The Gauteng Department of Education (GDE) has updated its list of Decentralised Walk-in Centres across five districts, Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Tshwane, Sedibeng and the West Rand, to support parents applying online for Grade 1 and Grade 8 placements in 2026.
Online Gauteng admissions now open
The department officially launched the 2026 online application system on Thursday, urging families to begin the process immediately. Applications will close on 29 August. The updated centres aim to assist parents and guardians who may not have internet access or need help navigating the system.
These walk-in centres include local primary and high schools, district offices, and teacher development centres strategically spread across Gauteng.
What documents to bring
- To complete an application, parents must submit certified copies of specific documents. These include:
- A valid South African ID or passport for the parent, and a birth certificate or passport for the child
- For non-citizens: a refugee, asylum seeker, permanent residence or study permit
- Proof of home and work address
- A Grade 7 report card (for Grade 8 applications)
- A clinic card or immunisation report (for Grade 1 applications)
Districts covered
The walk-in centres span the province’s most populous parts to ensure accessibility for all. Due to higher demand, Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, and Tshwane host the majority of centres, while additional locations have been placed in Sedibeng and the West Rand.
The GDE urged parents to double-check the list of revised centres on the department’s website or by visiting their nearest district office.
Are you prepared to beat the deadline and secure your child’s spot for 2026?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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