CBSE warns students against fake universities, issues advisory ahead of 2026–27 admissions

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has issued an advisory to schools across the country, urging students and parents to verify the recognition status of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) to avoid falling prey to fake universities, particularly as the admission process for the 2026–27 academic session begins.

In a circular dated January 13, 2026, CBSE directed principals and heads of all affiliated schools to actively disseminate the advisory among students of Classes X and XII and their parents. The move follows a communication from the University Grants Commission (UGC), which regularly publishes and updates a list of fake and unrecognised universities on its official website

CBSE highlighted that admissions to self-styled or unrecognised institutions can severely jeopardise students’ academic and professional futures. To prevent such risks, schools have been instructed to counsel students and parents on the importance of checking the recognition status of institutions through the UGC portal under the “HEIs” section before applying for admission 

As part of the advisory, schools have also been asked to prominently display the information on notice boards, circulate it through official communication channels, upload it on school websites, and discuss it during Parent-Teacher Meetings. Students have been specifically encouraged to seek admission only in UGC-recognised Higher Educational Institutions.

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CBSE has emphasised strict compliance with the directions, stating that the initiative is aimed at safeguarding students from fraudulent institutions and ensuring informed decision-making during the admission process. Copies of the advisory have also been forwarded to various educational authorities, including Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan, Navodaya Vidyalaya Samiti, Sainik Schools Society, and state education departments for wider dissemination 

The Board reiterated that early awareness and verification are crucial steps in protecting students’ interests as they transition from school education to higher studies.