Only 5 464 Grade 1 and 8 learners still unplaced for 2026, says Gauteng Education MEC

The Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, confirms that only 5 464 learners remain unplaced as part of the 2026 Online Admissions for grades One and Eight.

This reflects sustained progress in the placement of learners in Gauteng for the 2026 academic year.

As of December 22, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) Online Admissions system recorded 5 464 grades One and Eight learners who are currently unplaced. This translates to Grade One: 1 478 and Grade Eight: 3 986.

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The GDE continues to release placement and transfer offers daily through the system.

It also has focused interventions in high-pressure areas to ensure all remaining learners are placed as efficiently and fairly as possible.

The system also recorded 7 118 grades One and Eight late applications for the 2026 academic year. These are being processed in line with available school capacity.

Chiloane reminds parents and guardians that the system is still open for those who did not apply during the main application period and those who made incomplete applications.

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Parents and guardians can apply by registering or logging on to www.gdeadmissions.gov.za

During the late application period, only schools with available space will appear on the system.

Applicants can select one school only, and once selected, the learner will be finally placed for the 2026 academic year. Placements made during this period cannot be declined, and no objections or appeals will be permitted.

Progress on appeals for 2026 online admissions

The department confirms that 6 855 placement appeals were lodged as part of the 2026 Online Admissions placement process, with 73% of these already adjudicated.

The appeals process is at an advanced stage, and outcomes are being communicated to parents and guardians as finalisation progresses.

Appeal outcomes are final.

“We are pleased with the progress made in learner placements in Gauteng. We again urge parents and guardians to be patient and co-operate as the department continues to work to ensure that every Grade One and Grade Eight learner is placed for the 2026 academic year, in line with regulated admissions criteria and available capacity,” said Chiloane.