Neighbour Public School Fees & Exemptions: what parents need to know for 2026 🎓 

As the new school year approaches, many South African parents face uncertainty around public school fees — what must be paid, who qualifies for exemptions, and what schools are legally allowed to do.

We explain your rights and obligations under the South African Schools Act (SASA) and related regulations.

⚠️Important: This guidance applies to public schools only. Private schools operate under separate contractual policies.

💰 Can Public Schools Charge School Fees?

Yes. While every child has a constitutional right to basic education, public schools may charge fees to supplement government funding. However, the law is clear: parents who cannot afford these fees must be supported through regulated exemption mechanisms.

📄 School Fee Exemptions Explained

Parents may qualify for full, partial, or conditional exemptions, depending on income and the total annual fees payable.

🏫 No-Fee Schools

If a school is officially declared a no-fee school, parents cannot legally be charged compulsory school or activity fees. These schools are identified annually by provincial education departments.

✅ Full Exemption

A full exemption applies where annual school fees amount to 10% or more of household income. If approved, no fees are payable, but parents must still apply through the School Governing Body (SGB).

➗ Partial Exemption

A partial exemption applies when fees fall between 3.5% and 10% of annual income, allowing for reduced payments on a sliding scale.

⚖️ Conditional Exemption

Where fees fall between 2% and 3.5% of income, a conditional exemption may apply based on individual circumstances.
If fees are below 2%, no exemption is available.

🧒 Automatic (Mandatory) Exemptions

Schools may not charge school fees for learners who:

• Are in foster care or registered care facilities
• Live in child-headed households
• Are placed in care by court order
• Are supported by a child support grant

Charging fees in these cases is unlawful.

📝 How to Apply for a School Fee Exemption 

You do not need a lawyer to apply — and the school must help you.

Here’s what the process looks like in simple terms:

Step 1: Ask for the Form

Go to your child’s school and ask the principal or SGB for a school fee exemption form.
📌 The form is free — schools may not charge you for it.

Step 2: Fill It in Honestly

Complete the form with details about:

• Your income (or lack of income)
• Your household situation
• The number of children you support

💡 If you are unemployed or earn irregular income, you may submit an affidavit instead of payslips.

Step 3: Attach Proof

Attach any documents that show your financial situation, such as:

• Payslips
• SASSA grant slips
• An affidavit, if you are unemployed

Don’t worry if you don’t have everything done, the school may not reject your application just because it is incomplete.

Step 4: Hand It in and Wait

Submit the form to the school.
📬 The SGB must give you a written decision within 14 days.

✔️ If approved, the exemption applies from the start of the school year.

Step 5: Appeal If Necessary

If your application is declined:

• You have 30 days to appeal to the Provincial Department of Education
• The school must help you with the appeal form

⛔ While an appeal is underway, the school may not take legal action against you.

🚫 Can Schools Punish Learners for Non-Payment?

No. A learner may NOT be:

• Excluded from class or activities
• Discriminated against
• Denied reports or transfer certificates

If a parent does not qualify for an exemption and fails to pay, the SGB may pursue legal recovery — but only after all exemption processes are followed. The learner must remain in school throughout.

📌 Key Considerations for 2026

• Divorced or separated parents are assessed individually
• Voluntary contributions are never compulsory
• Exemptions are not automatic — parents must apply

With Legal&Tax you’re not alone

If you’re unsure about school fees, exemptions, or your rights as a parent, Legal&Tax is here to support you. T’c and C’s apply.

💬 WhatsApp: +27 (71) 526 8527(type “Hi” to start chatting) 
☎️ Call: 0860 587 587
✉️ Email: info@legalandtax.co.za

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