South Africa opens 2027 online school admissions in Gauteng and Limpopo

South Africa's Gauteng and Limpopo provinces have launched online admission portals for the 2027 academic year. In Gauteng, applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 open on 5 August 2026 and close at midnight on 4 September 2026. Parents must register as guardians, provide proof of residence, apply to 3‑5 public schools and upload all supporting documents within seven school days. Education MEC Lebogang Maile warned that "parents who submit fraudulent addresses or documents could face criminal prosecution" and rejected claims that children of immigrants receive preferential treatment.

In Limpopo, the SMART ADMIT system began on 27 July 2026, accepting applications for Grade R, Grade 1 and Grade 8 until 31 August 2026. Applicants must meet age criteria and submit a birth certificate, ID, proof of residence, immunisation records and, where applicable, immigration documents. Late submissions may be considered late and depend on school capacity.