The Committee for Fixation and Regulation of Fee of Private Schools (FFRC), J&K, has issued a stern circular addressing complaints regarding unfair fee practices by certain private schools. Via Circular No. FFRC/Cir/JMU/2025/06-29 dated December 04, 2025, the Committee has cracked down on schools charging full transport fees during vacations and demanding mandatory advance fees.
Below, we break down the strict directives issued by the FFRC to protect the interests of parents and students.
Key Highlights of the FFRC Circular
For quick reference, here are the official directives extracted from the circular.
| Detail | Information |
| Authority | FFRC, J&K (Govt. of Jammu & Kashmir) |
| Circular Date | December 04, 2025 |
| Subject | Transport Fee & Advance Fee |
| Transport Fee Rule | Only 50% to be charged during vacations |
| Advance Fee Rule | Strictly Voluntary (Monthly payment is standard) |
| Applicability | All Private Schools in J&K (Winter & Summer Zones) |
1. Transport Fee During Vacations
The FFRC has taken serious note of complaints that schools are asking for full transport charges during the break. The circular clarifies:
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50% Rule: Schools are directed not to charge more than 50% of the transport fee during Winter Vacations (in Winter Zones) and Summer Vacations (in Summer Zones).
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Compliance: This rule is mandatory. Schools forcing parents to pay 100% transport charges during months when buses are not running fully are in violation of the order.
Official FFRC Circular Copy
2. Ban on Mandatory Advance Fees
Another major complaint addressed is the demand for advance fees (e.g., asking for 3-6 months of fees at once).
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Monthly Payment: The Committee has reiterated that Tuition Fee shall be charged on a monthly basis.
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Voluntary Option: If a parent wishes to pay in advance for their own convenience, they may do so. However, schools cannot compel or force any parent to pay advance fees.
Official Quote: “Those who do not want to pay the advance fee shall not be compelled by the school. Tuition fee shall be charged on a monthly basis.”
Conclusion
As of December 04, 2025, parents in J&K have a clear regulatory backing. If your school is demanding full transport fees for the upcoming winter break or forcing you to pay tuition fees in advance, you can cite this official FFRC Circular.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I have to pay full bus fees during winter vacation?
No. According to the FFRC circular, schools can charge only 50% of the transport fee during the vacation period.
2. Can a school force me to pay fees for 3 months in advance?
No. The circular states that fees should be collected on a monthly basis. Advance payment is purely voluntary.
3. Does this apply to all schools?
Yes, it applies to private schools across the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir.
4. What if I want to pay in advance?
You are free to do so if it is convenient for you (“he/she may do so”), but the school cannot demand it.
5. Who issued this order?
The order was issued by the Administrative Officer, FFRC, J&K, by order of the Hon’ble Chairperson.