CBSE exposes dummy school behind JEE topper, sparks debate on education integrity

In a development that has reignited debate over the role of non-attending (dummy) schools, the Central Board of Secondary Education, CBSE has revealed that a JEE-Main topper who secured 100 percentile this year studied at a school that was disaffiliated last year. 

The revelation has raised fresh concerns about the growing trend of students opting for dummy schools to focus entirely on coaching for competitive exams.

The student, who obtained a 100 percentile in JEE-Main this year, was studying at SGN Public School in Nangloi, Delhi—a school whose CBSE affiliation was revoked in 2024.

A surprise visit by a two-member CBSE panel revealed glaring discrepancies, such as the admission of students who were not attending. 

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"The Board's probe found that the school was granting dummy admissions and violating several CBSE guidelines," the board said in an official statement.

This comes into sharp relief the need for students to register in CBSE-affiliated schools that follow national education standards.

In its release, CBSE highlighted the goals of the National Education Policy, NEP 2020, which promotes a balanced education system that focuses on critical thinking, application of learning, and problem-solving abilities. Officials warned that these facets become diluted if children abandon conventional school-going in the name of coaching centre preparation.

"Non-attending schools, which are generally viewed as exam shortcuts, essentially go against NEP 2020's philosophy. Formal schooling not only develops intellectual prowess but also fosters socialization and individual growth. Though coaching institutions may prove to be useful, they cannot replace the comprehensive learning culture that regular schools offer," CBSE said.

The board stressed that becoming top performers in competitive exams such as JEE is important, but not at the expense of quality education and all-round growth. CBSE appealed to the students, parents, and teachers to give prominence to schools which maintain national educational standards and develop a balanced educational experience.

The results of JEE-Main Session 1 was announced on February 11. A total of 14 candidates secured 100 percentile this session.

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