Karnataka: KEA flags excess fees in private universities, seeks state action

Private universities in Karnataka are charging higher fees for professional courses than those fixed by the Vishvesvaraya Technological University (VTU), drawing concern from students and prompting official action.

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Following complaints from engineering, medical, and paramedical aspirants, the Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) has written to the state’s Higher Education Department urging immediate intervention. The KEA has requested that private universities be instructed to charge only the fees approved by VTU for government quota seats.

Under the current system, KEA allocates 40% of seats in private universities as part of the government quota and collects fees based on rates fixed by the government and VTU. These fees are then transferred to the respective institutions. However, several universities have allegedly demanded additional payments from students—causing a financial strain, particularly for poor and rural students.

“Fee structures approved by VTU must be strictly adhered to for government quota seats,” the KEA stated in its letter. It emphasized that private universities, which control the remaining 60% of seats under management quota, should not apply their fee norms to government-allotted seats.

In a bid to resolve the issue, KEA has recommended that the state government consider entering into a formal agreement with the Private Colleges Association. The authority believes this step is essential to safeguard student interests and ensure fair fee practices across institutions.