The Delhi government has officially unveiled the comprehensive admission timeline for entry-level classes for the 2026-27 academic session, providing much-needed clarity for thousands of parents preparing for their children's school admissions.
Complete Admission Timeline: December to March
According to the notification issued by the Directorate of Education on November 22, the admission process will formally commence on December 4 and continue through March 19, 2026. The detailed schedule covers all crucial stages from criteria upload to final list announcements.
Each school has been directed to display the complete admission schedule on their website and notice boards, ensuring transparency and easy access for parents. The registration fee has been capped at ₹25, which is non-refundable, making the application process affordable for all families.
Age Criteria and Relaxation Policies
The notification clearly specifies the age requirements for different entry-level classes:
Nursery (Balvatika 1/Pre School 1): Children must be 3+ years up to 4 years old
KG: Children must be 4+ years up to 5 years old
Class 1: Children must be 5+ years up to 6 years old
Importantly, the circular allows for age relaxation of up to one month at the discretion of the school head. Parents seeking this relaxation must submit a manual application to the principal. The cutoff date for calculating the minimum age requirement is March 31, 2026.
NEP Implementation and Document Requirements
While the New Education Policy 2020 proposes updated age criteria, the Delhi Education Department has clarified that the updated age criteria will be implemented in phases starting from the 2026-27 session. For the upcoming nursery admissions, only the existing NEP age guidelines will apply.
Parents must prepare the following documents as valid proof of address:
- Ration card or smart card in parents' name
- Domicile certificate of child or parents
- Utility bills (electricity, telephone, water)
- Passport in child's or parents' name
- Aadhaar card of parents
- Voter identity card of either parent
The Delhi government's proactive release of the admission schedule nearly a year in advance provides ample preparation time for parents and ensures a streamlined admission process for the capital's educational institutions.
