No-fee schools and school fee exemptions in South Africa
Nearly two-thirds of South Africa's public schools are no-fee schools. Parents at these schools do not pay school fees, because the state funds the school instead. At fee-paying public schools, parents who cannot afford the fees can apply for an exemption.
What is a no-fee school?
The no-fee school policy was introduced in 2007. A province declares a school no-fee, usually because it is in Quintile 1, 2 or 3 (see school quintiles explained). A no-fee school may not charge compulsory fees, though it may ask for voluntary donations. It also may not refuse to admit a child, or withhold a report, because a parent has not paid anything.
You can browse no-fee schools by province and town, or check the School fees line on any school's page.
Fees at fee-paying public schools
At fee-paying public schools, fees are proposed by the school governing body and voted on by parents at a budget meeting each year. Once approved, the fees are compulsory for parents who are not exempted.
Who qualifies for an exemption?
Under the national regulations for exemption from school fees, the school compares the annual fee for a child with the parents' combined gross income:
- Full exemption applies if the parents' combined annual income is less than 10 times the annual school fee.
- Partial exemption applies if the income is between 10 and 30 times the annual fee. The exact discount is worked out with a formula in the regulations.
Some children qualify automatically, without an income test, including children in foster care, children in a child-headed household, orphans and children whose parents receive a Child Support Grant for them.
How to apply
- Ask the school for the fee exemption application form, preferably before the school year starts.
- Attach proof of income (payslips, an affidavit if you are unemployed) or proof of the grant or foster placement.
- The governing body must give you a written decision. If it refuses, you can appeal to the provincial head of department within 30 days.
While an application or appeal is being decided, the school may not exclude your child from classes, sport or school activities because of unpaid fees.