The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recruitment portal is the official online system used by the Kenyan government to recruit teachers for public primary, junior, and secondary schools. Every year, thousands of qualified teachers apply through this portal to secure teaching positions that are permanent, pensionable, and fully regulated by the state.
For 2026, interest in TSC recruitment remains very high due to rising unemployment among trained teachers and the stability that TSC jobs provide. This guide explains everything you need to know about the TSC recruitment portal, including login steps, how to apply, eligibility requirements, documents needed, the recruitment process, and important tips to avoid mistakes.
This article is written in clear English and structured to help both first-time applicants and returning teachers understand the full process without confusion.
What Is the Teachers Service Commission (TSC)?
The Teachers Service Commission is a constitutional body established to manage human resources for teachers in Kenya. Its main responsibility is to recruit, employ, deploy, promote, and discipline teachers working in public institutions.
TSC also manages teacher records, transfers, registrations, and career progression. Any teacher wishing to work in a public school in Kenya must be registered with TSC and apply through its official recruitment system.
TSC recruitment is conducted online to ensure transparency, fairness, and equal opportunity for all qualified applicants across the country.
What Is the TSC Recruitment Portal?
The TSC recruitment portal is an online platform where:
- Teaching vacancies are advertised
- Registered teachers log in to apply for jobs
- Applications are submitted and tracked
- Shortlisting and verification processes begin
The portal is part of the TSC Human Resource Management Information System (HRMIS). Physical or manual applications are not accepted. All recruitment activities are carried out online.
Types of Teaching Vacancies Advertised by TSC
TSC recruitment covers different teaching levels depending on national needs. Common categories include:
- Primary School Teachers
- Junior Secondary School Teachers
- Secondary School Teachers
- Replacement Teachers (for retirees, resignations, or deceased staff)
- Intern Teachers (where applicable)
Vacancies may be permanent and pensionable or contract-based, depending on the recruitment cycle.
Who Can Apply for TSC Recruitment 2026?
To apply for TSC recruitment in 2026, you must meet the basic eligibility conditions set by the commission.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a Kenyan citizen
- Be registered with TSC and possess a valid TSC number
- Hold the required academic and professional qualifications
- Be of good conduct and physically fit to teach
Applicants who are not registered with TSC cannot apply for teaching vacancies.
Academic and Professional Qualifications
Primary School Teachers
- P1 Certificate or approved equivalent
- TSC registration certificate
Junior Secondary School Teachers
- Diploma in Education or Degree in Education
- Two teaching subjects where applicable
- TSC registration certificate
Secondary School Teachers
- Bachelor of Education degree
OR - Bachelor’s degree plus Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE)
- At least two teaching subjects recognized by TSC
- TSC registration certificate
All certificates must be from recognized institutions.
TSC Recruitment Portal Login Process
To apply for TSC recruitment, you must first log in to the recruitment portal. The login process is secure and requires verification.
Step-by-Step Login Guide
- Visit the official TSC recruitment portal through the HRMIS system
- Enter your TSC number
- Enter your National ID number
- Provide your registered mobile phone number
- A verification code will be sent to your phone
- Enter the code to access your dashboard
Once logged in, you can view available vacancies and apply.
How to Apply for TSC Recruitment 2026
The application process is simple but must be followed carefully.
Step 1: Ensure Your TSC Profile Is Complete
Before applying:
- Confirm your personal details are correct
- Ensure your academic qualifications are updated
- Check that your teaching subjects are properly listed
Incomplete profiles may lead to disqualification.
Step 2: View Available Vacancies
After logging in:
- Visit this link to login
- Navigate to the “Apply for Vacancies” section
- Browse available teaching positions by level and location
- Read vacancy details carefully
Each vacancy includes requirements, subject combinations, and posting locations.
Step 3: Select Your Preferred Vacancy
- Choose a vacancy that matches your qualifications
- You may only apply for one vacancy per recruitment cycle
- Applying for multiple vacancies can lead to automatic disqualification
Step 4: Upload Required Documents
You will be required to upload clear scanned copies of:
- National ID
- Academic certificates
- Professional certificates
- TSC registration certificate
Ensure documents are readable and correctly named.
Step 5: Submit Application
- Review all information carefully
- Submit your application
- Download or save the acknowledgement slip
The acknowledgement slip confirms successful submission.
Important Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents in advance:
- National Identification Card
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Professional teaching certificates
- TSC registration certificate
- KCSE certificate (where required)
Failure to upload correct documents may result in rejection.
How TSC Shortlisting Works
After the application deadline:
- TSC shortlists candidates based on merit
- Factors considered include academic qualifications, year of graduation, and teaching subjects
- Priority may be given to applicants who have waited longer since graduation
Shortlisted candidates are contacted through official communication channels.
Interview and Document Verification
Shortlisted applicants are invited for:
- Physical document verification
- Interviews conducted at county or sub-county level
Applicants must present original documents. Any mismatch between uploaded and original documents can lead to disqualification.
Final Selection and Posting
Successful candidates receive:
- Appointment letters
- Posting details indicating their assigned schools
Posting is done based on national needs and not necessarily the applicant’s home county.
Important Rules and Warnings
- TSC recruitment is free of charge
- No agent or individual is authorized to collect money
- Manual applications are not accepted
- False information leads to permanent disqualification
- Applying more than once in the same cycle is not allowed
Applicants are advised to rely only on official TSC communication.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants fail due to avoidable errors, including:
- Applying without a TSC number
- Uploading unclear documents
- Selecting the wrong teaching category
- Providing incorrect personal details
- Missing application deadlines
Careful review before submission is essential.
TSC Recruitment Timeline for 2026
Although dates may vary:
- Vacancies are usually announced early in the year
- Applications remain open for a limited period
- Shortlisting and interviews follow shortly after
- Posting and deployment are done within weeks
Applicants should regularly monitor official TSC updates.
Benefits of Working Under TSC
TSC-employed teachers enjoy:
- Job security
- Pension benefits
- Medical cover
- Structured promotions
- Transfer opportunities
- Professional development programs
These benefits make TSC teaching positions highly competitive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply without a TSC number?
No. TSC registration is mandatory before applying.
Can I apply for more than one vacancy?
No. Only one application is allowed per recruitment cycle.
Is TSC recruitment open every year?
Yes, but the number of vacancies depends on government funding and staffing needs.
Do interns apply through the same portal?
Yes, where internship positions are advertised.
Final Thoughts
The Teachers Service Commission recruitment portal remains the only official and approved way to apply for public teaching jobs in Kenya. For 2026, competition is expected to be intense, making preparation and accuracy very important.
Applicants are advised to complete TSC registration early, keep documents ready, and apply only when fully qualified. Following the correct process improves your chances of success and avoids unnecessary disqualification.
This guide provides a complete overview to help you apply confidently and correctly through the TSC recruitment portal in 2026.