Age six criteria for Class 1 admissions will officially be implemented in all Delhi schools starting from the academic session 2026–27. The Directorate of Education (DoE), Government of NCT of Delhi, has issued a directive asking all Government, Government-aided, and Recognized Unaided Private Schools to enforce the minimum age requirement of six years for Class 1 admissions. This move brings Delhi’s school system in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and the Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
New Structure Under NEP 2020
The NEP 2020 replaces the traditional 10+2 schooling format with a 5+3+3+4 structure. This new system breaks down a child’s learning journey into four stages:
- Foundational Stage (5 years): Three years of pre-primary (Nursery, Lower KG, Upper KG) and Classes 1–2
- Preparatory Stage (3 years): Classes 3–5
- Middle Stage (3 years): Classes 6–8
- Secondary Stage (4 years): Classes 9–12
With this change, children will now enter Nursery (also referred to as Bal Vatika or Preschool 1) at age 3, Lower KG at age 4, Upper KG at age 5, and only then progress to Class 1 at age 6.
Implementation Across Schools
The DoE circular has made it clear that no child will be admitted to Class 1 unless they have completed six years of age by the start of the academic session 2026–27. All schools across Delhi, regardless of whether they are government-run, aided, or private, are required to follow this rule.
This shift is intended to give children a strong early foundation in a play-based, activity-driven learning environment before they begin formal schooling. The goal is to ensure children are emotionally and developmentally ready for primary education.
Public Consultation and Feedback
To ensure a smooth and inclusive rollout, the Directorate has invited feedback and suggestions from a wide range of stakeholders. Teachers, parents, students, school associations, subject experts, professionals, and members of the general public are all encouraged to share their opinions. The deadline for submitting suggestions is July 10, 2025.
This open consultation reflects the government’s attempt to make the education system more participatory and responsive to the needs of communities.
Why Age Matters
The age six rule is not arbitrary. It’s backed by global research and education psychology, which shows that early childhood is a critical period for brain development. A longer foundational phase that focuses on play, interaction, and exploration helps children develop cognitive and social skills more effectively than early formal schooling.
By making six the minimum age for Class 1, the NEP aims to reduce academic pressure on young children and improve long-term learning outcomes.
What Lies Ahead
The implementation of the age six criteria marks a major step in overhauling India’s school system. Schools and parents in Delhi have more than a year to prepare for the change. Awareness drives, teacher training, and curriculum updates for pre-primary levels will play a key role in ensuring that this transition is smooth.
Ultimately, the goal is to build a more child-centric education system that offers every student a fair and strong start.
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