Nairobi International School (NIS) stands as a beacon of academic excellence in Kenya, offering a world-class education rooted in the British National Curriculum. Located in the serene, leafy suburb of Lavington, Nairobi, NIS is renowned for nurturing creative, critical thinkers equipped for global success. With its motto, “Where Tomorrow Begins,” the school provides a stimulating, disciplined, and caring environment for students aged 2 to 19. This article offers a detailed exploration of the Nairobi International School fees structure for 2025, alongside insights into its curriculum, facilities, and additional costs, optimized for parents seeking top international schools in Kenya.
Overview of Nairobi International School
NIS is one of Kenya’s premier private institutions, celebrated for its holistic approach to education. The school is divided into three sections: Kindergarten (Playgroup to Year 1), Preparatory (Years 2–6), and Senior School (Years 7–13, including Middle School, Junior High, and Senior High). It follows the British National Curriculum, preparing students for IGCSE and A-Level examinations, which are recognized by universities worldwide.
The school’s facilities, including a well-equipped library, music room, gym, swimming pool, and modern laboratories, support both academic and extracurricular development. With a strong emphasis on character building, NIS fosters self-discipline, integrity, and compassion, making it a top choice for parents seeking quality education in Nairobi. This guide breaks down the 2025 fees structure, boarding options, transport costs, and additional expenses to help families plan effectively.
Nairobi International School Fees Structure 2025
The Nairobi International School fees structure for 2025 is designed to reflect the premium education and facilities offered. Fees vary by academic level and are charged per term, with additional one-off costs for new students. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the tuition fees, boarding costs, and transport charges, all quoted in Kenyan Shillings (KES).
Kindergarten Fees (Per Term)
The Kindergarten section caters to young learners aged 2 to 6, providing a solid foundation for future academic success.
| Class | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Playgroup | 184,000 | 184,000 | 184,000 |
| KG 1 | 202,000 | 202,000 | 202,000 |
| KG 2 | 208,000 | 208,000 | 208,000 |
| Year 1 | 220,000 | 220,000 | 220,000 |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000
- Caution Fee: Not applicable for Kindergarten
Preparatory Fees (Per Term)
The Preparatory section (Years 2–6) focuses on building fundamental academic skills and character development.
| Class | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 2 | 240,000 | 240,000 | 240,000 |
| Year 3 | 245,000 | 245,000 | 245,000 |
| Year 4 | 262,000 | 262,000 | 262,000 |
| Year 5 | 268,000 | 268,000 | 268,000 |
| Year 6 | 279,000 | 279,000 | 279,000 |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000
- Caution Fee (One-Off): KES 20,000 (refundable upon completion of studies, subject to clearance)
Middle School Fees (Per Term)
Middle School (Years 7–9) emphasizes a rigorous curriculum to prepare students for IGCSE examinations.
| Class | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 7 | 319,000 | 319,000 | 319,000 |
| Year 8 | 351,000 | 351,000 | 351,000 |
| Year 9 | 360,000 | 360,000 | 360,000 |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000
- Caution Fee (One-Off): KES 40,000 (refundable upon completion of studies, subject to clearance)
Junior High School Fees (Per Term)
Junior High (Years 10–11) prepares students for IGCSE examinations, with Year 11 fees covering only two terms due to the examination schedule.
| Class | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 10 | 372,000 | 372,000 | 372,000 |
| Year 11 | 563,000 | 563,000 | NIL |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000
- Caution Fee (One-Off): KES 40,000 (refundable upon completion of studies, subject to clearance)
Senior High School Fees (Per Term)
Senior High (Years 12–13) focuses on A-Level studies, with fees covering two terms per year to align with the academic calendar.
| Class | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 12 | 570,000 | 570,000 | NIL |
| Year 13 | 570,000 | 570,000 | NIL |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000
- Caution Fee (One-Off): KES 40,000 (refundable upon completion of studies, subject to clearance)
Boarding Fees (Per Term)
NIS offers both full-time and weekly boarding options for students, providing a supportive and secure environment.
| Boarding Type | Term 1 | Term 2 | Term 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Boarding | 250,000 | 250,000 | 250,000 |
| Weekly Boarding | 225,000 | 225,000 | 225,000 |
- Admission Fee (One-Off): KES 10,000
- Caution Fee (One-Off): KES 25,000 (refundable upon completion of studies, subject to clearance)
- Medical Insurance Cover (Yearly): KES 7,000 (mandatory for all boarding students)
Transport Fees (Per Term)
NIS provides transport services across six zones in Nairobi, with fees varying based on distance from the school. Options include one-way or two-way transport.
| Zone | Areas Covered | One-Way | Two-Way |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zone A | Muthangari, Gitanga Rd, Rhapta Rd, Methodist, Amboseli, Kianda, Valley Arcade, Riverside Drive, Njubi Rd, Convent Drive | 32,000 | 51,000 |
| Zone B | Kilimani, Kileleshwa, Jamhuri, Riara, Brookside, Ngong Rd, Loresho, Chaka Rd, Menelik, Lantana Rd | 34,000 | 54,000 |
| Zone C | Milimani, State House, Ngummo, Mbagathi, Parklands, Loresho, Highridge, Spring Valley, Dennis Pritt, Mountain View, City Park, Visa Oshwal Primary | 36,000 | 58,000 |
| Zone D | Madaraka, Upper Hill, Nairobi West, South B, South C, Forest Road, Ngara | 40,000 | 64,000 |
| Zone E | Muthaiga, Gigiri, Lower Kabete, Karen, Langata, Runda | 52,000 | 78,000 |
| Zone F | Ridgeways, Garden Estate, Fedha Estate, Embakasi, Buruburu | 56,000 | 84,000 |
Additional Costs and Payment Policies
In addition to tuition, boarding, and transport fees, parents should budget for the following:
- Uniform Costs: NIS mandates a navy blue skirt or trouser and a sky-blue shirt with the school logo. Uniform details and prices are available on the school’s website (nis.ac.ke).
