You’ve seen the TSC advert in the Daily Nation or on their portal. Your heart skips a beat—this is your chance. But then the panic hits. The forms, the codes, the deadlines… where do you even start? Don’t worry, we’ve all been there.
This guide breaks down how to apply for TSC advertised teaching posts step by step, cutting through the official jargon to give you the straight talk you need. We’ll cover everything from checking your qualifications to hitting that final submit button, so you can apply with confidence and avoid the silly mistakes that get applications tossed out.
Before You Start: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Jumping straight to the application is a rookie mistake. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) process is strict. If your documents aren’t ready, you’ll waste time and risk missing the deadline. First, confirm you meet the basic requirements. You must be a Kenyan citizen, above 18 years, and of good character.
More importantly, you need the right papers. Have digital copies (scanned or clear phone photos) of these ready on your phone or laptop:
- Your original National ID (both sides).
- Your KCPE and KCSE certificates or result slips.
- Your professional teaching certificates (Diploma/Degree/PGDE from a recognized institution).
- Your TSC Number (if you are a registered teacher).
- A recent passport-size photo (white/light background).
Pro tip: Scan these documents during the day in good natural light. A blurry or shadowy copy of your ID can cause unnecessary verification delays. Save them in a dedicated folder on your phone labelled “TSC Docs” for easy access.
Step 1: Find the Official TSC Advertisement
This is non-negotiable. Only apply for posts advertised on the official TSC channels. Scammers create fake adverts, especially on social media. The genuine advert is always published in at least one mainstream newspaper (like the Daily Nation or The Standard) and on the TSC’s own website.
Go to www.tsc.go.ke. Look for the “Careers” or “Advertisements” section. The advert will list all the vacant posts by county, sub-county, and school. Read it carefully. Note the application deadline—TSC does not extend it for anyone. Also, note the specific subject codes and school codes for the positions you’re eyeing; you’ll need them later.
Understanding the Advert: School Codes and Subject Codes
The advert can look confusing with all its codes. Each public school in Kenya has a unique TSC Code. Each teachable subject also has a Subject Code. You must use the correct codes in your application.
For example, the code for English is 101, Mathematics is 102. The school code for a place like Mang’u High School is different from that of Nakuru High. Mixing these up means your application goes to the wrong place. Double-check them against the advert’s provided lists.
Step 2: Accessing the TSC Online Portal
All applications are done online via the TSC portal. You need a stable internet connection—use your mobile data or find a good cyber café. Go to the TSC website and click on “Teachers Online Services”. If you are a new applicant, you need to register.
Click “Register as a Teacher (For Employment)”. You’ll fill in your details: ID number, surname, and email. Use an active email address you check regularly. You’ll then create a password. Once registered, log in to your new account. You’ll land on your dashboard. Look for the link that says “Application for Advertised Posts” or similar.
Step 3: Filling the Online Application Form
This is the core of the process. Take your time. The form has several sections:
- Personal Details: Auto-filled from your registration. Verify everything is correct.
- Academic & Professional Qualifications: You’ll enter details from your KCSE to your teaching certificate. Enter the index numbers, grades, and institutions accurately.
- Employment History: List any previous teaching experience, including internship dates and station.
- Application Details: This is critical. Here, you select the advertised vacancy. You’ll choose the county, sub-county, and school from dropdown menus (based on the advert). Then you select the subject(s) you are applying to teach.
You can apply for a maximum of two schools in the same county. Choose wisely based on your qualifications and the school’s needs as stated in the advert.
Step 4: Uploading Your Documents and Final Submission
After filling the form, you’ll be prompted to upload the scanned documents you prepared earlier. The system specifies the required format (usually PDF or JPEG) and maximum file size. Ensure each document is clear and the right side up.
Review your entire application thoroughly. Check for typos in index numbers, wrong subject codes, or wrong school selection. Once satisfied, submit. You should receive an application reference number and a confirmation message on the portal and via email. Print or save a copy of this confirmation. It’s your proof of application.
The Kenyan-Specific Realities: Costs, Cyber Cafés, and Deadlines
Let’s get real. Applying isn’t free, even if TSC doesn’t charge an application fee. You need money for data or the cyber café. A good cyber café in Nairobi’s CBD like around River Road or in towns like Kisumu’s Oginga Odinga Street will charge you between KES 100 to KES 300 to help you scan documents, fill the form, and print the confirmation. It’s worth it for the stable power and internet.
Be wary of the deadline. TSC servers often get overloaded on the final day, causing the portal to crash. Don’t be that person trying to apply at 11:30 PM on the deadline day. Submit at least 48 hours early. Also, remember the climate factor: if the deadline falls during the long rains (March-May), travel to a cyber café can be messy. Plan for boda boda or Uber costs if the roads are flooded.
Only deal with the official TSC office at Upper Hill, Capital Hill, or your County TSC Director. No agent or “connection” can help you at this stage. Anyone asking for money to “fast-track” your application is a fraud. Your merit and a correctly filled form are your only tickets.
What Happens After You Apply?
Now, you wait. But don’t just wait idly. TSC will shortlist candidates and publish the list on their website. Regularly check the TSC portal and your email (including spam folder) for any communication. If shortlisted, you’ll be called for an interview at the County or Sub-County level.
Start preparing for the interview immediately. Gather your original academic and professional certificates, your National ID, and the printed application confirmation. Practice common teaching interview questions and be ready to demonstrate your subject knowledge. Dress professionally for the interview day.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Like a Pothole on Thika Road
Many qualified teachers miss out due to simple, avoidable errors. Here are the big ones:
- Applying for a subject you are not qualified to teach: If your certificate says Geography, don’t apply for Chemistry.
- Wrong codes: Double, no, triple-check the school and subject codes.
- Last-minute rush: Portal crashes are real. Submit early.
- Ignoring the confirmation: No printout, no proof. Keep it safe.
- Using an inactive email/phone: You’ll miss the shortlisting communication.
Your Path to the Classroom Starts Here
Applying for TSC advertised teaching posts is a systematic process. It demands attention to detail, preparation, and an understanding of the online system. By following this step-by-step guide, you’ve taken the confusion out of the equation. Remember, it boils down to: prepare your documents, find the genuine advert, fill the online form accurately, and submit before the deadline. Your dedication here is the first test of your professionalism as a future educator.
Got your confirmation number? Great. Now, start preparing for that interview. Share this guide with a friend who’s also applying—it might just save their application. For more practical career advice for Kenyan professionals, check out our next article on acing your first teaching interview.
