The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an important advisory for Class 10 and Class 12 students regarding admission to fake and unrecognised universities and colleges.The advisory was released on January 13, 2026, and has been shared with all schools affiliated with CBSE. The main aim of this notice is to protect students from taking admission in self-styled and unapproved Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs).
Why has CBSE issued this advisory?
CBSE stated that every year many students unknowingly take admission in fake universities, which are not recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC). Degrees from such institutions are not valid and can seriously affect a student’s academic and professional future.To avoid this, the University Grants Commission regularly publishes a list of fake and unrecognised institutions on its official website.
What are schools instructed to do?
CBSE has directed all affiliated schools to:
- Counsel Class 10 and 12 students about the risks of taking admission in fake universities
- Guide parents and students properly during the admission process
- Help students verify the recognition status of colleges and universities
- Display the advisory clearly on school notice boards and websites
- Share the information during Parent-Teacher Meetings (PTMs)
Important instruction for students
Students are strictly advised to:
- Check whether a college or university is recognised by UGC before applying
- Visit the official UGC website at www.ugc.ac.in to verify recognition
- Apply only to UGC-recognised Higher Educational Institutions
CBSE’s message
CBSE has asked all schools to ensure strict compliance with these directions so that students do not fall prey to fake institutions. The board has stressed that awareness at the right time can save students from long-term academic loss.Students and parents are advised to stay alert and always verify official approvals before taking admission anywhere.Schools, students, and parents can read CBSE’s official notice available here.
