This guide provides information for parents and guardians applying for their child’s admission to Grade 1 or Grade 8 in Gauteng public schools.

The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially opened online applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 admissions in public schools for the academic year. Parents and guardians can now submit Gauteng school online applications to secure their child’s placement at a school in the province next year. 

Application Process

• Eligibility: Children entering Grade 1 or Grade 8.
• Application Period: The application window typically opens in mid-July and closes in early August. Exact dates are announced by the GDE each year. Be sure to check the GDE website for the current application period https://www.gdeadmissions.gov.za/.
• Online Application: Applications are submitted through the GDE Admissions portal https://www.gdeadmissions.gov.za/.
• Required Documents:
  • Parent/Guardian ID or Passport
  • Child’s Birth Certificate or Passport
  • Proof of Work Address
  • Latest Grade 7 School Report (for Grade 8 applicants)
  • Immunization Report
  • Proof of Home Address
• Steps:
  1. Register Parent/Guardian Details: Create an account using your ID number and a secure password.
  2. Register Address Details: Provide your accurate residential address.
  3. Register Learner Details: Enter your child’s information.
  4. Apply to Schools: Choose a minimum of three schools, prioritizing those within your feeder zone (explained below). You can select up to five schools using various criteria.
  5. Upload/Submit Documents: Upload scanned copies of required documents within the specified timeframe (usually 7 days).

Important Information

• Feeder Zones: Schools have designated residential areas from which they primarily admit students. Applying to schools within your feeder zone increases your child’s chance of admission. The GDE portal will display schools applicable to your address during the application process.
• School Selection Criteria: You can choose schools based on various preferences:
  • Proximity: Prioritizes schools closest to your home address.
  • Sibling Preference: Gives priority to applicants with siblings already attending the school.
  • Previous School Proximity (Grade 8 only): For a smoother transition, prioritizes nearby secondary schools your child previously attended.
  • Work Address: Allows selecting schools near your workplace for convenience.
  • 30km Radius: If no suitable schools are within 30km of your residence, this broader option applies.
• Placement Period: The placement period typically starts in mid-September and continues until all applicants are placed. The GDE will send placement offers to your registered phone number. You will have a set timeframe (usually 7 days) to accept the offer.

FAQs

• Can I apply after the deadline? Late applications are generally considered, but timeous applications are strongly encouraged to secure a spot in your preferred schools.
• What if I don’t have access to a computer or smartphone? You can visit one of the decentralized walk-in centers or public schools for assistance with the application process.
• I need help with the application process. The GDE website may have resources or FAQs to guide you. You can also visit a walk-in center or public school for assistance.
• What happens if none of my chosen schools accept my child? The GDE will place your child in an available school based on capacity. It’s important to include a range of schools in your application to increase your child’s chances of admission to a preferred school.
• Can I appeal the placement decision? The GDE may have an appeals process in place. Refer to the GDE website for details.

Additional Tips

• Start planning early: Familiarize yourself with the process and deadlines well before the application period opens.
• Gather required documents beforehand: Having all documents scanned and ready will expedite your application.
• Prioritize feeder zone schools: This significantly increases your child’s chance of being placed in your preferred school.
• Rank your choices strategically: List your most preferred schools first, followed by those with a high likelihood of acceptance based on the selection criteria.
• Keep copies of your application: Maintain a copy of your submitted application and supporting documents for your records.
• Stay informed: Regularly check the GDE website for updates and announcements regarding the admissions process.

By following this guide and staying informed, you can ensure a smooth and successful application process for your child’s admission to Gauteng public schools.