The Ministry of Education has revealed the actual fees that parents and guardians will pay for learners in senior schools in 2026.
In a Kenya Gazette notice dated January 12, 2026, CS Ogamba outlined the approved fee structure for all public senior schools, detailing government capitation, parental contribution, and the maximum amounts schools are allowed to charge.
The fees, which apply to learners under both the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and the 8-4-4 system, took effect on January 5, 2026.
“This fee structure shall take effect from 5th January 2026. Schools shall spread these fees over the three school terms at the ratio of 50:30:20,” the notice reads.
Under the new framework, learners in Day senior schools will not be required to pay any fees, with the government covering Sh22,244 per learner.
This includes Sh4,144 for tuition, Sh1,500 for activity fees, Sh2,000 for medical and insurance, Sh200 for SMASSE, Sh9,400 for administration and other vote heads, and Sh5,000 for maintenance and improvement.
For boarding senior schools, the fees vary depending on the school’s previously approved maximum rates.
Schools that had been authorised to charge up to Sh53,554 will now have a revised total annual fee of Sh75,798. The government will cover Sh22,244, with parents contributing the remaining Sh53,554.
On the other hand, schools previously capped at Sh40,535 will now pay an annual fee of Sh62,779. The government will contribute Sh22,244, with parents covering the remaining Sh40,535.
For Special Needs Senior Schools, the government will provide the largest share at Sh57,974 per learner, while parents will contribute Sh12,790, bringing the total annual fees to Sh70,764.
“No public school shall charge tuition fees or any other extra fees or levies contrary to the fee structure stipulated hereinabove,” the notice adds.
Also Read: CBC and the cost of change: Why Kenya’s new curriculum deserves time
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