- Location: Karen and Runda, Nairobi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.49 million (Year 9), KES 2.55 million (Year 10), KES 3.825 million (Year 11), KES 2.61 million (Year 12), KES 3.915 million (Year 13)
- Overview: Founded in 1981, Brookhouse is a premier British curriculum Kenya school with two campuses in Nairobi’s leafy suburbs. Known for its Hogwarts-like aesthetic, it offers a balanced education with strong academics and extracurriculars.
3. St. Andrews Turi, Nakuru
- Location: Molo, near Nakuru
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.889 million (Year 9), KES 3.129 million (Years 10–11), KES 3.384 million (Years 12–13, boarding)
- Overview: A prestigious boarding school, St. Andrews Turi offers a British curriculum Kenya education in a serene environment. It caters to students aged 5–18, with a focus on academic rigor and pastoral care.
4. Greensteds International School, Nakuru
- Location: Nakuru
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.446 million (Years 10–11), KES 2.685 million (Year 12)
- Overview: Established in 1936, Greensteds is a co-educational day and boarding school offering a robust British curriculum Kenya. Its modern facilities and diverse student body make it a top choice in the Rift Valley.
5. Peponi School, Nairobi
- Location: Off Thika Road, Nairobi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.376 million (average across years)
- Overview: Founded in 1989, Peponi School is a leading British curriculum Kenya institution, known for its academic excellence and vibrant community. It serves students aged 2–18 and emphasizes holistic development.
6. Braeburn School, Nairobi
- Location: Multiple campuses (Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa)
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.1 million (Year 9), KES 2.239 million (Years 10–11), KES 2.395 million (Years 12–13)
- Overview: Part of the Braeburn Group, this school operates across Kenya and Tanzania, offering a British curriculum Kenya education. Its Nairobi campuses are particularly popular among expats.
7. Hillcrest International School, Nairobi
- Location: Karen, Nairobi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 2.346 million (average across years)
- Overview: Acquired by GEMS Education in 2020, Hillcrest is a top-tier British curriculum Kenya school offering kindergarten through secondary education. It provides boarding options and excellent facilities.
8. The Nairobi Academy, Nairobi
- Location: Karen, Nairobi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels, BTEC), IB Diploma
- Annual Fees: KES 1.161 million (Year 11), KES 1.221 million (Years 12–13), KES 1.254 million (IB Diploma)
- Overview: A co-educational school serving ages 2–19, The Nairobi Academy offers both Nairobi IB schools and British curriculum Kenya options, with a focus on personalized learning.
9. Light International School, Nairobi, Mombasa, Malindi
- Location: Karen (Nairobi), Mombasa, Malindi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE, A-Levels)
- Annual Fees: KES 1.764 million (Year 11), KES 2.016 million (Years 12–13, tuition only)
- Overview: With five campuses, Light International School balances academics with extracurriculars, offering a British curriculum Kenya education and hosting the World Scholar’s Cup.
10. Rusinga School, Nairobi
- Location: Lavington, Nairobi
- Curriculum: British National Curriculum (IGCSE)
- Annual Fees: Approximately KES 1.5–1.8 million (varies by year)
- Overview: A Christian faith-based school, Rusinga offers a British curriculum Kenya education with a focus on self-discovery and community engagement, serving students up to Year 11.
Curricula Offered by Kenya’s Top International Schools
International schools in Kenya provide diverse curricula to cater to global and local needs. The most common include:
- International Baccalaureate (IB): Offered by schools like ISK and The Aga Khan Academy (Nairobi and Mombasa), the IB program is renowned for its inquiry-based, holistic approach. Nairobi IB schools emphasize critical thinking and global awareness, preparing students for top universities.
- British Curriculum: Schools like Brookhouse, Peponi, and Braeburn follow the National Curriculum of England and Wales, leading to IGCSE and A-Level exams. This British curriculum Kenya is popular for its structured progression and global recognition.
- American Curriculum: ISK and Rosslyn Academy offer North American curricula, blending academic rigor with extracurriculars, ideal for students aiming for U.S. universities.
- Other Curricula: Schools like The German School Nairobi and Nairobi Japanese School offer specialized curricula (German and Japanese, respectively), catering to specific expatriate communities.
These curricula ensure flexibility for expat families moving globally, with Nairobi IB schools and British curriculum Kenya programs being particularly sought after.
Admissions Processes for International Schools in Kenya
Admissions to Kenya’s top international schools are competitive, with limited spaces and strict criteria. Here’s what to expect:
- Application Process:
- Complete an online or paper application form, including academic records and references.
- Pay a non-refundable application fee (e.g., KES 25,000 at Braeburn, €1,000 at The German School).
- Attend an interview or assessment, as required by schools like Nairobi International School.
- Key Requirements:
- Prior academic transcripts and proof of English proficiency (for non-native speakers).
