DBE Admissions

The Department of Basic Education (DBE) in South Africa oversees the admissions process for learners entering Grade 1 and Grade 8. If you’re a parent looking to enroll your child in these critical educational phases for the year 2026, it’s essential to stay informed about the timelines and requirements. This guide provides an overview of the DBE admissions process, key dates, and tips to ensure a smooth application experience.

Key Dates for DBE Admissions 2026

The admissions process follows a structured timeline, so it’s vital to be aware of the important dates:

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1. Application Period

  • Start: 15 June 2026
  • End: 14 July 2026
  • During this period, parents can submit online applications for Grade 1 and Grade 8 admissions.

2. Submission of Supporting Documents

  • Deadline: Within 7 days of application (by 21 July 2026)
  • Parents must upload or submit all necessary documents to the schools they applied to.

3. Verification of Documents

  • Period: 15 June 2026 to 31 July 2026
  • Schools will verify the submitted documents, providing parents with proof of receipt and updating the document status on the system.

4. Waiting List Management

  • Period: 31 July 2026 to 25 August 2026
  • Schools will electronically submit signed-off waiting lists to the District Director for approval. This phase ensures that successful and unsuccessful applicants are accurately recorded based on the admissions criteria.

5. Placement of Learners by Schools

  • Period: 4 September 2026 until all learners are placed
  • Parents will receive SMS notifications about placement offers. They are advised to accept offers within 7 days to secure their child’s spot.

6. Placement of Unplaced Learners

  • Period: 4 September 2026 until all learners are placed
  • If there’s insufficient space at the schools applied to, alternative placement offers will be sent via SMS.

7. Processing of Incomplete Applications

  • Period: 26 September 2026 until all learners are placed
  • Applications lacking proof of residence will be processed during this time.

8. Late Applications

  • Period: 11 December 2026 to 21 December 2026

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