TGCHE warns colleges, universities against collecting tuition fees from students eligible for fee reimbursement

This move comes in response to complaints from students and student organizations, as well as a news report titled ‘Rough start for degree students’, which highlighted how several colleges—across private, aided, and even university-affiliated institutions—were insisting that students pay at least half the tuition fee in advance, despite being eligible for reimbursement.

Clear Instructions to Universities

In an official communication sent on Wednesday, TGCHE instructed all university registrars to convey the directive to their affiliated institutions.

“All registrars of conventional universities instruct the principals/managements of affiliated private degree colleges, university constituents, and government colleges under your jurisdiction not to collect tuition fees from the RTF eligible students,” the letter from TGCHE stated.

Student Bodies Voice Protest

Student organisations across the State had flagged the issue in recent weeks, arguing that collecting fees from students entitled to full reimbursement created financial hardship and discouraged enrolment. Several groups submitted representations to TGCHE and the State government, urging immediate intervention.

The Council’s directive is seen as a response to these concerns, aimed at ensuring institutions comply with the intent and letter of the fee reimbursement policy.

Reimbursement Under RTF Scheme

The Reimbursement of Tuition Fee (RTF) scheme is a key initiative of the Telangana government to support students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. Under the scheme, eligible students pursuing higher education in recognised institutions are entitled to full or partial reimbursement of their tuition fees.

Despite the scheme’s provisions, some institutions had continued to demand upfront payments, citing administrative delays or uncertainties around reimbursement timelines. The TGCHE directive clarifies that such demands are not permissible.

Next Steps

Universities are expected to issue formal instructions to all affiliated colleges immediately. The Council is likely to monitor compliance and may consider further action if violations continue.

With this directive, the TGCHE aims to uphold the principle of accessible higher education and ensure that financial constraints do not become a barrier for students who qualify for State support.