United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa) is offering a variety of institutional scholarships for undergraduate students in Kenya who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. These competitive awards are designed to support talented, underprivileged, and diverse applicants—including students with disabilities, athletes, and civil servants—providing access to transformative higher education in a globally respected university environment.
Key Scholarship Information
- Scholarship: USIU-Africa Institutional Scholarships
- Award Amount: Partial to full tuition, including accommodation and study materials in some categories
- Number of Awards: Varies per scholarship type
- Academic Level: Undergraduate (First-time and continuing students)
- Field of Study: All USIU-Africa undergraduate degree programs (exceptions apply)
- Deadline: Call released in April, Interviews in July, Awarded in September
- Eligibility: KCSE graduates (not more than 1 year post-exam), financially needy, and academically talented
About United States International University-Africa (USIU-Africa)
USIU-Africa is a leading institution of higher learning located in Nairobi, Kenya. Known for its American-style curriculum, diverse academic programs, and multicultural student body, USIU-Africa fosters academic excellence, leadership, and innovation. The university is deeply committed to inclusive education and provides financial aid to one in five students enrolled.
In line with its mission to empower the next generation of African leaders, USIU-Africa offers institutional scholarships to ensure deserving students from underrepresented and vulnerable communities can pursue their academic dreams. These scholarships not only remove financial barriers but also promote diversity, gender equity, and academic growth across a wide range of disciplines.
Scholarship Description
The USIU-Africa Institutional Scholarships are offered annually and cater to different groups of students, including high-achieving KCSE graduates, individuals from marginalized communities, persons with physical challenges, civil servants, and athletes. These scholarships are structured as follows:
1. Full USIU-Africa Scholarship
- Covers 100% of tuition, books, computer lab fees, and accommodation in university hostels
- Two awards available (one for a male and one for a female student)
Eligibility:
- KCSE B+ and above
- At least a B in English and Mathematics
- Sat KCSE within the past year
- Must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher
2. Partial USIU-Africa Scholarship
- Covers 100% of tuition fees only
- Two awards (one male, one female)
Eligibility:
- KCSE B (plain) and above
- Minimum of B- in English and Mathematics
- KCSE within the last year
- GPA of 3.0 and above must be maintained
3. Diversity Scholarships
Scholarships for Under-represented Communities
- Two full tuition scholarships for students from Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL)
- One full tuition scholarship for students from informal settlements near USIU-Africa
Eligibility:
- KCSE B- or higher
- Residency in ASAL regions or informal settlements
- Maintain GPA of 2.5 or higher
Scholarship for Physically Challenged Students
- Two full tuition scholarships available
- Specifically for students who use orthopedic appliances for mobility
Eligibility:
- KCSE C+ or better
- Maintain a GPA of 2.0 or higher
4. Sports Scholarships
General Sports Scholarships
- Tuition discounts of 40% or 65% based on performance and financial need
- Available to students active in university sports teams
Eligibility:
- Demonstrated financial need
- Active participation in team sports and university engagements
- Recommendation from team patron and Sports Coordinator
- Maintain a GPA of 2.0 and register for 9–12 units per semester
- Scholarship remains valid even after injury if academic requirements are met
Freshman Sports Scholarships
- 40% tuition-only scholarship for new students with proven sporting talent
- Preference given to students with national-level certifications
Continuing Students Sports Scholarships
- 25% tuition-only scholarship for existing students not already on the freshman sports award
5. Criminal Justice Scholarship
USIU-Africa also supports Kenyan civil servants seeking to pursue a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice Studies through partial academic scholarships.
- Five scholarships available
- Each covers 50% of tuition costs
Eligibility:
- KCSE C+ and above
- Essay explaining interest and eligibility for the scholarship
- Recommendation letter from immediate supervisor or department head
Selection Criteria
Selection for USIU-Africa’s Institutional Scholarships is based on a combination of the following factors:
- Academic merit
- Financial need
- Leadership qualities
- Community service and extracurricular involvement
All scholarship applications are reviewed during the summer semester (July), and final awards are announced ahead of the fall semester intake in September.
Application Requirements
Each scholarship application must include the following:
- An application letter addressed to the Financial Aid Office
- KCSE or equivalent certificates (certified by a school principal or headteacher)
- School leaving certificate
- Recommendation letter from your high school principal or headteacher
- Personal essay detailing your background, goals, and why you deserve the scholarship
How to Apply
Calls for institutional scholarship applications are officially announced every April via the USIU-Africa website and in major Kenyan newspapers: The Daily Nation and The Standard. The selection process—including reviews, interviews, and awards—takes place from July through September each year.
Application Submission
Send completed scholarship applications and supporting documents to:
- Email: [email protected]
- Phone: +254 730 116 745 / 776
Important Dates
- Shortlisting & Interviews: July 2025
- Scholarship Awards: September 2025 (Fall Semester)
If you do not receive communication by July 31, 2025, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Final Thoughts
USIU-Africa’s Institutional Scholarships 2025 are a remarkable opportunity for driven and deserving students to access quality higher education and unlock their leadership potential. Whether you are a young athlete, a student from an underserved region, or a government worker seeking advancement, there’s a tailored scholarship to support your educational journey.
