Mount Kenya University 2026/2027 Fees Structure

Details of Mount Kenya University fees structure 2026 breakdown, bursaries, loans, tuition fees schedule, fees booklet pdf download, examination fees, residential fees, fees statement, quotation fees, finance booklet, student fees, payment procedures, funding, banking details, and other fees charged for the 2026 academic year.

Understanding How University Fees Are Structured

Before we explore specific amounts, it’s important to understand how fees at Mount Kenya University are arranged. Tuition fees at MKU are generally determined based on:

Tuition for the academic program you enroll in, the number of credit units required for your course, Additional academic support services, Examination and IT fees, Practical and laboratory fees (if applicable), Student union and administrative charges.

When planning your total cost, remember that tuition is just one part of what you’ll pay. Other fees like medical, library, exams, ICT support, and graduation fees can add up, so they should be included in your budget.

Mount Kenya University Undergraduate Fees for 2026

Undergraduate programs form the core of MKU’s academic offerings. These include bachelor’s degrees in fields such as Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, Law, Nursing, Social Sciences, and more. The fee structure reflects the academic rigor and resources required for each discipline.

Broadly, undergraduate fees fall into three categories:

Standard Programs: These include courses like Business, Social Sciences, and Education.

Professional and Technical Programs: These include areas like Business Information Technology, Computer Science, and Mass Communication.

Health and Medical-related Programs: These include Nursing, Public Health, Clinical Medicine, and related fields.

Standard Bachelor’s Degree Programs

For programs such as Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Bachelor of Education, or Bachelor of Commerce, the fee structure for 2026 is typically structured per semester. Most of these programs require a minimum of 8 semesters to complete, spread over 4 academic years.

Average estimated tuition per semester might range from a moderate to competitive rate, ensuring affordability while maintaining quality. Many students budget within this range, planning for the full duration of study.

In addition to the tuition fee per semester, students should expect to pay:

• Registration and student union fees,
• Examination and ICT support fees,
• Library and resource fees.

These additional charges are usually a small proportion of the overall semester fee but are mandatory for all students.

Professional and Technical Undergraduate Programs

Courses such as Bachelor of Science in Business Information Technology, Bachelor of Computer Science, or Bachelor of Hospitality Management are designed to combine theory with hands-on practical skills. These programs often have higher fees compared to standard academic programs due to the increased use of labs, software licenses, and industry tools.

For students pursuing technical degrees, it’s important to budget not only for tuition but also for laboratory and workshop fees, which support the practical aspects of the training.

Health and Medical-related Undergraduate Programs

Health sciences programs represent some of the most resource-intensive courses at any university. Mount Kenya University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Clinical Medicine, and related fields require specialized facilities, clinical placements, and professional supervision. As a result, their fees are higher compared to other undergraduate programs.

These fees cover:

• Access to simulation labs and clinical resources,
• Professional certification support,
• Practical placement coordination.

Students in these programs should also plan for uniforms, clinical supplies, and sometimes transportation to placement sites, although such costs vary depending on the terms of placement.

Postgraduate Fees for 2026

Postgraduate programs at Mount Kenya University include master’s degrees, postgraduate diplomas, and doctoral (PhD) programs. The fees are usually higher than undergraduate fees, reflecting advanced coursework, research supervision, and academic resources.

Master’s Degree Programs

Whether you are pursuing a Master of Business Administration, Master of Science in Information Technology, or Master of Arts in Development Studies, it’s important to understand that postgraduate fees are typically structured per credit unit or per semester.

Some key considerations for postgraduate students include:

• Research supervision and thesis preparation costs,
• Access to advanced academic resources,
• Potential conference or publication support (if applicable).

The duration of master’s programs ranges from 1.5 to 2 years full-time, and many students also opt for part-time or weekend class options to balance work and study.

Doctoral (PhD) Programs

Doctoral programs at MKU are designed for in-depth research and advanced specialization. Because these programs require close supervision by faculty, extensive research resources, and often participation in academic events, their fees reflect the higher level of academic commitment.

Doctoral students should plan for:

• Tuition per credit unit or semester,
• Research fees,
• Proposal and final defense administrative charges.

The duration of doctoral studies can vary widely depending on the pace of research and whether the student is full-time or part-time.

