2026 Western Cape school transfer applications: What parents need to know
The Western Cape Education Department announced a crucial two-week window for school transfer applications for the 2026 academic year.
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Western Cape parents who want to transfer their children to a new school for the 2026 academic year have a two-week window to submit their applications, the Western Cape Education Department (WCED) said on Thursday.
The department said applications for the transfer of pupils currently in Grades 2 to 7 and Grades 9 to 12 would open on August 4, and close on August 18.
WCED spokesperson Bronagh Hammond stressed the importance of timely applications and submitting the correct supporting documents.
Parents have several convenient options for submitting transfer applications:
Online: Applications can be completed via the WCED website at https://www.westerncape.gov.za/education/service/learner-admissions.
At the School: Applications can be submitted directly to the school to which the parent or caregiver wishes to transfer their child. Schools, however, can only capture applications for their institution.
District Office: The relevant district office will also accept transfer applications.
Email: Parents can contact the desired school for details on submitting the official WCED form via email.
For those who prefer using the online system, new users will first need to register before proceeding with the application, the department said.
The WCED website provides online video tutorials and step-by-step guidelines to assist parents with the process. The online system also allows for applications to multiple schools.
Parents will need to prepare the following supporting documents for their application:
The last school report card.
ID, birth certificate, passport, study permit, proof of application, or a police affidavit.
Proof of address or a police affidavit.
Meanwhile, the department reminded parents who have not applied for placement for pupils for Grade R, Grade 1, and Grade 8 in 2026, to submit their applications as schools in the province were finalising their admissions lists and confirming placements for children on the waiting lists.
"This process is ongoing," the department said.
"We do however appeal to all parents and caregivers who have not yet applied for Grade 1 and Grade 8 for the 2026 school year, to do so immediately," the WCED said.
"The online platform is closed for these late applications."
The department said parents can contact their district office or call 0861 819 919 for more information.
Cape Times