GDE 2026 Admissions Online Applications: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Section 1: Eligibility Requirements

Grade 1 Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements: Grade 1 is for children aged five (5) turning six (6) by 30 June in the year of admission. This means for 2026 admissions, your child must be born between 1 July 2019 and 30 June 2020.

Pre-School Requirements:

• You will be allowed to apply to a public school for Grade 1 even if your child is not in Grade R in any school
• Grade R attendance is beneficial but not mandatory for Grade 1 admission
• Children transitioning from Grade R will need their school reports

Academic Readiness:

• Basic school readiness skills are expected
• No formal academic testing is required for admission
• Assessment may be conducted by the school after admission

Grade 8 Eligibility Requirements

Age Requirements: Grade 8 is for students aged thirteen (13) or fourteen (14) and above to enter secondary school

Academic Requirements:

• Successful completion of Grade 7
• Grade 7 report card showing progression to Grade 8
• No specific academic percentage requirements for admission
• Some schools may have additional academic criteria

Previous School Attendance:

• Must have attended a recognized primary school
• Transfer students need to complete their academic records
• Homeschooled children may need additional documentation

READ ALSO:

1. Important Dates and Deadlines
2. Required Documents
3. How To Apply (The Application Process)
4. Have Any Questions? Click Here

General Eligibility Criteria

Residence Requirements:

• The parent/guardian must be a resident of Gauteng province
• Proof of residence within the school’s catchment area is preferred
• Only parents applying for Grade 1 and 8 learners and those relocating from other Provinces are required to apply online

Citizenship and Documentation:

• South African citizenship or a valid residence permit
• Complete the birth certificate for the learner
• Parent/guardian identification documents

Health Requirements:

• An immunization/clinic document should prove that the child does not have tuberculosis, tetanus, hepatitis B, polio, measles, or diphtheria
• A medical certificate may be required for certain conditions
• Special needs documentation if applicable

Special Circumstances

Learners with Special Needs:

• Additional documentation may be required
• Schools must accommodate reasonable adjustments
• Specialist schools available for specific needs

Late Starters:

• You will be able to apply to Grade 1 for your child who is older than six
• Additional motivation may be required
• The school principal’s discretion applies

Inter-Provincial Transfers:

• Students moving from other provinces must apply online
• Complete academic records required
• May need additional documentation

Understanding these eligibility requirements is crucial before starting your application. Ensure your child meets all criteria before proceeding to the next section.

CLICK ON THE GREEN BUTTON BELOW FOR “IMPORTANT DATES AND DEADLINES“

---