Learner placements begin for 2026 school year in Northern Cape

THE NORTHERN Cape Department of Education has announced that the placement of learners for the 2026 academic year officially began on July 31 at 5pm.

This follows a successful application window earlier this year, from April 14 to May 23, which saw more than 30,000 applications submitted for Grades R, 1 and 8 via the department’s Online Admission System.

Department spokesperson Geoffrey van der Merwe said that the system has been hailed as a national benchmark for its efficiency in managing learner admissions.

“The first round of the placement process for learners will commence on Thursday, July 31, 2025, at 5pm. Parents and legal guardians will receive SMS notifications informing them of the outcome of their child's placement,” said Van der Merwe.

A second round of placements is scheduled for August 22, with the department aiming to finalise all placements by the end of November.

The department acknowledged the efforts of its Admissions Teams at both provincial and district levels, crediting their commitment and hard work in ensuring a smooth and timely placement process.