RTE Admission 2026-27: Online Application Dates, 25% Quota Rules & State-wise Updates

New Delhi: The admission season for the academic year 2026-27 has officially begun, and for parents seeking free education under the Right to Education (RTE) Act, this is the most critical time of the year. Under this central law, 25% of seats in private unaided schools are reserved for children from Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) and Disadvantaged Groups.

As of January 2026, several states like Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan are gearing up to launch their online application portals. However, new rules regarding Aadhaar cards and age limits have been introduced this year. Here is a complete state-wise breakdown of dates, eligibility, and the latest news.

Uttar Pradesh (UP) RTE 2026: Big Changes Announced

The Uttar Pradesh government has released fresh guidelines for RTE admissions this week.

• 50,000 More Seats: In a major relief, the government has identified 5,000 new private schools, adding nearly 50,000 extra seats to the RTE quota this year.
• Mandatory Aadhaar: A strict new rule states that the Aadhaar card of both the child and the parents is now mandatory for application to prevent fraud.
• Portal Delay: While the forms usually open in December, the online portal (rte25.upsdc.gov.in) has seen a slight delay this year due to software updates. Parents are advised to check the site daily as applications are expected to start any day now in mid-January 2026.

Maharashtra RTE 2026: Forms Expected in January

For parents in Maharashtra, the Directorate of Primary Education is expected to release the official notification this month.

• Application Date: The online application process on student.maharashtra.gov.in is likely to begin in late January or early February 2026.
• Age Limit: The state is very strict about the age criteria. For admission to Class 1, the child must have completed 6 years of age as of December 31, 2026.
• Document Warning: Parents must ensure their Rent Agreement (if applicable) is registered. Notarized rent agreements are often rejected during verification.

Rajasthan RTE 2026: Schedule for March

Rajasthan usually follows a slightly later schedule compared to other states.

• Timeline: The online forms on the rajpsp.nic.in portal are expected to open in March 2026.
• Process: Rajasthan uses a centralized lottery system. Parents can select up to 5 schools in their catchment area (ward/village).

Who is Eligible for RTE 25% Quota?

To apply for a free seat in a private school, you must fall under one of these two categories:

1. Economically Weaker Section (EWS): Families with an annual income below ₹1 Lakh (limit varies by state, e.g., ₹2.5 Lakh in some). You will need a valid Income Certificate.
2. Disadvantaged Group (DG): This includes SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), orphans, and children with disabilities. No income proof is needed for this category, but a Caste/Medical certificate is mandatory.

Documents You Must Keep Ready

Do not wait for the notification to gather your papers. Missing a single document can disqualify your child.

• Birth Certificate: Mandatory for age proof.
• Address Proof: Aadhaar, Voter ID, Ration Card, or Electricity Bill.
• Caste Certificate: For SC/ST/OBC applicants.
• Income Certificate: Issued by the Revenue Department (Tehsildar).
• Child’s Photo: Passport size.

What Happens Next?

Once the portals open, you will have roughly 15-20 days to fill out the form. After that, a computerized Lottery will be conducted. If your child’s name appears in the lottery list, you must visit the allotted school with original documents for final verification.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)