Preschool admissions in India are far less brutal than Class 1 admissions, but they reward parents who start early. Here's the typical timeline and what you need.
Age eligibility
Most preschools follow these bands (age as of 31 March of the academic year):
| Program | Age |
|---|---|
| Playgroup / Toddler | 1.5 to 2.5 years |
| Nursery | 2.5 to 3.5 years |
| Junior KG (LKG) | 3.5 to 4.5 years |
| Senior KG (UKG) | 4.5 to 5.5 years |
Cutoff dates vary by state: Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Delhi each notify their own. Always confirm with the school.
When to apply
- Premium/branded preschools in metros: admissions open October to December for the June academic year. Popular centres fill by February.
- Most neighbourhood preschools: rolling admissions; you can usually join mid-year.
Documents you'll need
- Birth certificate (the single most important document)
- Passport-size photos of the child and both parents
- Address proof
- Immunisation record
- Aadhaar (child's, if made), asked for but usually optional
What "interaction" means
Most preschools don't test children (many states prohibit it). The "interaction" is really a parent conversation: your expectations, the child's routine, allergies, toilet training status. Be honest, it helps the school prepare, not reject.
Mid-year admissions
Perfectly normal at the preschool level. If you're relocating, ask about prorated fees, most chains will adjust term fees, but admission kits are usually charged in full.
Red flags during admission
- Pressure to pay the full year on the spot "to hold the seat"
- No written fee breakup
- Refusal to let you see a classroom in operation
A good admission process is transparent. If it isn't, that tells you about the school itself.