Starting high school is a big step not just for learners, but also for you as a parent or guardian. If your child will be entering Grade 8 in 2026 in Gauteng, it’s crucial to understand how to navigate the GDE Online Admissions system. This comprehensive, updated guide covers everything you need to know—from deadlines and required documents to how language of teaching affects placement.
Let’s break it down so that you feel fully prepared.
2026 Online Admissions: Key Dates and Overview
The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has officially confirmed the application period for Grade 8 and Grade 1 learners entering public schools in 2026.
Application Opens: Thursday, 24 July 2025 at 08:00 AM
Application Closes: Friday, 29 August 2025 at 00:00 AM (Midnight)
All applications must be submitted online via the GDE portal:
👉 www.gdeadmissions.gov.za
Important: Late applications will not be accepted. Schools often reach full capacity quickly, and applying late means fewer placement options.
Who Should Apply?
You must apply through the GDE Online Admissions System if:
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Your child is currently in Grade 7 and will be entering Grade 8 in 2026.
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You’re seeking admission to a Gauteng public high school.
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You live in or are relocating to Gauteng.
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Your child attends a public or independent primary school.
Note: The system only processes Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications. For other grades, apply directly at your preferred school(s).
How to Apply for Grade 8 in 2026
Here’s a simplified breakdown of the 5-Step Application Process:
Step 1: Register Parent/Guardian Details
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Visit the website after it goes live on 24 July 2025.
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Create a profile with your ID/passport number, name, and cellphone number.
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Previous login details will not work new registration is required.
Step 2: Register Home Address
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Provide a valid and verifiable proof of residence.
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The system uses your address to identify schools within your feeder zone.
Step 3: Register Learner Details
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Add your child’s name, birth certificate/passport number, and Grade 7 school information.
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Language data from the Grade 7 report will be used (see more below).
Step 4: Apply to Schools (3 to 5 Options)
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Select 3 to 5 public schools based on feeder zone, sibling attendance, home/work proximity, or school offerings.
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Each learner may only apply once per school.
Step 5: Upload or Submit Supporting Documents
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Upload documents online or submit physically to each selected school within 7 days of application.
Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT): What You Must Know
For Grade 8 admissions, the language subjects your child studied in Grade 7 are critical:
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The system will prompt you to select:
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Language of Learning and Teaching (LOLT)
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Home Language (HL)
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Additional Language
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You must select languages exactly as shown on your child’s Grade 7 Report.
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Schools will verify language selections and use them as a placement criterion.
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Learners will only be queued for schools that offer the same language combinations.
Documents Required for Grade 8 Application
To complete your application, submit certified copies of:
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Parent/Guardian ID or Passport
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Learner’s Birth Certificate or Passport
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Study/Refugee/Asylum Permit (if applicable)
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Proof of Home Address (see full details below)
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Proof of Work Address
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Latest Grade 7 School Report
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Any other required documentation requested by schools
Submission Options:
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Upload online (PDF max 10MB per document)
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Submit physically at each selected school
Note: Applications without valid proof of address or Grade 7 language records will be considered incomplete.
Proof of Home Address: What Counts?
For Homeowners:
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A municipal bill (not older than 3 months) with the parent’s full address.
For Tenants:
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Landlord’s municipal bill
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Signed lease agreement
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Rental payment slip (last 3 months)
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Any account statement with the tenant’s name and full residential address
Reminder:
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Submitting fraudulent proof of address may lead to non-placement.
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Some schools verify addresses through site visits.
System Improvements and Stakeholder Input
Every year, before the application period, the GDE makes improvements to the Online Admissions System based on feedback from:
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Parents
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School principals and administrators
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Governing bodies
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District officials
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Call centre agents
This review ensures that the process remains user-friendly, fair, and effective.
How You’ll Be Notified
Once you apply:
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You’ll receive SMS notifications at each step—confirmation of application, document submission, verification, and placement offers.
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You must use one reliable cellphone number and avoid changing it during the process.
Walk-In Centres Are Available (Free Help)
The GDE provides 81 decentralized walk-in centres to help you with:
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Registration
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Applications
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Uploading documents
Do not pay anyone to apply on your behalf. GDE services are free, and any business promising guaranteed placement is likely a scam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply using a language different from the Grade 7 report?
No. For Grade 8, the system only allows language selections that match your child’s Grade 7 School Report.
Can I apply to the same school more than once?
No. The system allows only one application per learner per school.
What happens if I submit my documents late?
You’ll receive reminders via SMS, but if documents are not submitted within 7 days, your application will be marked incomplete and may be disqualified.
Do I need to re-register if I used the system in previous years?
Yes. All parents must register again in 2025 previous login details will not work.
How can I check if my documents were verified?
You’ll receive an SMS notification once schools verify your documents. You can also log in to your profile to check the status.
Applying for Grade 8 in 2026 through the Gauteng Online Admissions System is a significant step but you don’t have to do it alone. With clear steps, available resources, and timely preparation, you can ensure your child’s smooth transition into high school.
Mark the date: 24 July 2025 at 08:00 AM.
Apply early, submit accurate documents, and monitor your SMS notifications. Most importantly, choose wisely—your child’s future depends on it.