How TSC recruits teachers: applications, interviews and merit lists

The Teachers Service Commission hires teachers for public schools through recruitment rounds. Each round follows published guidelines that set out who can apply, how candidates are scored and how the final list is made. Knowing the process helps you prepare long before the advert appears.

TSC publishes new guidelines and scoring sheets for each recruitment round. Always read the official advert and circular for the round you are applying to on tsc.go.ke, because details change from year to year.

How do you hear about TSC recruitment?

TSC announces recruitment on its official website and in the national newspapers, usually with a fixed application window of a couple of weeks. Rounds are often specific, for example permanent posts, replacements for teachers who have left, or internship posts in junior schools. Read who each advert is for before you apply.

How do you apply?

Applications are made online through the TSC portal within the advert's dates. You need to be registered with TSC, so get your TSC number well in advance. Our guide to TSC registration covers that. Make sure the details on your TSC profile, including your qualifications and subjects, are complete and correct.

Who interviews and scores candidates?

Shortlisted candidates are interviewed by selection panels at county and sub-county level. Panels check your original documents and score you against the scoring sheet published for that round. In recent rounds the factors have included your qualifications, how long you have waited since you qualified as a teacher, and whether you served as a TSC intern. The exact points change with each round, so read the current sheet.

What is the merit list?

After interviews, candidates are ranked by their scores into merit lists, prepared at sub-county level and compiled at county level before verification at TSC headquarters. Successful applicants are selected from the merit list, so your score and your documents decide the outcome.

Which documents should you bring to a TSC interview?

• Your national ID card and TSC registration certificate.
• Original academic and professional certificates, with copies.
• Your KCSE certificate and result slip.
• Any internship letter or certificate, and letters showing teaching experience.
• Any other documents the advert lists, such as clearances.

Missing or unverifiable documents are one of the most common reasons good candidates lose points.

How can you improve your chances?

Register with TSC as soon as you qualify, apply for TSC internship posts when they are advertised, keep every certificate and appointment letter organised, and apply in the county where you can genuinely work. While you wait, gain experience in private and board of management schools. Browse teaching jobs in Kenya and read our teacher interview questions.