Diploma and Certificate Programs

For many students, diploma and certificate programs are attractive because they are shorter in duration and more affordable than degree programs. Mount Kenya University offers diplomas and certificates in areas such as Business Management, IT, Health Sciences support, and Early Childhood Education.

These programs are ideal for:

• Students seeking quick entry into the job market,
• Professionals looking to upgrade skills,
• Individuals exploring a new career path without committing to a full degree.

Fees for diploma and certificate programs are typically charged per semester or contact hour and are generally lower than degree-level fees. However, students should still anticipate charges for examinations, registration, and ICT support.

Accommodation and Living Costs

While academic fees are central to your budget, accommodation and living expenses form a significant part of the overall cost. Mount Kenya University offers several housing options ranging from on-campus hostels to recommended off-campus accommodations.

On-Campus Accommodation

On-campus housing provides convenience, security, and easy access to academic facilities. Room types often include shared rooms and self-contained single rooms. Fees vary depending on room type and amenities offered.

Students living on campus should plan for:

• Accommodation fee per semester,
• Bedding and personal items,
• Meals if opting for a meal plan.

Most students find that living on campus enhances their university experience, as it fosters community involvement and saves commuting time.

Off-Campus Accommodation

Some students prefer off-campus housing for greater independence or to reduce costs. Off-campus rents vary widely based on location, room type, and amenities. When choosing off-campus housing, students should also consider:

• Transportation costs to and from campus,
• Utilities such as electricity and water,
• Safety and security of the neighborhood.

In budgeting for 2026, it’s wise to compare on-campus and off-campus costs and choose what works best for your lifestyle and financial plan.

Payment Methods and Bank Details

Mount Kenya University accepts fee payments through several secure and recognized channels. These typically include:

• Bank transfers or direct deposits into the university’s designated accounts,
• Payments through mobile money platforms were supported,
• Payments at bank branches through pay-in slips,
• Online payments via the university portal.

To protect your financial security, you should obtain the exact bank name, branch, and account numbers directly from Mount Kenya University’s admissions or finance office. This ensures you get the most accurate and up-to-date details and prevents mistakes in payments.

When requesting bank details, always confirm:

• The correct account name (which will be “Mount Kenya University” or its official finance entity),
• The bank name and branch,
• The account number or payment reference format,
• Any special instructions for international student payments (if applicable),
• How to indicate your student number or invoice number in the payment reference.

This careful attention to detail helps ensure your payment is received and credited correctly to your student account. Always keep your payment receipts in case you need to present proof of payment later.

Additional Fees to Anticipate

Apart from tuition and accommodation, students should be aware of other fees that can influence the total cost of attendance. These include:

• Registration and re-registration fees each semester,
• Examination and evaluation fees,
• ICT support fees for access to online platforms and academic systems,
• Library services or resource usage contributions,
• Graduation and certificate collection fees.

These charges are usually billed separately from tuition and may appear on your fee statement. Although they are smaller individually, together they contribute meaningfully to your educational experience, so include them in your budgeting.

Scholarships, Discounts, and Financial Support

Many students qualify for scholarships, bursaries, or financial aid based on academic performance, talent, or financial need. Mount Kenya University often has scholarship programs for high-achieving students or students facing financial hardship. While specifics may change each academic year, here are common types of financial support you might explore:

• Academic excellence scholarships,
• Need-based bursaries,
• Discounts for early fee payment,
• Employer sponsorships for working students.

If you are considering financial support, contact the university’s student support or finance department early to understand eligibility, application deadlines, and required documentation.

Planning Your Budget for 2026

Effective financial planning for university should start long before you receive your student ID. To create a realistic budget for Mount Kenya University in 2026:

1. List all known fees, including tuition, accommodation, registration, exams, and ICT charges.
2. Estimate living costs such as food, transportation, books, and personal expenses.
3. Set aside contingency funds for unexpected costs like medical needs or emergency travel.
4. Explore financial aid and begin applications early.
5. Track payment deadlines to avoid late fees.

Having a written budget helps you make informed choices about courses, housing, and part-time work, ensuring you can focus on your studies with confidence.

Tips for Students and Parents

• Start the admissions and fee inquiry process early to avoid last-minute pressure.
• Confirm all fee amounts and payment procedures directly with university officials.
• Keep all receipts and proof of payments organized.
• Attend orientation sessions where financial guidance is often offered.
• Consider part-time work or internships that align with your academic schedule to support your finances.