Gauteng Opens 2026 Online School Admissions with Upgraded, Faster System

Gauteng Education MEC Matome Chiloane has officially launched the 2026 Online Admissions System for Grade 1 and Grade 8 learners in the province’s public schools, ushering in a new admissions cycle with a significantly upgraded digital platform.

The launch took place at the YMCA in Ga-Rankuwa Zone 5, one of the 81 walk-in centres set up across Gauteng to assist parents and guardians who lack internet access or devices to apply online.

Within hours of opening, the system had already processed over 80,000 applications, according to Chiloane. “The parents are responding positively, and we are anticipating a much larger number by the end of the day,” he said, noting that no glitches or crashes had been reported so far.

Application Period and Access

The online application window opened on 24 July 2025 and will close on Friday, 29 August 2025 at midnight. Parents and guardians can submit applications at www.gdeadmissions.gov.za from any internet-enabled device.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has advised parents to avoid the last-minute rush and apply well ahead of the deadline to ensure that all steps are completed accurately and on time.

System Enhancements in 2026

The revamped platform can now process up to 40,000 applications per minute, a major leap from previous capacities. This was done to prevent system slowdowns during peak traffic periods, a problem that plagued earlier application cycles.

“We have worked hard to improve communication and efficiency,” said MEC Chiloane. He highlighted that applicants now receive SMS confirmations at each stage of the process, helping to eliminate uncertainty and strengthen transparency.

Other system upgrades include:

• Simultaneous parental applications (mother or father) for the same child, though the system will only allow a selection of five schools per learner.

• Expanded document tracking and SMS updates for verification and submission status.

• Weekly system notifications and reminders to help parents complete applications on time.

Step-by-Step Application Process

The MEC reiterated that all parents must create new user profiles, as previous login credentials will no longer work. The five-step process must be fully completed for an application to be considered:

1. Register a new profile and accept the POPI disclaimer.

2. Create login credentials (username and password).

3. Enter correct ID details and contact information — especially a reliable cellphone number to receive SMS notifications.

4. Select 3 to 5 schools, preferably using the Home Address Within School Feeder Zone option.

5. Upload or submit supporting documents within 7 days of applying.

“Registering a profile alone without completing the full process will result in an incomplete application and disqualification from placement,” Chiloane warned.

Using the Feeder Zone for Placement

Parents are strongly encouraged to use the feeder zone tool provided on the platform. This function maps the parent or guardian's home address to local school zones, thereby increasing the chance of a successful placement.

Selecting schools within the feeder zone of a learner’s home address is not only a strategy for better placement outcomes but also helps reduce school commute times and related transport costs.

Avoiding Scams and Fraud

The MEC issued a stern warning to parents not to fall prey to fraudulent operators claiming to secure guaranteed placements for a fee.

“The GDE does not charge for applications or any part of the process,” he emphasised. “Anyone asking for money is a scammer, and we urge the public to report such cases immediately.”

Scams, fake agents, and any instance of corruption or fraudulent placements should be reported directly to the GDE through their official contact channels.

Support and Assistance

To support parents through the application period, the Gauteng Department of Education offers multiple help channels:

• Toll-Free Number: 0800 000 789

• WhatsApp Support: 060 891 0361

• Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za

• Walk-In Centres: 81 locations across Gauteng

Walk-in centres provide free assistance with online submissions, profile creation, and document uploads, particularly for parents without digital tools or connectivity.

The successful launch of the 2026 online admissions cycle marks another step in Gauteng’s efforts to modernise and streamline access to education. With user-focused upgrades, improved system capacity, and broad-based support infrastructure, the province is paving the way for an efficient, transparent, and fair admissions process.

Parents are reminded to act early, be vigilant against scams, and make full use of the resources provided to ensure their children secure a place in the school of their choice for the 2026 academic year.