High School in Kenya

Study Abroad in Kenya

Kenya is a multicultural country with more than 50 ethnic groups that live together in harmony and peace. As a major destination for conservationists, zoologists, and photographers, you’ll find a wide range of opportunities to connect with and learn more about the many animals, plants, and landscapes this region has to offer. Kenya is also known as a leader in agriculture and tourism, and you may have the opportunity to spend time in bustling cities like Nairobi and Mombasa.

Aside from learning the national language of Swahili, you’ll likely have the opportunity to learn other indigenous African languages spoken within your host community.

During your time in Kenya, you’ll attend high school and live with a host family, immersing yourself in their community. Depending on where you’re placed and the background of your host family, you’re sure to get a one-of-a-kind experience learning about the many indigenous tribes and cultures of Kenya.

Things to know about Kenya

Kenya is a country bordering the Indian Ocean known for its wide variety of indigenous cultures, warm and friendly people, and stunning wildlife reserves. Boasting savannahs, lake lands, and mountain highlands, Kenya’s multitude of plant and animal life makes it an enticing place for nature lovers and environmentalists alike. While in Kenya, you’re likely to encounter some of the “Big Five” animals (lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo) roaming the numerous national parks and reserves.

The country has a long history of colonial rule, gaining independence from Britain in 1963. Today, Kenya’s economy and tourism is growing, especially in its rising technology hub and capital city of Nairobi. The people of Kenya are welcoming, humble, and sociable – many people you meet will be excited to learn more about you and share their interests! Kenyans often exhibit great resilience, creativity, and innovation, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself enjoying traditional music, learning a new dance, or exploring some other artistic skill, especially alongside your host family and classmates.

Eligibility

Graduates Eligible?	No, high school graduates are not eligible to participate.
Minimum GPA	2.5
Age Range (at program start)	15 years and 0 months to 17 years and 0 months
Language Skills	No language requirement

Based on differences in culture, strict government regulation of medications, and other local customs, it has been our experience that not all of our international AFS partners are able to support students with certain diagnoses, including but not limited to, severe allergies, strict dietary restrictions, ADD/ADHD, and those currently taking or who have taken psychotropic medications and/or received counseling for mental/psychological issues within the past year. If this applies to you, please get in touch with an AFS Study Abroad Specialist early so that we can determine the right experience for you.

Your Journey to Kenya

AFS-USA will coordinate and share your international travel with you. You will need to coordinate your own travel to the point of international departure. From there, your journey in Kenya will begin when you land in Nairobi, where you’ll be met by staff and volunteers. You’ll then attend orientation with other AFS students before traveling to your new community. Your host family may live in a city like Nairobi or Kisumu, or more coastal areas like Mombasa and Malindi. Placements can be in an urban area or in nearby communities, some of which could be rural.

Your Accommodations

Meeting your Kenyan Host Family

During your time in Kenya, you will live with a host family and join their everyday routines. Because Kenya is so multicultural, there are many possibilities when it comes to your host family’s background, and you may have the opportunity to explore their indigenous culture, language, and religion. This is your chance to experience what daily life is like in their community and maybe even learn how to make some traditional foods! Your host family will be a great resource for learning about different aspects of Kenyan culture. Most Kenyan families are religious, often being Christian, Muslim, or following another traditional religion, so you’re likely to encounter traditions that are unique to your host family’s beliefs.

Your High School in Kenya

School plays an important role in Kenyan society, with many parents putting an emphasis on academics for their children. Both public and private high school students in Kenya generally have school from January to November, so you’ll likely be starting school during the third trimester of the year (August to November.) International schools may follow a different calendar, so where you’re placed could affect your school structure and schedule. Most public schools’ instruction will be in English, but you’ll have plenty of opportunities to practice your Swahili with friends and family! School is also where you’ll have the opportunity to connect with your peers, who will likely come from many backgrounds and have their own traditions and interests to share.

Food You’ll Encounter

While living with your host family, the foods you encounter may be dependent on their own culture and traditions. The most common foods in Kenya are Ugali (cornmeal porridge) often served with vegetables or meat and Nyama Choma, which is grilled or roasted beef or goat. Meals may include foods influenced by Indian cuisine, such as a flatbread called Chapati and Samosas. You’ll also likely try foods such as Pilau (rice with various spices and vegetables) and Matoke (stewed plantains.) Fresh fruit like mangoes, oranges, and bananas are often the main choice for dessert!

What’s included

75+ years of experience delivering high-quality programs through a worldwide network of 30,000 dedicated volunteers
Accommodations with a vetted host family
Round-trip international airfare for the designated program dates
School enrollment fees
Worldwide, 24-hour emergency assistance
Access to an in-country support team and network, as well as our Participant Support Department based here in the U.S.
Orientations and intercultural education before and during your program
International secondary medical travel coverage
Visa support and guidance
Inclusion in a worldwide returnee and alumni network of over 1,000,000 people

What’s not included

Domestic travel to your international departure city
Visa and passport fees
Spending money
Fees imposed by the airlines outside of your international ticket, such as luggage fees.
COVID-19 testing
Additional fees may apply depending on the specific host country. Please email [email protected] for additional details.

We invite you to learn more about where your dollars go, our payment and refund policy, and answers to our Frequently Asked Questions.

Scholarships and Aid

We believe that studying abroad should not be contingent on personal finances. When you apply, we work with you to understand your family’s needs and match you with available scholarships and aid. 100% of accepted applicants with demonstrated need receive funds.

Learn More

Visa Info

Do I need a visa/residence permit for Kenya?	YES. Visa.
How do I apply for the visa? (By mail, In-person, In host country)	Online, e-visa.
Visa/Residence Permit Process Difficulty Level (Easy, Average, Complex)	Easy
Estimated Visa/Residence Permit Expenses ($ – $$$)	$$
Frequently Asked Visa Questions	Visit our general visa FAQ page for more information.

Returning Home

“Life-changing” is hard to describe, yet it’s nearly always the first thing that AFSers say when asked about their experience abroad. “Transformed” is another one. When you return home from your study abroad in Kenya, you’ll bring with you a sense of accomplishment unlike any other. You’ll have gained maturity and independence, discovered new passions, and developed the confidence and resilience to accomplish anything you set out to do.

That transformation isn’t only visible to you, though – others see it as well. AFSers gain critical skills for college and careers. Second language fluency, intercultural competence, creativity, and critical reasoning will help you succeed, whatever path you take. “Life-changing” means it’s only the beginning. It’s not just an adventure abroad; it’s a whole new reality. The perspectives and personal connections you gained will stay with you and likely draw you back to the second home you found in Kenya.

In fact, our alumni reviews have made AFS one of the top-rated organizations in the study abroad industry.