Delhi Nursery Admissions 2026-27: First Shortlist Expected on January 23, Key Timeline and Procedures Announced
The Directorate of Education, Delhi, has officially announced the schedule for the 2026-27 academic year entry-level admissions, with the first list of shortlisted students for Nursery, Kindergarten (KG), and Class 1 set to be released on January 23, 2026. This marks the beginning of a structured admission process that will conclude in mid-March, providing clarity and transparency for thousands of parents across the national capital.
Admission Timeline and Key Dates for Parents
Following the release of the first shortlist, parents will have a designated window to review the point allocations and raise any concerns. The objection and clarification period is scheduled from January 24 to February 3, 2026. This allows families to ensure fairness in the points-based system, which considers factors such as proximity to the school, sibling enrollment, and alumni association.
The second admission list will be published on February 9, 2026, offering another opportunity for selection. The entire entry-level admission process is slated to wrap up by March 19, 2026, giving schools ample time to finalize enrollments before the new academic year begins.
Points-Based System and School Responsibilities
Admissions in Delhi schools follow a transparent points-based framework mandated by the Directorate of Education. Schools are required to publish a detailed list displaying the points earned by each applicant, aligning with the DoE's guidelines. This system aims to standardize the process and reduce discrepancies, though it often sparks discussions among parents about allocation criteria.
Factors influencing point allocation include:
- Proximity to the school
- Sibling currently enrolled in the institution
- Parents being alumni of the school
- Other specific guidelines set by the DoE
Age Eligibility Criteria for 2026-27 Academic Year
To ensure age-appropriate placements, the Directorate of Education has outlined clear age criteria for each entry level. For the 2026-27 session, children must meet the following age requirements as of March 31, 2026:
- Nursery: Three years old
- KG: Four years old
- Class 1: Five years old
Schools have the discretion to grant an age relaxation of up to one month, subject to the approval of the head of the institution. Additionally, the DoE has clarified that children admitted to Nursery in the 2025-26 academic year will automatically progress to KG in 2026-27, while those currently in KG will move up to Class 1. Consequently, Nursery admissions for 2026-27 will exclusively apply to children who have turned three but not yet four by March 31, 2026.
Documentation and Fee Submission Requirements
Parents of selected candidates must adhere to strict documentation and fee submission protocols. Upon selection, fees must be deposited within the stipulated timeframe as specified by the chosen school. For detailed fee structures, parents are advised to refer to the school's official website or contact the administration office directly.
At the time of admission, the following documents are mandatory:
- Child's birth certificate
- Notary-attested affidavit for first child admissions
- Proof of residence, which may include:
- Voter ID card
- Aadhaar UID card
- Passport
- Domicile certificate
- Ration card
- Electricity bill
- MTNL bill
- Water bill
- Relevant medical documents for children with special needs
Additionally, parents must collect, fill, and submit the admission booklet, school health record form, and transport form. A colour passport-size photograph of the child, along with one photograph each of the parents, is required and should be affixed in the admission booklet. It is crucial to note that original documents will be required for verification of the submitted photocopies.
This comprehensive process underscores the importance of timely preparation and adherence to guidelines, ensuring a smooth admission experience for families navigating Delhi's competitive school enrollment landscape.
