A complete guide to secure your child’s admission for AY 2026
A Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the right school for your child is one of the biggest and life-shaping decisions you make as a parent.
If you’re planning school admissions for 2026, the best time to start is way earlier than you think. Most parents wait until the last moment, and then everything feels rushed. A little planning now makes the whole thing so much easier.
Here’s a simple guide that actually helps.
When should you start the process?
Start to research for schools at least one year before, especially if –
- Your child is entering pre-primary (Nursery, Jr KG, Sr KG)
- You want a school known for academics and co-curricular opportunities
- You prefer structured boards like CBSE
- You’re relocating to a new city
CBSE School Timeline (Typical)
The exact dates may differ from school to school, but here’s the usual cycle:
- June – September 2025: Schools start taking enquiries.
- October – December 2025: Admission forms open.
- December – February 2026: School tours and interaction rounds.
- March 2026: Final confirmations.
- April or June 2026: School year begins (depending on the state).
Starting early gives you the advantage of choosing the school that is best for your child without rushing through the process.
How to apply for school admissions 2026
Let’s keep this simple and stress-free.
- Research the Right School
Make a list of schools that match your criteria. Parents these days look beyond academics, they value exposure to arts, sports, technology, safety, and emotional well-being.
For example, Radcliffe School is known for:
- CBSE curriculum
- Strong academic rigor
- Art, sports, music & skill-based programs
- Safe, modern, student-friendly campuses
Shortlist 3–5 schools that align your expectations.
2. Check the age criteria
Every school has a specific age requirement for each grade. CBSE schools usually follow this:
For example:
- Nursery: 3 years by March 31, 2026
- LKG: 4 years
- UKG: 5 years
- Grade 1: 6 years
Missing these dates can delay your admission process.
3. Note the important dates
Keep track of key dates –
- Form release date
- Last date to submit
- School visit/meet & greet
- Interaction session/ admission or entrance test
- Fee payment deadline
Missing one small deadline can mess up the whole plan.
4. Keep your documents ready
Create a folder with –
- Birth certificate
- Address proof
- Previous school report card (if applicable)
- Passport-size photos
- Vaccination record
- Parent ID proofs
- Parent Adhaar card
This will save you from last-minute panic.
5. Fill the form carefully
It sounds obvious, but small mistakes in the form can delay things.
Double-check:
- Spelling of the child’s name
- Contact number
- Email ID
- Grade applied for
- Supporting documents
Incorrect details may delay or reject the application.
6. Visit the school
Most CBSE schools encourage campus tours before admission.Check if the campus feels –
- Warm and welcoming
- Clean and safe
- Well-equipped with labs, library & activity spaces
- Balanced between structure and creativity
Notice how teachers interact with children. It says a lot about the school culture.
7. Interaction round
This is usually a simple conversation with parents and sometimes with the child to understand
- Your child’s interests
- Learning style
- Comfort level
- Family expectations
They just want to understand your child’s personality and your expectations.
8. Understand the fees
Ask for a clear breakdown.
- Admission fee
- Annual fee
- Tuition fee
- Optional activity/lab/transport fees
- Fee cycle and modes of payment
Schools like Radcliffe focus on a balance of quality and value.
9. Confirm the seat
Once you receive the admission confirmation:
- Pay the admission fee
- Submit the remaining documents
- Save payment receipts
- Collect the parent handbook
Final tips for parents
- Start early so you get enough time to compare.
- Visit the school in person.
- Ask all your questions.
- Pick a school that fits your child’s personality.
- Look for a balance of academics and activities.
Admissions can be overwhelming at first, but with a little planning, you will be fully ready for the 2026 school year.
