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The Delhi government has made a significant change to the education system by setting the minimum age for admission to Class 1 at 6 years. This rule will apply to all government, government-aided, and recognized private schools in Delhi starting from the 2026-27 academic session. The government states that this decision aligns with the New Education Policy (NEP 2020) to ensure children receive a solid early education. According to the issued instructions, for admission to first grade, a child must be at least 6 years old and a maximum of 7 years old by March 31. Essentially, the child must be over 6 years old. “For admissions in the Academic Session 2026-27, a child must have attained the prescribed minimum age as on 31st March, 2026. That is, a child entering Nursery at the age of 3+ years in Session 2026-27, will be in Class 1 at 6+ years,” reads the official notice. The circular issued by the Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE) specifies the new age limits as follows: – Nursery (Balvatika 1 / Pre-School 1): 3 to 4 years – Lower KG (Balvatika 2 / Pre-School 2): 4 to 5 years – Upper KG (Balvatika 3 / Pre-School 3): 5 to 6 years – Class 1: 6 to 7 years If a child’s age is slightly less or more, the school principal can allow an age relaxation of up to 1 month. When Will The Changes Be Implemented? The new rule will take effect from the 2026-27 academic session. However, lower KG and upper KG classes will be introduced from the 2027-28 session. Children in nursery, KG, or Class 1 in 2025-26 will progress to the next class the following year according to the current system. Which Children Will Get Exemption? Students who have passed the previous class from a recognised school and possess their 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 instructed all schools to fully inform parents about the changes and ensure strict adherence to the new age limit.
