The Directorate of Education (DoE) has mandated the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 age criteria for admissions to entry-level classes in Delhi schools for the 2026-27 academic session. Applications will open on December 4, 2025 , and close on December 27, 2025 . This directive sets specific minimum ages for students seeking admission to Nursery, Kindergarten, and Class 1.
For the upcoming admission cycle, the DoE requires all Delhi schools to align with NEP 2020 guidelines. This includes setting uniform age requirements across the city. The admission process must also comply with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (RPD) Act, ensuring equitable access and opportunities for students with disabilities.
The implementation of NEP 2020 age criteria aims to standardize the entry age for students. This ensures children receive age-appropriate education from an early stage. The DoE’s directive aligns Delhi schools with this national educational framework.
NEP Age Criteria for 2026-27 Admissions
Schools must follow specific age requirements as of March 31, 2026 . Students applying for Nursery must be at least three years old. For Kindergarten (KG) admission, the minimum age is four years. Those entering Class 1 must be at least five years old.
School heads can grant an age relaxation of up to one month. This applies to both minimum and maximum age criteria. It provides flexibility for specific student circumstances.
The DoE reiterates a broader goal of 6+ years for Class 1 under the NEP. However, for the 2026-27 admissions session, the explicit criteria mandate a minimum of 5 years for Class 1 as of March 31, 2026.
Application Process and Fee Guidelines
The application window for entry-level admissions spans over three weeks in December 2025. Parents and guardians must submit applications within this period. The DoE prohibits schools from charging capitation fees. Schools also cannot compel parents to purchase prospectuses.
A non-refundable registration fee of Rs 25 is the only permissible charge for applications. Schools must adhere to these financial guidelines strictly. This directive ensures transparency and prevents exploitation during the admission process.
Key Dates for Delhi School Admissions 2026-27
The DoE has released a detailed timeline for the admission process. This schedule outlines important deadlines for schools and parents. Adherence to these dates is crucial for a smooth admission cycle.
| Event | Date(s) |
|---|---|
| Schools release admission criteria and point system for open seats | November 28, 2025 |
| Deadline for submitting applications | December 27, 2025 |
| Schools upload complete list of applicants | January 9, 2026 |
| Schools publish points allotted to each child | January 16, 2026 |
| Release of the first list of selected students (first selection and waiting lists) | January 23, 2026 |
| Query window for parents regarding the first list | January 24 – February 3, 2026 |
| Release of the second list | February 9, 2026 |
| Query window for parents regarding the second list | February 10 – 16, 2026 |
| Conclusion of the admission process | March 19, 2026 |
Post-Application Steps
Following the application deadline, schools will upload a full list of applicants by January 9, 2026 . Schools will publish the points allotted to each child on January 16, 2026 . The first list of selected students, including waiting lists, will be released on January 23, 2026 .
Parents can raise queries regarding the first list between January 24 and February 3, 2026 . A second list will be released on February 9, 2026 . A query window for the second list runs from February 10 to February 16, 2026 . The entire admission process concludes by March 19, 2026 .