CBSE Opens Affiliation Application Window, Releases Revised Guidelines Bylaws
CBSE has launched its SARAS 7.0 affiliation portal for the 2027-28 session. A new mandate (Notification No. 06/2026) strictly limits the maximum number of school sections based on the Total Built-up Area, which must be certified by a Local Body or Licensed Architect.
Key Points
- SARAS 7.0 portal open Feb 26-July 31, 2026, for 2027-28 session.
- Notification 06/2026 links sections to built-up area, certified by local body.
- Fresh affiliations & upgrades require physical inspection for facility verification.
The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has officially opened its automated affiliation portal, SARAS 7.0, for the 2027-28 academic session. A key update in this cycle is Notification No. 06/2026, which mandates that the maximum number of sections permitted in a school is now strictly calculated based on the Total Built-up Area of the school building. This area must be certified by a Local Body or a Licensed Architect to ensure compliance with the amended Appendix-V of the Affiliation Bye Laws.
While the primary focus of these notifications is administrative, the changes directly impact the school environment and capacity for students. Below is a breakdown of the most critical information regarding affiliation categories and the new space-to-section ratios.
Check: Press Release and Circular No. 06-26
SARAS 7.0 Affiliation Categories
The online application window is open from February 26, 2026, to July 31, 2026, for several key categories:
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Fresh Affiliation: Schools seeking initial affiliation up to Secondary or Senior Secondary levels.
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Upgradation & Extension: Existing schools looking to add higher classes or restore their current affiliation status.
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Operational Changes: Permissions for two shifts, section increases, or the introduction of additional subjects.
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Administrative Updates: Applications for name changes, site shifting, or managing entity transfers remain open throughout the year.
New Section Allotment Rules
The number of sections a school can operate is now restricted by its physical size. The baseline is 03 sections for every 400 sq. mtrs. of Built-up Area beyond the minimum requirements.
| Level of School | Minimum Built-up Area (Sq. mtrs.) | Permissible Sections |
| Branch School | 1000 | 8 |
| Middle / Secondary Level | 1400 | 13 |
| Senior Secondary Level | 1800 | 15 |
| Expanded Capacity | 3000 | 24 |
| Maximum Standard Scale | 6200 | 48 |
Compliance Requirements
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Physical Inspection: All fresh affiliation and upgradation cases will undergo a 100% physical inspection to verify facilities.
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Data Accuracy: Schools must ensure that their OASIS data, mandatory public disclosures, and teacher details are fully updated on the CBSE portal.
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Certification: The built-up area must be measured physically by an authorized official or empanelled architect, excluding basements or areas below ground level.
Anisha Mishra is journalist with over 3 years of experience in covering the Indian education sector. She has worked extensively in the K12 domain, with focus on the state board as well as central board examinations, policy structure of seconday and higher secondary education as well as the entrance examinations like JEE, NEET, CLAT, etc. Her extensive experience in the domain has helped her provide students with concise accurate information in all aspectes of school life and education. Her key interest lies in decoding the changes in the curriculum, NEP implementation and changing education ecosystem in the country. Besides working, she enjoys traveling, exploring new places and cultures, and painting.
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