The Ministry of Education has issued detailed instructions for the operation of coaching centers nationwide, accessible on the official website education.gov.in. The Department of Higher Education, under the Ministry of Education, has unveiled the 'Guidelines for Regulation of Coaching Centers 2024.' These guidelines are designed to set standards for the oversight of coaching centers, with the goal of improving student guidance and assistance for study programs, competitive exams, and academic pursuits.

The document notes that the government has been consistently dealing with issues concerning private coaching centers, especially in response to rising concerns such as student suicides, incidents of fire, and inadequacies in both facilities and teaching methods. The notice reads, "The issues related to the private coaching centers more so in the context of rising student suicides cases, fire incidents, lack of facilities as well as methodologies of teaching have been engaging the attention of the Government from time to time.

The number of unregulated private coaching centers in the country continues to grow in the absence of any laid down policy or regulation. Instances of such centers charging exorbitant fees from students, undue stress on students resulting in students committing suicides, loss of precious lives due to fire and other accidents, and many other malpractices being adopted by these centres are widely reported in the media."

According to the standards, a 'coaching centre' is any facility run by an individual that provides coaching for study programmes, competitive tests, or academic support to students at the school, college, or university level, with a student capacity of more than 50. The criteria include rules governing fees, study hours, penalties, and minimum area requirements for such facilities. Here are a few key takeaways from the guidelines.

Registration of coaching centers

Coaching centers are required to seek registration with the relevant local authority, following the prescribed forms, fees, and document criteria established by the government. It is essential to emphasize that in cases where a coaching center has multiple branches, each branch is considered an independent entity, necessitating individual registration applications for each one.

Student enrolment and Fee structure

Admittance is limited to individuals aged 16 and above, and acceptance is contingent upon the successful conclusion of secondary school examinations. The charges for different courses must be fair and equitable, accompanied by thorough receipts. A prominently showcased inclusive prospectus should contain information regarding courses, duration, classes, tutorials, hostel amenities, fees, exit protocols, and the process for refunding fees.

Complaint system and exit policy for students

Complaint Mechanism: A mechanism is in place for filing complaints against coaching centers by students, parents, or tutors/employees of the coaching center. Additionally, coaching centers can file complaints against students or parents. The competent authority or an inquiry committee established by the government will resolve these complaints within thirty days. For mid-course withdrawals, a pro-rata refund is required within 10 days. Any fee increases during the course, including both course fees and hostel-related charges, are strictly prohibited.

Basic infrastructure and limited study hours

Coaching centers are required to provide a minimum of one square meter per student in each classroom. Adherence to fire safety and building codes, including the acquisition of Fire and Building Safety Certificates, is obligatory. It is essential to ensure sufficient electrification, ventilation, lighting, and security measures. The coaching center must be equipped with CCTV cameras, a first aid kit, and access to medical assistance. According to the guidelines, class schedules should not coincide with regular school hours to ensure consistent attendance. The curriculum timetable should allow students ample time for relaxation and recovery. Mandatory weekly breaks are stipulated for both students and tutors. Maintaining optimal class sizes is emphasized to ensure a favorable teacher-student ratio.

Penalty for violations

If a coaching center breaches any terms or conditions of registration or fails to meet general requirements, penalties will be enforced. A penalty of Rs 25,000 is imposed for the initial offense, followed by a penalty of Rs 1 lakh for the second offense. Persistent violations may result in the withdrawal of registration.