Over 500 000 Grade 1 and Grade 8 applications have been successfully processed during the first six days of the 2025 online admissions application period.
The Department of Education, Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation recorded 512 237 applications on Wednesday, July 17, which translates to 214 843 Grade 1 applications and 297 394 Grade 8 applications.
MEC Matome Chiloane said this achievement marks a new era in the efficiency and accessibility of the admissions process for Gauteng public schools.
The 2025 online admissions application period commenced on Thursday, July 11 and runs until August 12.
“It is crucial to note that incomplete applications will not be processed for placement.
“We have identified over 12 000 parents who have not completed the full process,” said Chiloane.
He said to ensure a smooth application process, parents must either upload certified copies of required documents online or submit them to all selected schools within seven days of application.
He explained that online document uploads need to be done only once for all selected schools to view.
The department recommends applying to a minimum of three and a maximum of five schools to increase the chances of successful placement.
Parents must ensure that the cellphone numbers they provide are accurate, as ongoing communication regarding their application will be sent via SMS notifications.
The username for documented parents is their 13-digit ID number, passport number, or permit number, while parents without documents will receive a 13-digit username.
All parents must create a password to be kept safe along with the provided username.
Parents who have who have submitted complete applications can expect to receive offers of placement from September 16.
Chiloane said parents who have already submitted applications must log in to their accounts using their username and password to ensure they have completed all necessary steps.
He said the department is willing to assist those parents who may not have the means to apply online, as it has 80 decentralised walk-in centres.
“The department’s contact centres operate from 07:00 to 17:00 on Monday to Thursday, 07:30 to 16:30 on Fridays and from 09:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays.”
Parents may contact the department on 0800 000 789 for assistance or send a query on WhatsApp at 060 891 0361 or email gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za.
“The phenomenal number of applications we’ve received demonstrates the trust parents place in our education system.
“The department remains committed to providing quality education and ensuring a fair and transparent admissions process.
“We extend our heartfelt thanks to all parents for their cooperation and understanding during this important period,” said Chiloane.
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