Delhi nursery admissions 2026–27: Second merit list out, pressure shifts to final round

The nursery admission process in Delhi has reached a tense stage. On Monday, private schools across the capital released the second merit list for the 2026–27 academic session, leaving a large number of applicants on waiting lists. With limited seats available, most final decisions are now expected in the third list, scheduled for March 5.

As many as 1,741 private schools uploaded their second lists along with waiting lists. The numbers make one thing clear: competition remains fierce, and many parents will only know their child’s fate in the last round.

Big schools, long waiting lists

The second list showed wide gaps between selections and waiting numbers. Sovereign School in Rohini shortlisted 409 students, while Gita Ratan School, also in Rohini, selected 136. St George’s School in Alaknanda confirmed 155 admissions, whereas Loreto Convent School in Delhi Cantonment shortlisted just 11 students.

Waiting lists continue to grow. Delhi Public School, East of Kailash, selected only 14 candidates but placed 132 applicants on standby. Apeejay School, Saket, confirmed 150 students and kept 176 children on the waiting list, officials told PTI.

What parents must do now

Parents whose children appear in the second list must visit the respective schools between February 10 and 16 to complete admission formalities. Schools have made it clear that delays could lead to seats being passed on to candidates next in line.

Age rules remain strict

The Directorate of Education has maintained clear age criteria for the 2026–27 session. Children must be three years old for nursery, four for kindergarten, and five for Class 1 as on March 31, 2026. Schools may allow an age relaxation of up to one month, but only at the discretion of the school head.

Selection process under watch

Admissions were done using a points-based system, with weightage given to distance from school, sibling preference, and alumni status. Applicant details were uploaded on January 9, and the marks awarded were made public by January 16.

To ensure fairness, a district-level monitoring cell has been set up. The education department has also directed that any draw of lots must be held in front of parents and video recorded.

No extra fees allowed

Schools are permitted to charge only a ₹25 non-refundable registration fee. They are strictly barred from demanding capitation fees or forcing parents to buy a prospectus.

(With inputs from PTI)
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