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

Section 3: Required Documents and Upload Process

Essential Documents Checklist

For the Learner:

• Birth Certificate: Unabridged birth certificate (certified copy)
• Identity Document: If the learner has an ID document
• Passport Photos: Recent passport-size photographs
• Medical Records: Immunization/clinic document which should prove that the child does not have tuberculosis, tetanus, hepatitis B, polio, measles, and diphtheria

For Parents/Guardians:

• Parent/Guardian ID: Identification document for parents or legal guardians
• Proof of Residence: Recent utility bill, lease agreement, or municipal account
• Affidavit of Residence: If living with someone else or informal settlement

Academic Documents:

• Grade 7 Report: For Grade 8 applications (most recent school report)
• Grade R Report: For Grade 1 applications (if applicable)
• Transfer Letter: If coming from another province or a private school
• Academic report card, birth certificate, and proof of residence

Document Preparation Guidelines

Certification Requirements:

• All documents must be certified copies
• Acceptable certifying authorities: Police officers, commissioners of oaths, magistrates, attorneys, bank managers
• Original certification stamps and signatures required
• Certifications must be recent (within 6 months)

Document Quality Standards:

• Clear, readable copies
• No torn, damaged, or faded documents
• Complete pages – no partial documents
• Proper orientation and lighting
• Black and white copies are acceptable

Digital Requirements:

• File format: PDF or JPG
• File size: Maximum 2MB per document
• Clear resolution for easy reading
• Proper file naming (e.g., “Birth_Certificate_John_Smith.pdf”)

READ MORE HERE:

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

Upload Process Step-by-Step

Step 1: Access the System

• Visit www.gdeadmissions.gov.za
• Log in with your application credentials
• Navigate to the “Document Upload” section

Step 2: Select Document Type

• Choose the correct document category
• Upload documents in the specified order
• Ensure file names are descriptive

Step 3: Quality Check

• Preview uploaded documents
• Verify all information is visible
• Check file sizes and formats
• Confirm completeness

Step 4: Submit to Schools

• Parents upload or submit supporting documents to all schools applied to within 7 days after the application
• Submit documents to each school individually
• Keep confirmation receipts

Physical Document Submission

When Required:

• If the online upload fails
• If the school specifically requests physical copies
• As a backup for important applications

Submission Process:

• Visit each school personally
• Submit complete document sets
• Obtain receipt/confirmation
• Keep copies for your records

School Office Hours:

• Typically Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Some schools have extended hours during admission periods
• Call ahead to confirm availability

Common Document Issues and Solutions

Missing Documents:

• Apply for an unabridged birth certificate well in advance
• Obtain medical records from clinics/hospitals
• Get affidavits for informal living arrangements

Certification Problems:

• Ensure the certifying authority is authorized
• Check that all pages are certified
• Verify that stamps and signatures are clear

Upload Failures:

• Check the internet connection
• Reduce file sizes if necessary
• Try different browsers
• Upload during off-peak hours

Document Verification Process

School Verification:

• Schools verify documents within 2-3 weeks
• Parents are notified of any issues
• Additional documents may be requested

Verification Outcomes:

• Approved: All documents accepted
• Pending: Additional information required
• Rejected: Documents need replacement

Addressing Issues:

• Respond quickly to school requests
• Provide additional documentation promptly
• Contact schools directly for clarification

Proper document preparation and submission are crucial for your child’s admission. Take time to ensure all documents are complete, certified, and submitted within the required timeframes.

CLICK ON THE GREEN BUTTON FOR “HOW TO APPLY” -APPLICATION PROCESS

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