Noida Education Department Unveils Comprehensive RTE Admission Schedule for 2026-27 Academic Year
The Basic Education Department in Noida has officially announced a detailed, phase-wise schedule for online admissions under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for the upcoming 2026–27 academic session. This initiative aims to implement Section 12(1)(c) of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009, which mandates that 25% of seats in Class I and pre-primary classes of unaided, recognised private schools be reserved for children from weaker sections and disadvantaged groups.
Three-Phase Online Admission Process Ensures Transparency
According to a government order issued by the education department, the admission process will be conducted through an online application and lottery system across three distinct phases. This structured approach is designed to guarantee transparency and facilitate the timely completion of admissions, minimizing delays and confusion for all stakeholders involved.
The phase-wise schedule is as follows:
- First Phase: Online applications will be accepted from February 2 to February 16. Verification and locking of forms by the district basic education officer will occur within this period. The lottery for allotment is scheduled for February 18, with enrolment orders to be issued by February 20.
- Second Phase: This phase will run from February 21 to March 7. The lottery draw is set for March 9, and the final date for issuing enrolment orders is March 11.
- Third and Final Phase: Applications will be received from March 12 to March 25, 2026. The lottery will be conducted on March 27, and admissions are expected to be completed by March 29.
Streamlined Application Process with Key Changes
Recent guidelines specify that the entire application process will be conducted online. Guardians are required to enter Aadhaar details and upload relevant documents. However, in a significant departure from previous years, the Aadhaar card of the student will not be mandatory for the application. An official clarified, "For financial aid under RTE admission, parents' Aadhaar cards must be seeded with bank accounts."
To further streamline the process, the department has issued several new instructions:
- All districts must complete 100% mapping and registration of unaided private schools, ensuring that at least 25% of their pre-primary and Class I seats are earmarked under the RTE quota before the process begins.
- Block-wise nodal officers will be appointed to monitor verification and ensure full enrolment of allotted students.
- RTE helpdesks will be established at various offices, including those of the district magistrate, chief development officer, block development officer, district hospital, community health centres, district basic education officer, and block education officers, to assist parents who are unable to apply online.
Enhanced Support for Eligible Families
Special instructions have been directed to revenue and education officials to prioritize the timely preparation of essential documents. This includes income, residence, caste, disability, and birth certificates, ensuring that eligible families do not encounter obstacles during the application process. This proactive measure aims to support disadvantaged groups in accessing their rightful educational opportunities under the RTE Act.
The comprehensive schedule and enhanced support mechanisms reflect the department's commitment to making education more accessible and equitable for all children in Noida, aligning with national educational goals.
