SEDIBENG.- The Gauteng Department of Education has said that the late applications period, which commenced on December 17, 2025 and will close on January 30.

The period has to date recorded a total of 11 183 late applications, comprising:

• 5701 Grade 1 learners
• 5482 Grade 8 learners

All late applications processed during this period result in final placements at the school selected by parents or guardians, subject to available capacity.

Parents are advised to visit the selected school from 14 January 2026 to submit all required documentation.

MEC Matome Chiloane reminds parents and guardians that the 2026 Online Admissions system remains open for Late Applications, particularly for those who did not apply during the main application period or whose applications were incomplete.

Parents and guardians are urged to apply online 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 may 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 thereafter,” said the department.

Progress on appeals and objections for 2026 online admissions

The department confirmed that a grand total of 6736 placement appeals have been lodged as part of the 2026 Online Admissions process, and only 637 objections await adjudication.

The appeals adjudication process is at an advanced stage, with outcomes communicated directly to parents and guardians as finalisation progresses.

Parents are reminded that appeal outcomes are final.

“We are encouraged by the steady progress made in placing learners across Gauteng. We once again urge parents and guardians to remain patient and cooperative as the Department continues to work tirelessly to ensure that every Grade 1 and Grade 8 learner is placed for the 2026 academic year,” said MEC Chiloane.