BACK TO SCHOOL ON TUESDAY, 2026 ADMISSIONS OPEN ON THURSDAY

On Tuesday, 22nd July 2025, term 3 will kick off, marking the return of learners to school after the long June holidays.

This time also coincides with an important event for parents and guardians in Gauteng, as the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) Online Admissions for 2026 opens on Thursday, 24th July 2025, and runs until Friday, 29th August 2025. This year holds special significance as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Online Admissions process.

The GDE is encouraging all parents and guardians to apply online for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements at Gauteng public schools. To get started, visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za and log in to secure a space for your child. The application process requires submitting certified copies of essential documents, including:
● A parent/guardian ID and child’s birth certificate/passport, refugee residence permit/asylum seeker permit, or study permit.
● Proof of home address.
● Proof of work address.
● The latest Grade 7 school report (for Grade 8 applicants only).
● Clinic card/immunisation report (for Grade 1 applicants only).

All documents must be certified and uploaded within 7 days of applying, with the information matching the details entered into the Online Admissions System.

To assist with the process, the GDE Contact Centre will be operational with extended hours starting 12th July 2025, responding to queries about the 2026 Online Admissions. Parents and guardians can reach out via:
◇ GDE Contact Centre/Switchboard: 0800 000 789
◇ GDE WhatsApp Query Line: 060 891 0361
◇ Email: gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za or talktothemed@gauteng.gov.za

The Contact Centre’s operating hours are:
Monday to Thursday: 07h00 – 17h00
Friday: 07h00 – 13h00
Saturday: 09h00 – 13h00

With the application window now open, the GDE urges all to #2026OnlineAdmissionsGP and play their part by applying online on time.