Don’t wait! School admissions applications for 2027 opens tomorrow

9 March 2026 – Statement by Minister David Maynier, Minister of Education Western Cape

The on-time school admissions application window for Grade R, 1 or 8 in 2027 opens tomorrow, and we encourage parents to collect the required documents so that they are ready to apply. 

The on-time applications window opens on Tuesday, 10 March 2026, and will close at on Tuesday, 14 April 2026.  

Parents are responsible for ensuring that they submit their applications for admission on time. Applying on time is essential to ensure that your child is included in the first round of applications and to support the WCED’s planning for the 2027 school year.

Documents required for all applications

Parents and caregivers must upload copies of the following documents when submitting an application:

• The learner’s most recent official school report (where applicable)
• Certified proof of identity of the learner:
  • Birth certificate, ID or passport.
  • For foreign learners: a passport, study permit, proof of application for a permit, or a copy of the parent’s asylum seeker or refugee permit.
  • If none of the above are available, a South African Police Service affidavit will be accepted.
• Immunisation card (Road to Health Certificate) – required for primary school applications
• Proof of residence (such as a municipal account, lease agreement, or affidavit confirming residence. 

Once your documents have been gathered and uploaded, completing the online application should not take too long. Preparing these documents before the application period opens will make the process quicker, easier, and less stressful.

Our online admissions system is zero‑rated, so parents can access the platform without using mobile data. Parents are encouraged to use the following link: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/service/learner-admissions

To assist parents, the WCED provides clear step-by-step guidance, including video tutorials, on the admissions webpage. We encourage parents to visit the site in advance and familiarise themselves with the application steps.

We will also host pop-up admission sites across the province during the on-time application window. These sites will support parents who need help completing online applications or who do not have internet access.

Information about these pop-up sites will be shared on the WCED website: https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/service/learner-admissions

Don’t wait!

Each year, thousands of late applications place enormous strain on the system and delay placement processes. Submitting applications during the on-time window period helps us to plan for a place in a school for your child.

Don’t wait! Apply on time between 10 March and 14 April 2026.