Western Cape school applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 opened on Tuesday, 11 March 2025, and will close on 15 April 2025. Parents have 35 days to submit their applications.
Applications must be completed online via the Western Cape Government’s education website.
To qualify:
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Grade R applicants must be six years old in the year of entry.
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Grade 1 applicants must be seven years old in the year of entry, which is the compulsory school age.
Required Documents
Parents must submit the following documents when applying:
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Child’s ID or birth certificate
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Passport or refugee/asylum seeker permit (for foreign learners)
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Immunisation card or Road to Health chart (for primary school applicants)
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Latest school report
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Proof of residence, such as a rates account or lease agreement
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If any documents are missing, an affidavit from the South African Police Service is required
Admission Policies and Placement
While WCED oversees the application process, individual schools manage their admissions based on their policies and the South African Schools Act. The department cannot guarantee placement at a specific school.
To improve placement chances, parents are encouraged to apply to at least three schools, including the one closest to their residence. The WCED does not have designated feeder zones.
Fees and Appeal Process
Schools may not charge a fee before accepting a learner.
Parents will be notified of their application outcomes by the end of May 2025. Details on the appeal process for the 2025/2026 school year will be provided at that time.
