How to Apply for an Interior Design Course in Kenya – Step-by-Step Guide 2025

Interior design is one of the most exciting and fast-growing fields in Kenya today. As more people recognize the importance of creating functional, aesthetic, and sustainable spaces, the demand for skilled interior designers continues to rise. For 2025, colleges like Ikigai College of Interior Design are offering new diploma and certification programs, making it the perfect time to pursue your passion.

If you’ve been wondering “How do I apply for an interior design course in Kenya?” or “Which is the best interior design school in Nairobi offering 2025 intakes?” — this step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

Why Study Interior Design in Kenya in 2025?

Before diving into the application steps, it’s important to understand why interior design is a smart career choice in 2025.

Growing Demand for Designers – Kenya’s real estate and construction industries are booming, creating opportunities for interior designers in both residential and commercial spaces.
Creative Career Path – Interior design allows you to blend creativity with technical knowledge. From color theory to space planning, you’ll shape environments that improve people’s lives.
Global Opportunities – A diploma or certification from a recognized college like Ikigai College of Interior Design gives you skills that are relevant in Kenya and beyond.
Specializations Available – You can specialize in areas such as residential design, commercial design, sustainable design, or even furniture design.

Now, let’s move into the practical details of how to apply for an interior design course in Kenya in 2025.

Step 1: Choose the Right Interior Design College in Kenya

The first step is to identify where you want to study. While there are several institutions offering built environment and design-related programs, choosing the right school makes all the difference.

When searching for the best interior design college in Kenya, look for:

Accreditation and recognition by education authorities.
A curriculum that balances theory and practice.
Facilities such as studios, workshops, and digital labs.
Experienced faculty with backgrounds in design.
Internship and mentorship opportunities.

For many aspiring students, Ikigai College of Interior Design has emerged as a top choice. It offers diploma, certificate, and short courses in interior design with intakes spread throughout the year, including May, September, and January 2026.

Step 2: Decide Which Interior Design Course to Pursue

Kenya has multiple levels of interior design training. Your application process will depend on which course you’re interested in:

Interior Design Diploma in Kenya – Ideal for students seeking a comprehensive 2-3 year program that covers space planning, design software, history of design, and practical projects.
Interior Design Certification in Kenya – Shorter programs (6 months to 1 year) focusing on fundamentals of interior design. Great for beginners or professionals seeking a career change.
Short-Term Interior Design Courses – Weekend or evening classes that provide hands-on training for specific skills, like color theory or design software.

At Ikigai College of Interior Design, the admissions team helps guide students to the right program depending on their career goals.

Step 3: Check Entry Requirements

Once you’ve identified your preferred course, check the admission requirements. Generally, the following apply for most interior design colleges in Kenya:

Diploma in Interior Design – KCSE C- (minus) and above, or equivalent qualifications.
Certificate in Interior Design – KCSE D plain and above, or relevant work experience.
Short Courses – Open to anyone with interest, no strict academic requirements.

At Ikigai College of Interior Design, the 2025 intake is designed to be inclusive while maintaining academic quality, making it accessible for both school leavers and working professionals.

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Documents

You will typically need the following when applying:

Completed application form (downloadable from the college website).
Copy of KCSE certificate or academic transcripts.
Copy of national ID or passport.
Passport-size photos.
Application fee (varies by college).

Ikigai College simplifies this process with both online and in-person applications, making it easy for students across Kenya and beyond to apply.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

Most interior design schools in Kenya, including Ikigai College, offer multiple application methods:

Online Application – Visit the official website, fill in the form, upload your documents, and pay the application fee via mobile money or bank transfer.
In-Person Application – Visit the admissions office at the college campus to submit documents directly.

For the 2025 May and September intakes, it’s advisable to apply early as spots in popular courses fill up quickly.

Step 6: Attend Interviews or Portfolio Reviews (If Required)

Some colleges may request an interview or ask to see a creative portfolio to gauge your interest in design. Don’t worry if you’re new — your passion, curiosity, and creativity matter more than professional experience.

At Ikigai College of Interior Design, students are encouraged to showcase any artistic work, sketches, or digital projects, but it’s not a strict requirement.

Step 7: Receive Your Admission Letter

If your application is successful, you’ll receive an admission letter with details about:

The course you’ve been admitted to.
Start dates (May, September, or January 2026).
Tuition fees and payment plans.
Orientation schedule.

Step 8: Pay Fees and Register

Finalize your admission by paying tuition fees. Many interior design colleges in Nairobi, including Ikigai, offer flexible payment structures to accommodate students.

Once registered, you’ll officially join the vibrant community of design learners.

Career Opportunities After Studying Interior Design in Kenya

One of the biggest motivators for applying to an interior design program is the range of career opportunities it opens up. Graduates can work as:

Residential Interior Designers.
Commercial and Corporate Space Designers.
Event and Set Designers.
Furniture and Product Designers.
Freelance Interior Design Consultants.

With the skills gained at Ikigai College of Interior Design, you’ll be equipped to thrive in both local and international markets.

FAQs: Applying for an Interior Design Course in Kenya

1. When are the 2025 intakes for interior design colleges in Kenya?
Most top colleges, including Ikigai College, have May, September, and January intakes.

2. Can I apply online for an interior design diploma in Kenya?
Yes. Ikigai College of Interior Design allows full online applications, making it easy to apply from anywhere in Kenya.

3. How much does an interior design course in Kenya cost?
Tuition fees vary depending on the course and institution. Diploma courses are generally higher, while certificates and short courses are more affordable.

4. Can working professionals apply for interior design courses?
Yes. Ikigai offers evening and weekend classes designed for working professionals.

5. Which is the best interior design school in Nairobi?
Ikigai College of Interior Design is widely recognized as one of the best interior design colleges in Kenya, thanks to its modern curriculum, experienced faculty, and focus on real-world training.

Final Thoughts

Applying for an interior design course in Kenya in 2025 doesn’t have to be complicated. By following these steps — from choosing the right college to submitting your documents — you’ll be well on your way to an exciting career in design.

If you’re serious about pursuing this path, Ikigai College of Interior Design is currently accepting applications for the May 2025 and September 2025 intakes. Don’t miss the chance to study at one of the top interior design colleges in Nairobi, where creativity meets career opportunities.

Apply for an Interior Design Course in Kenya – 2025 Guide