The National Institute of Open Schooling (NIOS) has officially kicked off the registration process for the April–May 2026 exams for both Class 10 (Secondary) and Class 12 (Senior Secondary). The online application link is now live on the NIOS portal: sdmis.nios.ac.in. This article walks you through everything you need to know: eligibility, deadlines, fees, key conditions, and registration steps.
Key Deadlines & Late Fee Structure
Students who are enrolled in Stream I, Block I for the March/April 2026 session — or those eligible from exams held before the Sept–Oct 2025 public session — must note important dates:
| Registration Window | Late Fee | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 21 Nov 2025 – 20 Dec 2025 | Nil | Apply without late fee |
| 21 Dec 2025 – 31 Dec 2025 | ₹150 per subject | Late fee period |
| 1 Jan 2026 – 10 Jan 2026 | ₹1600 per learner | Consolidated late fee |
It’s advisable to complete your registration before 20 December 2025 to avoid additional charges.
Examination Fee Details
| Fee Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Examination fee per subject | ₹300 |
| Additional fee for each subject with practical component | ₹150 |
Make sure you pay the correct fee when submitting your application.
Important Requirement for Class 12 Learners
Class 12 students must be aware of this crucial eligibility condition: A gap of two years from the year and session in which they passed Class 10 is required to obtain their Senior Secondary certificate. If the gap is not fulfilled, the candidate can still apply, but only for a maximum of four subjects, including those already passed.
How to Register for NIOS April-May 2026 Exam
Follow these steps:
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Visit the NIOS registration portal at sdmis.nios.ac.in.
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Click on “NIOS April-May Exam 2026 Registration” on the homepage.
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Enter your registration details and complete the initial login/registration process.
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Fill out the online application form, select subjects, upload required documents and pay the fee.
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Submit the form, download and print the confirmation page for your records.
A direct registration link is provided on the NIOS website when live.
Who Can Apply?
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Learners enrolled in Stream I Block I for March/April 2026.
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Learners from previous sessions (before Sept–Oct 2025) who meet eligibility.
Note: Learners failing to meet the two-year gap requirement for Class 12 should limit their subject registration to four.
Why This Registration Matters
Registering on time ensures correct subject selection, avoids late fees and secures your place in the upcoming exam session. Timely registration also gives you sufficient time to plan your preparation and exam strategy.
Preparation Tips After Registration
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Once registered, download your hall ticket as soon as it’s released.
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Make a revision schedule for your board and NIOS exam papers.
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Ensure your documents and past mark-sheets are in order.
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Clear any backlog or failed subjects early if you’re taking subjects under Transfer of Credit (TOC).
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Follow the NIOS exam pattern and past year papers for practice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Applying after 20 Dec only and paying hefty late fees.
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Forgetting to select subjects with practical components and paying the extra fee.
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Ignoring the two-year gap rule for Class 12 eligibility.
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Neglecting to save or print the confirmation page after submission.
The NIOS April-May 2026 exam registration is now open at sdmis.nios.ac.in. Complete your application by 20 December 2025 to avoid late fees. Check all eligibility criteria and pay correct examination fees. Print the confirmation page, plan your preparation, and set yourself up for success. For any updates or detailed instructions, keep an eye on the official NIOS website.
NIOS April–May 2026 Registration FAQs
Q1. When will the NIOS April–May 2026 registration process close?
Registration without late fee is open until 20 December 2025, and with late fee until 10 January 2026.
Q2. Where can students apply for the NIOS 2026 exam?
Students can apply online through the official portal: sdmis.nios.ac.in.
Q3. What is the examination fee for NIOS April–May 2026?
The fee is ₹300 per subject, and subjects with practicals have an additional fee of ₹150.
Q4. Can students apply if they don’t meet the two-year gap rule for Class 12?
Yes, they can apply, but they can register for a maximum of four subjects only.
Q5. Who is eligible to apply for NIOS April–May 2026 exams?
Learners enrolled in Stream I Block I for March/April 2026 or eligible students from previous sessions (before Sept–Oct 2025).
