Best Boarding Schools in Nairobi

Discover the best Boarding Schools in Nairobi in this 2025 guide. Explore top-rated schools, tuition costs, parent reviews, and more.

Best Boarding Schools in Nairobi

Boarding Schools in Nairobi are a great choice for both local and expat families as they offer globally recognized curricula, outstanding academics plus a nurturing environment for children. Discover our selection of the best Boarding Schools in Nairobi, including reviews, fees, and why families choose them.

Table of Contents

Why choose a Boarding School in Nairobi?

Opting for a boarding school in Nairobi offers a myriad of benefits that go beyond mere academics. The city’s boarding schools are renowned for their robust educational frameworks that foster not only intellectual growth but also personal development in a secure and nurturing environment.

Comprehensive Academic Excellence

First and foremost, Nairobi’s boarding schools boast a strong academic reputation. These institutions typically follow a rigorous curriculum designed to challenge students and prepare them for university education and beyond. Whether it’s local syllabuses like the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) or international ones such as the British A-Levels or the American SAT, these schools provide a wide array of options to cater to diverse educational needs and aspirations. The immersive environment of a boarding school ensures that students are constantly engaged in learning activities that enhance their understanding and retention of subject matter.

A Culturally Rich Environment

Boarding schools in Nairobi also offer a vibrant cultural milieu that is hard to find elsewhere. Students from various backgrounds come together, sharing and learning from each other’s experiences, which fosters a deep sense of global awareness and cultural sensitivity. This exposure is invaluable in today’s globalized world, promoting a sense of unity and mutual respect among young learners.

Development of Life Skills

Aside from academics, boarding schools are pivotal in teaching essential life skills. The structured setting of these schools teaches students discipline, independence, and responsibility—qualities that are crucial for personal success. The residential aspect of these schools requires students to manage their time effectively, balance academics with extracurricular activities, and develop interpersonal skills through constant interaction with peers and mentors.

State-of-the-Art Facilities

Many boarding schools in Nairobi are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities that enhance the learning experience. From science laboratories and libraries brimming with resources to sports complexes and arts centers, these schools provide facilities that cater to the intellectual and physical well-being of students. Such resources are instrumental in nurturing well-rounded individuals who excel in various spheres of life.

Safety and Security

Safety is a key concern for parents, and Nairobi’s boarding schools take this seriously. With secure campuses monitored around the clock, parents can have peace of mind knowing that their children are in a safe environment. Additionally, the presence of experienced staff ensures that students’ needs are promptly attended to at all times.

Choosing a boarding school in Nairobi is more than just an educational decision; it’s an investment in a child’s future. The holistic education offered by these schools equips students not only with academic knowledge but also with the moral compass and skills necessary to navigate the complexities of the real world. With a proven track record of producing well-rounded and successful alumni, boarding schools in Nairobi continue to be a top choice for parents and students alike.

How much does it cost to attend Boarding Schools in Nairobi?

The yearly tuition fees for Boarding Schools in Nairobi generally range from $10,000 to $20,000 per year. This cost can vary based on factors like the curriculum, the quality of campus facilities, the standard of boarding, and the services – with some top-tier schools exceeding $25,000 annually.
Category
Low Range
High Range
Annual Tuition
$10,000
$20,000
Monthly Tuition Equivalent
$835
$1,670
Registration Fee (one-time)
$500
$1,000
Uniforms & Materials
$200
$400
Extras & Trips
$300
$600
Total Est. Annual Cost
$11,000
$22,000

Top Boarding Schools Nairobi 2025

Discover top Boarding Schools in Nairobi. Use the filters to find the right fit and contact schools directly from their profiles.

{content}
brookhouse school featured photo

Brookhouse School

  • Kenya - Nairobi
  • Co-Education
  • 2 to 18 years old
no reviews
  • School type:Day & Boarding School
  • Yearly fee: 2,580 - 32,000 usd
  • Curriculum:British Curriculum
  • Foundation:1981
  • Community: 1000 students
  • Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
  • Language:English
Premium Private International Schools in Nairobi, Kenya.
No 1 British National Curriculum School in East Africa offering a broad, creative, and unique future-focused curriculum.
  • Round Square membership fosters growth.
  • State-of-the-art Broadcasting Studio.
  • Embraces Kenyan and British curriculums.

Annual tuition fees at Brookhouse School range from 2,580 usd to 32,000 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.

aga khan academy mombasa featured image

The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa School

  • Kenya - Mombasa
  • Co-Education
  • 6 to 19 years old
3 reviews
  • School type:Day & Boarding School
  • Yearly fee: 500,000 - 3,058,000 kes
  • Curriculum:IB Curriculum
  • Foundation:2003
  • Community: 600 students • 14 nationalities
  • Examinations:IB Diploma
  • Language:English
The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa is part of a global network of day/residential schools for high-achieving students in Grades 1-12. The outlook and educational perspectives of the Aga Khan Academies network are based on the vision of His Highness the Aga Khan. The aim of the Academies is to develop future leaders with the skills and knowledge to support positive development in their societies.At the Aga Khan Academy Mombasa, we...
The three IB programmes offered at the Academy help develop the intellectual, personal, emotional and social skills to live, learn and work in a rapidly globalising world.The three programmes are: Primary Years Programme (PYP) Middle Years Programme (PYP) Diploma Programme
  • Holistic education embracing diversity
  • Globally recognized IB curriculum
  • Emphasis on leadership and ethics

Annual tuition fees at The Aga Khan Academy Mombasa School range from 500,000 kes to 3,058,000 kes, depending on the student's grade level and program.

