A transfer certificate (TC) is the document a school issues when a student leaves, confirming the class studied, conduct and that dues are cleared. This guide explains how to get a transfer certificate from school in India, what it contains, how long it takes, and what to do for inter-state, inter-board or online TCs.
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What a Transfer Certificate Contains
- Student’s name, parents’ names and date of birth.
- Admission number and date of admission.
- Class last studied and whether promoted.
- Board and subjects for senior classes.
- Conduct and reason for leaving.
- Date of issue, principal’s signature and school seal.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a TC
| Step | What to do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Write an application to the principal with the reason and date of leaving |
| 2 | Clear fees and return books, equipment and ID card |
| 3 | Get a no-dues clearance if the school uses one |
| 4 | Collect the TC and the latest report card |
| 5 | Check details for errors before leaving |
How Long Does It Take?
Most schools issue a TC within a few working days of the request once dues are cleared. Under the RTE Act, for Classes 1 to 8, the head of the school is expected to issue the TC promptly, and a child should not be denied admission elsewhere only for want of a TC; check your state rules.
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Special Cases
- Inter-state transfer: some states require the TC to be counter-signed by the district education officer.
- CBSE schools: TCs follow CBSE affiliation bye-laws; for Class 9 to 12 moves, check board registration rules.
- Moving abroad: ask for an attested or apostilled copy if required.
- Lost TC: apply for a duplicate with an affidavit and police report if the school requests it.
Next Steps
Keep the TC with your other papers: documents required for school admission. Planning a new school? See the School Admission 2027-28 guide and best schools by city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a school refuse to issue a TC?
Schools may hold it until dues are cleared, but should issue it promptly afterwards.
Is a TC needed for Nursery or Class 1?
Usually not, unless the child is moving from another recognised school.
Can I get a TC online?
Some states and boards issue digital TCs; ask your school.
What if the TC has a mistake?
Ask the school to issue a corrected copy before you submit it.
Explore More
Documents Checklist · School Admission 2027-28 · Admission Interview Questions · Best Schools by City · RTE Admission
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Related Parent Guides
How to choose a school · Interview questions for parents · Documents for admission · How to get a transfer certificate · Mid-session admission · Switching boards: CBSE to ICSE or IB
