Andhra Pradesh is set to regulate private coaching centers with new draft rules proposing a ban on “dummy schools,” a five-hour daily class limit, and mandatory CCTV surveillance. The Andhra Pradesh Coaching Institutions (Regulation and Control) Rules, 2026, aim to standardize operations, fees, and student welfare. Minister for Human Resources Development Nara Lokesh released the draft for public suggestions, stating student mental health and safety are top priorities.
Key Regulations Proposed
The draft rules target institutions coaching over 30 students daily for competitive exams or academic support. This includes junior colleges and training centers. The regulations seek to reduce academic stress and increase transparency. Non-compliance will face strict penalties.
Student Welfare and Mental Health
Coaching centers must establish wellness cells. This requires agreements with nearby hospitals or licensed psychologists. Faculty mentors will also be appointed. Centers must submit anonymized monthly wellness and annual mental health audit reports. These reports will detail counseling data, psychiatric referrals, stress indicators, and outreach activities.
Fee Transparency and Refunds
Institutions must publicly disclose their fee structure and refund policy on their websites and prospectuses. Pro-rata refunds are mandated within 10 days for mid-course withdrawals. “Non-refundable fee” clauses are declared void. Withholding original student certificates is strictly prohibited.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Penalties will be graded, ranging from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1 lakh. Severe or repeated violations can lead to registration cancellation. An appellate mechanism is available against decisions made by the District Level Monitoring Committee (DLMC).
New Monitoring Committee
Registration becomes compulsory for all eligible coaching institutions. The DLMC will act as the registering and supervisory authority. It will be chaired by the district collector. Officials from police, education, and health departments, along with civil society members, will be part of the DLMC. They will oversee implementation and handle complaints.
Existing coaching centers have three months to apply for registration after the rules are notified. Failure to register may result in closure and penalties. Registration will be valid for three years. Renewal is required 60 days before expiry.
Hostel and Safety Measures
Institutions with attached hostels will be held accountable for safety lapses. Mandatory measures include anti-suicide spring-loaded ceiling fans. CCTV surveillance is required in common areas. Terrace access will be restricted. Adequate wardens and sanitation standards are also mandated.
Operational Safeguards
The draft prohibits coaching classes during regular school or junior college hours. This effectively bans the “dummy school” model. Coaching duration is capped at five hours daily. A weekly holiday is compulsory for rest. Each center must also provide psychological support through qualified professionals and trained mentors. Mental health screening within 30 days of admission, peer mentorship, psychometric assessments, and de-stress workshops involving parents are prescribed.