Delhi school admission schedule for 2026–27

The Delhi government has released the admission schedule for entry-level classes in private schools for the 2026–27 academic year, officially kicking off the much-anticipated annual admission cycle. Application forms for nursery, KG, and Class 1 will be available from December 4, 2025, while the first list of selected candidates will be announced on January 23.

According to the Directorate of Education (DoE), all private schools must upload their admission criteria and point systems for open seats (excluding EWS/DG/CWSN categories) by November 28. Schools are also required to upload the details of all applicants by January 9, 2026, followed by the marks allotted under the points system by January 16, 2026.

The first selection and waiting lists will be released on January 23, 2026, and parents will be allowed to raise queries regarding point allocation from January 24 to February 3, 2026. A second list will be issued on February 9, 2026, and the entire admission process will close on March 19, 2026.

Emphasising transparency, the DoE has instructed schools to avoid any criteria previously struck down by the department or the Delhi High Court. Schools must also comply with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act while framing their criteria. The circular mandates that any draw of lots must take place in the presence of parents and be recorded on video.

The DoE has also reiterated the minimum age criteria: Nursery – 3 years, KG – 4 years, and Class 1 – 5 years as of March 31, 2026, with a possible relaxation of up to one month at the school head’s discretion.

Strict guidelines on fees remain in place, with schools prohibited from charging capitation fees or requiring parents to purchase prospectuses. Only a non-refundable Rs 25 registration fee may be charged. A district-level monitoring cell will oversee compliance and address parent grievances throughout the cycle.