The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially opened online applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners for the 2026 academic year. The application period is a critical window for parents and guardians to secure a place for their children in a public school.
Key Dates and Information
- Application Period: Online applications opened on Thursday, July 24, 2025, at 08:00 AM and will close on Friday, August 29, 2025, at midnight. It is strongly advised not to wait until the last minute to avoid system congestion.
- Application Portal: All applications for Grade 1 and 8 must be submitted through the official GDE Online Admissions System at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za.
- New Registration Required: Even if you have used the system before, all parents and guardians must register new profiles. Previous login details will not work for the 2026 admissions cycle.
- Number of Schools: Applicants must apply to a minimum of three schools and a maximum of five schools. It is recommended to use the “Home Address Within School Feeder Zone” option to increase the chances of placement at a school close to your residence.
Required Documents
To complete the application, you will need to upload or submit certified copies of the following documents within seven school days of applying.
- Parent/Guardian ID or valid passport.
- Child’s birth certificate or passport.
- Proof of home address.
- For foreign nationals: Refugee Permit, Asylum Seeker Permit, Permanent Residence Permit, or Study Permit.
- For Grade 8 applicants: Latest Grade 7 school report.
- For Grade 1 applicants: Clinic Card/Immunisation Report.
Important Reminders
- The GDE Online Admissions System is exclusively for applications to Grade 1 and Grade 8. Applications for all other grades (Grade 2-7 and Grade 9-11) must be made directly at the school of your choice.
- There is no automatic progression from Grade R to Grade 1. All parents with children in Grade R must apply online for Grade 1 admission.
- Be cautious of scams. The GDE does not charge any fees for assistance with the application process.
For additional help, you can contact the GDE Call Centre at 0800 000 789 or use the WhatsApp line at 060 891 0361.
This video provides an overview of the online admissions process.
