The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) has announced a recruitment exercise to replace teachers who exited public service in December 2025. The campaign opens 9,159 vacancies—7,065 for primary schools, 12 for junior schools and 2,082 for secondary schools—and successful recruits will serve on permanent and pensionable terms. This article explains eligibility, how to apply, important rules and where to find supporting resources for applicants.
Key Takeaways
- Total vacancies: 9,159 positions (primary, junior and secondary) for December 2025 replacement recruitment.
- Minimum qualifications: P1 for primary; Diploma in Education for junior and secondary; registration with TSC required.
- Application deadline: Online applications must be submitted by 8th December 2025 (midnight).
- Important rules: One application per candidate, no manual applications, and shortlisted candidates must present original certificates.
TSC replacement teachers 2025 — who is eligible?
To qualify for these replacement teacher positions applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a Kenyan citizen.
- Hold a P1 certificate (for primary school posts) or a minimum of a Diploma in Education (for junior and secondary school posts).
- Be a registered teacher with the Teachers Service Commission.
Preference will be given to applicants who have not previously been employed by the Commission. Persons with disabilities (PWDs) are encouraged to apply.
How to apply
Interested and qualified candidates should submit applications online via the Teachers Service Commission website under the Careers section or through the Commission’s teachersonline portal. Applications must be completed and submitted no later than 8th December 2025 at midnight. Manual and late applications will not be accepted.
When applying:
- Complete only one Application for Employment Form—submitting multiple forms will lead to disqualification.
- Prepare scanned copies of academic and professional certificates; shortlisted candidates will be required to present the original documents.
- Be ready to accept posting to any part of the country; placement is not guaranteed in the county where you applied or were interviewed.
General recruitment rules and selection
The TSC Recruitment Guidelines 2025/2026 apply to this exercise. Merit lists created during this recruitment will be retained and may be used in subsequent recruitments within the same financial year.
- Shortlisting is merit-based and subject to verification of qualifications and registration status.
- Successful candidates will be posted on permanent and pensionable terms.
- Manual or paper applications will not be considered—only the online portal is valid.
Caution: avoid fraud
The recruitment exercise is free of charge. Applicants should be vigilant against fraudsters asking for payment in exchange for recruitment assistance. Any fraudulent activity should be reported to the nearest police station and to TSC offices.
Reports of suspected fraud can be directed to the TSC Staffing Department via the Commission’s official contacts or the nearest TSC office.
Documents to prepare
Before starting your online application, have the following ready:
- National ID or passport number and scanned copy.
- Original and scanned academic and professional certificates (P1 or Diploma in Education).
- TSC registration number (proof of registration with the Commission).
- Contact details and referees where required.
Useful resources for applicants
Prepare and improve your application and interview readiness by using available study and curriculum resources. For teachers with diploma qualifications, past papers can help refresh professional knowledge: Diploma in Education past papers. Secondary school teachers may find subject revision materials useful: free KCSE/KSCE exam resources. Classroom planning and curriculum documents are also useful for primary and CBC teachers: CBC curriculum designs.
What to expect after application
If shortlisted, you will be invited for verification and possible interviews. Be prepared to present original certificates, your TSC registration details and any other documents requested. Successful applicants will receive official offers and posting instructions—these will include details on reporting dates and deployment locations.
Final checklist
- Apply online before 8th December 2025 and submit only one application form.
- Ensure TSC registration is current and correct on your application.
- Keep originals of your academic and professional certificates ready for verification.
- Do not pay any fees to third parties for recruitment—report suspicious requests immediately.
