Kenya’s private higher education sector continues to grow, and students now have more verified choices than ever before. Every university on this list has gone through a strict inspection process by the Commission for University Education.
CUE checks quality, facilities, governance, and curriculum before granting accreditation. Parents and students want assurance that the institution they choose is recognized and credible.
This guide highlights all accredited private universities in Kenya today, explains how accreditation works, and helps learners make informed decisions during course selection.
Full Breakdown of Accredited Private Universities in Kenya
The Commission for University Education has accredited 30 private universities in 2025. These institutions meet the minimum standards required to offer degree programmes in Kenya.
CUE also oversees two private constituent colleges and five institutions that currently hold Letters of Interim Authority. This means they are on their way to full accreditation but still under review.
Private universities play a big role in Kenya’s education system. They offer flexible programmes, smaller classes, and diverse learning environments.
Many institutions have invested in modern facilities, online learning platforms, and regional centers to reach more students. Below is a complete list of accredited private universities in the country in 2025.
- University of Eastern Africa Baraton – 1991
- Catholic University of Eastern Africa – 1992
- Daystar University – 1994
- Scott Christian University – 1997
- United States International University – 1999
- Africa Nazarene University – 2002
- Kenya Methodist University – 2006
- St. Paul’s University – 2007
- Pan Africa Christian University – 2008
- Strathmore University – 2008
- Kabarak University – 2008
- Mount Kenya University – 2011
- Africa International University – 2011
- Kenya Highlands Evangelical University – 2011
- Great Lakes University of Kisumu – 2012
- KCA University – 2013
- Adventist University of Africa – 2013
- KAG EAST University – 2016
- Umma University – 2019
- Presbyterian University of East Africa – 2020
- The Aga Khan University – 2021
- Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology – 2022
- The East African University – 2022
- Zetech University – 2022
- Lukenya University – 2022
- Management University of Africa – 2024
- Tangaza University – 2024
- Islamic University of Kenya – 2024
- Riara University – 2025
- Uzima University – 2025
Accredited Private Universities In Kenya Constituent Colleges
CUE also accredits constituent colleges linked to private universities. These colleges follow the same rules on quality and governance. They act as extensions of their parent universities and offer degree programmes under approved frameworks.
The two accredited constituent colleges include Hekima University College (1993) and Marist International University College (2002). Both institutions have long histories in theology, philosophy, and education training.
Accredited Private Universities With Interim Authority
Five institutions currently operate with Letters of Interim Authority. They are allowed to admit students while working toward full accreditation. CUE inspects them often to confirm quality improvements.
These institutions include GRETSA University (2006), Pioneer International University (2012), International Leadership University (2014), and AMREF International University (2017). They continue to expand facilities and academic programmes to meet full accreditation requirements.
Accredited Private Universities With Key Regulator
The Commission for University Education remains the main body that regulates higher education quality in Kenya. Its headquarters are located on Red Hill Road in Gigiri.
Students can contact the commission through 0207205000 or +254780656575 for verification of any institution. This step helps guard learners against fake campuses and unapproved programmes that often target unsuspecting applicants.
