Delhi School Admission 2026–27: A Complete Parent’s Guide

The Delhi School Admission 2026–27 cycle has officially begun with the Directorate of Education (DoE), Government of NCT of Delhi, releasing the confirmed admission schedule along with the revised age norms aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

A major highlight this year is the full implementation of the 6+ age rule for Class 1, ensuring children begin formal schooling at an age that supports healthy developmental progression.

If you’re preparing for Nursery, LKG, UKG, or Class 1 admission for the 2026–27 session, this comprehensive guide covers everything you must know—dates, age eligibility, application process, point system, documents, categories, and key updates.

Admission Schedule for 2026–27 (Official DoE Dates)

The DoE has released the complete timeline for private unaided recognized schools in Delhi:

⚠️ Important: No school accepts late applications. Parents must complete submissions on or before December 27, 2025.

Updated Age Criteria for Delhi Admissions (2026–27)

Age is calculated as on 31 March 2026.

👉 Schools will publish the exact date-of-birth range when forms are released. Parents must verify eligibility before applying.

Why Class 1 is Now 6+ (NEP-aligned)

Under NEP 2020, children must complete a three-year foundational stage—Nursery, LKG & UKG—before moving to Class 1.

The 6+ rule ensures:

• Age-appropriate entry into formal schooling

• Strong foundational literacy and numeracy

• Balanced emotional and cognitive development

• Uniformity across Delhi schools

This rule is now mandatory for all private, aided, and government schools under the DoE.

Understanding Delhi’s Point-Based Admission System (General Category)

Most private schools in Delhi follow a points-based system for General/Open Category admissions. Schools can decide their parameters but must disclose them publicly.

Common criteria include:

• Distance from school

• Sibling currently studying in the school

• Alumni parent

• First-born child / Girl child (in some schools)

• Ward of staff

Each school declares its own point distribution on or before November 28, 2025.
Parents should calculate approximate points to understand admission chances across shortlisted schools.

Categories of Admission

1. General / Open Category

For applicants meeting age and document requirements.

2. EWS / DG Category (25% Reserved Seats)

This includes:

• Economically Weaker Section

• Disadvantaged Groups (SC/ST/OBC)

• Orphans

• Transgender children

• Children with disabilities

🖥 Applications for EWS/DG are submitted ONLY through the centralized DoE portal, not individual schools.

3. CWSN Category

For Children with Special Needs, as defined under the RPwD Act.

Documents Required for Delhi School Admission 2026–27

Parents should keep both digital and physical copies ready:

• Birth Certificate (mandatory)

• Proof of Residence (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport / Utility Bill)

• Passport-size photographs of child & parents

• Sibling proof (if applicable)

• Alumni proof (if applicable)

• Disability certificate (for CWSN)

• Income/caste certificate (for EWS/DG)

💡 Pro Tip: Create a dedicated folder with all documents in JPG/PDF under 1 MB for smooth online uploads.

Step-by-Step Admission Process for Parents

1. Verify Eligibility

Check age and DOB as per the DoE notification.

2. Shortlist Schools

Compare schools based on proximity, board (CBSE/ICSE/IB), facilities, and fees.

3. Fill Forms (From December 4)

Available on school websites and UniApply.

4. Upload Required Documents

Ensure correct format and size.

5. Track Points & Merit Lists

• First list: January 23, 2026

• Second list: February 9, 2026

6. Attend Verification

Carry original documents to the selected school.

7. Confirm Admission

Pay the admission fee and secure the seat by March 19, 2026.

Important Tips for Parents

• Begin early: Complete school research & documentation by October 2025.

• Apply to multiple schools to improve chances.

• Understand the point system thoroughly—every point matters.

• Track DoE deadlines strictly to avoid missing opportunities.

• Use UniApply for real-time updates, alerts, and one-form applications to multiple schools.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When do admissions for 2026–27 begin?

Registrations begin on December 4, 2025.

2. What is the new age rule for Class 1?

A child must be 6 years or older on 31 March 2026.

3. Are age limits mandatory for all Delhi schools?

Yes, they apply to all government, private, and aided schools under DoE.

4. Can parents apply to multiple schools?

Yes. Each school has its own form. Platforms like UniApply simplify the process.

5. How do I check if my child qualifies for EWS/DG?

Check the updated guidelines and eligibility criteria on the DoE portal.