Finding the right insurance in Kenya isn’t just a school requirement; it’s a vital safety net. To stay protected without breaking the bank, you need a cover that actually suits your student lifestyle.
Here are the five best medical insurance covers for students in Kenya in 2026:
5 Best Medical Insurance Covers for Students
1. NHIF (Social Health Authority – SHA)
As of 2026, the transition to the Social Health Authority (SHA) is the primary medical cover for every Kenyan student.
- Best for: Universal coverage and outpatient services at public hospitals.
- The Benefit: It is mandatory for school registration in many institutions. It covers basic outpatient, inpatient, and some surgical procedures.
- The Cost: Standard monthly contributions (currently approximately KES 500 for self-employed/students).
2. Madison Insurance (Edu-Health)
Madison has long been a favorite for students due to their specialized “Edu-Health” packages.
- Best for: Students looking for affordable private hospital access.
- The Benefit: They offer a flexible “Pay-as-you-go” model for some student groups. It includes dental and optical covers, which are often left out of basic plans.
- The Cost: Competitive annual premiums tailored to student budgets.
3. APA Insurance (Student Care)
APA provides a robust “Student Care” policy designed for both local and international students.
- Best for: International students and those doing internships/fieldwork.
- The Benefit: It covers accidental permanent disability and provides a “last expense” benefit. Their network of private hospitals (like Aga Khan and Gertrude’s) is extensive.
- The Cost: Varies based on the limit of cover (starts as low as KES 8,000 – 15,000 per year).
4. Britam (Milele Health)
Britam’s Milele Health is a “no-nonsense” plan that is very popular with young adults in Kenya.
- Best for: Digital-savvy students who want to manage everything via an app.
- The Benefit: No medical examination is required for most student age brackets. They have a very fast claim-processing system through their digital portal.
- The Cost: Flexible tiers (Bronze, Silver, Gold).
5. Old Mutual (Formerly UAP-Old Mutual)
If you are a student who travels across East Africa for research or holidays, Old Mutual is your best bet.
- Best for: Regional coverage (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda).
- The Benefit: Their “Afya Imara” plan offers seamless cross-border medical access. If you get sick while in Kampala or Dar es Salaam, you are still covered.
Student Checklist: What to look for before signing up
- Waiting Period: Some covers have a 30-day waiting period for illness. Check if you are covered immediately.
- The “Exclusions” List: Read the fine print! Most student covers do not cover pre-existing conditions or cosmetic surgery.
- Co-payment: Some plans require you to pay KES 500 or 1,000 at the reception (Co-pay) before seeing a doctor.
Also see: How to Register for NPS/KPS Medical Scheme & Add Dependants
Final Verdict
If you are on a tight budget, ensure your SHA (NHIF) is active first. However, if you want to avoid the long queues at public hospitals, adding a budget-friendly private cover like Madison or Britam is a smart move for any student in 2026.
Need Help with Registration?
Navigating insurance portals and E-citizen for SHA registration can be a headache. JO-TECH Cyber offers expert assistance in:
- SHA (NHIF) Registration and Bogus-free payment updates.
- Printing Insurance Membership cards.
- Consultation on which private cover fits your school budget.
Visit us today or WhatsApp 0710200886 for instant help!
