Last reviewed: 24 October 2026
Many Kenyan parents live and work abroad while their children study in Kenya, often with grandparents, relatives or in boarding school. Following a child’s education from Dubai, London, Doha or Boston has its own challenges. This guide covers the practical side: understanding CBC, paying fees, staying in touch with school and supporting the guardian at home.
On this page
Understanding CBC from abroad
The Competency Based Curriculum (CBC) structure is 2-6-3-3: two years of pre-primary, six of primary (Grades 1–6), three of junior school (Grades 7–9) and three of senior school (Grades 10–12). Learners sit KPSEA in Grade 6 and KJSEA in Grade 9, and senior school placement uses a combined score. Start with our CBC pathways guide.
Paying fees
- Pay only into the school’s official bank account or paybill printed on the fee structure.
- Bank transfers from abroad take time and may carry charges; send early.
- Mobile money from abroad, through licensed remittance services, can pay a school paybill directly.
- Ask the school to email receipts to you, not only the guardian.
Use the fee calendar to note each child’s due dates and the fees tracker to see published structures.
Staying in touch with school
- Give the school your email and WhatsApp number and ask to be included in parent communications.
- Ask for report cards to be shared digitally.
- Book a video call with the class teacher once a term.
- Join the parents’ association where possible; some allow remote participation.
Supporting the guardian
Guardians carry the daily load. Agree in writing who can collect the child, sign consent forms and make medical decisions. Leave a letter of authority and copies of the child’s documents. Budget for the many small costs, such as project materials, trips and uniforms, so the guardian does not have to ask each time. The reporting-list builder helps.
Key dates
Term dates, half terms and exam periods are set by the Ministry. See term dates and plan your visits home around closing days or long holidays. Grade 9 placement decisions happen around KJSEA results.
Big decisions from afar
Choosing a senior school is easier with data. Use the placement predictor and school comparison tool, and ask relatives to visit shortlisted schools on your behalf.
Using technology well
Shared calendars, a family WhatsApp group with the guardian and scanned copies of every report make it easy to stay informed. Ask the guardian to photograph the fee structure, admission list and term circulars as soon as they arrive. A short monthly call with the guardian about school matters keeps everyone aligned and avoids surprises at closing day.
Emotional support
Children with parents abroad can feel the distance. Regular, predictable calls matter more than long ones. Ask about friends and activities, not only marks.
Bringing a child abroad, or back home
If your child will move between systems, read returning to Kenya: school placement and certificate equation.
Stay informed
Sign up for parent alerts to hear about term dates and results updates. Alerts are opt-in.
Sources
- Ministry of Education, CBC structure and school calendar circulars
- KNEC, KPSEA and KJSEA guidelines
CBC Guides is independent and not affiliated with the Ministry or KNEC.