CBSE tightens rules: Crackdown on 'Dummy Schools' may lead to Class 12 exam ban for absent students

CBSE officials have warned that Class 12 students enrolled in ‘dummy schools’ may be barred from taking board exams.

According to PTI, the board stressed that both parents and students are responsible for regular school attendance, and failure to comply will have serious consequences.

A senior CBSE official told PTI, “If candidates are found missing from school or are non-attending during surprise inspections, they may not be allowed to appear for the board examination. The onus of not attending regular school also falls on the student and their parents."

Delhi High Court's intervention

The Delhi High Court has intervened, calling the practice of dummy schools a “fraud” and directing CBSE and the Delhi government to take immediate action. In a January 27, 2025, order, a bench led by Chief Justice D.K. Upadhyaya and Justice Tushar Rao Gedela instructed authorities to enforce attendance requirements at these institutions.

JEE (Main) topper raises awareness

The issue gained attention when a student from a dummy school topped JEE (Main). SGN Public School in Nangloi, where the student was enrolled, had been disaffiliated due to multiple violations, including registering students who did not attend classes. A surprise inspection revealed the school’s non-compliance with CBSE norms, prompting strict action.

CBSE cracks down on dummy schools

CBSE has already taken action against more than 300 dummy schools nationwide. The board stressed that the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 promotes holistic education, which is compromised when students prioritize coaching centers over regular schooling.

Delhi government's response

Despite this, the Delhi government has downplayed the issue, claiming there is no official definition of 'dummy schools.' However, the court has demanded detailed affidavits from CBSE and the state government on measures taken to prevent fraudulent admissions and ensure a complete educational experience for students.