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Study In Canada

Studying in Canada offers a unique and enriching experience, drawing students from all corners of the globe for several compelling reasons.
 

Canada's renowned education system is consistently ranked among the best in the world. Canadian universities and colleges are recognized for their academic excellence, innovative research, and cutting-edge facilities. Whether pursuing undergraduate, graduate, or professional studies, students benefit from high-quality education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
 

Canada's multicultural society is a major draw for international students. With its welcoming and inclusive environment, Canada celebrates diversity and embraces people from various cultural backgrounds. Students have the opportunity to interact with peers from around the world, exchange ideas, and gain a broader perspective that enriches their educational experience.
 

Beyond academia, Canada offers an exceptional quality of life that enhances the student experience. From safe and vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, Canada provides a conducive environment for learning, exploration, and personal growth. Students can enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, cultural events, and outdoor adventures, making their time in Canada both fulfilling and memorable.
 

In essence, studying in Canada is not just about acquiring knowledge; it's about immersing oneself in a dynamic and inclusive society, forging lifelong connections, and embracing new opportunities for personal and professional growth. With its renowned education system, multicultural society, and high quality of life, Canada truly stands out as a top destination for international students seeking an exceptional educational experience.

Canada Flag

Some of our partner schools and universities

WLUIC to Wilfred Laurier University Logo
Centennial College Logo
University of Fraser Valley logo
University of Lethbridge via ULCC logo
Western University logo
Thompson Rivers University logo
Windsor University logo
University of Regina logo
Trent University logo
University of Northern British Columbia logo
University Canada West logo
Select Aviation logo
St Lawrence College logo
Saskatchewan Polytechnic logo
SAIT logo
Brock University logo
Braemer College logo
RUIC to Ryerson University logo
Niagara College logo
Ontario Tech University logo
Mohawk College logo
Seneca College logo
Laurentian University logo
Lambton College logo
King’s College logo
ICM to University of Manitoba logo
Humber College logo
Fleming College logo
Alexander College logo
Algoma University logo
Algonquin College logo

Start your journey
to study in Canada

Start your Canadian study journey with confidence. MultiWorld helps Kenyan students compare institutions, prepare applications and plan the student visa process.

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2027 guide for Kenyan students

Studying in Canada: entry, visa, costs and work

Short answer

Yes. Kenyan students can study in Canada after KCSE, IGCSE, A Levels, the IB, a diploma or a degree. Colleges often accept a KCSE C+ mean for diplomas, while universities usually look for B+ and above. You need a letter of acceptance, a provincial attestation letter where required, proof of at least CAD 23,448 plus tuition, and a study permit.

Canada suits Kenyan students who want practical college diplomas or co-op degrees with the option to work after graduating. From 1 September 2026 you must show at least CAD 23,448 for living costs on top of tuition.

Last reviewed: October 2026 · Reviewed by the MultiWorld International Admissions Team against the official sources below. How we review our guides.

Living fundsCAD 23,448Single student outside Quebec, from 1 Sep 2026 (≈ KES 2.2M) plus tuition and travel
Study permit feeCAD 150Plus CAD 85 biometrics
Work in term24 hours / weekOff campus; unlimited in scheduled breaks
After graduatingUp to 3 yearsPost-Graduation Work Permit, depending on programme length and field
IntakesSeptember · January · MaySeptember has the most choice
EnglishIELTS 6.0–6.5Colleges often 6.0; universities 6.5

Tuition in Canada (per year)

LevelTuitionIn Kenyan shillings
UndergraduateCAD 20,000 – 45,000KSh 1.9M – 4.2M
PostgraduateCAD 17,000 – 35,000KSh 1.6M – 3.3M
College diplomaCAD 7,000 – 22,000KSh 0.7M – 2.1M

Indicative yearly tuition; exact fees for 1,100+ courses are in our course finder.

Entry routes by qualification

Your qualificationTypical route
KCSEColleges: typically a C+ mean with C+ in English for diplomas. Universities: usually B+ and above with strong subject grades.
IGCSE / A LevelsDirect entry to colleges and universities; A Levels can earn transfer credit at some universities.
IB DiplomaDirect entry; some universities give credit for higher-level subjects.
Diploma or degreePostgraduate certificates (1 year) and master's degrees.
EnglishIELTS Academic, PTE or TOEFL, usually 6.0 to 6.5 overall.

