Teaching is one of the most rewarding yet taxing professions in Kenya. Between lesson planning, marking, and managing classroom dynamics, it’s easy to burn out. The Teachers Service Commission (TSC) recognizes this, which is why annual leave is a mandatory right for every teacher.
Below is the link to the TSC Annual Leave Application Form
TSC Annual Leave Application Form
Above is the link to the TSC Annual Leave Application Form
In 2026, the process for taking your well-deserved break has moved primarily online. However, understanding the policy and having the physical “Annual Leave Form” as a backup is still essential for your personal records and school-level administration.
FAQ: Your Guide to TSC Annual Leave
Q: Am I entitled to annual leave even if we have school holidays? A: Yes. Under the Code of Regulations for Teachers, every teacher is entitled to a maximum of 30 days of annual leave with full pay every calendar year. While teachers are expected to take their leave during school holidays (April, August, and December), you still need to formally apply for it to ensure your leave days are captured in the TSC system.
Q: How does the application process work in 2026? A: The TSC has fully integrated leave applications into the HRIS (Human Resource Information System) portal. To apply:
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Log in to your T-Pay or TSC online portal account.
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Select the “Leave” module and click the ‘+’ sign to start a new application.
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Choose “Annual Leave” from the dropdown menu.
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Fill in the dates and your contact address during the leave period.
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Your Head of Institution (HOI) will then receive an alert to recommend or decline the request online.
Q: Can I carry forward my unused annual leave days to the next year? A: Generally, no. TSC annual leave is a “use it or lose it” benefit. Leave is granted for the specific calendar year (January to December). If you do not apply for it within that year, the days are forfeited. This is why it is vital to file your application during the December holiday at the very latest.
Q: Is there an “Annual Leave Allowance” paid alongside the leave? A: Yes! When you take your annual leave, you are entitled to an Annual Leave Allowance, which is a one-time payment made once a year (usually in your January or February salary). To qualify, you must have successfully applied for and been granted your annual leave for the preceding year.
Q: What if I have an emergency and need leave during the term? A: Annual leave is strictly for holiday periods. If you need time off during the term for personal reasons, you should apply for Compassionate Leave (up to 15 days) or Sick Leave, depending on the situation. Annual leave cannot be used to cover absences during active school dates.
Get Your Paperwork in Order
Even though the system is digital, many Headteachers require a hard copy of the TSC Annual Leave Form for the school’s “Leave Register.” Having a signed and stamped copy protects you if there is ever a dispute regarding your attendance or allowance eligibility.
Quick Tip: Always ensure your “Leave Address” on the form is accurate. In rare cases of emergency, the Commission needs to know how to reach you while you are away from your station.
