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

The Central Board of Secondary Education, Central Board of Secondary Education, has issued a fresh advisory warning students, parents, and schools against enrolling in fake or unrecognised universities, as preparations begin for admissions to the 2026–27 academic session.

In its advisory, the board said several institutions across the country continue to operate without statutory approval, misleading students by offering degrees that have no legal validity. CBSE urged students to verify the recognition status of any university before seeking admission, stressing that degrees awarded by unrecognised institutions are not accepted for higher education or employment purposes.

The board clarified that only universities established or approved under an Act of Parliament or a State Legislature, or those recognised by the University Grants Commission, are authorised to award degrees. Institutions claiming to offer degrees without such approval are illegal.

CBSE advised students to consult the official website of the University Grants Commission to check the updated list of recognised universities and to remain cautious of advertisements, websites, or agents making false claims about degree validity, fast-track admissions, or guaranteed placements.

Schools affiliated with CBSE have also been asked to guide students properly during the admission process and to spread awareness about the risks associated with fake universities. The board said heightened vigilance is necessary, particularly during admission seasons when such institutions step up misleading outreach.

The advisory comes as part of CBSE’s ongoing efforts to safeguard students’ academic interests and to ensure that they pursue higher education only through legally recognised institutions.