Delhi nursery admissions: Distance rule leaves parents frustrated
Delhi's new nursery admission rules for 2026-27 are stressing out parents.
The big issue? Schools give major points based on how far you live, but each school measures distance in its own way—so families living next door can end up with totally different chances.
How schools measure distance is all over the place
Some schools use kilometer slabs, others go by aerial distance or Google Maps, and a few even count transport routes.
For example, Indraprastha International in Dwarka gives 55 points if you're within 12km, but some schools use straight-line measurements, as described by a south Delhi school principal.
It's confusing and feels unfair.
Address quirks can cost families a seat
If your address lands right at a boundary or doesn't fit a school's "zone," you could lose key points—even if your neighbor gets them.
Aprajita Gautam from Delhi Parents's Association has called for a single, clear system so all parents have equal opportunity.
Key dates to know
Applications close December 27, 2025.
First admission list drops January 23, 2026.
Schools have to share their full criteria—including how they measure distance—by November 28.