The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially opened its GDE online admissions 2026 process for parents and guardians applying for Grade 1 online registration Gauteng 2026 and Grade 8 online registration Gauteng 2026. Here is your step-by-step guide to make sure you apply on time and avoid common mistakes.

When Do GDE Admissions Open and Close for 2026?

Opening date: Thursday, 24 July 2025 at 08:00 AM

Closing date: Friday, 29 August 2025 at midnight

It is important to apply within this period. Applications submitted late will have limited school options because schools fill up quickly.

Where to Apply: www.gdeadmissions.gov.za Login

All parents must visit the official portal www.gdeadmissions.gov.za to:

1. Register as a new user (previous login details will not work).

2. Create your profile with a reliable cellphone number to receive SMS updates.

3. Start your GDE admissions application process immediately after registration.

How to Apply for Grade 1 Gauteng 2026

1. Visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za from 24 July 2025.

2. Register your details as a parent or guardian.

3. Register your home address details.

4. Register your learner's details (child’s information).

5. Apply to a minimum of 3 schools and a maximum of 5 schools within your feeder zone.

6. Upload all required documents online or submit them physically within 7 days.

Note: Children currently in Grade R are not automatically placed in Grade 1. You must apply online for them.

How to Apply for Grade 8 Gauteng 2026

The process is similar to Grade 1. Parents must:

1. Register online during the application period.

2. Submit Grade 7 report cards as part of required documents.

3. Select their preferred Language of Learning and Teaching matching the Grade 7 report.

GDE Registration Documents Required

You will need certified copies of:

• Parent/guardian ID or passport

• Child’s birth certificate or passport

• Proof of home address

• Proof of work address

• Clinic card/immunisation report (Grade 1 only)

• Grade 7 school report (Grade 8 only)

Upload these documents online in PDF (max 10MB) or submit certified copies physically to each selected school within 7 school days after application.

GDE School Placement 2026: How Are Learners Placed?

Placement is based on these criteria in order:

1. Home address within the school’s feeder zone

2. Siblings or previous school history

3. Work address within feeder zone

4. Home address within a 30km radius

5. Home address beyond 30km radius

SMS placement offers will be sent starting 16 October 2025, and the process continues until all learners are placed.

GDE Feeder Zones Schools List

When applying, parents are encouraged to choose schools within their feeder zones to increase chances of placement. The system will show you options based on your home address.

Schools of Specialisation Application

Applications to Schools of Specialisation (SOS) are done via the same online system. These schools focus on maths, science, ICT, engineering, arts, and sports. Some require placement tests or auditions, so contact the school directly for test dates.

Common GDE Online Application Problems

Many parents face these issues:

• Missing documents or uploading incorrect files.

• Registering without completing applications to schools.

• Providing unverified or fraudulent proof of address, which leads to non-placement.

• Using old login details instead of registering afresh for 2026.

Tip: Always provide a reliable cellphone number for SMS notifications.

GDE Walk-In Centres for Admissions

If you don’t have internet access, visit any of the 81 decentralised walk-in centres across Gauteng for free assistance. Avoid private internet cafés that charge a fee, as GDE does not charge for applications.

GDE Admissions Help Contact Number

• Call: 0800 000 789

• WhatsApp: 060 891 0361

• Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za

For more FAQs and updates, visit www.education.gauteng.gov.za.

GDE Admissions Application Step by Step Guide

1. Register on www.gdeadmissions.gov.za.

2. Enter parent details.

3. Enter home address details.

4. Enter learner details.

5. Apply to 3-5 schools.

6. Upload all required documents within 7 days.

FAQs: GDE Admissions 2026

Q: What if I miss the application deadline?

A: Late applications have limited options, and your child may not get a preferred school.

Q: Can I apply for Grades 2-7 or 9-12 online?

A: No. Apply directly at the school.

Q: Are there placement tests for Grade 1 or Grade 8?

A: Only Schools of Specialisation require placement tests or auditions.

Final Reminder

✔️ Apply online between 24 July and 29 August 2025

✔️ Upload documents within 7 days

✔️ Choose schools within your feeder zone for better chances

✔️ Use only www.gdeadmissions.gov.za to avoid scams

Play your part today. Secure your child’s future with the GDE online admissions 2026 process.