Delhi's Education Directorate Sets New Age Requirement for Class 1 Admissions

The Directorate of Education in Delhi has announced a new policy requiring children to be at least 6 years old for Class 1 admissions starting in the 2026-27 academic year. This change is part of the National Education Policy 2020, which restructures the educational framework to include three years of pre-primary education. The new structure aims to enhance the foundational learning experience for young students. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback on these changes until July 10, 2025, ensuring a collaborative approach to education reform in the region.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2025, 20:57 IST

New Admission Guidelines for Class 1 in Delhi

The Directorate of Education (DoE) for the Government of National Capital Territory of Delhi has announced that starting from the academic year 2026-27, children must be at least 6 years old to enroll in Class 1. This decision aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act of 2009. Additionally, the foundational stage of education has been revised to include three years of pre-primary schooling prior to entering Class 1.

Under the NEP 2020 framework, the educational structure has shifted from the traditional 10+2 model to a new 5+3+3+4 format. This reorganization divides school education into four developmental stages: five years for foundational learning, three years for preparatory education, three years for middle schooling, and four years for secondary education.

The DoE has directed all Heads of Government, Government-Aided, and Recognized Unaided Private Schools to implement these changes starting in the 2026-27 academic session.

According to the NEP 2020, the foundational stages of education will be restructured to include three years of pre-primary education before students enter Class 1. Schools will now accept children into Nursery (Bal Vatika/Preschool 1) at age 3, Lower KG (Bal Vatika/Preschool 2) at age 4, and Upper KG (Bal Vatika/Preschool 3) for those aged 5.

The official circular emphasized, "A child may be admitted to Class I only upon completion of 6 years of age from Academic Session 2026-27 onwards."

To foster a more inclusive and participatory process, the DoE invites feedback from all stakeholders, including teachers, parents, students, School Management Committees, educational institutions, school associations, professionals, subject experts, scholars, and the general public. Recommendations can be submitted until July 10, 2025.