GDE received nearly 740,000 grade 1 & 8 applications for 2026 admissions

JOHANNESBURG - The Gauteng Department of Education has received nearly 740,000 grade 1 and 8 applications for the 2026 academic year admissions.

This was revealed during a briefing on Friday morning, where the department gave an update on its online application.

With the online applications closing next Friday, MEC Matome Chiloane said it was crucial for parents to utilise the little time left to apply.

Speaking at the Edenglen Primary School, Chiloane said this would ensure children were placed in the province’s public schools.

"Beyond being accessible online, we've opened walk-in centres, we have opened access to all our over 2,200 public schools in Gauteng, so that parents can go there to get assistance, should they have problems while they are applying."

Chiloane has warned that after 29 August, no further applications will be taken.

"Should be noted that after the 29th of August, no new application will be accepted, no. So, parents make sure that by the 29th of August, you have applied for your children."