Record number of applications received for Grade 1 and 8 in Western Cape

Record number of applications received for Grade 1 and 8 in Western Cape

The Western Cape Education Department has announced a staggering surge in applications for Grade 1 and 8 for the school year 2025.

According to official figures released by the Western Cape Education Department, a total of 102 680 applications flooded in, marking a notable increase of 5936 compared to the previous year’s tally within the same timeframe.

“We thank the parents who put in the effort to apply on time, helping us to plan for a place for their child in a school next year,” expressed gratitude the Western Cape Education Department.

Rush of last minute applications

The admissions window, which closed on Friday, 12 April 2024, at midnight, saw a rush of last-minute submissions. Nonetheless, the provincial department emphasised that all late applications would be reviewed following the consideration of those submitted on time.

Parents still have the opportunity to submit late applications until 12 May, but these will be flagged as late.

In light of potential relocation or unforeseen circumstances, the department urged parents to promptly reach out to their respective district offices for guidance and support.

“We urge parents not to wait until the last minute to apply,” the department added, emphasizing the importance of timely submissions for streamlined processing.

Transfer requests for other Grades

Meanwhile, the application window for Grade R and transfer requests for Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 11 is scheduled from 1 to 16 August 2024.

With the closure of on-time applications, schools now face the task of meticulously reviewing the influx of submissions over the coming weeks. Parents were reminded that the submission of hard copies of documents is not required at this stage but will be necessary upon acceptance of an offer from a school.

“Parents will start seeing the outcomes of their applications online from 30 May 2024, and we will remind them of this as the date approaches,” assured the department, noting a slight adjustment in the release date to accommodate the general election.

Deadline set for acceptance or declination

Prompt action is urged upon parents upon receiving offers, with a deadline set for acceptance or declination by 14 June. The department emphasised the importance of swift responses, especially for parents holding multiple offers, to avoid hindering the placement process for other applicants.

For parents who fail to confirm their choice by the deadline, the system will automatically confirm their top-ranked school offer, while all other offers will be rescinded to accommodate other applicants.

“Parents who do not receive an offer on 30 May 2024 should not be disheartened as places always open up,” reassured the department.

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