RTE admission 2027-28 reserves 25% of entry-level seats in private unaided schools for children from economically weaker sections and disadvantaged groups, under Section 12(1)(c) of the Right to Education Act. Each state runs its own portal and dates. This guide shows when each major state ran the 2026-27 cycle, so you know when to expect 2027-28, plus eligibility and how to apply.
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State-wise RTE Timeline (2026-27 Reference)
| State | 2026-27 applications (as reported) | Lottery / allotment | Official portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi (EWS/DG/CWSN) | Until 16 March 2026 | Computerised draws | edudel.nic.in |
| Maharashtra | From 17 February 2026 (deadline extended) | Lottery 6 April 2026 | student.maharashtra.gov.in |
| Karnataka | 6 April to 7 May 2026 (revised) | First round in May 2026 | schooleducation.karnataka.gov.in |
| Rajasthan | 20 February to 10 March 2026 | Lottery 12 March 2026 | rajpsp.nic.in |
| Gujarat | 4 to 23 April 2026 (extended) | Round 1 on 4 May 2026 | rte.orpgujarat.com |
| Madhya Pradesh | 13 to 28 March 2026 | Online lottery | rteportal.mp.gov.in |
2026-27 dates are as reported by news and education sites and may differ from final official notices. Expect 2027-28 windows around the same months; confirm on each portal.
Who Is Eligible
Eligibility is set by each state. It usually covers children from economically weaker sections below an income limit (for example, up to ₹5 lakh a year in Delhi for 2026-27), disadvantaged groups such as SC and ST, and children with special needs. Age rules follow the state’s entry-class age; see state-wise age criteria.
Documents Usually Needed
- Birth certificate of the child.
- Residence proof within the neighbourhood limit.
- Income certificate for EWS.
- Caste certificate for SC/ST/OBC where applicable.
- Disability certificate for CWSN.
- Photographs and Aadhaar if asked.
See our documents checklist.
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How to Apply
- Register on the state RTE portal when the window opens.
- Select schools within the allowed distance.
- Upload documents and submit before the deadline.
- Check lottery results and report to the school with originals.
- Watch for second and later rounds if not selected.
Related Guides
See the Delhi nursery admission guide, KVS admission and the School Admission 2027-28 guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is RTE 25% admission?
A reservation of 25% entry-level seats in private unaided schools for EWS and disadvantaged children under the RTE Act.
When does RTE admission 2027-28 open?
Most states open between February and April; check your state portal.
Is RTE admission free?
Tuition is reimbursed by the state for admitted children; check your state rules for other charges.
Can I apply to many schools?
Usually yes, within the state’s limit and distance rules.
Explore More
School Admission 2027-28 · Delhi Nursery Admission · KVS Admission · Documents Checklist · State-wise Age Criteria
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