The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has announced that a record-breaking 164 565 on-time applications were received for Grade R, 1, and 8 placements in the 2026 academic year.
This figure marks the highest number of on-time applications ever recorded in the province and represents a significant increase of 12 577 applications compared to the previous year.
“We sincerely thank the parents and guardians who acted responsibly by applying during the on-time window,” said the WCED.
“Timely applications are critical to our ability to plan effectively and ensure the availability of school places for all learners.”
Next steps in the admissions process
Schools will now begin processing the applications in line with their admissions policies.
- Offers of placement will be made from 30 May 2025
- Deadline to accept offers: 17 June 2025
The WCED urged parents to ensure their contact details are up to date to avoid missing crucial communications.
“Each year, we face the challenge of uncontactable parents during the offer period. We encourage all parents to verify and update their details as soon as possible,” the department said.
Parents can contact the WCED Call Centre on 0861 819 919 (press 1 for admissions) to update their information.
Late applications now open
While on-time applications are now closed, late applications for Grades R, 1 and 8 will be accepted via the online admissions system until 16 May 2025.
After this date, parents will need to apply through their local education district offices.
“Although these late applications will only be considered after all on-time applications have been processed, we urge parents to submit them as soon as possible to avoid delays in placement.”
Encouraging progress has also been made in reducing the number of Grade 7 learners without applications – from over 25 000 last year to 8 900 currently outstanding.
Upcoming transfer application window
For parents seeking transfers for learners in Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12, the online application window will open on 4 August 2025 and close on 18 August 2025.
Priority will be given to learners who:
- Have completed the highest grade offered by their current school
- Have relocated
Do you have a child going into Grade R, 1 or 8 in 2026?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
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