South African public schools may charge fees, but learners from low-income households can apply for a school fee exemption so they are not denied access to education. This system helps ensure every child receives basic education regardless of financial challenges.

Parents or guardians who cannot afford school fees have the right to request full or partial fee exemptions under the South African Schools Act.

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✅ Who Qualifies for School Fee Exemptions?

  • Families earning below a certain income threshold
  • Parents/guardians receiving social grants (e.g., Child Support Grant)
  • Single-parent households with financial hardship
  • Households with more than one learner at a fee-paying school

Public schools must consider each family’s unique financial circumstances when assessing applications.

📝 Required Documents

Prepare certified copies of:

  • Parent/guardian ID
  • Latest payslips or proof of income
  • Grant approval documentation (if applicable)
  • Learner’s birth certificate
  • Completed School Fee Exemption Form

Schools are required to provide the form free of charge upon request.

📌 How to Apply — Step-by-Step

  1. Visit the school office and collect the exemption form.
  2. Fill in income details honestly and accurately.
  3. Attach required documents.
  4. Submit the form to the school principal or finance office.

The school must respond in writing within 30 days of receiving the application.

🧒 Children Cannot Be Punished for Non-Payment

Schools may not:

  • Exclude learners from classes or exams
  • Withhold school reports
  • Force learners to work to “pay off fees”

These actions are illegal under the Schools Act.

💡 Help With Appeals

If an exemption request is unfairly denied, parents can appeal:

  • First to the School Governing Body (SGB)
  • Then to the Provincial Department of Education if needed

Keep copies of all submitted forms and correspondence.

ℹ️ Learn More From Official Sources

🎓Department of Education: www.education.gov.za
⚖️Legal Aid: https://legal-aid.co.za/school-fees/

Child Support Grant Info → | Education Support in South Africa →

Last updated: November 2025

This article is for educational guidance only. Always confirm requirements with your local school administration.