Department of School Education warns of ghost PU colleges

The Karnataka Department of School Education (Pre-University) has issued an advisory cautioning students and parents against enrolling in fake or unapproved Pre-University (PU) colleges as admissions for 2026-27 are underway. The department reported that some colleges conduct classes at unauthorized locations or partner with unrecognized coaching institutions, despite admitting students formally. Parents are urged to verify the official location, approved courses, and sanctioned student intake of PU colleges through the department’s website. The advisory highlights cases where students are admitted to recognized colleges but receive instruction in unapproved venues lacking proper regulatory permissions. Such practices violate the Pre-University Rules, 2024, and the Karnataka Education Act, 1983. The department warned that institutions found operating illegally face penalties, including withdrawal of academic recognition and cancellation of course permissions after due process. Parents should not rely on verbal promises about future approvals or location changes, as all updates—including new colleges, additional sections, or course expansions—are officially published on the department’s website only. The advisory emphasizes due diligence to prevent enrollment in unauthorized academic activities.