Students Raise Alarm Over High Fees in B.Ed Colleges Under Andhra University

B.Ed colleges affiliated with Andhra University (AU) are facing criticism for charging high fees from students admitted through the convener quota. Normally, students who secure admission by clearing the EdSET exam are not required to pay any fees. However, several students have raised concerns that they are being asked to pay amounts ranging from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 26,000, and their complaints often go unheard.

“Students who have worked hard to secure their EdSET ranks should not be burdened with such fees,” said a student representative. “It feels as if admission is being granted only after the fees are paid.”

Many students report that while some colleges allow payment in two or three installments, others insist on the entire amount being paid upfront. The practice has left students and their families anxious, with some delaying joining due to the financial pressure.

Education experts and student leaders have urged Andhra University officials to take strict action against colleges collecting fees illegally. They have also suggested setting up a helpline to assist students who face difficulties or harassment during the admission process.

Currently, there are 59 B.Ed colleges under Andhra University across the combined districts of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram. Several of these institutions are accused of arbitrary fee collection. “Some colleges are demanding fees without any official guidelines, and students have no recourse,” said another student. “We hope the university steps in and ensures that any fees collected illegally are refunded promptly.”

With the academic session underway, students are calling for urgent intervention to prevent further exploitation. Many families feel the pressure of high fees at a time when access to higher education should be affordable and fair.