RTE UP Admission 2026: Free Education in Private Schools, Forms Open from February

The Uttar Pradesh Basic Education Department has released the schedule for RTE (Right to Education) Admissions 2026-27. Under this program, children from economically weaker sections can secure free admission in private schools, starting from Nursery, Class 1, and other grades. Applications for admission will begin on 2 February 2026.

Free Education for Economically Weaker Children
RTE, or the Right to Education, ensures that children from disadvantaged backgrounds have access to quality private education. 25% of seats in all private schools are reserved under the RTE Act, with the government covering tuition fees. According to UP Education Minister Sandeep Singh, “The RTE law guarantees that children from economically weaker and marginalized sections can also study in private schools. Their fees are paid by the government, giving them equal opportunity to quality education.”

Admission Schedule and Phases
The UP RTE admission process, under the RTE Act 2009, will be conducted in three phases:

• Phase 1: 2 February to 16 February 2026
• Phase 2: 21 February to 7 March 2026
• Phase 3: 12 March to 25 March 2026

How to Apply
The entire admission process will be online. Parents must visit the UP RTE portal, fill out the form, and upload all required documents. The education authorities will verify the documents, shortlist eligible children, and select students through a lottery system. Director General of School Education Monica Rani emphasized that the process will remain transparent and closely monitored by the department.

Age Criteria for Admission
The RTE Act specifies age limits for different classes:

• Nursery: 3–4 years
• LKG: 4–5 years
• UKG: 5–6 years
• Class 1: 6–7 years

Required Documents
Parents must upload the following documents while filling the form:

• Parent’s Aadhaar Card
• Income Certificate
• Residential Proof
• Caste Certificate (if applicable)
• Ration Card
• Pension or Disability Certificate (if applicable)
• Child’s Birth Certificate

This initiative aims to provide equal educational opportunities to underprivileged children across Uttar Pradesh, ensuring that quality education is accessible to all, regardless of economic background.