Delhi EWS admissions 2026: The Directorate of Education, Government of NCT of Delhi, has started the online admission process for children under the Economically Weaker Section (EWS), Disadvantaged Group (DG) and Children with Special Needs (CWSN) categories for the academic session 2026–27. The process covers entry-level classes including Pre-school/Nursery, Pre-primary/KG and Primary/Class 1 in private unaided recognised schools, except minority institutions.Admissions are being conducted through a computerised online system, and parents or guardians must submit applications on the official portal. Schools are required to reserve 25 per cent of seats at the entry level under Section 12(1)(c) of the Right to Education Act, 2009, providing free education up to elementary level.Admission schedule and key datesThe online registration window opened on February 21, 2026, and will remain active until March 16, 2026. The date for the first computerised draw of lots will be announced separately.
The allotment of seats will be carried out through a computerised lottery system. Once a school is allotted, no change will be permitted.Eligibility and reservation structureOf the 25 per cent reserved seats, 22 per cent are allocated for EWS and DG applicants, while 3 per cent are earmarked for children with disabilities under the RPWD Act, 2016.EWS eligibility applies to families with an annual income below ?5 lakh or those holding valid BPL or AAY cards issued in Delhi. DG includes SC, ST, OBC (non-creamy layer), orphans, transgender children and those living with or affected by HIV. A disability certificate from a government hospital is required for CWSN applicants.Only one application per child is allowed, and multiple entries will lead to cancellation. The benefit can be availed only once at the entry level.Age criteria and documentsAge limits are calculated as on March 31, 2026. For Nursery, children must be between 3 and 5 years; for KG, 4 to 6 years; and for Class 1, 5 to 7 years. Relaxed age limits apply for CWSN applicants.Applicants must upload proof of date of birth, residence, income certificate (for EWS), category certificate where applicable, and a recent photograph. Income certificates must be issued before the last date of application to be considered valid.Monitoring and grievance supportA district-level monitoring cell and helpdesk have been set up to address queries and ensure implementation. Parents can also contact the helpline at 9818154069 between 10.00 AM and 5.00 PM on working days.The Directorate has directed strict compliance with the guidelines and prohibited any demand for capitation fee during admission. Applications containing incorrect information or forged documents will be cancelled.
