CBSE Schools: How To Obtain Board Recognition? Eligibility Criteria, Application Process And Other Requirements – News18

Last Updated:April 07, 2025, 09:30 IST

CBSE, established in 1962, is a prominent educational board in India, overseeing school education from primary to class 12. By 2024, over 28,000 schools will be CBSE-affiliated

There are over 70 educational boards in India. Each school in the country is affiliated with one board or another. This affiliation is essential for conducting board examinations and admitting students in the 10th and 12th grades.

Established in 1962, the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is one of the most prominent and widely recognised educational boards in India. Thousands of private and government schools in India are affiliated with CBSE.

The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE)

CBSE functions under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and oversees the administration of school education from the primary stage to the higher secondary level (class 12). The CBSE curriculum offers a consistent educational framework throughout the country, maintaining uniform academic standards. This ensures a standardised system of education in India, that may even facilitate easier student transfers between schools.

CBSE has played a key role in shaping India’s education, with its widespread presence, nationwide curriculum, and focus on technology and skill development benefiting millions of students.

CBSE Affiliation Process

The criteria for CBSE school affiliation change periodically. Before seeking CBSE affiliation, schools must be familiar with all the guidelines. The process follows the CBSE Affiliation Bye-Laws (2018 and subsequent amendments), and it is transparent and conducted online.

By 2024, more than 28,000 schools in India will have CBSE recognition, with the highest number in Uttar Pradesh.

Steps To Obtain CBSE Recognition

Eligibility Check

• The school must meet CBSE’s criteria, including infrastructure, teacher qualifications, and management.
• Schools can be run by government, private, or autonomous organisations (like KVS, NVS).

Online Application

Schools must apply through the SARAS (School Affiliation Re-engineered Automation System) portal on the CBSE website.

Types Of Application

1. Fresh Affiliation: For new schools.
2. Upgradation: From middle to secondary or senior secondary level.
3. Switch over: Change from state board to CBSE.
4. Renewal: For extending the period of existing affiliation.

Documents To Be Submitted

1. No Objection Certificate (NOC): State government certification allowing CBSE affiliation.
2. Recognition Certificate: From the state education department.
3. Trust/Society Registration: Proof of the entity running the school.
4. Land Documents: Proof of ownership or lease (minimum 15 years).
5. Safety Certificates: Fire safety, building safety, and health certificates.
6. Teacher and Staff Details: Qualifications and appointment letters.

Inspection

• CBSE sends an inspection committee to check the school’s infrastructure, facilities, and documents.
• Virtual inspections are also possible since COVID-19.

Approval

• If the inspection report is satisfactory and all conditions are met, CBSE issues a ‘Letter of Intent’.
• Affiliation is then granted, usually for five years.

Terms And Conditions For CBSE Recognition

Ownership And Management:

• The school must be run by a registered society, trust, or company (under section 8).
• The management committee must include at least five members, including education experts.

Land Requirements

• Minimum 1600 sqm in metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai).
• 2000 sqm (up to class 10) and 3000 sqm (up to class 12) in other cities.
• Minimum 2 acres (approximately 8000 sqm) in rural areas.
• Special areas, such as hilly regions, North Eastern states, and islands, may be exempted.
• The land should be owned or leased for at least 15 years.

Infrastructure

• Classroom size: 1 sqm per student, maximum 40 students per class.
• Library: Minimum 14m x 8m, with adequate books and digital resources.
• Labs: Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Computer labs are mandatory.
• Sports Facilities: Minimum 200-metre track and space for outdoor games.
• Safety: Fire safety, sanitation, drinking water, and ramps for the disabled.

Teachers And Staff

• Teachers must be B.Ed. qualified and have passed TET/CTET.
• The student-teacher ratio should not exceed 30:
• The principal must have at least five years of teaching experience.

Curriculum

• The school must follow the NCERT curriculum prescribed by CBSE.
• Affiliation is mandatory before starting classes 9 to 12.

Legal Compliance

• The school must adhere to the RTE Act 2009 and state education rules.
• No communal or discriminatory material should be in the library.

Fees

Affiliation fees depend on the school’s level and location:

• Middle level: Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000,
• Secondary level: Rs 1,00,000 to Rs 1,50,000,
• Senior secondary level: Rs 1,50,000 to Rs 2,00,000
• Penalties may apply for delays or rule violations.

Additional Information

• NOC exemption: As of 2025, if the state government does not respond to the NOC within 30 days, CBSE may consider it as ‘no objection’.
• After inspection: If deficiencies are found, the school is given time to improve.
• Upgradation: Affiliation must be upgraded every five years.

How to Apply For CBSE Recognition

• School management should read the Affiliation Bye-Laws on the CBSE website.
• Prepare and upload all required documents on the SARAS portal.
• Prepare for inspection and address any deficiencies.
• Consult experts, as the process can be complex.

This process ensures schools comply with high-quality education and national standards.