Are you a trained teacher aspiring to work in Kenyan public schools? To fulfill the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Act of 2012, it’s essential to obtain a TSC number and certificate. This article presents a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a TSC number online, along with the necessary requirements for a successful application.
Understanding the TSC Registration Process
The TSC Act mandates that every trained teacher in Kenya must be registered with the Teachers Service Commission before they can take up teaching duties in any school, be it public or private. As per a directive from the Ministry of Education in late 2016, only registered teachers were allowed to enter classrooms starting from 2017.
Minimum Requirements for TSC Number Application
Depending on your education level, you need to have attained the following grades in the Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education (KCSE) to be eligible for TSC registration:
- Certificate holders: C Plain in KCSE
- Diploma graduates: C+ (plus) at KCSE
- Degree graduates: C+ (plus) at KCSE
Additionally, secondary school teachers intending to teach must have a minimum of C+ in the two teaching subjects. Primary teachers require at least a P1 qualification before applying for a TSC number.
Essential Documents for TSC Number Application
Before proceeding with your TSC number application, make sure you have the following documents ready:
- Up-to-date Certificate of Good Conduct
- KRA PIN
- GP 69 Medical Form
- One passport-size photo
- National Identity Card
- Certified copies of academic and professional certificates
- For non-citizens, a valid work permit from the Immigration Department
- Bank Deposit Slip (Kshs. 1055/- for regular application, Kshs. 2055/- for duplicate certificate)
- Non-refundable application fee deposited to TSC Registration Account, National Bank of Kenya (A/C No. 01001000905001 for regular application, A/C No. 01001005707400 for duplicate certificate)
For expatriate teachers, attach a letter of clearance from the Ministry of Education Vetting Committee.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a TSC Number Online
Follow these steps to successfully apply for a TSC number and certificate online:
- Visit the official TSC registration portal: teachersonline.tsc.go.ke/Regintro.aspx
- Enter your ID number and surname, then click “Next”
- Accurately fill in your personal details on the form that appears and click “Next”
- Proceed to upload scanned copies of all the required documents
- In section C, provide additional details such as the Major and Minor subjects you studied
- Select your mode of payment and enter the pay-in slip number
- Verify that all details are correct, then save and finalize your application
Checking Your TSC Number Registration Status
After completing the online application, your TSC number will be assigned within approximately a month. To check whether your TSC number has been successfully assigned, visit the teacher registration status page on the TSC website and use your National ID number.
Conclusion
Securing a TSC number and certificate is an essential step for teachers aiming to work in Kenyan public schools. By following this step-by-step guide and ensuring you meet the minimum requirements, you can smoothly navigate the online application process and embark on your journey as a registered teacher. Remember, accuracy and authenticity are key to a successful TSC number application.