The Western Cape Education Department (WCED) has reminded parents of learners who wish to transfer schools that applications for 2026 open next week.

Parents of learners who wish to apply for a school transfer for the 2026 school year can do so between 4 August to 18 August 2025. This applies to school transfer requests for learners already attending school in Grades 2-7 and Grades 9-12.

According to the WCED spokesperson, Bronagh Hammond, applications can be done online, it can also be done at the relevant school in which the parent/caregiver wishes to transfer to or the relevant district office.

Parents applying will need the following supporting documents:

• The last school report card
• ID, birth certificate, passport, study permit or proof of application or police affidavit
• Proof of address or police affidavit

Parents who have not registered on the online system previously will first need to register on the online site. Once registration is completed, they can then proceed to the application.

Please note that schools can only capture applications for their own institution, but the online system can capture applications for multiple schools.

Parents or caregivers will be required to fill out the WCED application form, which can also be downloaded from the WCED website, but can only be submitted to schools or the district office from 4 August 2025 onwards.

Parents can drop off the application form and supporting documents at the school directly. They can also contact the school for details on electronic (e-mail) submissions on the official WCED form only.

With regards to Grade R, 1 and Grade 8 applications, Hammond says schools are currently finalising their admission lists and confirming placements for children on their waiting lists. This process is ongoing.

“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,” added Hammond

The online platform is closed for these late applications. Parents can, however, contact their district office or call 0861 819 919 for more information.