The Department of School Education (Pre-University) has advised students and parents to be wary of ghost (fake) Pre-University (PU) colleges as the I and II PUC admissions for 2026-27 are under way across the State.

Parents seeking admission for their children to I and II PUC have been advised to exercise due diligence by verifying the authorised location of the PU colleges, the approved combinations offered, and the sanctioned intake strength, by referring to the official website of the department.

“It has come to our notice that certain PU colleges are conducting academic activities at locations other than those officially approved by the Director, Department of School Education (Pre-University). In some instances, students are formally admitted to recognised PU colleges; however, the actual academic instruction is being carried out in unapproved coaching or training institutions that do not possess the requisite permissions under the applicable regulations,” reads the advisory.

Further, the department stated that such practices are irregular and in violation of the provisions of the Pre-University Rules, 2024 and the Karnataka Education Act, 1983. “Institutions found to be engaging in such violations shall be liable for regulatory action, including withdrawal of academic recognition and cancellation of permission to operate PU courses, after providing due opportunity to submit their explanation,” it said.

Parents are further cautioned not to rely on verbal assurances or representations regarding proposed approvals, future expansion of courses or sections, or shifting of academic activities to alternate locations, as all such approvals relating to new colleges, additional sections, languages, or combinations will be formally notified and updated only on the official website of the department, it said.