How to Apply for the 25% Quota
The application window opens January–March. Missing it means waiting a full year. Follow this guide carefully.
The Application Stages
Follow each stage in order. Most issues arise from incomplete documents or missed deadlines.
Check Eligibility
Confirm the child falls under "disadvantaged group" (SC/ST/socially disadvantaged) or "weaker section" (income below state threshold). Check the child's age — must be 6 years old for Class 1 entry (5 years for pre-primary, if offered). Also verify the school is a private unaided school and is covered under RTE in your state.
Gather Documents
Collect proof of age (birth certificate, hospital record, Aadhaar), proof of residence (Aadhaar, ration card, electricity bill), income certificate or caste certificate as applicable, and photographs. Do not wait for the application window to gather documents — delays cause missed applications.
Fill Application
Submit the application through the state's online RTE portal or offline at the Block Education Office (BEO) or designated government centre. You may list up to 5 preferred schools in order of preference (varies by state). There is no application fee.
Lottery / Draw of Lots
If applications exceed available seats, the state conducts a computerised random lottery. This is open to the public in many states. SC/ST children and children with disabilities may have a priority sub-quota within the 25%, depending on state rules.
Report to School
After selection in the lottery, the parent must visit the allocated school within the reporting deadline (usually 7–15 days) with original documents for verification. The school cannot reject a selected child at this stage without due process.
Start Classes
After document verification and seat allocation, the child is formally enrolled. Classes begin with the school's regular academic session. The school must provide free books, uniforms, and stationery — do not pay anything.
Online vs Offline Process
Most states now have online portals. Some states still use physical forms. Both processes are equally valid.
💻 Online Process
- Visit your state's RTE admission portal (search "[state] RTE admission [year]")
- Register with a mobile number and create a parent/guardian account
- Enter child details (name, date of birth, gender, category — SC/ST/OBC/EWS)
- Upload scanned copies of required documents (PDF/JPG, usually under 500 KB each)
- Search for and select up to 5 preferred schools in your neighbourhood radius
- Submit and download the application acknowledgement slip with reference number
- Check portal after lottery date for result using reference number
📝 Offline Process
- Collect the RTE application form from the Block Education Office (BEO) or download from the district education website
- Fill in the form with child and parent details, category, and school preferences
- Attach self-attested copies of all required documents
- Submit at the BEO or designated government school before the deadline
- Collect the receipt/acknowledgement slip — this is your proof of application
- Check the BEO notice board or call the BEO office after the lottery date for results
How the Lottery System Works
Priorities in the Lottery
- Some states reserve a sub-proportion of the 25% seats for SC/ST children specifically
- Children with disabilities may have a priority quota within the 25%
- Siblings of existing students may receive priority in some state rules (check your state)
- Children in the neighbourhood (defined area) of the school generally have priority over those outside
What to Do After Being Selected
Download or collect the allotment letter from the portal or BEO office
Visit the school within the reporting deadline mentioned in the allotment letter (typically 7–15 days)
Carry original documents and 2 sets of photocopies for verification
Request and retain a written acknowledgement of your visit and document submission from the school
If the school asks for any payment or imposes conditions, refuse and report immediately to the DEO
If the school claims seats are full or the child is not eligible despite the allotment letter, escalate to the DEO in writing on the same day
Once enrolled, ensure the child receives free textbooks, uniform, and stationery — if not provided within the first two weeks, make a written complaint to the school principal and DEO
Need Guidance on the Application Process?
Mahadev Maitri Foundation works in rural Rajasthan and Haryana to ensure every child gets the education they deserve. Support our work or learn more about what we do.