Deadline looms for 2026 online school admissions in Northern Cape

PARENTS and guardians have until Friday to register Grade R, 1, and 8 pupils for the 2026 academic year.

Northern Cape Department of Education spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe said the online admission system for 2026 will close on May 23.

He confirmed that 24,316 applications had been received so far.

Breakdown of applications:

• Grade R - 8,504
• Grade 1 - 1,978
• Grade 8 - 13,834

Breakdown by district:

• Frances Baard - 9,567
• John Taolo Gaetsewe - 6,910
• Namakwa - 1,984
• Pixley ja Seme - 3,724
• ZF Mgcawu - 2,131

Van der Merwe urged parents and legal guardians to apply online at www.ncdoeadmissions.org or visit one of the 94 walk-in centres before the deadline to secure a school placement for their child.

“The department will keep parents informed on the status of their applications through the admission system. Our management plan for learner admissions has proven successful, and parents will be notified of the outcome of their application in August 2025,” he said.

He added that the May/June 2025 Senior Certificate (SC) and National Senior Certificate (NSC) examinations commenced on May 12, with no major issues reported so far.

“A total of 5,585 candidates have registered for the NSC examinations, aiming to improve their previous results or complete outstanding subjects. Additionally, 2,212 candidates will sit for the SC examination, which is designed for adult learners and those wishing to finalise their high school education.” 

Van der Merwe said exams are being conducted across 102 examination centres in the province to ensure accessibility for all candidates. 

“The results for the May/June 2025 SC/NSC examinations will be released on August 8. The department wishes all candidates the best in this critical examination, as their success plays a vital role in improving their employability and providing access to further studies,” he concluded.