Apply Early! Gauteng online school admissions kick off July 25
Parents are reminded to upload or submit the required documents within seven days, failing to do so will result in an incomplete application.
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has confirmed that its 2026 online admissions application system for Grade One and Grade Eight learners will open on Thursday at 08:00.
This system is specifically designed for parents and guardians of children entering Grade One or Grade Eight in the 2026 academic year.
Parents of children currently in Grade R must also apply for Grade One placement, as there is no automatic progression between the two grades.
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Gauteng MEC for Education, Matome Chiloane, urged families to ensure they follow all application steps correctly.
“All parents must create new profiles – no old profiles or login details from previous years will work,” Chiloane said at a media briefing on July 20.
After registering at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za, the system will prompt parents to set up a username and password.
These credentials are vital for tracking application progress and making changes when necessary.
Parents are reminded to accept the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) disclaimer and terms and conditions, and to enter accurate ID numbers and personal details.
Once logged in, the application must be completed using the five-step process.
“It is essential to complete each step correctly. Failing to do so will result in an incomplete application and may affect your child’s placement,” Chiloane warned.
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Key steps include:
• Completing all five application stages
• Uploading or submitting required documents within seven days
• Providing one reliable cellphone number for SMS verification and updates
Chiloane noted that weekly reminders will be sent via SMS and pop-up notifications on the system.
Parents are strongly advised not to lose or change their cellphone numbers during this process. If unavoidable, they should contact the department for assistance.
• Select at least three and up to five schools
• Use the Home Address Within School Feeder Zone option when applying
• Choose schools whose feeder zones include their home address
“All schools will remain open for selection throughout the application period,” the department confirmed.
Important dates and warnings
Application window closes: August 29 at midnight
No late applications will be accepted
Chiloane also warned parents about fraudulent schemes.
“Bogus operators are scamming parents by promising placements for money. The GDE does not charge any fees for online applications or support. All official assistance is free,” he said.
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Parents and guardians are encouraged to report any suspicious activity directly to the department.
Need help? Contact the GDE:
Call: 0800 000 789
WhatsApp: 060 891 0361
Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za
