2028 dates not announced yet
No 2028 application window was confirmed in the department sources checked on 21 October 2026.
Previous intake: 2027 dates (reference only)
Last year’s intake compared with 2028. These are not 2028 dates.
Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications
5 August 2026 to 4 September 2026
Department’s date noticeLate Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications at schools with space
4 December 2026 to 31 January 2027
Department’s date notice
Who applies, and how
The steps below are GDE’s published 2027 guidance. Check for updates when 2028 applications are announced.
- Grade R: visit the nearest primary school or Early Childhood Development centre; Grade R is not on the GDE online system.
- Grade 1 and Grade 8: use GDE Online Admissions. A child already in Grade R must still apply for Grade 1.
- Transfers into Grades 2–7 or 9–11: ask a school in your area about space and an application. Confirm the route with GDE for other grades.
Documents to prepare
The department’s published checklist; check for any 2028 updates.
- Learner’s birth certificate for South African applicants.
- Parent or guardian’s ID or passport; proof of guardianship if applying as a guardian.
- Valid home address proof, and work address proof if applying using a work address. GDE does not accept an affidavit as address proof.
- Clinic card or immunisation proof for Grade 1; Grade 7 report for Grade 8.
- Non-South African applicants: use the passport or permit documents listed in GDE’s checklist for your circumstances.
- Submit certified copies within seven days of applying. GDE also lets you start an application without documents.
After you apply
Last published guidance. A 2028 timetable is not confirmed.
- Check SMS messages and your GDE profile for offers. The FAQ says to accept within seven school days; follow the deadline in your placement notice.
- If placed at a school you did not choose, the FAQ allows an online objection within seven days of the placement notice.
- If the objection fails, the FAQ says to submit an online appeal within seven days of its outcome.
Dates and details still to confirm
- No 2028 placement or appeal timetable has been confirmed. GDE’s general calendar says seven days to accept, while its FAQ specifies seven school days: follow the dated notice.
Check the Grade R and Grade 1 age rules and use the grade calculator to plan your child’s school year.
Department sources · checked 21 October 2026
A planning guide. Gauteng Department of Education decides applications and placements; confirm your child’s instructions with the department.