Tuition Fee. Academic Year 2023-2024 fees are payable in two equal instalments (for each Semester), no later than 15 July 2023 and 15 December 2023.Tuition Fee. Academic Year 2023-2024 fees are payable in two equal instalments (for each Semester), no later than 15 July 2023 and 15 December 2023.
WSCover Kearsny College

Kearsney College

  • KwaZulu-Natal - Durban
  • Boys only
  • 14 to 19 years old
no reviews
  • School type:Day & Boarding School
  • Yearly fee: 13,412 - 21,348 usd
  • Curriculum:Other
  • Foundation:1921
  • Community: 650 students • 7 nationalities
  • Examinations:AS
  • Language:English
Founded in 1921, Kearsney College is one of the country's top independent traditional boys' schools, renowned for its balance and all-round excellence. Kearsney's beautiful 125-acre estate is located in Botha's Hill, on the edge of the Valley of a Thousand Hills, midway between Durban and Pietermaritzburg and a thirty-minute drive from either city.
The College has an outstanding record of academic achievement in the IEB Matriculation Examinations and enjoys a proud reputation for academic excellence. Kearsney has a renowned Maths and Science Excellence Programme and for eleven consecutive years Kearsney's Maths and Science distinction rates have been approximately double the average distinction rates of all the IEB schools in the country.
  • Boarding tradition for growth
  • Innovative 'Centenary Centre'
  • Record-holding rugby & choir programs

Annual tuition fees at Kearsney College range from 13,412 usd to 21,348 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.

A discount is offered on annual fees settled upfront. Monthly payments are to be made via a compulsory eleven-month debit order.A sibling discount is applied to tuition and boarding fees,...A discount is offered on annual fees settled upfront. Monthly payments are to be made via a compulsory eleven-month debit order.A sibling discount is applied to tuition and boarding fees,...
brookhouse school featured photo

Brookhouse School

  • Kenya - Nairobi
  • Co-Education
  • 2 to 18 years old
no reviews
  • School type:Day & Boarding School
  • Yearly fee: 2,580 - 32,000 usd
  • Curriculum:British Curriculum
  • Foundation:1981
  • Community: 1000 students
  • Examinations:A Level, IGCSE
  • Language:English
Premium Private International Schools in Nairobi, Kenya.
No 1 British National Curriculum School in East Africa offering a broad, creative, and unique future-focused curriculum.
  • Round Square membership fosters growth.
  • State-of-the-art Broadcasting Studio.
  • Embraces Kenyan and British curriculums.

Annual tuition fees at Brookhouse School range from 2,580 usd to 32,000 usd, depending on the student's grade level and program.

Explore more
Powered by smart insights
Find and compare your best-fit schools tailored to your needs.

Insights & Updates from Boarding Schools

Expert Insights from Boarding Schools in Nairobi

Parent and Student Reviews

  • This is the best school decision we’ve ever made. The teachers inspire and encourage, and the leadership sets the highest standars. iBOS is truly outstanding in every way.
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    It’s an awesome place. I can really see how much my son has grown in his learning.
    Show more
  • Karl and I just wish we have discovered your school much earlier. We would like to reiterate from parents who have sent our daughter to a private school all her life, Elea High has given her the most valuable and enriched environment to study. The first thing Grace has mentioned to us is how all the teachers spoke to her like an adult with respect instead of treating her like a little child. This made her feel she is worthy and made her feel comfortable in engaging. This is something she said she never experienced in her old school! Private schools may have all the fancy facilities and traditional values but what your school offered is what’s important in school life – respect and the right environment!
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    The TNIS community is warm and welcoming. She loves the school and is truly happy here. The teachers are very kind, and her classmates adore her! Yoyo’s language skills have improved rapidly, and I’m so glad we chose TNIS.
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    TNIS is more than a school—it’s an inclusive and nurturing international community. Our child has flourished here with newfound confidence, lifelong friendships, and continuous growth. As parents, we’ve always felt supported by the school’s professionalism. We wholeheartedly recommend TNIS to families worldwide!
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    They have literacy support where you get to read books and answer questions which help your English.
    Show more
  • I spent two months at the school and I had a very positive experience. I was warmly welcomed by both the teachers and the students and immediately felt at home. All my requests regarding the timetable were taken into account, and the individual students are also very well supported in other areas. I had a wonderful time at the school and am grateful that I was accepted at such short notice.
    Show more
  • NSA was a life changing experience for our family. Our son is living a sober, happy, healthy life, thanks in part to the skills he learned and nurturing he received at NSA, as well as the hard work he has done on his own since returning from NSA. We are forever grateful that the fates directed us to NSA for support during a difficult period. Highly recommend!
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    NSA is an amazing school and saved my sons life. It is a place where you can send your son and know he will be well taken care of and loved. From the minute we visited the school to when my son graduated, we were always met with big smiles and hugs. The staff is top notch and have the patience of saints. The location is beautiful and easy to get to from San Jose. I would highly recommend NSA.
    Show more
  • I really can’t say enough great things about New Summit Academy. My son was there 5 years ago and I think the school helped contribute to the happy person he is today. The staff are all so wonderful, the setting is beautiful, and the kids really have fun and at the same time learn a lot about themselves. And, they go to high school too! I have no hesitation in recommending NSA.
    Show more
  • September, 2025
    Our son’s experience at NSA was transformative in so many ways.  The unique setting and culture, healthy lifestyle and routines, *great* therapists, focused academics, and candid peer feedback really helped him to mature and reset as he goes off to high school. The experience also improved our family relations and communication.

    We’re grateful!
    Show more
  • I think it’s the best English School in Madrid. I love it, and I know my daughter is well while she’s there.
    Show more

Summary

Choosing a boarding school in Nairobi provides a holistic educational experience that combines academic rigor with personal growth in a culturally diverse and secure environment. These schools not only prepare students for global challenges through a disciplined and supportive setting but also equip them with life skills and a broadened worldview, making them ideal for nurturing future leaders.