Archive · 26 Oct 2025
Delhi Schools to Implement 6+ Age for Class 1 Entry
Starting in 2026-27, kids in Delhi must be at least six years old to start first grade.
This change, guided by the New Education Policy (NEP), aims to give kids a better start.
The plan includes three years of preschool, called Balvatika 1, 2, and 3.
Schools can allow a small, one-month age exception.
This new structure is meant to standardize education from the beginning, moving away from the old system.
Delhi schools will require a minimum age of 6 years for Class 1 entry.
The policy will be implemented from the 2026-27 academic session.
The pre-primary structure will include Balvatika 1, 2, and 3.
Schools can grant up to one month age relaxation.
The change aligns with the New Education Policy (NEP).
- Who
- Delhi Directorate of Education (DoE)
- What
- Implementing a 6+ years admission age for Class 1.
- When
- Starting in the 2026-27 academic session.
- Where
- Delhi, in all government, aided, and private schools.
- Why
- To align with the New Education Policy (NEP).
Concerns of Government School Staff
Support from Private Schools
Infrastructure and Staffing
Concerns of Government School Staff
Government school teachers and principals express concern about the lack of infrastructure and staff to manage the increased preschool years.
Support from Private Schools
Private schools have welcomed the decision and believe they will have time to set up additional infrastructure.
Legality
Concerns of Government School Staff
An educationist and lawyer states the new rules violate the Delhi School Establishment Act, 1973. It is claimed that the government's executive order has little legal standing.
Support from Private Schools
No opposing view is present in the articles. The Delhi Directorate of Education is implementing this change in line with the New Education Policy.
- Policy Implementer
- Delhi Directorate of Education
- Class 1 Admission Age
- 6+ years
- Implementation Start
- 2026-27 Academic Session
- Age Relaxation
- Up to one month
- New Pre-Primary Structure
- Balvatika 1, 2, 3
Sources
Delhi Government To Implement Uniform Admission Age Of 6+ Years For Class 1 From 2026-27
Delhi Govt to Implement Uniform Age of 6+ Years for Class 1 from 2026-27
Delhi government sets uniform age of 6-plus years for Class 1 admission, revises foundational stage criteria from 2026-27
Delhi schools to admit children to Class 1 at 6+ years from 2026-27; new ‘Balvatika’ structure to begin in phases
Delhi Govt Sets Minimum Age For Class 1 Admission At 6 Years From 2026-27 Academic Session