Feeder zones were created in order to control the learner numbers in schools and coordinate parental preferences. First preference must be given to a learner who lives in the feeder zone of a school. A learner who lives outside the feeder zone can seek admission at whichever school she/he chooses, however, access to the chosen school cannot be guaranteed.

A parent may register his or her child at any public school, if there are vacancies.

Most schools have established so-called feeder zones, the area the school favours when admitting students. The order of preference for admission to schools generally is:

• Children whose parents live in the school's feeder zone – this includes parents who live at their place of work, such as domestic workers.
  
• Children whose parents work in the feeder zone.
  
• The rest are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis, and may be placed on a waiting list.
  

However, the provincial department of education is obliged to find a place in school for every learner. The feeder zone system does not apply to private or independent schools, which have their own admission requirements.