Hours after opening, more than 213,000 applications for grade 1 and 8 placement in Gauteng processed
The province’s controversial system, which has faced criticism in the past over technical glitches and school placement disputes, appears to be running smoothly so far, according to officials.
Education MEC Matome Chiloane helped parents on Thursday 24 July 2025 apply at the YMCA in Ga-Rankuwa. Picture: @EducationGP1/X.
JOHANNESBURG - More than 213,000 applications for grades 1 and 8 for the 2026 academic year have been processed in Gauteng.
This comes just hours after online admissions officially opened.
Officials said the province's system, which has faced criticism in the past over technical glitches and school placement disputes, appears to be running smoothly so far.
Education MEC Matome Chiloane said this early surge showed growing trust in the platform.
Gauteng recorded over 78,000 applications within the first hour and by 1pm on Thursday afternoon, that number had climbed to more than 213,000.
The department said the system held up well, even as over 40,000 users tried to access it ahead of time, a move it’s urging parents to avoid in the future.
Spokesperson Steve Mabona said: "We therefore urge parents and guardians in the future to refrain from trying to log onto the system before the official starting time. This will assist to avoid unnecessary access issues."
MEC Chiloane led Thursday’s launch at the YMCA in Ga-Rankuwa, where he helped parents submit applications.
He also urged others not to panic, as the platform will remain open until 29 August.
Parents and guardians can get help at district offices, walk-in centres, the department’s call centre and WhatsApp channels, with the department encouraging parents to submit all required documents within seven school days.