In today’s globalized world, proficiency in English is essential for academic, professional, and migration purposes. To assess and certify English language skills, two major exams are widely recognized internationally: the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). For individuals in Kenya, these tests serve as a crucial step toward securing admissions in foreign universities, obtaining work permits, or fulfilling immigration requirements.
TOEFL Test Centres in Kenya
The TOEFL is accepted by over 11,000 universities, agencies, and institutions in more than 150 countries. Administered by the Educational Testing Service (ETS), the TOEFL evaluates a candidate’s ability to use and understand English at the university level. The test measures proficiency in reading, listening, speaking, and writing.
Here is a list of TOEFL test centres in Kenya where individuals can register and take the test.
1. Learning & Testing Services of East Africa (LTS)
- Location: Taj Towers, 8th Floor, Upperhill, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0712 135 826 / 020 233 0843.
- Overview: As ETS’s preferred global partner in Kenya, LTS is fully authorized to register, prepare, and administer the TOEFL test. It is regarded as the best TOEFL iBT testing centre in the country.
2. Computer Pride – ITKN 33A
- Location: 1st Floor, ICEA Building, Nairobi.
- Contact: 020 222 1973.
- Overview: A well-established testing centre that provides TOEFL exam services for students and professionals alike.
3. Graffins College – STN 154 63A
- Location: Westlands, next to Pride Inn Hotel, Nairobi.
- Contact: 0712 222 877.
- Overview: Situated in the bustling Westlands area, Graffins College offers a convenient location for test-takers looking for TOEFL services.
4. ITTS Eldoret (c/o UNISERV) – STN 201 35A
- Location: 1st Floor, Rupas Mall, Malaba Road, Eldoret.
- Contact: 0734 004 003.
- Overview: This centre caters to students and professionals based in the Rift Valley region, providing accessible TOEFL testing outside Nairobi.
IELTS Test Centres in Kenya
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s largest English language proficiency test, used for work, study, or migration purposes. It is administered by three key organizations: the British Council, IDP (International Development Program), and Cambridge English Language Assessment. IELTS evaluates four key English skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
IELTS is the preferred test for countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. In Kenya, the British Council facilitates the administration of the IELTS test at various centres.
Here is a list of IELTS test centres in Kenya:
1. Learning & Testing Services of East Africa (LTS)
- Location: Taj Towers, 8th Floor, Upperhill, Nairobi.
- Contact: 020 283 6000.
- Overview: LTS also serves as an authorized centre for the IELTS test, offering a full range of testing services in Nairobi.
2. British Council Nairobi
- Location: Upperhill Road, Upperhill, Nairobi.
- Contact: 020 283 6000.
- Overview: As the official provider of the IELTS test in Kenya, the British Council offers professional services with highly trained staff.
3. KCA University
- Location: Ruaraka, along Thika Road, Nairobi.
- Contact: 020 283 6000.
- Overview: KCA University’s test centre provides a convenient location for test-takers living near Thika Road.
4. Oshwal College
- Location: 2nd Parklands Avenue, Nairobi.
- Contact: 020 283 6000.
- Overview: Oshwal College, located in Parklands, offers IELTS testing services to students and professionals in this region of Nairobi.
5. Eka Hotel Eldoret
- Location: Eldoret.
- Email: information@britishcouncil.org.ke.
- Overview: Located in the heart of Eldoret, Eka Hotel provides a well-equipped test centre for IELTS candidates in the Rift Valley.
6. Jaffery Institute of Professional Studies
- Location: Next to Aga Khan Primary School, Mombasa.
- Contact: 020 283 6000.
- Overview: This Mombasa-based centre caters to students and professionals from the coastal region, offering a convenient venue for IELTS testing.
Registration and Fees
The fees for taking either the IELTS or TOEFL tests in Kenya are subject to the global pricing structures set by ETS and the British Council. Registration can be done online through the respective official websites of TOEFL and IELTS, and test-takers are advised to register early to secure a seat in their preferred test centre.
IELTS Fee: Approximately Kshs 29,000
TOEFL Fee: Approximately Kshs 23,000
Why Take IELTS or TOEFL?
Both IELTS and TOEFL are widely recognized as essential exams for anyone looking to study or work abroad in English-speaking countries. While TOEFL is often preferred by U.S.-based universities and colleges, IELTS is widely accepted in Commonwealth countries such as the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Depending on your destination, you may need to take one test over the other.
For students aspiring to attend international universities, obtaining a high score on either exam can significantly boost their chances of admission and even open doors to scholarship opportunities. Additionally, these tests are often required for professionals seeking to work in English-speaking environments or those applying for immigration to countries where English is the official language.
Kenyan students and professionals have several options when it comes to choosing a test centre for either the IELTS or TOEFL exams. With centres located in major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Eldoret, individuals can select the venue that is most convenient for them. Proper preparation and early registration are key to ensuring success in these high-stakes exams, which can unlock opportunities for higher education, career advancement, and global mobility.
Make sure to confirm the latest test dates and registration deadlines to plan your exam in advance. With the right preparation and determination, these tests could be your gateway to a world of opportunities.
