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 R, 1 and 8 online applications
20 April 2026 to 29 May 2026
Department’s date notice
Who applies, and how
These are NCDoE’s current portal instructions and 2027 intake guidance. No 2028 entry-grade window is announced here.
- Grade R, Grade 1 and Grade 8: use the online entry-grade application. Grade RR learners must apply for Grade R.
- Transfers into Grades 2–7 and 9–11 use the separate middle-grades route. The current portal describes it as open all year; Grade 12 is excluded except for specific policy provisions.
Documents to prepare
The department’s published checklist; check for any 2028 updates.
- Parent or legal guardian ID, or the sworn affidavit described in the circular if it is unavailable.
- Learner birth certificate or the alternative sworn proof listed in the circular.
- Home address proof, such as the municipal account or lease described by NCDoE.
- Clinic / immunisation proof for Grade R and Grade 1; latest progress report where applicable.
- Transfer / relocation supporting documents for middle grades; relevant death certificates where either or both parents have died.
- Non-South African applicants and children in alternative care: use the circular’s documents for your circumstances.
After you apply
Last published guidance. A 2028 timetable is not confirmed.
- Upload required documents within seven days. Keep the application reference sent by SMS.
- 31 July 2026 · 2027 intakeThe 2027 intake FAQ says placement SMS messages begin on this date.
- After placement, the FAQ says the school contacts you to complete an acceptance form.
- The FAQ says to lodge an appeal through the system to the MEC within 14 days of an unwanted placement or an unsuccessful-application SMS.
Dates and details still to confirm
- The older circular/FAQ gives a fixed 2026 middle-grades window, while the current portal says all year. Follow the current middle-grades route; no conflicting closing-date reminder is generated.
- No 2028 placement or acceptance timetable is confirmed.
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. Northern Cape Department of Education decides applications and placements; confirm your child’s instructions with the department.