The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially opened the 2026 Online Admissions Application process for Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners in public schools across the province. The application window will run from Thursday, 24 July 2025 at 08:00 AM and close on Friday, 29 August 2025 at midnight. Parents and guardians are urged to act promptly and follow the process carefully to secure placement for their children.
To apply, parents must register on the GDE Online Admissions portal at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za. Importantly, all parents must create new profiles, as login details from previous years will not be valid.
The application process is specifically for learners entering Grade 1 and Grade 8 in 2026. Parents of children currently in Grade R must apply for Grade 1 placement — there is no automatic progression. Applications for other grades (2–7 and 9–11) must be made directly at the preferred school.
Step-by-Step Process
The application follows a mandatory 5-step process:
1. Register parent/guardian details
2. Register home address
3. Register learner details
4. Apply to a maximum of five schools
5. Upload or submit documents within 7 days
Parents must provide accurate information at every step, and upload or submit certified copies of all required documents. These include identification documents, birth certificates, proof of address, and latest school reports (for Grade 8), among others. Only one method of document submission is allowed — either upload online or submit in person to schools, not both.
Importance of Valid Contact Information
A correct cellphone number is essential. SMS notifications will be used throughout the process to confirm applications, request missing documents, and issue placement offers.
Avoid Scams
The department warns parents to beware of fraudulent agents promising guaranteed placements for a fee. The GDE offers this service entirely free of charge and encourages parents to report scams.
Support and Resources
To ensure inclusivity, the department has established 81 decentralised walk-in centres, all district offices, and every public school as support hubs. These centres will assist with applications, especially for those without access to internet or digital devices.
Placement offers will be sent from 16 October 2025, based on criteria such as proximity to schools, sibling attendance, and feeder zone rules.
The GDE reiterates its commitment to transparency, fairness, and service delivery. Parents are encouraged to play their part by applying early and correctly, ensuring their children’s access to education in 2026.
