After a significant delay, the Punjab government has opened the admissions process for the 2026-27 academic session under the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009. Applications are accepted online until 5 PM on April 25. The RTE Act mandates that private unaided schools reserve 25% of seats in entry-level classes for children from economically weaker sections and disadvantaged groups. The admissions will be conducted through a centralized online application system, with a transparent draw-of-lots mechanism for selection. The eligibility criteria include children from families with a gross annual income below ₹8 lakh (approximately $9,600 USD), as well as those from specific disadvantaged categories. The minimum age for nursery admission is set at three years, and priority will be given to children residing within a 0-3 km radius of the school. The Punjab and Haryana High Court had previously mandated the reservation of seats in private schools, and the state government is now expected to enforce these provisions effectively. Non-compliance by schools could lead to penalties.