The Delhi government is implementing a standard age of admission of 6+ years for Class 1 in all schools under the Directorate of Education from the academic session 2026-27. Additionally, it will revamp the age criteria for the foundational classes starting next year in a phased manner, in accordance with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
According to the Directorate of Education (DoE), the foundational stage as of now consists of two classes: Nursery and KG, with minimum ages for admission being 3+, 4+, respectively. In the new structure, the minimum and maximum age (as of March 31) for admission to Nursery is 3 and 4 years; Lower KG is 4 and 5 years; Upper KG is 5 and 6 years; and Class 1 is 6 and 7 years.
Age Criteria for Fresh Admissions
The new age criteria do not apply to the students of the current academic session of 2025-26. Also, it will only be enforced in the classes of Lower KG and Upper KG from 2027-28, the circular stated. Resultantly, the students of Nursery, KG and Class 1 of 2025-26 are to be promoted to the next higher standard as per the existing structure in 2026-27. Importantly, the new admissions to KG (in the year 2026-27) are open to children who are aged 4+ years (as on March 31, 2026).
Additionally, the students who have passed the previous standard from a recognized institution and possess a valid School Leaving Certificate (SLC) and mark sheet shall be exempted from the age-appropriate rules while seeking admission to the next higher class. The circular said that all school heads had already been informed about the changes to the foundational stage and the introduction of a standard age of admission of 6+ years in Class 1. The Directorate has instructed all school principals to clearly inform parents about the guidelines and ensure complete adherence to the revised age criteria for admissions and student progression.
