Gauteng Online School Admissions for 2026 Now Open: Parents Urged to Apply Early
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially opened the 2026 Online Admissions Application process for Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners today, Thursday, 24 July 2025, at 8:00 AM. The department is urging parents and guardians to act swiftly and carefully as the process gets underway.
The online system, accessible at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za, is specifically for parents of children entering Grade 1 or Grade 8 in the 2026 academic year. Gauteng Education MEC, Matome Chiloane, stressed during a media briefing on Sunday that the system does not automatically progress Grade R learners into Grade 1, and parents of such learners must also apply online.
“Parents with children that are currently in Grade R must apply online for Grade 1 admission. There is no automatic placement. For all other grades, applications must be made directly at schools,” Chiloane clarified.
New User Profiles Required
All parents, including those who used the system in previous years, are required to register new user profiles. Previous login details will no longer work on the updated system. After accessing the portal, users must create new login credentials and accept the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) disclaimer and the platform’s terms and conditions.
Once logged in, parents must complete a five-step application process, which includes:
- Registering personal and learner information,
- Selecting schools (between three and five options),
- Uploading required documents,
- Verifying all submitted information, and
- Final confirmation of the application.
Chiloane warned that incomplete applications will not be processed, and highlighted that all supporting documents must be uploaded or physically submitted within seven days of applying.
Feeder Zone and School Selection Guidance
Parents are encouraged to use the “Home Address Within School Feeder Zone” option when applying. This helps the system identify nearby schools and increases the chances of placement closer to home.
“Select schools that fall within your residential feeder zone and ensure you apply to at least three, but not more than five schools,” Chiloane advised.
Applicants must provide one valid cellphone number during registration. This number will be used for receiving SMS updates at every step of the process — from confirmation of application to document verification.
MEC Chiloane also warned against fraudsters charging fees in exchange for placement promises.
“The GDE does not charge for online applications or assistance. All official services are free. Any scams or illegal practices must be reported immediately,” he said.
Application Deadline
The closing date for 2026 Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications is midnight on 29 August 2025. No late applications will be accepted.
For assistance, parents can contact the GDE through the following channels:
- Call Centre: 0800 000 789
- WhatsApp Line: 060 891 0361
- Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za