The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) guide for replacement of primary school teachers explains the official recruitment process for the 2025/2026 financial year, including eligibility, required documents, verification, selection criteria and complaint channels. Applicants must be registered teachers and apply through the online platform. This article summarises the key points and gives clear steps to prepare for the selection exercise.
TSC guide for replacement of primary school teachers — Key Takeaways
- Apply online: All applicants must submit applications via www.teachersonline.go.ke for the county/sub-county where the vacancy is declared.
- Registration required: Only duly registered teachers (per Section 23(1) of the TSC Act, 2012) will be considered.
- Documents and verification: Bring original certificates and certified photocopies for scrutiny at Sub-County verification. Expect an SMS at least seven (7) days before verification.
- Inclusion: At least 5% of advertised slots are reserved for teachers with disabilities; applicants must declare disability status and present NCPWD card where applicable.
Who is eligible and how to apply
To be considered for replacement posts on permanent and pensionable terms you must be a duly registered teacher. Submit your application through the TSC online portal for the county or sub-county where the vacancy was advertised. Ensure your TSC registration number is active and matches the details on your professional and identification documents.
Required documents for verification
At verification you must present original documents and legible certified photocopies. Prepare the following:
- National ID card
- Certificate of Registration as a teacher
- PTE or Upgrade Diploma in Primary Teacher Education (DPTE/UDPTE) certificate where applicable
- KCSE and KCPE certificates (include certificates for all attempts if you re-sat exams)
- Letter of certification of results from KNEC when the original certificate is missing
- Primary and secondary school leaving certificates and other testimonials
- Medical examination report (Form GP 69) for submission to TSC Headquarters when required
- National Council of Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) Card if applicable
- An affidavit explaining any variance in names, sworn under the Oaths and Statutory Declarations Act
Sub-County Directors will certify photocopies after authentication and forward them to the County Director for onward processing.
Selection panels and the verification process
Selection is conducted at Sub-County level by a panel normally made up of:
- The Sub-County Director (Chairperson)
- TSC Sub-County Human Resource Officer (Secretary)
- Curriculum Support Officer
Applicants must appear in person on set dates. Original documents will be scrutinised for authenticity. Any forged or fake documents will lead to disqualification and potential deregistration.
Scoring, merit lists and tie-break rules
Applicants are scored using the official panel score sheet. After verification, Sub-County Merit Lists are compiled and submitted to the County Director who prepares County Merit Lists for verification at Headquarters. If applicants tie in scores, the panel uses the following tie-break order:
- Length of stay since graduation
- Strength of academic and professional certificates presented (if still tied, aggregate KCSE grades are used)
Preference is given to applicants who have not previously been employed by the Commission on permanent and pensionable terms, and to applicants from the respective Sub-County followed by the County, in order of merit.
Reserved slots and support for applicants with disabilities
The Commission ensures at least 5% of advertised slots are reserved for teachers with disabilities. Applicants must declare the nature of their disability during application and present an NCPWD card where applicable. Applicants with hearing and speech disabilities may be assisted by a sign language interpreter during verification.
Documents and reports submitted to TSC Headquarters
County Directors will submit certified copies and reports to TSC Headquarters, including:
- Signed minutes of Sub-County Selection Panel meetings
- County Merit Lists and lists of selected applicants
- List of applicants who did not appear for verification
- Original confirmation statements from KNEC for applicants without original certificates
- Original medical reports (GP 69) where required
- KRA PIN, bank form and bank card/plate to facilitate payroll setup for appointed applicants
How to raise complaints or appeal decisions
If you are dissatisfied with the selection exercise, submit a written complaint to the TSC County Director immediately and email dirstaffing@tsc.go.ke within seven (7) days after the exercise. The County Director will respond within seven (7) days. If you remain dissatisfied, you may appeal to the Appeals Committee on staffing functions at TSC Headquarters which will act within fourteen (14) days.
Practical checklist for applicants
- Confirm your TSC registration status and correct any discrepancies before applying.
- Apply only for positions in the county/sub-county where you are qualified to be placed.
- Prepare originals and certified photocopies in the order specified by TSC.
- Bring an affidavit for any name variance and certified KNEC statements for missing certificates.
- Keep your contact details up to date — verification dates and venues are communicated by SMS at least seven days in advance.
Helpful resources while you prepare
If you are upgrading qualifications or revising for teaching exams, relevant study and curriculum resources include past papers for Diploma in Education and CBC curriculum designs to refresh subject knowledge. For primary-level exam practice, refer to KCPE past papers.
Follow the TSC guidelines closely, prepare your documents carefully, and attend the Sub-County verification on the scheduled date. Accurate, truthful information and properly certified documents are essential for successful recruitment.
