How to apply for a school fee exemption
2 points we are still verifying
- Rounding: the regulations do not say how to round E. Annexure C illustration 2.1 rounds 8,4% up to 8,5%, so we round up to the next 0,5% step (but never round a value below 2% up to 2%, as in illustration 3.2). Confirm with the provincial department if your result sits close to a step.
- More than 10 learners: the table stops at 10. We use the 10-learner column and flag it.
General information about the Schools Act and its regulations, not legal advice.
1. Get the form
The principal must give you the application form (Annexure B of the regulations) and tell you the fees and how to apply. The school must display the regulations and give you a copy on request.
2. Fill it in and attach proof
- Your combined annual gross income, with a salary advice where applicable.
- Proof of money received from investments and profit from any business.
- The school fees and additional contributions for each child at a fee-charging public school.
- For automatic exemption: an affidavit, a confirmation affidavit from a social worker or other competent authority, a court order.
- If the other parent is untraceable or will not give income details: an affidavit saying so (section 41(2A), from 24 December 2024).
Seal the form in an envelope addressed to the chairperson of the governing body and deliver it by hand or registered post. The governing body must keep your information confidential.
3. The decision
The governing body must decide within 30 days and tell you the decision and the reasons in writing within 7 days of deciding. You may ask to present your application in person or through a representative.
4. Appeal
If you disagree, appeal in writing to the provincial Head of Department within 30 days of the notice, with your reasons. The school may not take legal action for the fees while the appeal is pending, and the Head of Department must decide within 14 days of receiving the documents.
Not sure what to expect? Use the exemption calculator first.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to apply every year?
Yes. Regulation 4(1) says a parent must apply annually, in writing, to the chairperson of the governing body.
Can my application be rejected because the form is incomplete?
No. Regulation 9 says no applicant may be disqualified because the form is incomplete or wrongly completed, and the principal or an educator on the governing body must help.
Can the school keep my child's report or stop them from sport because fees are unpaid?
No. Section 41(7) of the Schools Act says a learner may not be suspended from classes, verbally or non-verbally abused, denied access to cultural, sporting or social activities or the nutrition programme, or denied a report or transfer certificate because the parent has not paid.
Can the school sue me?
Only after it has checked that you do not qualify for exemption, applied any partial exemption, and had you complete the prescribed form; or if you were notified in writing and did not apply or pay within three months. It may never attach the home you live in.