The nursery admission cycle in Delhi has entered its second stage, as private schools across the city have released revised selection and waiting lists for the 2026–27 academic session. Families whose children have been selected now have a short period to complete school-specific admission requirements before the final phase begins in March.

The release of the second merit list has renewed optimism for many parents, particularly those whose applications were not successful in the first round. With a large number of seats still unconfirmed, the concluding admission round is scheduled for March 5.

On February 9, more than 1,700 private unaided schools in Delhi made public their updated lists, underlining the stiff competition for nursery seats this year.

In-Person School Visits Required

Parents or guardians of children included in the second list must report to the allotted schools between February 10 and February 16 to complete verification and other formalities. Authorities have indicated that missing this deadline could lead to cancellation of the offered seat.

The lengthy waiting lists seen across several institutions indicate that many admissions are likely to be settled only in the final round.

High Demand Reflected in Waiting Lists

A number of well-known schools have reported large numbers of shortlisted and waitlisted applicants. In Rohini, Sovereign School shortlisted more than 400 children, while Gita Ratan School selected over 130 candidates.

St George’s School in Alaknanda confirmed 155 students, whereas Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantonment shortlisted a smaller group of 11 children.

Delhi Public School, East of Kailash, allotted only a limited number of seats and placed over 100 applicants on its waiting list. Apeejay School, Saket, also saw a substantial waitlist, highlighting the strong demand for nursery admissions at popular schools.

Eligibility Rules and Admission Criteria

According to updated guidelines from the Directorate of Education (DoE), the foundational level now covers nursery, kindergarten, and Class 1. For the 2026–27 session, children must have completed three years for nursery, four years for KG, and five years for Class 1 by March 31, 2026.

Schools may offer a relaxation of up to one month in age eligibility, depending on the discretion of the school principal. Admissions are being determined through a point-based system that takes into account factors such as proximity to the school, sibling enrollment, and alumni connections. Applicant details were shared in early January, followed by the release of point criteria.

Admissions to Close by March 19

The entire nursery admission process will wrap up on March 19. To ensure fairness and adherence to rules, district-level monitoring committees have been established to address complaints and supervise procedures.

The DoE has emphasized that any lottery process, if required, must be conducted openly, with parents present and proper video documentation.

Schools are allowed to collect only a one-time registration fee of Rs. 25 and are prohibited from charging donations or compelling parents to buy prospectuses or additional materials.