CBSE Takes Firm Action Against Unauthorized Fee Collection in Class 10 Second Board Exam Process
In a significant move to protect students from financial exploitation, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued a stern directive to all its affiliated schools across the country. The board has ordered an immediate halt to the collection of any unauthorized fees from students during the List of Candidates (LOC) submission process for the Class 10 second board examination.
Strict Warning Against Violations
The circular, issued on Monday by CBSE's Controller of Examinations Dr. Sanyam Bhardwaj, comes in response to reports that some schools were demanding three months' tuition fees from students at the time of LOC submission. CBSE has made it clear that this practice is strictly against board regulations and must be discontinued immediately. The board warned that any violation of this directive would be viewed seriously, indicating potential consequences for non-compliant institutions.
Understanding the Revised Examination Structure
This development comes in the context of CBSE's revised examination policy, which now conducts two board examinations for Class 10 students. This system provides students with an additional attempt to improve their performance, offering greater flexibility in academic assessment.
The Three-Phase LOC Submission Process
To clarify the proper procedure, CBSE has outlined that the LOC submission process is divided into three distinct phases:
- Phase 1: This initial stage requires only the filling of the LOC form with no fee payment whatsoever. The sole purpose of this phase is to help CBSE ascertain the number of candidates likely to appear in the Second Board Examination, enabling the board to make necessary logistical and administrative preparations.
- Phase 2 and Phase 3: During these subsequent stages, students may submit, alter, drop, or add their candidature and subjects. It is only in these phases that students are required to pay the requisite examination fee to finalize their LOC submission.
The entire process is conducted through the school from which the students appeared in the main board examination, ensuring proper coordination and record-keeping.
Clarification on Permissible Fees
CBSE has emphasized that the only permissible fee at any stage of the LOC process is the examination fee specifically stipulated in the official LOC circular. Schools have been directed to refrain from collecting any additional or unauthorized fees in connection with LOC submission and to discontinue any activity that violates CBSE regulations with immediate effect.
Important Clarification for Students
The board has also provided crucial clarification for students who might reconsider their participation. Even if a student submits the LOC and pays the examination fee but later decides not to appear in the Second Board Examination, their performance in the main board examination will be used for the declaration of their final result. This provision ensures that students are not pressured into taking the second examination against their will due to financial commitments.
This directive represents CBSE's commitment to maintaining transparency and fairness in examination processes while protecting students from unnecessary financial burdens during their academic journey.
