National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) is an autonomous educational organisation providing open and distance learning to students. NIOS admission for the session 2025 has already ended, and admission for 2026 has started.
A candidate may sit for a direct exam in class 10th or class 12th if they have finished basic primary school or passed the class 10th exam or its equivalent. NIOS provides flexibility and support to students, providing them freedom to choose subjects as per their comfortability.
To be enrolled in NIOS, there is no upper age limit; however, the minimum age limit to apply for secondary education is 14 years, and for senior secondary it is 15. NIOS also provides a feature of transfer credits, which means they can transfer their credit score from any national boards, such as CBSE, ICSE, and other state boards.
The last date to apply for NIOS admission is 31st July 2025 for the 2026 session. The NIOS admission form 2025 must be completed by the deadline. The application will then close, and candidates won’t be able to apply after that.
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Steps to How to Apply for NIOS Admission 2025
The admission process for NIOS is easy, and candidates can easily apply in online mode. The admission process for the June session 2025 has already been concluded, and the examinations for the October session will begin from 24th June 2025 to 3rd July 2025.
However, candidates can also fill the form after the end date, that is after 3rd July 2025 from 4th July 2025 to 13 July 2025, with a late fee of INR 1600. NIOS admission date for the 2026 session for both stream 1 and stream 2 will be released soon on the official website.
Through following the steps candidates can understand how to take admission in NIOS for 12th Class . Candidates can check the admission status on the official website through using their reference numbers. Here you can check the admission steps for NIOS 2025.
1. Visit the NIOS Website
To start the admission process candidates need to visit the official website of National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) at sdmis.nios.ac.in.
Through the official website, candidates can also acquire other information related to admission, procedures, eligibility criteria, etc. Understanding websites more efficiently allows students to understand the enrollment process.
On the NIOS homepage, look for the admission section or tab. In this section, candidates can find the comprehensive details about the admissions process, including eligibility, requirements, important dates and instructions for completing the application.
Now, based on the information, candidates have to fill out the application form carefully.
3. Choose the Appropriate Stream
During the form fill-up, students need to select their streams. NIOS offers multiple streams, out of which candidates have to select their desired courses.
During the form fill-up, candidates can select the stream for class 10 and class 12. Each stream has different eligibility criteria; it is essential to check the eligibility before filling out the application form.
4. Upload Documents
While filling up the form, candidates have to upload some required documents such as passport size photographs, photo identity card such as Aadhar Card, Voter ID card, passport, marksheets, transfer certificates, caste certificate if applicable and so on. Always upload properly scanned and clear documents in the appropriate format.
5. Pay the Application Fee
After filling up the application form and uploading the required documents, candidates need to pay the application fee. The application fee will vary according to the candidate’s caste and sections. Candidates can pay the application fee in online mode using net banking, mobile wallet or credit/debit cards.
6. Submit the Application
Once the application form is completed, it is essential for students to check the application form thoroughly for any mistakes. After being satisfied with the application form, candidates can submit the form. Upon successful submission, candidates will receive an email of their application form.
7. Keep a Copy
After successful submission of the application form, candidates need to keep a copy of their application. A copy of your application will be helpful if there are any issues or discrepancies later in the admissions procedure.
NIOS 2025 Admission Eligibility Criteria
The NIOS 2025 admission eligibility criteria are a minimum standard for enrollment. Students who are going to enrol in class 10, it is essential for them to check the eligibility criteria.
By meeting the qualifying requirements, students can successfully enrol in NIOS secondary courses and take a significant step toward completing their education .
The NIOS eligibility criteria depend on the stream and classes. Here you can check the NIOS admission eligibility criteria.
1. Age Limit
There is no upper age limit for candidates; however, the minimum age limit for candidates applying for secondary education is 14, and candidates who are applying for senior secondary must be 15 years of age.
2. Nationality
Candidates applying for the NIOS must be Indian citizens. Applicants who are from Nepal and Bhutan can also apply with proper documents and meet the eligibility criteria.
3. Educational Qualification
Candidates applying for the NIOS should have passed class 10th or 8th class from a recognised board. Candidates applying for the NIOS must have more than 4 subjects from the selected stream.
Students must have scored a minimum of 45% in order to get admitted; however, the score will vary according to the stream.
NIOS Admission Important Documents
NIOS provides direct admission to students, which gives them the flexibility of studying in a distance learning mode. Students who are applying for the NIOS must be ready with some documents.
Candidates have to upload a scanned copy of the original documents, such as passport size photographs, signature, valid identity proof, marksheet, etc. These documents are very necessary to get admitted to NIOS.
It is important to ensure that all documents are accurate, up-to-date, and meet the requirements specified by NIOS. Here are the following documents which are required to get enrolled.
1. Passport-Size Coloured Photograph
A recent passport-size coloured photograph is very essential for the admission process. Candidates appearing for class 10 need to submit 4 coloured photographs, and students applying for 12th standards need to submit 2 coloured photographs.
The photographs will be used for student ID and other official documents. Always ensure that the image meets the requirements and dimensions set by the NIOS.
2. Signature
Digital signature is a crucial aspect of NIOS admission. It acts as a way to confirm the legitimacy of the application and the candidate’s identity.
Candidates need to provide digital signatures on various forms, including the application form and any other official documents. While signing, it is essential to make sure that the sign should be original.
3. Valid Identity Proof
A valid identity proof is very important to verify the candidate’s identification and eligibility for admission. Government-issued documents like an Aadhaar card, passport, voter ID or any other validated IDs are acceptable forms of identity verification.
This document helps to verify that the applicant is legitimate, and the admission process should be smooth.
4. Class 10th Marksheet
The 10th class marksheet is a crucial document that certifies the previous academic qualifications.
This document is essential for evaluating academic background and establishing eligibility for admission to the NIOS program. Candidates applying for secondary education can also provide their class 8th marksheet.
5. Caste Certificate/PwD Certificate
Caste certificate/ PwD certificate is an important document for candidates who belong to such groups. These records are necessary in order to receive reservations or benefits under government regulations.
While a caste certificate confirms your caste status, a PWD certificate attests to your disability. These documents help ensure that eligible candidates receive the proper support and opportunities during the admissions process.
Conclusion
For students looking to finish their secondary or senior secondary education, the National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) provides an accessible and adaptable educational equity .
By following the specified steps, candidates can apply with ease for the 2026 sessions online admissions process. Applicants must prepare the required paperwork for submission and fulfil the eligibility requirements, which include age restrictions and educational requirements.
Students can enrol in NIOS successfully and make major progress toward their academic objectives by making sure that all requirements are fulfilled and that all documents are uploaded correctly.
With no upper age restriction and the ability to transfer credits from other boards, NIOS offers students from all backgrounds a great chance to study at their own speed.
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