Delhi School Admission 2026–27: DoE Official Dates Released
The Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi has officially announced the complete admission schedule and age criteria for the 2026–27 academic session. This year, the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 age norms are fully implemented, meaning children must be 6+ years old for Class 1 admission.
This change ensures that children begin formal schooling at the right developmental stage.
If you’re preparing for Nursery, LKG, UKG, or Class 1 admissions in Delhi, this guide offers simple, clear, parent-friendly explanations with structured sections, helpful tables, and practical tips.
Table of Contents
- Updated Admission Schedule (Official DoE Dates)
- Age Criteria for 2026–27 (NEP-Aligned)
- Why Class 1 Is Now 6+ (Simple NEP Explanation)
- Understanding Delhi’s Admission System
- Admission Categories
- Required Documents Checklist
- Step-by-Step Admission Process
- Tips for First-Time Parents
- Frequently Asked Questions
Delhi Schools Admission Schedule 2026–27 (Official DoE Circular)
Admission Timeline for Private Unaided Recognized Schools
| Admission Stage | Official Date |
|---|
| Schools publish criteria & points | 28 November 2025 |
| Admission forms released | 4 December 2025 |
| Last date to submit forms | 27 December 2025 |
| Schools upload applicant details | 9 January 2026 |
| Schools upload points/marks | 16 January 2026 |
| First list (selected + waitlist) | 23 January 2026 |
| Query / objection window | 24 Jan – 3 Feb 2026 |
| Second list | 9 February 2026 |
| Admission process closes | 19 March 2026 |
Age Criteria for Delhi School Admission 2026–27 (NEP 2020 Aligned)
| Class | Minimum Age (as of 31 March 2026) |
|---|
| Nursery (Pre-School) | 3+ years |
| LKG (Pre-Primary 1) | 4+ years |
| UKG (Pre-Primary 2) | 5+ years |
| Class 1 | 6+ years |
Important: No relaxation in age criteria is expected under NEP guidelines, except in very rare cases approved by the DoE.
Why Class 1 Is Now 6+ (NEP Explained Simply)
NEP 2020 introduced a 5+3+3+4 school structure. Under this system:
- Foundational Stage includes Nursery, LKG, UKG, and Classes 1–2
- Formal academic learning starts at Class 1 only at age 6
This approach supports:
- Social development
- Basic literacy and numeracy
- Emotional readiness
- Pre-academic skill building
Parents can be assured that this system promotes healthier, age-appropriate learning.
Understanding Delhi’s Admission System
Admissions to private schools in Delhi are primarily based on:
- Point-based criteria (distance, sibling, alumni, etc.)
- Seat availability
- Document verification
Schools are not allowed to charge any fee other than the registration or application fee during the admission process.
Admission Categories
| Category | Meaning |
|---|
| General Category | Open to all applicants |
| EWS / DG / CWSN | Reserved seats as per government norms |
| Sibling Category | Priority if an elder sibling is already studying in the school |
| Alumni Category | Points for parents who studied in the same school |
| Staff / Management Quota | Seats filled directly by school management |
Required Documents (Easy Checklist)
For All Applicants
- Child’s birth certificate
- Passport-size photographs (child and parents)
- Address proof (Aadhaar / Voter ID / Passport / Utility Bill)
- Parents’ ID proof
- Vaccination record (recommended)
If Applicable
- Sibling proof (ID card or fee receipt)
- Alumni proof (certificate or marksheet)
- EWS / DG certificate
- Disability certificate
Keep digital copies ready for online submission.
Step-by-Step Delhi School Admission Process
- Check school websites for admission criteria and points.
- Fill the application form from 4 December 2025.
- Upload documents carefully.
- Submit before 27 December 2025.
- Check points list on 16 January 2026.
- View first admission list on 23 January 2026.
- Raise queries during the objection window if required.
- Track second list on 9 February 2026.
- Complete admission formalities by 19 March 2026.
Tips for Parents
- Start shortlisting schools early.
- Apply to multiple schools to improve chances.
- Keep documents ready in PDF and image formats.
- Avoid last-day submissions.
- Prepare children calmly for interaction rounds.
- Check school websites and emails regularly.
Final Guidance for Parents
The Delhi school admission cycle for 2026–27 is structured, transparent, and time-bound. With NEP age norms fully implemented and DoE enforcing strict timelines, preparation is key.
UniApply supports parents by simplifying school discovery, comparison, shortlisting, and communication—making the admission journey smoother and less stressful.
Families who stay informed, organised, and proactive will navigate this admission season with confidence.