Tue Jan 07 15:28:12 UTC 2025: **Andhra Pradesh Cracks Down on College Fee Violations**

Vijayawada, January 7, 2025 – The Andhra Pradesh State Council of Higher Education (APSCHE) has issued a strong warning to colleges across the state following numerous complaints about unfair fee practices. The APSCHE Secretary, T.V. Sri Krishna Murthy, announced that colleges are violating University Grants Commission (UGC) and All-India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) guidelines regarding fee refunds, retention of original certificates, and the imposition of extra fees.

The new directive mandates that colleges can only deduct a maximum of 5% of total fees (up to ₹5,000) as a processing charge for withdrawals, and refunds must be processed within 15 days. No fees should be charged for students eligible for fee reimbursement who cancel their seats. Furthermore, colleges are strictly prohibited from retaining original certificates; only self-attested copies should be submitted. Original documents must be verified in the student’s presence and returned immediately. Colleges are also forbidden from demanding fees from students eligible for government reimbursement or exceeding prescribed fees.

The APSCHE has warned that any violation of these rules will result in severe consequences, including disaffiliation from the university and further legal action. The crackdown aims to protect students and uphold the integrity of the state’s higher education system.

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