How to Transfer a Student Between Primary Schools in Kenya (2025 Guide)
✅ Step-by-Step Transfer Process
- Obtain the Official Transfer Form
Begin by acquiring the Ministry of Education’s official Primary School Transfer and Admission Form. This form is essential for initiating the transfer process. - Complete the Form Accurately
Fill in all required sections, including:- Student’s full name and current grade.
- Current school’s name and location.
- Proposed new school’s name and location.
- Reason(s) for the transfer (e.g., medical, relocation, financial constraints).​
- Seek Approval from the Receiving School
The headteacher of the intended school must confirm the availability of a vacancy and indicate acceptance or rejection of the transfer request. - Obtain Clearance from the Current School
The headteacher of the current school should certify the student’s enrollment status and indicate willingness to release the student. - Get Authorization from Education Officials
Depending on the nature of the transfer:- Within the Same Sub-County: Approval from the Sub-County Director of Education (SCDE) is required.
- Between Different Counties: Approval from the County Director of Education (CDE) is necessary.
- Across Regions: The Regional Coordinator of Education (RCE) must endorse the transfer.​
- Submit the Completed Form
Once all sections are duly filled and signed, submit the form to the relevant education office for final processing.
📅 Important Deadlines
- Annual Transfer Requests: All transfer applications for the upcoming academic year should be submitted by October 30th of the preceding year.
- Mid-Year Transfers: Generally discouraged unless under exceptional circumstances such as medical emergencies or unforeseen relocations.
📄 Accessing the Official Transfer Form
The official Primary School Transfer and Admission Form can be downloaded from the Ministry of Education’s official website or directly accessed through the following link:​
By following the above guidelines and ensuring all necessary approvals are obtained, the transfer process can be smooth and efficient. Always consult with the respective educational offices for any clarifications or additional requirements.
