WESTERN CAPE NEWS - The on-time admissions window for Grade R, 1 or 8 in 2026 closed on 15 April, but the online admissions system has remained open for late applications.

So far, 8 603 late applications for these grades have been received, bringing the total number of learners applied for thus far to 173 872.

The online system will close on Friday, 16 May, so any parent who still needs to apply is encouraged to do so urgently. 

After this date, late applications will need to be submitted at education district offices or schools.

Late applications will only be considered by schools after the applications received during the on-time window have been considered.

We appeal to parents to submit their late applications as soon as possible. It helps us to plan better if additional school places are required.

Next steps for parents who applied on time

Schools are currently considering the applications received during the on-time window and are applying their admissions policies to select successful applicants.

Schools will start to make offers of acceptance to parents from 30 May, and parents will need to confirm their acceptance by 17 June.

The most important thing that parents can do now before the outcomes are available is to ensure that they update the department if their contact details change. 

"Every year, we face challenges with parents who are uncontactable when an offer is available for their child, so we urge parents to assist us by providing accurate details."

Parents can contact the WCED call centre on 0861 819 919 (press 1 for admissions) to make the necessary changes to their contact details.

Transfer applications for Grades 2-7 and 9-12

The online window for transfer applications for Grades 2 to 7 and 9 to 12 will open on 4 August and close on 18 August. 

Transfer applications for learners who have reached their highest grade in their school, or whose parents have relocated, will be prioritised.

The online admissions system, as well as more information about the admissions process, is available on the WCED website.

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