Kenya’s private higher education sector continues to grow, offering students a wide array of reputable options. The Commission for University Education (CUE) ensures that all accredited private universities meet stringent criteria for quality, governance, and curriculum. This comprehensive guide highlights all accredited institutions, helping students and parents make informed decisions when choosing a university.
With accreditation comes the assurance that an institution has undergone a rigorous inspection process. The CUE evaluates universities based on their quality of education, infrastructure, teaching staff, and student support systems. The aim is to guarantee that students receive world-class education that meets global standards.
Full Breakdown of Accredited Private Universities in Kenya
As of 2025, 30 private universities in Kenya have received accreditation from CUE. These institutions meet the minimum standards to offer degree programs, making them credible choices for students pursuing higher education.
CUE also accredits several constituent colleges that operate under private universities, as well as institutions that currently hold interim authority, meaning they are working towards full accreditation.
Accredited Private Universities In Kenya
The following universities are fully accredited by the Commission for University Education and recognized for offering quality education:
- 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
In addition to fully accredited private universities, CUE also accredits constituent colleges. These colleges act as extensions of their parent universities, offering degree programs under approved governance frameworks. The two accredited constituent colleges in Kenya are:
- Hekima University College – 1993
- Marist International University College – 2002
Both colleges have a strong focus on theology, philosophy, and education, contributing significantly to Kenya’s educational landscape.
Accredited Private Universities With Interim Authority
Five institutions currently operate under Letters of Interim Authority, which allow them to admit students while they work towards full accreditation. These universities are regularly inspected by CUE to ensure they are improving their facilities and meeting accreditation standards. These institutions include:
- GRETSA University – 2006
- Pioneer International University – 2012
- International Leadership University – 2014
- AMREF International University – 2017
Key Regulator of Accredited Universities
The Commission for University Education (CUE) is the main body responsible for regulating higher education quality in Kenya. It ensures that all accredited universities in Kenya provide education that meets global standards. Students can verify the accreditation status of any university by contacting CUE directly at their headquarters located on Red Hill Road in Gigiri, or by calling their office numbers: 0207205000 or +254780656575.
