Uttar Pradesh RTE Admission Process for 2026-27: Key Dates and Details

The admission process for the Right to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) in Uttar Pradesh for the academic year 2026-27 is set to begin on February 2nd. This initiative allows children from economically weaker sections to enroll in private schools without any fees. The application process will occur in three phases, with a lottery system determining school placements. Parents can apply online, and the enrollment must be completed by April 11th. Age limits for admission are also specified, ensuring clarity for applicants. Read on for detailed information about the phases and requirements.

By Ambika Singh Feb 3, 2026, 10:39 IST

Overview of RTE Admission 2026-27

RTE Admission 2026-27: The pathway to free education for children from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in Uttar Pradesh is now established. The admission process for 25% of seats in private unaided schools for the academic year 2026-27 will commence on February 2nd, as per the Right to Free and Compulsory Education Act (RTE). This initiative allows children to enroll in private schools without incurring any fees. The entire admission procedure will unfold in three distinct phases.

Application Phases

Applications in Three Phases
The first phase for RTE applications will run from February 2nd to February 16th. The second phase will accept applications from February 21st to March 7th, while the final phase will be open from March 12th to March 25th. This scheme covers admissions for pre-primary classes (Nursery, LKG, UKG) and Class 1.

Lottery System for School Allotment

Once the application process concludes, schools will be assigned to children through a lottery system. The lottery for the first phase is scheduled for February 18th, the second phase on March 9th, and the third phase on March 29th. Following the lottery, the Basic Education Officer will issue directives to the relevant private schools for the enrollment of selected students.

Enrollment Deadline

Enrollment to be completed by April 11th
The Education Department has mandated that the enrollment of all children selected through the lottery must be finalized by April 11th. A minimum of 25% of the total seats in the initial classes of all recognized private unaided schools in each district will be reserved for RTE admissions.

Online Application Process

Applications only through the Online Portal
Applications for RTE will be accepted exclusively online. Parents must apply via the official portal – www.rte25.upsdc.gov.in. Approximately 6 lakh seats across around 68,000 private schools in the state will be available. Last year, 3.37 lakh applications were submitted under RTE, with 2.54 lakh accepted and 1.85 lakh seats allocated. Of these, about 1.41 lakh children were successfully admitted to private schools.

Age Criteria for Admission

Age Limit for Admission
The age criteria for admission under RTE are as follows:
– Nursery: 3 to 4 years
– LKG: 4 to 5 years
– UKG: 5 to 6 years
– Class 1: 6 to 7 years
The child's age will be determined as of April 1, 2026.