The admission window for entry-level classes in Delhi's private unaided schools has officially opened for the 2026-27 academic year. Parents seeking seats for their children in Nursery, Kindergarten (KG), and Class 1 can now obtain and submit application forms, both online and offline, starting from December 4, 2025. The process, governed by the Directorate of Education (DoE), will remain open until December 27, 2025.
Admission Timeline and Crucial Dates for Parents
The DoE has mandated strict adherence to a transparent schedule. All schools were required to publish their admission criteria, point distribution, and seat matrix on their websites and the DoE portal by November 28, 2025. Following the form availability on December 4, the subsequent key dates are critical for parents to track.
The last date for submitting application forms is December 27, 2025. Schools will upload the list of all applicants by January 9, 2026, followed by the points allotted to each child by January 16, 2026. The first admission list, along with a waiting list, will be released on January 23, 2026.
A grievance window will operate from January 24 to February 3, 2026. The second admission list is scheduled for February 9, 2026, with the entire admission process concluding by March 19, 2026.
Revised Age Eligibility and Application Guidelines
This admission cycle marks the second year of Delhi's revised age norms, aligned with the National Education Policy's (NEP) foundational stage. The age of the child as on March 31, 2026 will determine eligibility.
- Nursery (Pre-School): The child must be 3 years or above but less than 4 years old.
- KG (Pre-Primary): The child must be 4 years or above but less than 5 years old.
- Class 1: The child must be 5 years or above but less than 6 years old.
Children already enrolled in Nursery or KG during the 2025-26 session will automatically move to the next grade. Only fresh applicants within the specified age bracket are eligible for new Nursery admissions. The DoE has capped the registration fee at ₹25 and banned any capitation fee or forced prospectus purchase.
Understanding the Point System and Required Documents
Selection for open seats is based on a transparent, point-based system. Common parameters include:
- Distance from the school (often carries highest weightage)
- Sibling already studying in the same school
- Parent being an alumnus of the school
- Child of a school staff member
After points are assigned, if multiple candidates tie for limited seats, a mandatory draw of lots (lottery) is conducted. This draw must be video-recorded, done in the presence of parents, and announced at least two days in advance. Separately, 25% of seats are reserved under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for Economically Weaker Sections/Disadvantaged Groups/Children with Disabilities.
Parents must keep the following documents ready for the application process:
- Birth certificate for age proof
- Residence proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport, utility bill, etc.)
- Identity proofs of both parents
- Recent photographs of child and parents
- Sibling or alumni proof, if applicable
- Disability certificate for CwD category applicants
To apply, parents should visit the official websites of their preferred schools or collect offline forms. The online process involves filling details, uploading documents, paying the ₹25 fee, and saving the acknowledgment receipt. Regularly checking school websites for applicant lists, points, and selection lists is highly advised to stay updated throughout the competitive process.
