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

The Delhi Nursery Admission 2026–27 cycle now comes with official dates, updated age criteria, and a more structured admission process aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. With the Directorate of Education (DoE) announcing the full timeline, parents can finally plan admissions with clarity and confidence.

This quick and comprehensive guide explains the new age rules, official schedule, selection process, required documents, and expert tips to help you secure your child’s seat in a preferred school.

Understanding the Updated Structure

The 2026–27 session officially implements the 6+ age rule for Class 1, bringing Delhi fully in line with NEP 2020.
This ensures children spend adequate time in foundational learning (Nursery, LKG, UKG) before entering formal schooling.

As a result, all pre-primary age groups have shifted accordingly, giving parents a clearer picture of the entire foundational stage.

Updated Age Criteria for 2026–27 (Confirmed by DoE)

Age is calculated as on 31 March 2026.

Class / Level Minimum Age Required
Nursery (Balvatika 1) 3+ years
LKG / Balvatika 2 4+ years
UKG / Balvatika 3 5+ years
Class 1 6+ years

👉 Tip: Even a few days of age difference can affect eligibility, so double-check your child’s date of birth before applying.

Delhi Nursery Admission 2026–27: Official Dates Announced

Here is the confirmed timeline released by the Directorate of Education:

Admission Stage Official Date
Schools upload criteria & point-system November 28, 2025
Admission forms available December 4, 2025
Last date to submit forms December 27, 2025
Schools upload list of all applicants January 9, 2026
Schools upload marks under point system January 16, 2026
First list of selected candidates January 23, 2026
Objection/query window Jan 24 – Feb 3, 2026
Second list & waiting list February 9, 2026
Final admission closure March 19, 2026

📌 Reminder: The registration window is short and strictly monitored — apply early to avoid missing out.

How Delhi Nursery Admissions Work

Most private unaided recognized schools follow a points-based selection system for Open/General Category seats. This system ensures transparency and fairness.

Common Criteria Used by Schools

  • Distance from the school

  • Sibling currently studying in the school

  • Alumni parent

  • Girl child / first-born child

  • Staff ward

Every school publishes its point matrix and criteria on its website before registration begins.

📌 Parent Tip: Check your likely score at each school to shortlist realistic options.

Admission Categories in Delhi

1. General / Open Category

Based on points allotted per criterion.

2. EWS/DG Category (25% Reserved)

For family income-based and socially disadvantaged groups.

3. CWSN Category

For Children with Disabilities.

👉 Note: EWS/DG/CWSN admissions happen only through the DoE’s centralized portal — not through individual school websites.

Documents Required (Keep Ready Before Dec 4)

Prepare both scanned copies and physical originals of:

  • Birth certificate (mandatory)

  • Proof of residence (Aadhaar / passport / voter ID / utility bill)

  • Child’s photograph

  • Parents’ photographs

  • Sibling proof (fee receipt or ID card)

  • Alumni proof (if applicable)

  • Disability certificate (CWSN category)

🗂 Tip: Keep digital copies under 1 MB in PDF/JPG format to avoid upload issues.

Step-by-Step Admission Process

1. Check Eligibility

Verify your child’s age based on the updated DoE criteria.

2. Research & Shortlist Schools

Compare schools based on board, distance, fees, and reputation.

3. Fill Out Forms (From Dec 4)

4. Review Points & Shortlists

Schools publish marks on Jan 16 and lists on Jan 23 and Feb 9.

5. Attend Document Verification

Visit schools with originals for verification.

6. Confirm Admission

Pay fees and complete formalities before March 19, 2026.

Useful Tips for Parents

  • 👍 Start early: Prepare documents and shortlist schools in advance.

  • 🏫 Apply to multiple schools: Increases chances of selection.

  • 📌 Track deadlines: Missing dates leads to automatic rejection.

  • 📝 Double-check forms: Small errors (DOB, address) can cause issues.

  • 🔔 Stay updated: Follow DoE announcements and UniApply notifications daily during the cycle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. When will Delhi Nursery Admissions 2026–27 start?

Admission forms will be available from December 4, 2025.

Q2. What is the minimum age for Nursery?

A child must be 3+ years as on 31 March 2026.

Q3. What is the Class 1 age rule now?

Children must be 6 years or older as on 31 March 2026.

Q4. Can parents apply to multiple schools?

Yes — you can apply to as many schools as you wish.

Q5. How are seats allotted?

General category seats are based on the school’s points system;
EWS/DG and CWSN seats are allotted through the DoE portal.

Final Word

The Delhi Nursery Admission 2026–27 cycle is a major milestone, with clear age norms and a streamlined admission schedule. With the dates now officially announced, parents should begin preparing documents, selecting schools, and planning forms early.

For verified updates, school-wise criteria, and one-click applications, visit UniApply.com — your trusted partner for Delhi school admissions.

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