Studying abroad is one of the best investments one can make for the future. Beyond gaining a world-class education, it provides exposure to new cultures, access to global opportunities, and a chance to build valuable networks. However, the reality is that tuition, living expenses, and travel costs can make studying overseas seem out of reach for many families.  

The good thing is that there are countless scholarships available. We’ve put together the top study abroad scholarships for Kenyan students, how to find them, and practical tips to help you submit a winning application. 

Types of Study Abroad Scholarships

Scholarships come in many forms, and understanding the differences helps you target the right opportunities. Here are the most common types:  

  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Awarded to students who excel academically, demonstrate leadership qualities, or have unique talents (such as sports or the arts). Students with excellent results, high GPAs, or strong extracurricular achievements are strong candidates for these awards. 

  • Need-Based Scholarships: Designed for students whose financial situation may prevent them from studying abroad. Applicants are usually required to provide financial documents to prove their need. For many students, these scholarships help close the financial gap. 

  • Country-Specific Scholarships: Some governments create scholarships specifically for students from developing countries. These awards are aimed at building global connections and supporting development in recipients’ home countries. 

  • University-Specific Scholarships: Many universities abroad set aside funds to attract international students. Some are automatic (granted once you’re admitted), while others require a separate application. 

  • Field-Specific Scholarships: These are targeted at students pursuing particular areas such as STEM, medicine, agriculture, or development studies. These help countries and universities build expertise in priority sectors. 

  • Fully Funded Scholarships: They typically cover almost everything: tuition, accommodation, living stipends, flights, and sometimes even health insurance. They are highly competitive but life-changing if awarded. 

  • Partial Scholarships: They cover part of tuition or living costs. While not full, they make studying abroad more affordable and can be combined with other funding sources.

Popular Fully Funded Scholarships to Study Abroad

United Kingdom

  • Chevening Scholarships: Prestigious awards funded by the UK government. They cover tuition, travel, and a monthly living allowance for one-year master’s degrees. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential and commit to returning to contribute to Kenya after their studies. 

  • Commonwealth Scholarships: Designed for students from Commonwealth countries like Kenya. These fully funded awards support both master’s and PhD programs, often focusing on development-related fields such as education, agriculture, or public health. 

  • Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford University): One of the oldest and most competitive scholarships worldwide. It provides exceptional Kenyan students with full funding to study at Oxford, covering tuition, living allowances, and travel costs. 

  • Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Fully funds postgraduate study at Cambridge University. It is awarded to students with strong academic ability and a commitment to using their education to improve lives globally. 

United States

  • Fulbright Program: One of the most recognised international scholarships, funded by the US government. It provides full support for postgraduate study, research, and teaching opportunities in American universities. Kenyan applicants are assessed on academic merit and their potential to contribute to their home country. 

  • EducationUSA and University Scholarships: Many American universities provide scholarships specifically for international students, including Kenyans. These may be merit-based or need-based and can cover partial or full tuition. Some institutions also provide teaching or research assistantships that come with funding and stipends. 

Canada

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Designed for doctoral students, these prestigious awards support candidates with exceptional academic performance, research potential, and leadership qualities. Kenyan students pursuing PhDs in Canada are eligible to apply. 

  • University Entrance Scholarships: Many Canadian universities automatically consider Kenyan students for scholarships when they apply for admission. These awards may reduce tuition costs significantly and are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

Australia & New Zealand

  • Australia Awards Scholarships: Funded by the Australian government, these scholarships are available to students from developing countries, including Kenya. They typically cover tuition, return airfares, establishment allowances, and living stipends, which are aimed at postgraduate study. 

  • New Zealand Government Scholarships: These offer full funding for tuition, living expenses, and travel. They are open to Kenyan students interested in contributing to development goals after completing their studies in New Zealand. 

Europe

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master Degrees: Fully funded programs that allow Kenyan students to study in two or more European countries as part of a joint master’s degree. The scholarship covers tuition, travel, and living expenses. 