- Passport copies for expatriate students.
- Evidence of vaccinations and medical records.
- Timing: Apply 12–18 months in advance, especially in Nairobi, where waiting lists are common due to high demand.
- Location Considerations: Nairobi’s traffic can be challenging, so choose schools in expat-friendly areas like Karen or Westlands to minimize commute times.
Contact schools directly for detailed admissions policies, as requirements vary. For example, The Ally School Muthaiga emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming students of all backgrounds.
Fee Structures and Additional Costs
The high fees of Kenya’s top international schools reflect their world-class facilities and curricula. Below is a breakdown of costs:
- Tuition Fees: Range from KES 1.5 million (Rusinga) to KES 4.8 million (ISK) annually, with higher fees for senior years (Grades 11–12 or Years 12–13).
- Additional Costs:
- Capital Levies: One-time fees for new students (e.g., $10,000 at ISK, KES 150,000 at The Nairobi Academy).
- Boarding Fees: Applicable at schools like St. Andrews Turi (KES 395,000 per term) and Brookhouse.
- Extracurricular Fees: Cover activities like music lessons or sports camps.
- Transport Fees: Many schools offer bus services, especially in Nairobi, to navigate traffic.
- Payment Plans: Most schools require termly payments (three terms per year), with some offering sibling discounts (e.g., 10–20% at Light International School).
For precise fee structures, visit school websites or contact their admissions offices, as fees may increase annually.
Extracurricular Activities in International Schools
International schools in Kenya emphasize holistic development through robust extracurricular programs. Common offerings include:
- Sports: Football, rugby, swimming, and athletics, with schools like ISK hosting sports days and The Coast Academy excelling in regional competitions.
- Arts and Music: Theatre, choir, and visual arts, with Brookhouse and Hillcrest boasting impressive facilities.
- Clubs and Societies: Model United Nations, debate, and environmental clubs, particularly strong at ISK and Peponi.
- Community Service: Schools like The Aga Khan Academy integrate social responsibility, encouraging students to engage in local projects.
- Special Events: Light International School hosts the World Scholar’s Cup, fostering intellectual competition across East Africa.
These activities enhance students’ skills and university applications, making international schools in Kenya a hub for well-rounded education.
Expat Guides: Navigating International Schools in Kenya
For expatriate families relocating to Kenya, choosing an international school involves careful planning. Here are key tips:
- Choosing the Right School:
- Curriculum Alignment: Select a curriculum (IB, British, American) that aligns with your child’s future academic plans. Nairobi IB schools are ideal for global mobility.
- Location: Prioritize schools near expat hubs like Karen or Westlands in Nairobi to avoid traffic. Mombasa and Kisumu offer fewer but high-quality options, like Braeburn Mombasa and Braeburn Kisumu.
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by reputable bodies like the Council of International Schools (CIS) or Middle States Association (MSA).
- Practical Considerations:
- Housing: Live near the school to reduce commute times. Karen and Westlands are popular for Nairobi expats.
- Transport: Use school bus services or hire a driver, as public transport is not recommended for students.
- Cultural Integration: Schools like Rosslyn Academy and The Aga Khan Academy foster multicultural environments, easing transitions for expat children.
- Financial Planning: Budget for tuition, levies, and living costs. Some expat contracts cover school fees, but confirm with your employer.
- Visiting Schools: Schedule tours to assess facilities and meet staff. Most schools, like Durham International, welcome prospective families.
For further guidance, resources like The Expat Guide to Nairobi provide detailed insights into expat life and schooling.
International Schools in Key Locations
- Nairobi: Home to 47 international schools, including ISK, Brookhouse, and The Aga Khan Academy. Nairobi IB schools and British curriculum Kenya options dominate, catering to a large expat community near the UN Headquarters and embassies.
- Mombasa: Offers schools like Braeburn Mombasa and The Aga Khan Academy, Mombasa, with British curriculum Kenya and IB programs. These schools serve coastal expats and locals.
- Kisumu: Features Braeburn Kisumu and Western International School of Kenya (WISK), offering British curriculum Kenya and IGCSE options for a smaller expat community.
Kenya’s top 10 most expensive international schools offer unparalleled education, with curricula like the International Baccalaureate and British curriculum Kenya preparing students for global success. While fees are high, ranging from KES 1.5 million to KES 4.8 million annually, the investment provides access to world-class facilities, diverse extracurriculars, and pathways to prestigious universities. For expat families in Nairobi, Mombasa, or Kisumu, choosing the right school involves balancing curriculum, location, and budget. By researching admissions processes, visiting campuses, and leveraging expat guides, parents can ensure their children thrive in Kenya’s vibrant international school landscape.
For more details, visit school websites or contact their admissions offices to confirm fees and availability. International schools in Kenya remain a beacon of excellence, shaping the next generation of global leaders.
