Boston University for Kenyan Students
Entry Requirements by Level
Academic Requirements
Direct entry available. Apply via Common Application. Questrom (Business), Engineering, and Public Health are top programmes. KCSE accepted as secondary qualification. Merit scholarships available for strong applicants.
English Language
IELTS: 7+ overall. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: $55,825. Application deadline: November 1–15 (Early Action/Decision); January 1–15 (Regular Decision).
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3/4. Bachelor's degree in a relevant field required. Strong graduate programmes across Engineering, CS, Business, Public Health, and Law. STEM OPT eligible for most technical degrees. Rolling admissions for many programmes.
English Language
IELTS: 7+ overall. TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic also accepted — contact admissions for equivalencies.
Fees & Deadline
Annual tuition: $55,825. Application deadline: December 1 – February 1 (varies by programme). Decision time: 8–16 weeks.
Academic Requirements
Minimum GPA: 3/4. Master's degree required (or Bachelor's with First Class Honours for some programmes). Fully funded positions available. PhD programmes typically fully funded via teaching/research assistantships. Stipends $20,000–$34,000/year depending on department.
Specific Requirements
Research proposal required. Identify and contact a potential supervisor before applying. References from two academic supervisors.
Deadline
December 1 – January 15
Documents Required
Available Scholarships
BU Presidential Scholarship
by Boston University · Undergraduate
Learn more →Fulbright Foreign Student Program
by US Government (Department of State) · Masters, Phd
Learn more →Graduate Assistantship (Teaching/Research)
by University Department · Masters, Phd
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Boston University accept KCSE for undergraduate admission?
Yes — KCSE is accepted as the secondary school qualification for undergraduate admission to Boston University. WES credential evaluation is recommended. No foundation year is required for direct entry.
What GPA is required for a Masters degree at Boston University?
The minimum GPA for Masters admission at Boston University is 3.0/4.0. Competitive programmes may require 3.5+. Your undergraduate transcript from a recognised Kenyan university is the primary academic credential.
What scholarships are available for Kenyan students at Boston University?
The main scholarships for Kenyan students at Boston University are: the BU Presidential Scholarship (merit-based, high-achieving undergraduates), the Fulbright Foreign Student Program (US government, full funding for Masters/PhD — apply through the US Embassy in Kenya), and departmental Graduate Assistantships (tuition waiver + $15,000–$34,000/year stipend).
Tips for Applying to BU
Boston University is a well-respected top-100 global university offering strong programmes in STEM, Public Health, and Business. Kenyan students benefit from Boston's thriving job market and 36-month STEM OPT eligibility for technical graduates. The university's international student community is large and diverse, with active support services for African students.
Official source: Boston University ↗Plan Your United States Student Visa
Check visa requirements, documents and costs for Kenyan passport holders applying to United States.
Cost of Living in Boston, MA
Boston is one of the most expensive US cities. On-campus housing recommended for first year.
Cook at home for savings. Campus meal plans available.
MBTA monthly pass covers subway and bus. Many students walk or cycle.