Delhi Private School Admissions: Key Dates and Guidelines for 2026
Overview of Admission Process
The admission process for young children in private schools across Delhi is set to commence for the upcoming academic year. The Directorate of Education has released comprehensive guidelines and timelines for parents seeking admission for Nursery, KG, and Grade 1. Applications will open on December 4, 2025, and will close on December 27, 2025.
Regulations on Admission Forms and Fees
The Directorate has mandated that all recognized private schools must keep admission forms available until the end of the year, charging no more than 25 rupees for registration. While schools can establish their own point systems and eligibility criteria, they are required to publish this information on the departmental website by November 28, 2025, to ensure clarity.
Admission Criteria Based on Points
Admissions will be determined using a 100-point system, with points allocated based on criteria such as distance from the school, having siblings already enrolled, and alumni status. This information must be prominently displayed on each school's website and notice board, as well as on the department's portal.
Important Dates for Admission Lists
The Directorate has scheduled the release of the first selection list for January 23, 2026, followed by the second list on February 9, 2026. The waiting list and the marks of students will also be published, and schools are prohibited from altering this timeline.
Registration Options for Parents
In addition to online and offline registration, schools will also provide QR code options to facilitate the application process and reduce waiting times for parents. This initiative aligns with the High Court's directives to maintain a fair and transparent admission process.
Age Requirements for Admission
Age eligibility will be calculated as of March 31, 2026, with the following age groups specified: Nursery (3-4 years), KG (4-5 years), and Grade 1 (6-7 years). Parents are encouraged to verify their child's age before submitting the application to prevent any issues.
Mandatory Videography of the Draw Process
If a lottery system is necessary for seat allocation, schools must conduct the draw in the presence of parents, using either a computerized method or traditional chits. Schools are required to notify parents two days in advance via email and on notice boards, and videography of the draw process is mandatory.
Key Dates to Remember
Important Dates:
- December 4, 2025: Start of admission process
- December 27, 2025: Application deadline
- January 9, 2026: Upload of applicant data for open seats
- January 16, 2026: Upload of points for each child
- January 23, 2026: Release of first list and waiting list
- January 24–February 3: Resolution of objections to the first list
- February 9, 2026: Release of second list
- February 10–16: Resolution of objections to the second list
- March 5, 2026: Next list, if necessary
- March 19, 2026: Conclusion of the process
Document Preparation for Applications
Parents should prepare necessary documents ahead of time to avoid delays during the application process. Required documents include a ration/smart card, domicile certificate, voter ID, utility bills (electricity/water/phone), and the Aadhaar card of one parent.
Monitoring of Admission Process
To ensure compliance with the rules, the Directorate has set up a monitoring cell in each district. This cell will oversee that schools upload their admission criteria on time and adhere to the guidelines established by the High Court.