NEW DELHI: The Directorate of Education (DoE), Delhi, has released the detailed admission schedule for entry-level classes, nursery, KG and Class 1, in around 1,741 private unaided recognised schools for the 2026–27 academic session. The admission process will begin on December 4.
The circular, issued late evening on November 22, outlines key dates, required documents, norms for transparency and rules schools must follow. The guidelines apply only to open-category seats and do not cover EWS, DG or CWSN admissions, which will continue under the DoE’s centralised procedure.
Schools must upload their admission criteria and point-based selection system on the DoE portal by November 28, 2025. The admission process for parents begins on December 4, 2025, with the last date for submitting forms set as December 27, 2025.
By January 9, 2026, schools will be required to upload details of all applicants, followed by uploading marks assigned under the points system on January 16, 2026.
The first list (with waiting list and assigned points) will be published on January 23, 2026, while the second list, if necessary, will be released on February 9, 2026.
The circular makes it clear that no deviation from this timetable is permitted, and each school must display the complete schedule on its website and notice board.
Also, to prevent schools from cutting down entry-level seats, the circular mandates that the number offered for 2026–27 must not be lower than the highest intake during the previous three years.
What documents are accepted?
To simplify the verification process, the DoE has listed several acceptable documents for establishing proof of residence. These include ration cards, smart cards, domicile certificates, voter ID cards, utility bills, passports and Aadhaar cards. Parents may submit any one of these to complete the address verification requirement.
Registration fee capped at Rs 25; buying prospectus optional
The DoE has restricted admission-related charges. Schools may charge only Rs 25 as a non-refundable registration fee. They cannot compel parents to purchase prospectuses or other printed materials, which the circular emphasises must remain optional. Schools must make application forms available until the final submission date.
25% seats for EWS/DG/CWSN
The DoE has reiterated the mandatory reservation of 25% seats for students from the EWS, DG and CWSN categories at the entry level. Schools are prohibited from processing these admissions independently. The entire procedure including the draw of lots will be conducted centrally by the Directorate.