With Term 1 of the South African school calendar officially underway as of Wednesday, January 15, the Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) is urging parents who have incomplete or late applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements for the 2025 academic year to act promptly; they have until 1 am on Wednesday, January 30, to secure placement for their children in available schools.
This call to action, announced a day after the release of the 2024 matric results release – another important occasion in the SA school calender – marks the final deadline for late applications. Since Tuesday, January 14, late applications have surged, with the GDE reporting over 28,000 submissions by Thursday, January 16 (2025) underscoring the increasing demand for school placements.
MEC Matome Chiloane, speaking to Newzroom Afrika, explained the process for late applications: “With late applications, the system shows the available schools and space, and parents submit the documents and take the offer. Some parents, however, would then go to the district office and complain that they could not take the particular school. Reasons could be school fees or the distance from home.”
Chiloane acknowledged these challenges, urging parents to remain patient: “For those parents, I am appealing for patience — that we will place your child — and we are aware of the challenge we have in that regard because schools have long waiting lists, but we will place your child at a school where the parents and the district will be comfortable that this school is fine.”
Steps to submit your application
Whether you’re finalising an incomplete application or submitting a late one, follow these simple steps to ensure your child’s placement for the 2025 school year:
Step 1: Log in to the GDE application Portal
Step 1: Log in to the GDE application portal
Visit the GDE admissions website: www.gdeadmissions.gov.za. Existing users can log in to update their application or submit a new one.
Step 2: Register for late applications (if applicable)
If you missed the initial deadline, select ‘REGISTER’ to create a late application. Provide your child’s details and select a school with available space. Note: placements are final once made.
Step 3: Choose a school with available Space
Late applications are limited to schools with open spots. You can select a school based on your child’s grade and location. Ensure your choice is made carefully, as placements are not changeable.
Step 4: Submit your documents
Upload required documents through the portal between now and January 27, 2025. Alternatively, deliver them in person to the selected school between January 15 and 27.
Required Documents
- Proof of home address (e.g., utility bill or lease agreement)
- Your child’s birth certificate or ID
- Proof of guardianship (if applicable)
- Other relevant documents based on individual circumstances
Available schools for late applications
Only schools with available space will accept late applications. Once you submit your application and select a school, your child’s placement is confirmed, and no changes can be made. Take time to review your options before finalizing.
For further assistance, contact the Gauteng Department of Education Contact Centre at 0800 000 789, WhatsApp 060 891 0361, or email gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za.
