CBSE sticks to minimum age limit for Class I admission

Kochi: Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) reiterated that the minimum age for Class I admission remains six years, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP), 2020, and the Right to Education (RTE) Act. However, a relaxation of up to three months before or after attaining six years will be permitted, officials said. The clarification was given by CBSE controller of examination Sanyam Bhardwaj and joint secretary (affiliation) Jayaprakash Chaturvedi at a district-level meeting of school managements and principals organized by the Council of CBSE Schools Kerala (CCSK). According to stakeholders, the clarification by the CBSE officials is expected to address practical issues arising from variations in academic calendars and admission practices across states, including Kerala. Officials also clarified that there is no upper age limit for students appearing for Class X and XII board examinations, with eligibility to be determined as per prevailing state govt norms. They noted that CBSE follows an inclusive and flexible approach, as age is not the sole determinant of academic performance. "Currently, no strict age limit is prescribed. Age eligibility follows state govt norms and CBSE maintains a flexible approach," said Bhardwaj.