International School of Kenya
Key Stats
Annual Fees: US$19K - US$37K
Curriculum: American · IB
Age Range: 4-18
Students: ~1,100
Location: Gigiri, Nairobi
Updated April 2026
In Brief
ISK is the default choice for diplomats and UN families in Nairobi - the campus, accreditations, and community are genuinely premium. If you're self-funding, weigh the fees carefully against Brookhouse, which offers comparable results at lower cost.
ISK occupies the top of Nairobi's fee bracket for good reason. The 40-acre Gigiri campus, dual CIS and MSA accreditation, and 75+ nationality student body make it the go-to for diplomatic and NGO families who need a school that transfers seamlessly to the next posting. About 70% of IB-track seniors also earn the IB Diploma alongside the North American credential.
Daily life on campus is genuinely impressive - robotics, debate, MUN, athletics, service learning and intercultural trips to Kenyan destinations. The ELL and Life-Centred Education programmes give real breadth of support. Families mention that the school's size and co-curricular range feel more like a US independent school than a typical expat institution.
The catch is cost. First-year fees - tuition plus the one-time US$11,000 capital levy and US$400 application fee - push initial outlay beyond US$48K for a secondary student. A leadership transition is also underway: Interim Director Julie Lemley holds the seat until incoming Head Dr. Tamu Lucero arrives in July 2026, so ask about strategic continuity at your visit.
What parents value
- –Non-profit structure means all revenue is reinvested into facilities and staff. CIS and MSA dual accreditation. IB Diploma rate of around 70% for eligible seniors.
- –Exceptional campus - 40 acres, Gigiri, purpose-built sports fields, innovation labs, performing arts spaces. Round Square and ISSEA sports league membership.
- –Strong learning support: ELL from Pre-K to Grade 10, Life-Centred Education for students with IEPs, family languages programme.
Points of consideration
- –One of East Africa's most expensive international schools. First-year costs for a senior student can exceed US$48,000 including the capital levy. Bus fees add US$2,200.
- –Leadership transition in progress - Interim Director in post until July 2026. Worth asking about priorities and any changes planned under the incoming Head.
- –Wait lists are common, particularly for sought-after grades. Check space availability early if relocating.
Annual Fees
| Year Group | Age | USDTotal Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Kindergarten | 4 | NaN |
| Kindergarten | 5 | NaN |
| Grades 1-5 | 6 | NaN |
| Grades 6-8 | 11 | NaN |
| Grades 9-10 | 14 | NaN |
| Grades 11-12 | 16 | NaN |
| Annual Capital Levy (all continuing students) | - | NaN |
Fees converted from KES. For the most up to date and accurate figures please double check with the school.
Additional Fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | NaN |
| One-Time Capital Levy | NaN |
Photos
Academic Results
Academic results have not been made publicly available by this school.
Extra Curriculars
Contact the school for details on co-curricular activities, sports, and facilities. Ask what a normal week looks like outside lessons for your child's age group.
Inspections & Accreditations
Inspection
No published inspection details are currently available.
Accreditations
Accreditation details are not publicly listed.
Memberships
Membership details are not publicly listed.
Student Body
Nairobi's international schools attract a highly diverse student body from diplomatic, NGO, and professional families. Contact the school for current enrolment and nationality breakdown details.
Leadership
Julie Lemley (Interim)
Interim Director since July 2023; incoming Head of School Dr. Tamu Lucero joins in July 2026. Julie brings 20+ years of international educational leadership across the US, Peru, Japan, and China.