How to enroll a child in the first grade in the Nizhny Novgorod region in 2026

      March 28, 2026 11:38 Society Starting April 1, applications for first grade will be accepted in the Nizhny Novgorod region. In the new school year, more than 30,000 children will sit at their desks for the first time. Traditionally, the demand for school places remains high, so it is important for parents to submit documents on time and without errors.

      Application deadlines

      Enrollment in schools for the 2026/2027 academic year will take place in two stages.

      The first wave will begin on April 1 and last until June 30. During this period, applications are accepted from parents whose children live in the area assigned to the school.

      In the second wave — starting July 6 — documents can be submitted to schools in other districts. However, enrollment is only possible if there are available places. The deadline for applications is no later than September 5.

      How to submit an application

      Documents can be submitted in several ways, writes "KP-Nizhny Novgorod." Parents have the right to personally visit the school or send documents by mail. Online submission is also available: through the educational institution's email or the state services portal.

      At the same time, schools may have their own preferred methods of submission, so it is best to clarify this in advance.

      What documents are needed

      The list of documents is usually posted on the school's website. There, you can also find a sample application.

      The standard package includes:

      - parent’s passport;

      - child’s birth certificate;

      - document confirming residence registration;

      - documents confirming the right to benefits (if any);

      - conclusion from the psychological-medical-pedagogical commission (if available).

      Who has benefits during enrollment

      Certain categories of citizens have preferential rights when enrolling in the first grade. First of all, these are children of military personnel, police officers, and other law enforcement agencies — their applications are prioritized by schools.

      In addition, children whose siblings are already studying at the chosen school have an advantage, provided they live together. This rule has been in effect since 2022 and allows families not to separate children across different educational institutions.

      To confirm benefits, it is necessary to provide relevant documents. In particular, a certificate from the parent's place of service or documents confirming kinship and the education of older children.

      Enrollment of foreign citizens

      Foreign citizens can also enroll their children in schools in the region.

      All documents must be provided in Russian or accompanied by a certified translation. Additionally, a document confirming the right to stay in Russia is required.

      The child must also pass a test on knowledge of the Russian language sufficient for mastering the school curriculum.

      What to do if there are not enough places

      If, after June 30, there are no available places at the school of residence, parents should contact the education department of the district administration to resolve the issue of enrolling their child.

      It was previously reported that the Nizhny Novgorod region became a "pilot" for automatic applications for first grade.

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