Compare 3 international schools in Nairobi, Kenya. Filter by curriculum, fees (average KES 2,237,463), location, and more to find the right international school now.
Nairobi’s international schools form a diverse market clustered mainly in the western suburbs and the northern diplomatic pockets; families will find British (Cambridge/IGCSE and A-level), International Baccalaureate programmes, US-style schools and a smaller set of French and other European curriculum options. Many schools teach in English as the day-to-day language while offering Kiswahili plus choices such as French, German or Spanish as modern languages or mother-tongue options. Annual tuition commonly runs broadly from the lower hundreds of thousands of Kenyan shillings up into the low millions, with most schools charging in a mid range that requires budgeting for termly payments and extras such as transport, meals and exams. Admissions follow either a northern-hemisphere school year (August/September start, summer break in July) or the Kenyan January - November cycle, popular year groups can carry waiting lists, and most schools require a registration fee, assessment and a deposit on offer.
What kinds of curricula will we encounter in Nairobi’s international schools?
You will commonly find the English National Curriculum leading to IGCSEs and A-levels, the International Baccalaureate (PYP, MYP and Diploma), US-style high school programmes (sometimes with AP courses) and a smaller number of French or European curriculum schools. Each system has different examination points and pathways to higher education, so consider how portable the qualification is for your family’s plans.
How much should we budget for school fees and extra costs?
Tuition varies widely by school and age but expect to budget for annual fees in the mid-range for Nairobi’s market, with some schools charging less and some at the higher end; fees are usually invoiced termly. In addition to tuition, allow for one-off registration or capital levies, deposits, school meals, uniforms, transport and external exam charges when you compare total costs.
When should we apply and how long are typical waiting lists?
Apply as early as possible: popular entry points (early years and certain primary and lower-secondary years) can have waiting lists and some families report lead times of many months for places. Admissions normally include an application form, registration fee, an assessment or interview and proof of previous schooling or immunisations, so gather documents and start the process well before your intended start date.
What languages are used and is support available for children who don’t speak English?
English is the usual language of instruction at international schools, while Kiswahili is commonly taught and European languages such as French, German or Spanish are frequently offered. Most larger schools provide English as an Additional Language (EAL) or mother-tongue support for learners new to English, but the level and format of support vary, so check each school’s EAL provision during visits.
What should parents look for when comparing schools in Nairobi?
Check curriculum and examinations to match your family’s future plans, and review safeguarding and pastoral care policies alongside class sizes and staff qualifications. Practical considerations such as proximity to home or work, school transport routes, accreditation (for example IB authorisation or international inspection reports) and the school’s handling of health, visas and immunisation requirements are also important when choosing a fit for your child.
