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As per the new rules prescribed by DoE. If the age of the child is slightly younger or older, the school principal can give age relaxation of up to 1 month.
The government says this decision is in line with the New Education Policy (NEP 2020) to ensure solid elementary education to children. (Representative/Getty Images)
Delhi government has made a significant change in the education system by setting the minimum age for admission in class 1 at 6 years. This rule will be applicable to all government, government-aided and recognized private schools in Delhi from the academic session 2026-27. The government says this decision is in line with the New Education Policy (NEP 2020) to ensure solid elementary education to children.
According to the instructions issued, for admission in the first class, the age of the child should be at least 6 years and maximum 7 years by 31st March. Essentially the age of the child should be more than 6 years.
The official notice reads, “For admission in the academic session 2026-27, the child must have attained the prescribed minimum age by March 31, 2026. That is, a child entering nursery at the age of 3+ years in the session 2026-27 will be in Class 1 at 6+ years.”
The circular issued by the Delhi Directorate of Education (DOE) specifies the new age limit as follows:
– Nursery (Kindergarten 1/Pre-school 1): 3 to 4 years
– Lower KG (Kindergarten 2/Pre-School 2): 4 to 5 years
– Upper KG (Kindergarten 3 / Pre-school 3): 5 to 6 years
– Class 1: 6 to 7 years
If the age of the child is slightly younger or older, the school principal can give age relaxation of up to 1 month.
When will the changes come into effect?
The new rule will be effective from the 2026-27 academic session. However, Lower KG and Upper KG classes will be started from the session 2027-28. Children in Nursery, KG or Class 1 in 2025-26 will move to the next class next year as per the current system.
Which children will get exemption?
Students who have passed the previous class from a recognized school and have a School Leaving Certificate (SLC) and marksheet will be exempted from the age limit rule, allowing them to take admission in the next class without adhering to the new age limit.
The Directorate of Education (DoE) has directed all schools to provide complete information to parents about the changes and ensure strict adherence to the new age limit.
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October 25, 2025, 5:30 PM IST
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