Delhi Nursery Admissions 2026: Second Merit List Released, Final Round on March 5

Overview

The second merit list for Delhi nursery admissions 2026–27 has been released by private schools in the national capital. This marks a key phase in the ongoing admissions process for Nursery, Kindergarten (KG), and Class 1 in Delhi’s private and recognised schools.

Delhi nursery admissions 2026 are highly competitive due to limited seats

Under the Directorate of Education’s (DoE) revised framework, this admission season includes multiple selection rounds. After the second merit list issued on 9–10 February 2026, the third and final list is scheduled for publication on March 5, 2026.

How the Admission Process Works

The nursery admissions in Delhi are conducted using a points‑based system that considers factors such as:

• Neighbourhood proximity

• Sibling preference

• Alumni status

• Other DoE criteria

Parents and guardians of shortlisted children can visit schools between 10 and 16 February 2026 to complete the admission formalities after checking the second merit lists.

If seats remain unfilled after the second phase, the final merit list on March 5 will provide another opportunity for parents to secure admission. The entire process is expected to conclude by 19 March 2026.

Age and Eligibility Rules

According to the DoE rules for the 2026–27 session:

• Nursery: Children must be at least 3 years old by March 31, 2026

• Kindergarten (KG): At least 4 years old

• Class 1: At least 5 years old

Age relaxation of up to one month may be allowed at the discretion of individual school heads.

Transparency & Monitoring

To ensure fairness:

• A district‑level monitoring cell has been established to oversee compliance and handle grievances.

• Any lottery or draw of lots required for tie‑breaking must be conducted in the presence of parents and be video recorded.

• Schools are only permitted to collect a non‑refundable registration fee and are prohibited from charging capitation fees or mandating prospectus purchases.

  
  

Competition and Waiting Lists

With around 1,700+ private schools participating, many institutions have also uploaded waiting lists alongside the second merit list. This indicates a high volume of applications and competitive demand for early childhood seats in the city’s popular schools.

What Parents Should Do Next

• Check the second merit list on the relevant school’s website or at the school itself.

• Visit the school between 10–16 February to complete document verification and admission formalities.

• Prepare for the third and final merit list on 5 March if your child is on the waiting list or was not selected in Round 2.

  
  

Conclusion

The release of the second merit list is a key milestone in the 2026–27 Delhi nursery admissions process. With the final list set for March 5, 2026, parents still have time to secure coveted seats for their children. The structured points system, close monitoring, and transparency measures ensure a regulated selection process for thousands of applicants across the national capital.