Last reviewed: 24 October 2026
“How much will senior school cost?” is one of the most searched questions by Kenyan parents with a child finishing Grade 9. The answer depends mainly on whether the school is public or private, boarding or day. This guide explains what the 2026 government guidelines say for public senior schools, what extra costs to budget for, and how to check a school’s real fee structure. For private school fee structures, see our school fees directory.
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Public boarding senior schools in 2026
Fees for public secondary and senior schools are set by the Ministry of Education and published in the Kenya Gazette. Under Gazette Notice 1449 of 2026 (Kenya Gazette, 6 February 2026), the government pays a capitation grant of KSh 22,244 per learner per year. On top of that, parents in public boarding schools pay at most one of two ceilings, depending on the category the school was approved for: KSh 53,554 a year or KSh 40,535 a year.
The annual fee is split across the three terms in a 50:30:20 ratio. Using the higher ceiling as an example, that works out to roughly KSh 26,777 in Term 1, KSh 16,066 in Term 2 and KSh 10,711 in Term 3. Term 1 is always the heaviest, so plan for it early.
Public day senior schools
In public day schools, tuition is covered by government capitation. Parents may still pay for lunch programmes, transport and other items agreed through the board and parents’ association, but these should be modest and approved. If a day school asks for large sums labelled “development” or “tuition”, ask for the written approval.
Costs that are not in the fee ceiling
- Uniform and shoes: often the biggest first-year expense, including games kit and sweaters.
- Personal effects: mattress where required, bedding, bucket, toiletries, a box.
- Books and stationery: the government supplies core textbooks, but learners need exercise books, a scientific calculator and geometry set.
- Transport: fares at the start and end of each term, which add up for schools far from home.
- Pocket money and medical cover: check whether the school requires NHIF/SHA registration details or a medical form.
How to confirm a school’s real fees
- Ask for the 2026 fee structure on official letterhead, signed and stamped.
- Check that the total boarding fee does not exceed the gazetted ceiling for that school.
- Pay only into the school’s official bank account or paybill listed on the letter, never into a personal number.
- Keep every receipt and the admission letter together.
Bursaries and support
Parents who struggle with fees can apply for county bursaries, National Government Constituency Development Fund (NG-CDF) bursaries, and scholarships from banks, foundations and religious organisations. Applications usually open early in the year, so ask the school and your local ward or constituency office in good time.
Choosing a school with cost in mind
Under the senior school placement system, learners choose schools across clusters C1 to C4. Day schools close to home are the most affordable option and can be strong choices. Use our Senior School Finder to see every school in your county and sub-county, and read individual school pages, such as Maseno School, for history and fee ceilings.
CBC Guides is an independent guide, not the Ministry of Education. Always confirm fees directly with the school before paying.