For admissions to Grade 8 in the 2026-2027 academic year in India, you'll need to start the application process in the coming months, as many schools open admissions for higher grades a year in advance. It's common for schools to be affiliated with either CBSE (Central Board of Secondary Education) or a state board. Admissions are often merit-based or through entrance tests, especially for popular schools, and the specific procedures vary by school.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. CBSE or State Board?

CBSE:

The Central Board of Secondary Education is a national-level board widely adopted across India.

State Board:

Each state also has its own board of education (e.g., UP Board for Uttar Pradesh).

Selection:

Decide which board aligns with your preferences and your daughter's academic needs.

2. Admission Timeline & Procedures:

Early Action:

Start researching schools and their admission schedules well in advance. Many schools begin accepting applications for Grade 8 in the year preceding the actual academic year.

Application:

Online: Many schools use online application portals. You'll need to create an account and fill out the application form carefully.

Offline: Some schools may still accept physical forms.

Entrance Tests/Merit-Based:

Entrance Tests: Some schools administer entrance tests covering subjects like English, Mathematics, and General Knowledge. These tests assess a student's aptitude and knowledge.

Merit-Based: Admission may also be based on academic performance in previous classes (Grade 6 and 7).

Documents:

Prepare necessary documents like the birth certificate, previous mark sheets, transfer certificate (if applicable), and passport-sized photographs.

Interactions/Interviews:

Some schools may conduct interactions or interviews with students and parents.

Fee Payment:

If selected, you'll need to pay the admission fee to secure the seat.

Orientation:

Schools usually organize an orientation program for new students to familiarize them with the school environment.

3. Specifics for Grade 8:

Age Criteria:

Ensure your daughter meets the age criteria for Grade 8, which is typically around 13 years of age, as of March 31st of the academic year.

Curriculum:

Grade 8 marks the beginning of the secondary stage in CBSE, preparing students for board-level understanding.

Subject Selection:

Students start exploring more subject-oriented knowledge and may have some flexibility in choosing subjects.