How to Apply for School Admission in South Africa (2026 Guide for Parents/Guardians)
Applying for your child’s school admission in South Africa for 2026 is mostly online, free, and managed by provincial Departments of Education, focusing on Grades 1 and 8. Plan ahead to secure a spot at a public school.
Table of Contents
Am I Eligible to Apply?
- Your child must be the right age: Grade 1 (turning 7 in 2026), Grade 8 (turning 14), or as per provincial rules.
- For public schools: Open to SA citizens, permanent residents, or foreigners with valid permits.
- Private schools have their own processes—contact them directly.
- If your child has special needs, mention it during application for appropriate placement.
What Documents Do I Need?
Gather these certified copies (not older than 3 months):
- Child’s birth certificate or ID.
- Your ID or passport (as parent/guardian).
- Proof of residence (utility bill, lease agreement).
- Immunization card (clinic card).
- Latest school report (for transfers).
- For foreigners: Study permit, asylum/refugee papers, or proof of application to Home Affairs.
- If applicable: Proof of guardianship or social grant.
Submit documents to schools within 7 days of applying (e.g., in Gauteng).
Step-by-Step Application Process
The process varies by province, but it’s mostly online. Apply to up to 5 schools, ranking them by preference.
1. Choose Your Province’s Portal
- Gauteng: Use www.gdeadmissions.gov.za. Open July 24 to August 29, 2025 for Grades 1 and 8.
- Western Cape: Apply via www.westerncape.gov.za/education. Timelines for 2026: March 11 to April 15, 2025 (based on previous patterns; confirm).
- Mpumalanga: Online from May 2 to August 31, 2025.
- Northern Cape: April 14 to May 23, 2025 for Grades R, 1, 8.
- Other provinces (e.g., KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape): Check your provincial DBE site or call for portals (e.g., KZN: www.kzneducation.gov.za).
2. Register on the Portal
- Create an account with your ID, email, and cell phone.
- Get a username/password or OTP for verification.
3. Fill in the Application
- Enter child’s details, your details, and school preferences (up to 5).
- Select feeder zones if applicable (schools prioritize local applicants).
- Submit and get a reference number.
4. Submit Documents
- Upload online or take to schools within 7 days.
- Schools verify and confirm.
5. Wait for Outcome
- Notifications via SMS/email (e.g., Gauteng by September 2025).
- Accept within 7 days or lose the spot.
Tips for Success
- Apply early to avoid system overload.
- Choose schools wisely—consider distance, fees (public schools are no-fee for low-income), and reviews.
- If rejected, appeal within 7-10 days via the portal or provincial office.
- For private schools: Apply directly; deadlines vary.
- Help Line: Contact your provincial DBE (e.g., Gauteng: 0800 000 789).
This guide should make the process easier—good luck getting your child into school! For updates, visit www.education.gov.za.