Karnataka relaxes Class 1 admission age criteria for 2025–26, six-year minimum now mandatory from next session

The Karnataka government has announced a one-time relaxation in the minimum age requirement for Class 1 admissions for the 2025–26 academic year. Children who have completed 5 years and 5 months by June 1, 2025, will now be eligible for admission to Class 1 in state board schools. This decision was made in response to concerns from parents whose children were affected by a previous change in age norms.

The government had revised the age requirement to 6 years in July 2022, which left some children ineligible for Class 1, even though they had completed nursery and kindergarten. This relaxation applies only to state board schools and is intended as a transitional measure. From the 2026–27 academic year onwards, the 6-year minimum age requirement will be strictly enforced for all Class 1 admissions in Karnataka state board schools.

This move aligns with the state's efforts to implement recommendations from the State Education Policy, which advocates for a more developmentally appropriate age for formal schooling. School Education Minister Madhu Bangarappa had earlier clarified that the age limit revision was aimed at aligning with national standards and ensuring children are ready for academic learning.

Officials have also stated that the revised age rule applies only to state board schools and not to institutions affiliated with CBSE, ICSE, or other boards, which may have their own admission norms. Parents are advised to check official school circulars and ensure their children meet the relaxed criteria before applying.
*This news has been published on Indian Express on 17h April 2025