WHEN schools re-open for the second term today, parents in Gauteng can apply for their children to be admitted for the 2014 academic year.

This year, the education department decided to start registration earlier to avoid late applications.

Last year, they started the application process in May.

"Starting the admissions process in the second term will ensure all our schools are ready to operate from the first day of the 2014 schooling year," department MEC Barbara Creecy said.

Creecy said district directors would sign off the waiting lists between June and July.

At the start of the third term, parents will receive letters informing them of their applications results.

"Parents should accept or reject placement within seven school days of receiving the letters. District directors will offer alternative placements in other schools to all unplaced learners that apply before May 21 2013. By August 30 we aim to have completed the admission process."

She said provision would be made for late registrations of families who move to the province next year.

When applying for admission in Grade 1 or 8 parents or guardians need to bring:

lA parent's ID book;

lProof of residence;

lImmunisation card (for Grade 1);

lStudy permits;

lAsylum documents;

lTransfer card and latest school report card.