- Examination Fees: Students in Years 11–13 taking IGCSE and A-Level exams incur additional costs, typically ranging from KES 30,000 to KES 100,000, depending on the number of subjects.
- Activity Fees: Charged separately for extracurricular activities, accompanied by an official letter from the headteacher.
- Payment Terms: Fees are due on or before the first day of each term. Late payments incur a surcharge, and payment plans may be negotiated with the school’s administration.
The caution fee is refundable upon completion of studies, provided all accounts are settled and no school property is damaged. Parents are encouraged to contact the school for updated policies, as fees are subject to change.
Curriculum and Educational Offerings
NIS follows the British National Curriculum, ensuring a globally recognized education. The curriculum is tailored to each academic section:
- Kindergarten (Playgroup to Year 1): Focuses on foundational skills in literacy, numeracy, and creativity, fostering a love for learning.
- Preparatory (Years 2–6): Emphasizes core academic skills, character development, and critical thinking, preparing students for secondary education.
- Senior School (Years 7–13): Offers Key Stage 3 (KS3), Key Stage 4 (KS4, IGCSE), and A-Levels, equipping students for university admission worldwide.
The school’s commitment to technology-based education, including digital whiteboards and access to online resources, ensures students are prepared for a digital world. NIS is also noted for being the first E-school in East Africa, reimagining education to foster creativity and innovation.
Facilities and Extracurricular Activities
NIS boasts world-class facilities that enhance both academic and personal development:
- Library: A well-stocked resource center with books and digital materials.
- Music Room: Equipped for music practice and performance.
- Gym and Sports Facilities: Includes a swimming pool and multifunctional courts for basketball, tennis, and more.
- Laboratories: Modern science labs for hands-on learning.
- Hostels: Comfortable boarding facilities for full-time and weekly boarders.
Extracurricular activities include sports, music, drama, and clubs, fostering teamwork and leadership. The school’s scholarship program, the NIS Decennial Scholarship, supports outstanding students who require financial assistance, covering tuition from Playgroup to Year 13.
Why Choose Nairobi International School?
NIS stands out among international schools in Nairobi for several reasons:
- Global Recognition: The British National Curriculum and strong university connections ensure graduates are competitive globally.
- Holistic Education: Emphasis on academic excellence, character development, and extracurricular engagement.
- World-Class Facilities: From labs to sports facilities, NIS provides an environment conducive to all-around growth.
- Scholarship Opportunities: Financial support for deserving students makes NIS accessible to a wider audience.
- Strategic Location: Situated in Lavington, the school is easily accessible from key Nairobi neighborhoods.
Comparing NIS with Other International Schools in Kenya
When choosing an international school in Kenya, parents often compare NIS with institutions like the International School of Kenya (ISK), Braeburn School, and Brookhouse School. Here’s a brief comparison:
- International School of Kenya (ISK): Offers the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with annual tuition ranging from KES 1,969,000 to KES 3,642,000. ISK is ideal for families seeking a North American curriculum but is significantly more expensive.
- Braeburn School: Follows the British Curriculum with fees starting at KES 618,900 for nursery. It offers family discounts but may have higher activity fees.
- Brookhouse School: A premium British Curriculum school with fees around KES 2.2 million annually for Year 6, known for its multicultural environment but higher costs.
NIS is competitive due to its relatively affordable fees (starting at KES 184,000 per term for Playgroup) and comprehensive offerings, making it a cost-effective choice for quality education in Kenya.
Tips for Parents Considering NIS
To make an informed decision about enrolling at NIS, consider the following:
- Budget for Additional Costs: Factor in uniforms, exam fees, and transport when planning.
- Explore Scholarships: Apply for the NIS Decennial Scholarship if financial assistance is needed.
- Visit the Campus: Schedule a tour to see facilities and meet staff.
- Understand the Curriculum: Ensure the British National Curriculum aligns with your child’s academic goals.
- Plan for Boarding: If considering boarding, confirm availability and discuss medical insurance requirements.
How to Enroll at Nairobi International School
To enroll, contact NIS through:
- Phone: Available on the school’s website (nis.ac.ke).
- Email: Inquire via the admissions office.
- Website: Visit nis.ac.ke for application forms and scholarship details.
- Physical Address: Kindergarten and Preparatory: No. 6, Kanjata Road, off James Gichuru Road; Senior School: No. 728, Maji Mazuri Road, off James Gichuru Road, Lavington, Nairobi.
Applicants must complete an assessment and entry exam for placement. The school welcomes students year-round, though the academic year begins in September.
The Nairobi International School fees structure for 2025 reflects its commitment to providing a world-class education at a competitive price. With tuition starting at KES 184,000 per term for Playgroup and comprehensive facilities, NIS is a top choice for parents seeking affordable international schools in Nairobi. Its British National Curriculum, supportive environment, and scholarship opportunities ensure students are well-prepared for global success. For more details or to start the enrollment process, visit nis.ac.ke or contact the admissions office. Invest in your child’s future with NIS, where tomorrow truly begins.
