How Are Kenyan Students Fairing in Australia’s 2025 Student Visa Game? Here’s the Real Story

A Promising Start: Kenyan Visa Approvals in 2025

If you’ve been wondering how Kenya stacks up in Australia’s competitive student visa landscape, here’s the good news: we’re doing exceptionally well.

So far this year (January–May), Kenyan students applying for higher education visas (offshore) have seen strong approval rates:

Visa Grant Rates (January–May 2025):

Kenyan student visa grants (primary applicants):

• January (M07): 49 grants – 94.3% approval

• February (M08): 277 grants – 96.7% approval

• March (M09): 32 grants – 86.0% approval

• April (M10): 85 grants – 95.7% approval

• May (M11): 110 grants – 88.3% approval

Total YTD Grants: 553
Average Approval Rate: ~92.2%

Kenya is maintaining strong and competitive visa approval rates despite global tightening of student visa criteria.

source @Openmaps Education Agency

Where Are Kenyan Students Landing?

While many of us still picture Sydney or Melbourne first, the data tells a bigger story. Kenyan student visa grants are spreading across Australia — and some lesser-known cities are gaining traction.

Here’s a quick breakdown by state:

• New South Wales (NSW): 120+

• South Australia (SA): 196

• Victoria (VIC): 93

• Western Australia (WA): 106

• Queensland (QLD): 31

• ACT, NT, TAS: Small numbers (<5 each)

👉 South Australia stands out as a rising destination — likely thanks to affordable living and regional education incentives.

source @Openmaps Education Agency

Why This Matters to the Kenyan Diaspora

Every visa granted is more than just a number — it’s a story of ambition, sacrifice, and hope. These stats reflect the growing footprint of young Kenyans choosing Australia as their academic and career launching pad.

It also means our community networks are growing stronger. More Kenyan students mean more mentorship, more cultural events, and a louder voice in the diaspora space.

For Aspiring Students (and Parents!)

Thinking about applying? This is your sign to start planning — and planning smart.
- Triple-check your application
- Choose institutions with strong support for international students
- Reach out to fellow Kenyans already studying in your preferred state
- Stay up to date with migration policies and education visa changes

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have you recently received your student visa? Already studying in NSW, SA, or VIC?
We want to hear your story! Tag us @kenyansinaustralia or send us a DM to be featured.