Studying abroad is a dream for many Kenyan students—but for most, the cost makes it seem impossible. The good news is that dozens of fully funded international scholarships are available to help Kenyan students pursue undergraduate, Masters, and PhD degrees abroad.
This 2026 guide highlights the best international scholarships for Kenyans, covering eligibility, benefits, and application tips.
Why Kenyans Should Consider International Scholarships
International scholarships offer more than financial support. They also provide:
- World-class education
- International exposure
- Global career opportunities
- Leadership development
- Networking with top professionals
Most importantly, many programs are fully funded, covering:
- Tuition
- Monthly stipends
- Accommodation
- Travel costs
- Medical insurance
- Research funding
🎓 Top International Scholarships for Kenyans (Fully Funded)
Below is the definitive list of the best international education scholarships for Kenyan students in 2026.
1. Chevening Scholarships (UK)
One of the most prestigious global scholarships.
Benefits:
- Fully funded Master’s degree in any UK university
- Monthly stipend
- Travel and visa support
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree
- At least 2 years of work or leadership experience
- Strong academic and professional record
Level: Master’s (1 year)
2. Commonwealth Scholarships (UK)
Ideal for high-performing Kenyan students from low- and middle-income backgrounds.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Stipend
- Return airfare
- Books and thesis grants
Eligibility:
- Must be a Kenyan citizen
- High academic performance
Level: Master’s & PhD
3. DAAD Scholarships (Germany)
One of the biggest international funding programs for Kenyans.
Benefits:
- Tuition-free education in Germany
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation and insurance
- Travel allowance
Level: Master’s & PhD
4. Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Scholarships (Europe)
A unique opportunity to study in multiple European countries.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly allowance
- Travel & installation allowance
- Study in 2–4 countries
Eligibility:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Academic excellence
Level: Master’s
5. Fulbright Foreign Student Program (USA)
Prestigious US scholarship supported by the US government.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly living allowance
- Health insurance
- Travel costs
Level: Master’s & PhD
6. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (Africa, USA, Canada)
Available in universities like UBC (Canada), McGill (Canada), and African institutions.
Benefits:
- Full scholarship
- Accommodation
- Laptop and learning materials
- Leadership & entrepreneurship training
Level: Undergraduate & Master’s
7. Chinese Government Scholarship (CSC Program)
A top option for Kenyan students pursuing STEM fields.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend
- Medical insurance
Level: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
Keywords: CSC scholarship Kenya
8. Japan MEXT Scholarship
Offered by the Japanese Government.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Monthly stipend
- Airfare
- Pre-university Japanese language training
Level: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
9. Turkey Türkiye Burslari Scholarships (Turkish Government)
One of the most generous scholarships globally.
Benefits:
- Fully funded degree
- Monthly stipend
- Accommodation
- Free Turkish classes
Level: Undergraduate, Masters, PhD
10. Australia Awards Scholarships
Ideal for Kenyan students passionate about development.
Benefits:
- Full tuition
- Travel & settlement allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Research and training support
Level: Master’s
🎓 Other Strong International Scholarships for Kenyans
- Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford University)
- Gates Cambridge Scholarship (UK)
- New Zealand Government Scholarship
- Swiss Government Excellence Scholarship
- Swedish Institute Scholarships (SISGP)
- Korean Government Scholarship (GKS)
- Hungary Stipendium Scholarship
These programs are highly competitive but life-changing.
How Kenyan Students Can Increase Their Chances of Winning International Scholarships
✔ 1. Start preparing early
Most scholarships open 5–12 months before deadlines.
✔ 2. Maintain strong grades
Academic excellence is crucial.
✔ 3. Build leadership experience
Scholarships look for students with impact.
✔ 4. Write powerful personal statements
Tell your story, challenges, and goals.
✔ 5. Secure strong recommendation letters
Choose people who know you well academically or professionally.
✔ 6. Apply to multiple scholarships
Boost your success rate.
✔ 7. Prepare for interviews
Be confident, informed, and authentic.
Conclusion: Your Path to Studying Abroad in 2026
Opportunities for Kenyan students to study abroad are expanding every year. Whether you want to pursue engineering in Germany, medicine in China, public policy in the UK, or business in the USA, there is a fully funded scholarship waiting for you.
The key is to apply early, prepare strong documents, and stay consistent.