University of Toronto for Kenyan Students
Entry Requirements by Level
Academic Requirements
Direct entry available. Some programmes (Architecture, Music) have February deadlines. Highly competitive — strong KCSE grades expected for Engineering and Life Sciences.
English Language
IELTS: 6.5+ overall, 6+ per component. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: CA$45,690–CA$63,000. Application deadline: January 13 (OUAC deadline).
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3.3/4 (2:1 UK equivalent). Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required. PhD programmes typically fully funded with stipend. Masters funding varies widely by department.
English Language
IELTS: 7+ overall, 6.5+ per component. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: CA$15,000–CA$55,000. Application deadline: Varies by department — typically November–January for September entry. Decision time: 8–16 weeks.
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3.5/4 (First Class). Master's degree required (or Bachelor's with First Class Honours for some programmes). Fully funded positions available. Most PhD positions come with full funding (tuition waiver + stipend ~CAD $20,000–30,000/year).
Specific Requirements
Research proposal required. Identify and contact a potential supervisor before applying. References from two academic supervisors.
Deadline
October–December for September entry
Documents Required
Available Scholarships
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
by University of Toronto · Undergraduate
Learn more →University of Toronto International Scholar Award (UTISA)
by University of Toronto · Undergraduate
Learn more →Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
by Government of Canada · Phd
Learn more →Frequently Asked Questions
Does University of Toronto accept KCSE?
Yes — Kenyan KCSE is directly accepted for undergraduate admission. A mean grade of C+ or above is the minimum; competitive programmes like Engineering and Computer Science expect stronger grades (A- or better). No Foundation Year required.
What is the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship and can Kenyan students apply?
Yes — Kenyan students are eligible. The Pearson Scholarship is one of the most prestigious full-ride scholarships for international undergraduate students — covers full tuition plus living expenses for 4 years. You must be nominated by your secondary school principal, so speak to your school early.
How much does it cost to study at U of T?
Undergraduate tuition ranges from CAD $45,690 to $63,000 per year depending on programme. Engineering and Computer Science are on the higher end. Living costs in Toronto add approximately CAD $15,000–18,000/year.
Can I work in Canada after graduating from U of T?
Yes — with a 4-year degree from U of T, you qualify for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which also provides a pathway to Canadian permanent residency.
Tips for Applying to U of T
University of Toronto is Canada's and one of the world's top universities (#25 QS). The key advantage for Kenyan students: KCSE is directly accepted — no Foundation Year required. The Lester B. Pearson Scholarship is one of the most generous full-ride awards anywhere in the world, and Kenyan students are fully eligible. Tuition is high (CAD $45k–63k/year) but the 3-year post-study work permit and Canadian PR pathway make the investment worthwhile for many.
Official source: University of Toronto ↗Plan Your Canada Student Visa
Check visa requirements, documents and costs for Kenyan passport holders applying to Canada.
Cost of Living in Toronto
On-campus residence preferred for Year 1. Off-campus in Scarborough or Etobicoke for lower costs.
TTC monthly student pass available.