Student visa: step by step

  1. Get your letter of acceptance. From a designated learning institution, plus a provincial or territorial attestation letter where required.
  2. Prepare proof of funds. First-year tuition plus CAD 23,448 for living costs. Officers check where the money came from, so show a clear history.
  3. Apply online. Pay CAD 150 plus CAD 85 biometrics, upload documents, and give biometrics at the visa centre in Nairobi.
  4. Medical exam if requested. Use an approved panel physician.
  5. Decision and travel. Bring your port-of-entry letter; the study permit is issued when you land.

Visa decisions are made by the immigration authority. We help you prepare a complete, accurate application.

Working while you study and after graduating

Eligible students can work up to 24 hours a week off campus during term and unlimited hours in scheduled breaks. After graduating you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit of up to 3 years, depending on programme length and, for college programmes, field of study.

Scholarships and discounts

Entrance scholarships

Many universities give automatic awards for strong grades.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars

Full scholarships for African students at selected Canadian universities.

College bursaries

Smaller tuition awards at several partner colleges.

Study now, pay later: Passage loans

Loans of up to CAD 65,000 for tuition and living costs at Passage partner colleges such as George Brown, Niagara and Bow Valley, with no Canadian co-signer. Fixed 11.95% APR, repaid over 4 to 7 years; a cash deposit is paid up front. MultiWorld helps you check eligibility and apply.

Documents you will usually need

DocumentNotes
PassportValid for your whole stay if possible.
Academic documentsKCSE certificate or results slip, or IGCSE, A Level, IB, diploma or degree certificates, with transcripts.
English testIELTS Academic, PTE or TOEFL, usually 6.0 to 6.5.
Letter of acceptanceFrom a designated learning institution (DLI).
Provincial attestation letterPAL or TAL, required for most college and undergraduate students.
Proof of fundsTuition plus at least CAD 23,448 for living costs, with a clear history of where the money came from.
Study planWhy this programme, this college and Canada, and your plans after.
Biometrics and medical examBiometrics in Nairobi; a medical exam if IRCC asks.

How early should you apply?

Apply 8 to 12 months before your intake. Popular college programmes for September fill early, and Ontario colleges give equal consideration to applications made by 1 February 2027. Apply for the study permit as soon as you have your acceptance and attestation letters, and check IRCC's current processing times for Kenya.

Frequently asked questions

How much money do I need for a Canadian study permit?

At least CAD 23,448 for living costs if you study outside Quebec, plus first-year tuition and travel, for applications from 1 September 2026.

Can I work while studying in Canada?

Yes. Eligible students can work up to 24 hours a week off campus during term and full time during scheduled breaks.

What KCSE grade do I need for a Canadian college?

Many colleges accept a C+ mean with C+ in English for diploma programmes. Universities usually ask for B+ and above.

Why are Canadian study permits refused?

Weak or unclear proof of funds is the most common reason. A well-documented funds history avoids most refusals.

Can I get a loan to study in Canada?

Yes. Through our partner Passage, eligible students can borrow up to CAD 65,000 for tuition and living costs at partner colleges such as George Brown, Niagara and Bow Valley, with no Canadian co-signer. The rate is a fixed 11.95% APR, repaid over 4 to 7 years, and a cash deposit is paid up front. Ask us to check your eligibility.

Is IELTS compulsory for Canada?

Most colleges and universities ask for IELTS Academic, PTE or TOEFL, usually 6.0 to 6.5 overall. A few accept proof that you studied in English, but a test score strengthens your study permit application, so we usually recommend one.

Can a Kenyan diploma holder study in Canada?

Yes. Diploma holders can apply for one-year postgraduate certificates at colleges or, in some cases, get transfer credit into a bachelor's degree. The college assesses your transcripts and course outlines.

What documents do I need for a Canadian study permit?

A passport, letter of acceptance, provincial attestation letter where required, proof of funds, a study plan, your academic documents and English test, then biometrics and a medical exam if requested.

How much does it cost to study in Canada in Kenyan shillings?

University tuition is about CAD 20,000 to 45,000 a year (roughly KSh 1.9M to 4.2M) and college diplomas CAD 7,000 to 22,000 (KSh 0.7M to 2.1M). Add at least CAD 23,448 a year for living costs, about KSh 2.2M.

Sources

Last reviewed October 2026 by the MultiWorld International Admissions Team. Read our editorial and review policy.

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