NIOS Admission 2025-26 Last Date:The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) is one of the largest open schooling systems in the world, offering flexible and accessible education to learners across India and abroad. Every year, lakhs of students enroll in NIOS for academic (secondary and senior secondary) and vocational courses to complete their education at their own pace. The NIOS Admission 2025–26 session is now open, and it is essential for students and parents to stay informed about the last date, application process, eligibility criteria, and other crucial details to avoid any delays.
In this article, we provide a complete guide to the NIOS Admission 2025–26, covering everything from the last date to submit the form, how to apply, documents required, and a comprehensive FAQ section. For all official updates, always refer to the NIOS website: www.nios.ac.in
NIOS Admission Cycle 2025–26
NIOS follows two major admission cycles:
- Block 1 Admission – For exams in April/May 2026
- Block 2 Admission – For exams in October/November 2026
The admission process is conducted online through the official portal. For the 2025–26 session, candidates can register under Block 1 or Block 2 depending on when they want to appear for exams.
NIOS Admission 2025–26: Last Date
The last date to apply for NIOS admission varies depending on the block and whether late fees apply. Here’s a general idea of the timelines:
Block 1 (April/May 2026 Exams):
- Without late fee: July to September 2025
- With late fee: Up to November 2025 (with late fees in slabs)
Block 2 (October/November 2026 Exams):
- Without late fee: January to March 2026
- With late fee: Up to May 2026 (with late fees in slabs)
Courses Offered
Secondary Course (Class 10 equivalent)
Eligibility: Must have passed Class 8 or equivalent
Subjects: Minimum 5; maximum 7
Age: Minimum 14 years as on 31st July 2025
Senior Secondary Course (Class 12 equivalent)
Eligibility: Must have passed Class 10 from a recognized board
Subjects: Minimum 5; maximum 7
Age: Minimum 15 years as on 31st July 2025
Eligibility Criteria
- Indian citizens and international students can apply.
- Open to students who have discontinued education.
- No upper age limit.
- Students with disabilities or from marginalized communities are encouraged.
Documents Required for Admission
To complete the admission process, candidates need to upload scanned copies of the following documents:
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, passport, etc.)
- Age proof (birth certificate or class 10 certificate)
- Educational qualification proof
- Address proof
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-sized photo
- Signature
How to Apply for NIOS Admission 2025–26
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Visit the Official Website
Go to: www.nios.ac.in - Click on ‘Admission’
Select either Secondary or Senior Secondary as per your eligibility. - Registration
Register with your email ID and mobile number. - Fill Application Form
Enter personal, academic, and contact details. - Upload Documents
Upload all required scanned documents in the correct format. - Choose Subjects
Select at least 5 subjects (maximum 7) from the list provided. - Select Study Centre
Choose the nearest Accredited Institution (AI) for support. - Pay Admission Fee
Make the payment using online modes (Debit/Credit/UPI/Net Banking) - Confirmation
After successful submission, download your application and fee receipt for future reference.
NIOS Admission Fees (Tentative)
| Category | Secondary | Senior Secondary |
|---|---|---|
| General (Male) | ₹1800 | ₹2000 |
| Female | ₹1450 | ₹1650 |
| SC/ST/PwD | ₹1200 | ₹1350 |
| Exemptions | Available for Divyang (PwD), jail inmates, transgender, etc. |
Why Choose NIOS?
- Flexibility: Study at your own pace, choose exam schedule.
- Recognition: Accepted by all colleges, universities, UPSC, etc.
- Wide Subject Choice: Language, science, commerce, vocational, and life skills.
- Affordable: Low fees with support for disadvantaged groups.
- Second Chance: Ideal for dropouts, working people, or students in remote areas.
NIOS vs Regular Schooling
| Feature | NIOS | Regular School |
|---|---|---|
| Attendance | Not compulsory | Compulsory |
| Learning Mode | Self-paced, online/offline | Classroom-based |
| Exams | Twice a year | Annual/Board exams |
| Fee Structure | Low | Varies, usually higher |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
Important Tips for Students
- Apply Early: Avoid late fee and last-minute errors.
- Correct Documents: Scan and upload proper documents to avoid rejection.
- Use Official Site Only: www.nios.ac.in is the official site. Avoid third-party agents.
- Check Email/SMS: NIOS sends updates on confirmation, login, TMA deadlines, and exams.
- Keep Credentials Safe: Use your enrollment number to access student dashboard.
How to Track Your Admission Status
Once applied, you can track your status via:
- Student login at www.nios.ac.in
- Email/SMS confirmation
- Contacting your chosen study center
FAQs: NIOS Admission 2025–26
What is the last date to apply for NIOS 2025–26 session?
The last date depends on the admission block. Block 1 (April/May 2026 exams) generally closes by November 2025 (with late fee), and Block 2 (Oct/Nov 2026 exams) closes by May 2026 (with late fee).
Where can I apply for admission?
Apply online at www.nios.ac.in. It’s the only official portal for NIOS admissions.
Can I apply offline for NIOS?
No. NIOS admissions are completely online.
What happens if I miss the last date?
You can still apply by paying a late fee within the grace period. After that, you’ll need to wait for the next admission cycle.
Is NIOS valid for government jobs and college admissions?
Yes. NIOS is recognized by MHRD, UGC, AIU, UPSC, and other authorities. You can apply for higher studies or competitive exams.
Do I need to attend regular classes in NIOS?
No, but you can attend classes at your Accredited Institution (AI) if available. It’s optional but helpful.
Can international students apply for NIOS?
Yes, international students can also apply using designated overseas study centers or online admission.
Conclusion
The NIOS Admission 2025–26 session offers a golden opportunity for learners who want flexible and recognized education. Whether you’re a student who dropped out, a working professional, or a differently-abled individual, NIOS is designed to empower your education journey. Make sure to apply before the last date as per your chosen block, keep your documents ready, and always use the official website www.nios.ac.in for authentic updates. With dedication and proper planning, you can make the most out of your NIOS learning experience.