The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) reminded parents and guardians that the 2026 online admissions application period for Grade One and Eight will open from July 24 to August 29.

To apply, parents and guardians must first register on www.gdeadmissions.gov.za, which will go live on July 24.

All parents must create new profiles; old profiles and previous login details will no longer be valid. Only parents with children going into Grade One and/or Grade Eight at a public school in Gauteng for the 2026 academic year must use the system to register and apply online.

MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, stated that no new applications will be accepted after the system closes at midnight on August 29.

“The 2026 online admissions system is only meant for parents and guardians with children going to Grade One and/or Grade Eight in 2026. Parents of children currently in Grade R must also apply online for admission to Grade One in 2026 in line with the Admissions Regulations. There is no automatic placement from Grade R to Grade One. Applications for all other grades must be made directly at your desired school(s) in your area,” he said.

Registering a profile

After visiting www.gdeadmissions.gov.za, the system will prompt parents to create login credentials (username and password). These must be kept safe, as they will be used to access the system to view and manage application details. Parents must also accept the POPI disclaimer, enter a correct ID number, and accept the Terms and Conditions.

Once access is granted, parents must complete the five-step application process.

Five-step application process

When applying for Grade One and/or Grade Eight, the following steps must be completed:

• Register parent or guardian details

• Register home address details

• Register learner details

• Apply to a maximum of five schools

• Upload supporting documents to the system or submit them to schools within seven school days

It is essential that parents fill in accurate details during every step. Failure to upload or submit documents within the required period, or to complete all steps, will result in an incomplete application and the child will not be considered for placement.

Importance of a cellphone number

To receive important SMS notifications and updates, applicants must provide one reliable cellphone number when registering. Every step will be confirmed by SMS for security and verification purposes. Weekly pop-up reminders will appear on the system, and SMS alerts will be sent to help parents complete the process.

SMSs will also acknowledge receipt and verification of documents. Parents are encouraged not to change or lose the number. If this happens, they must contact the Department for assistance.

Selecting schools

All schools will be open and accessible on the system throughout the application period. Placement will depend on set criteria and the availability of space at each school.

Parents are urged to apply to a minimum of three and a maximum of five schools to improve their child’s chances of placement.