School admission age to be raised to 6 from 5 from 2026-27 academic year

THE school admission age is to be raised to 6 years from 5 from the 2026-27 academic year in Kerala, according to Education Minister V Sivankutty.

Scientific studies suggest that children are ready for formal education after the age of 6. 

The minister said that this is why all educationally developed countries are raising the age of admission into formal education to 6 years or above. 

Under the Right to Education Act, 2009, children are not required to appear for an admission test or give a capitation fee for class 1 entry.

The minister said that it has been noticed that some schools are continuing this practice and action will be taken if a complaint is received.