The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has taken a proactive step to protect students from fraudulent educational institutions. In a recent advisory, CBSE has instructed all affiliated schools to actively counsel their students and parents about the dangers of fake or unrecognised universities.
Immediate Action Required from Schools
CBSE has directed schools to implement several measures immediately. Schools must display this advisory prominently on their notice boards. They should also share the information through their official websites, school circulars, and during parent-teacher meetings. The board emphasizes strict compliance from all affiliated institutions to safeguard student interests.
Focus on Class 10 and 12 Students
The advisory specifically targets students in Classes 10 and 12, along with their parents or guardians. With the admission process for the 2026-27 academic session currently underway, CBSE stresses the need for early awareness. Timely information can prevent students from making costly mistakes that could affect their academic progression and future career prospects.
How to Verify College Recognition
CBSE has provided clear guidance on verification procedures. Schools must encourage students to:
- Visit the official UGC website
- Check the "HEIs" (Higher Educational Institutions) section
- Verify the recognition status of any institution before applying
- Apply only to institutions officially recognised by UGC
The University Grants Commission regularly updates its list of fake universities and unrecognised institutions on its website. This information serves as a crucial resource for students making important educational decisions.
Background and Context
This advisory follows direct communication from the University Grants Commission to CBSE. UGC requested CBSE's assistance in disseminating information that would protect students from self-styled educational institutions. The collaboration between these two educational bodies aims to create widespread awareness among students, parents, and other stakeholders.
CBSE's notice comes at a critical time when students are actively exploring higher education options. The board recognizes that admissions into unrecognised institutions can have serious long-term consequences for students' academic and professional futures.
Recent CBSE Initiatives
Earlier this week, CBSE issued another important notice to affiliated schools regarding mandatory public disclosure norms. The board directed schools to ensure that updated and accurate information is available on their official websites. All schools, whether seeking affiliation or already affiliated with CBSE, must maintain functional websites with comprehensive institutional details.
CBSE has warned that non-compliance with these website requirements could invite penal action under the Affiliation Bye-laws. This demonstrates the board's ongoing commitment to transparency and accountability in the education system.
The combined efforts of these advisories show CBSE's dedication to creating a safer, more transparent educational environment for students across India. By empowering schools with clear guidelines and students with verification tools, the board aims to prevent exploitation by fraudulent educational institutions.
