The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has restarted the recruitment to fill 9,159 replacement teachers in public primary, junior and secondary schools. The exercise prioritises registered teachers, awards internship experience points, and will use document verification and merit lists to guide appointments.
Key Takeaways
- 9,159 vacancies announced: 7,065 primary, 12 junior and 2,082 secondary posts.
- Eligibility requires TSC registration and appropriate professional qualifications (P1 for primary; Diploma or Degree for post-primary).
- Shortlisting focuses on document verification; interns receive 50 marks on the scoresheet.
- Local applicants are prioritised by Sub-County, County then Region; posting is expected after completion of the process.
TSC replacement teachers: overview of the recruitment
The recruitment aims to replace teachers who exited service through natural attrition. Positions are on permanent and pensionable terms. The Commission has begun inviting shortlisted applicants for document verification and interviews by text message. For example, one SMS invited an applicant to a verification session on 27/01/2026 at St Francis Girls, Doldol.
Available vacancies and important dates
The advert declared a total of 9,159 vacancies split as follows:
- Primary schools: 7,065 posts
- Junior schools: 12 posts
- Secondary schools: 2,082 posts
Applications were received online and the portal closed on 8 December 2025. Posting of successful candidates is expected to follow the verification and selection process, likely in March.
Who is eligible
To qualify applicants must:
- Be a Kenyan citizen;
- Be registered with the Teachers Service Commission;
- Hold a P1 certificate for primary positions;
- Hold at least a Diploma in Education (or Degree where applicable) for junior and secondary posts.
Intern teachers who served on internship terms are eligible and receive 50 marks on the recruitment scoresheet, which improves their chances during selection.
Document verification checklist
Shortlisted candidates must present original documents and legible photocopies at verification. Key items include:
- National identification card;
- Certificate of Registration as a teacher;
- P1 certificate or Diploma/Degree certificate and official transcripts (as applicable);
- KCSE and KCPE certificates (include certificates for any re-sits);
- KNEC letters of certification where applicable;
- Primary and secondary school leaving testimonials;
- National Council for Persons with Disabilities (NCPWD) card if applicable;
- An affidavit to explain any variance of names (sworn under the Oaths and Statutory Declarations Act, Cap 15).
Note: Interns awarded the 50 marks will at times only be required to present identity cards during verification, but candidates should always confirm requirements in their SMS or invitation letter.
Selection, merit lists and placement
After verification, the TSC Sub-County Director will compile a merit list of verified applicants. Merit lists will be available to the public on request in a way that protects personal data and complies with the Data Protection Act, 2019. Selection gives preference to local applicants in order of Sub-County, County then Region.
Successful candidates can be posted to serve in any part of the country and should be prepared to accept postings outside the area where they were interviewed.
How to apply and application rules
Applications were submitted online through the TSC Careers portal (www.tsc.go.ke) or teachersonline.tsc.go.ke. The recruitment guidelines for the 2025/2026 financial year apply. Important rules include:
- Manual applications are not considered;
- Candidates must not submit more than one application (multiple forms cause disqualification);
- Preference is given to candidates who have not previously been employed by TSC.
Fraud warning and how to report
The recruitment exercise is free of charge. Applicants should beware of fraudsters claiming to assist with recruitment for a fee. Suspected fraudulent activity should be reported to the nearest TSC office, to the TSC Director Staffing on 0202892193 or Deputy Director Staffing on 0202892131, or by email to dirstaffing@tsc.go.ke. Reports can also be made at the nearest police station.
Resources and further reading
Teachers preparing for recruitment or upgrading qualifications may find these resources helpful:
- Diploma in Education past papers — useful for revision and interview preparation.
- Bachelor of Education (Arts) past papers — for degree-level candidates preparing for roles in secondary schools.
- CBC curriculum designs — helpful for teachers aligning lesson planning to the current syllabus.
Final advice for applicants
Keep originals and clear photocopies of all certificates and testimonials. Respond quickly to SMS invitations and attend verification on time. Maintain contact details up to date on your TSC profile and prepare to accept postings anywhere in the country.