Scholarships by Study Level 

Scholarship opportunities for Kenyans vary depending on the stage of education. Here’s a breakdown:

Undergraduate Scholarships

For many Kenyans, affording a bachelor’s degree abroad can be challenging. Undergraduate scholarships often take the form of: 

  • Entrance and merit awards are based on WAEC/NECO or A-Level results. 

  • Country-sponsored awards are designed to attract young Kenyan talent. 

  • Field-specific opportunities are available for high-demand courses like engineering, health sciences, or IT. 

These may be partial or full scholarships, depending on the institution and program. 

Postgraduate (Master’s) Scholarships

This is the most common level at which Kenyan students secure scholarships abroad. These opportunities include: 

  • Government-backed programs focused on leadership, policy, or development areas. 

  • University scholarships targeting postgraduate applicants from Kenya and other African countries. 

  • Professional and industry-linked scholarships in fields such as energy, technology, and public health. 

Many of these are fully funded, offering tuition coverage plus living stipends. 

PhD Scholarships

Doctoral scholarships are designed to support advanced research and academic careers. They often: 

  • Support Kenyan students working on projects linked to Kenya’s development priorities. 

  • Cover tuition, research expenses, stipends, and travel. 

  • Encourage collaboration with Kenyan universities for long-term impact. 

PhD scholarships are highly competitive but rewarding, especially for students aiming to become lecturers, researchers, or industry experts. 

How to Find and Apply for Study Abroad Scholarships

Searching for scholarships can feel overwhelming, but these steps will make it easier: 

  • Define your academic goals: Decide what you want to study, your level (undergraduate, master’s, or PhD), and preferred country. Having clarity helps you focus only on scholarships that fit. 

  • Rely on trusted sources: Use official sites like scholarship portals, embassy pages, or government websites for accurate deadlines, eligibility, and benefits. 

  • Check university websites: Many universities offer scholarships for Kenyans, usually listed under admissions or financial aid. Some are automatic, while others require a separate application. 

  • Work with trusted agencies: Organisations like IDP Kenya guide students for free, helping you find scholarships and submit strong applications on time. 

  • Prepare your documents early: Have your transcripts, letters of recommendation essays, and IELTS test results ready in advance to ensure your application is complete and polished. 

  • Network with others: Connect with Kenyans already studying abroad for tips on scholarships and applications. Student groups, forums, and alumni networks are great places to start. 

Tips for a Winning Scholarship Application

  • Start early: Some scholarships close almost a year before the course starts. Prepare documents such as transcripts, essays, and references well in advance. 

  • Check eligibility carefully: Avoid spending time on scholarships you don’t qualify for. Read the requirements thoroughly. 

  • Write compelling essays: Highlight not only your grades but also your goals, challenges, and how the scholarship will enable you to give back. Use clear, personal examples. 

  • Secure strong references: Choose referees (lecturers, supervisors, employers) who know you well and can speak about your character, leadership, and potential. 

  • Highlight more than academics: Showcase volunteering, extracurricular activities, or leadership experience. Many scholarships value well-rounded individuals. 

  • Polish your application: Grammar errors or incomplete forms can cost you. Proofread carefully or have someone review your documents. 

  • Ask for guidance: Counsellors at IDP Kenya can review your documents, suggest improvements, and keep you updated about new opportunities. 

Securing a study abroad scholarship can transform your dreams into reality. There are abundant opportunities for Kenyan students willing to apply. 

Need help finding the right scholarship? Talk to an IDP counsellor today to explore opportunities and start your journey toward studying abroad.

FAQs

How can I get a full scholarship abroad? 
Apply to government-funded or fully funded university programs such as Chevening, Fulbright, or Erasmus Mundus.  

Can a Kenyan get a scholarship abroad? 
Yes! Many Kenyan students receive scholarships yearly in the UK, the USA, Canada, New Zealand, Australia, Ireland and other countries. 

Which country is easiest to get a full scholarship?
It depends on your eligibility, but the UK and Canada are known for accessible scholarships, especially for international postgraduate students. 

Can I get a scholarship in Canada from Kenya? 
Yes. Canada offers multiple options, such as Vanier Scholarships, university entrance awards, and provincial scholarships. 

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