Delhi School Admissions 2026-27: Directorate of Education Releases Nursery Admission Points Criteria in Delhi

FAQs: Delhi Nursery Admission Points Criteria 2026–27

1. What has the Directorate of Education (DoE) announced for Nursery admissions?

The DoE has released updated guidelines and a point-based criteria system for Nursery, KG, and Class 1 admissions in Delhi’s private unaided schools for the 2026–27 academic session. The notification includes age limits, admission timelines, and transparency rules that all schools must follow.

2. When does the admission process for Nursery 2026–27 begin?

Admission forms will be available starting 4 December 2025. Schools must publish their full criteria and points system by 28 November 2025, marking the official start of the admission cycle.

3. What is the age requirement for Nursery admissions in Delhi?

A child must be at least 3 years old as of 31 March 2026 to be eligible for Nursery admission. Schools may allow up to one month of age relaxation based on the principal’s approval.

4. What are the age limits for KG and Class 1 admissions?

• KG: Minimum 4 years old as of 31 March 2026

• Class 1: Minimum 5 years old as of 31 March 2026

These age norms are aligned with NEP 2020’s foundational-stage structure.

5. What is the point-based admission criteria used by Delhi schools?

Schools allocate points based on predefined parameters such as:

• Neighbourhood (distance from school)

• Sibling studying in the same school

• Alumni status of parents

• Staff ward category

• Other DoE-approved criteria

The final selection is based on the total points a child receives.

6. Is neighbourhood (distance) the most important criterion?

Yes. Distance is generally the most heavily weighted parameter across most private schools in Delhi. Children living closer to the school usually receive the highest points.

7. How does the sibling criterion work in admissions?

If an older sibling is already studying in the same school, applicants often receive additional points. This supports continuity for families and ease of logistics for parents.

8. Can schools include their own criteria for admissions?

Schools may add criteria as long as they are approved by the DoE and are not among the parameters previously rejected by the government or courts. All criteria must be displayed publicly.

9. How much is the registration fee for Delhi Nursery admissions?

Schools can charge a non-refundable registration fee of up to ₹25. They are not allowed to charge capitation fees or force parents to buy prospectuses.

10. How is the draw of lots conducted?

If multiple applicants have the same score and seats are limited, a draw of lots must be conducted. This process must:

• Happen in the presence of parents

• Be recorded on video

• Follow full transparency norms set by the DoE

11. When will the first and second admission lists be released?

• First list: 23 January 2026

• Second list: 9 February 2026

Schools must also publish the waiting list along with selected candidates.

12. What should parents do if they have concerns about points awarded?

Parents may raise objections or seek clarifications between 24 January and 3 February 2026. Schools are required to respond to queries and maintain transparency.

13. What documents are typically required for Nursery admissions?

While requirements may vary, commonly requested documents include:

• Birth certificate

• Address proof

• Passport-sized photographs

• Sibling proof (if applicable)

• Alumni proof (if applicable)

14. When will the entire admission process conclude?

The admission process must be completed by 19 March 2026 across all private unaided schools.

15. How can parents prepare for a smooth admission experience?

Parents should:

• Check distance from school

• Organize documents early

• Verify age eligibility

• Track school website announcements

• Apply as soon as forms are released