In a major relief for parents ahead of the new academic session, the education department in Gautam Budh Nagar has issued strict guidelines to private schools, directing them to follow fee regulations and stop forcing parents to buy books and uniforms from specific vendors.
The move comes after a surge in complaints about arbitrary fee hikes and compulsory purchases, raising concerns about transparency in school operations.
No More Arbitrary Fee Hikes
As per the new order:
●Schools can increase annual fees only based on teachers’ salary hike
●The increase cannot exceed 5%, aligned with the Consumer Price Index
●Any unjustified fee hike will invite strict action
Officials say the aim is to protect parents from sudden financial burden and ensure fair practices.
Schools Cannot Force Purchases
The order clearly states:
●Schools cannot compel parents to buy books, uniforms, shoes, or stationery from any specific shop.
Parents are now free to:
●Purchase study material from any vendor of their choice
●Avoid inflated prices linked to school-tied suppliers
This step is expected to break monopolies and reduce unnecessary expenses.
Transparency in Fee Structure Mandatory
Schools must now:
●Provide a complete fee structure up to Class XII at the time of admission
●Publish fee details on their website and notice board 60 days before admissions
●Clearly mention payment modes (monthly, quarterly, or half-yearly)
●Importantly, schools cannot force lump-sum annual payments.
Uniform Rules Tightened
To prevent unnecessary expenses:
●Schools cannot change uniforms for 5 consecutive years
●Any change requires approval from the District Fee Regulatory Committee (DFRC)
This ensures stability and avoids repeated financial pressure on parents.
Strict Penalties for Violations
Under the Uttar Pradesh Self-Financed Independent Schools (Fee Regulation) Act, 2018, strict penalties have been outlined:
◆Rs 1 lakh fine + refund (first violation)
◆Rs 5 lakh fine (second violation)
Possible withdrawal of school recognition for repeated offences
Schools are also barred from charging:
●Capitation fees
●Hidden or extra charges beyond approved fees
Clear Fee Components Defined
Schools can charge only:
●Registration fee
●Admission fee
●Examination fee
●One annual recurring fee
●Optional charges (like transport, trips, boarding) must be:
Voluntary
●Clearly communicated
●Security deposits must be refundable within 30 days after transfer.
Where Can Parents Complain?
Parents facing issues can approach:
●District School Education Department
●District Fee Regulatory Committee (DFRC)
Authorities have assured quick resolution of complaints.
Why This Matters
This directive is a big step toward:
●Financial transparency in education
●Reducing exploitation of parents
●Creating a fair and regulated school system
With rising education costs, such measures aim to balance quality education with affordability.
