New NEP 2020 explained: What is the 5+3+3+4 structure of education?

The National Education Policy (NEP), approved in 2020 is set to replace the schooling system in the country with a new 5+3+3+4 system. Under the new schooling system, three years of kindergarten or playschool education will be brought under the ambit of formal education. 

The new NEP will follow a four-stage study system for the education of students between three to 18 years of age. The new 5+3+3+4 school structure will comprise 12 years of school and three years of preschool.

The New Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020) also focuses on access, affordability, equity, quality, accountability & universalization of Early Childhood Care Education (ECCE). 

Read: JEE Main 2023 Session 2 Admit Card for April 11, 12 exams released at jeemain.nta.nic.in, check direct link

Here is a breakdown of the 5+3+3+4 system:

Secondary Stage - 4 Years 

• Age 14 to 18: Class 9 to Class 12

Middle Stage - 3 Years

•  Age 11 to 14: Class 6 to Class 8 
• Preparatory Stage - 3 Years 
• Age 8 to 11: Class 3 to Class 5 

Foundational Stage - 5 Years

• Age 3 to 6: 3 Years (Anganwadi/Pre-school/Balvatika) 
• Age 6 to 8: 2 Years (Class 1 & Class 2)