RTE 25% free seats in private schools: who can apply

What the law says

Section 12(1)(c) of the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009 (RTE Act) requires private unaided schools to admit children from economically weaker sections and disadvantaged groups in at least 25% of the seats at the entry level (Nursery/pre-primary or Class 1). These children study free until Class 8, and the government reimburses the school.

Who can usually apply

• Children from families below the income limit set by the state (economically weaker section).
• Children from disadvantaged groups as defined by the state, such as SC and ST families.
• The child must meet the age rule for the entry class.

The exact income limit, the list of documents and the application dates are set by the Bihar Education Department each year. Always follow the official notice for your district.

How admission works

1. Watch for the official RTE admission notice from the Bihar Education Department or your district education office.
2. Apply within the dates with the required documents (usually birth certificate, address proof, income or caste certificate).
3. Seats are allotted by the process in the notice (often a lottery when there are more applicants than seats).
4. Take the allotment letter to the school to complete admission.

Be careful

• RTE seats are free. A school may not charge admission or tuition fees for these seats.
• Nobody can "guarantee" an RTE seat for money. Report anyone who asks to the district education office.