University of Admission Requirements

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential criteria for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions, including visa requirements for international students.

Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Kenyan universities accept various qualifications for undergraduate programs. Here’s what you need to know:

1. KCSE (Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education): Most universities require a minimum grade of C+ for general degree programs. Some competitive courses may demand higher grades.
2. International Qualifications: The University of Nairobi and other institutions recognize:
   • London GCE ‘A’ Level or its equivalent
   • International Baccalaureate (IB)
   • Other secondary/high school qualifications deemed equivalent to KCSE, as verified by the Kenya National Examinations Council (KNEC).
3. Checking Qualification Equivalence: International students can confirm how their qualifications compare to Kenyan standards via the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA). You’ll need to create a profile and pay a nominal fee for evaluation.

Postgraduate Admission Requirements

Students seeking to enroll in postgraduate programs must meet the following requirements:

1. Certified Academic Documents: All degree certificates and transcripts must be certified by the issuing institution.
2. Translation of Documents: If your academic documents are not in English, they must be translated by an accredited body such as an embassy or public notary.
3. Accreditation Verification: Certificates from institutions that are not accredited must undergo verification through the Commission for University Education (CUE).
4. Additional Documents: Some universities may request documents such as a Kenya pupil’s pass, a commitment letter, a valid passport, or other identification materials.

Student Visa Requirements for International Students

All international students must obtain a student pass (visa) to study in Kenya. The visa process is facilitated by the International Office at the Directorate of Corporate Affairs. Here’s what you need to apply:

1. Application Form 30: A duly filled, signed, and stamped application form by the institution’s authorized personnel. The form can be accessed here.
2. Cover Letter: A signed letter from the admitting institution detailing the course and duration.
3. Financial Proof: A signed commitment letter from a sponsor or proof of funds for self-sponsored students.
4. Identification Documents:
   • Copy of a valid national passport (bio-data page)
   • National passport copy of the sponsor/parent/guardian
   • Current immigration status (if already in Kenya)
   • Two recent passport-size color photos
5. Certified Academic Certificates: Copies of academic documents must be certified.
6. Additional Requirements:
   • Translated documents (if not in English)
   • Clearance letter from the Department of Refugee Affairs (for refugees)
   • Police clearance certificate from the country of origin or Kenya Police Service

If you face challenges in creating an account for visa processing, you can send your documents to pr@uonbi.ac.ke or echesoni@uonbi.ac.ke for assistance.