Have you just completed your board exams and plan to study in another state or abroad? If so, you’ll need a migration certificate. But what exactly is it, and how do you get one in India? This certificate is a crucial document that allows students to move between educational boards or institutions.
In this blog, you’ll discover a complete step-by-step guide to applying for a migration certificate both online and offline in 2025.
What Is a Migration Certificate?
Have you ever wondered what a migration certificate is and why it plays such a crucial role in a student’s academic journey? For many Indian students, this certificate becomes essential when they choose to pursue further studies in a different state or country.
A migration certificate is an official document issued by an educational board or university. It confirms that the student has successfully passed their examination from the respective board and is free to migrate to another board, university, or institution for higher studies.
Who Needs It?
Students who have completed:
- SSLC (Secondary School Leaving Certificate)
- OSLC (Oriental School Leaving Certificate)
- Matriculation
- Anglo-Indian School Examination
- Higher Secondary Examination (HSE)
and are planning to continue their studies either in another Indian state or abroad, are eligible to apply for this certificate.
When Is It Issued?
Typically, the certificate is issued after passing the final board exams such as Class 10 or Class 12. In many cases, the respective board sends the certificate directly to the student’s school or provides it through an online portal.
This document should not be confused with a Transfer Certificate (TC). While both serve to confirm a student’s exit from an institution, a migration certificate is mandatory for shifting between boards or universities, whereas a TC is for moving between institutions under the same board.
Why Do Students Need a Migration Certificate After 10th or 12th?
Migration certificates are not just formalities. They serve as essential legal and academic proof for the transition from one academic body to another.
Academic Use
When students switch from their current board (like CBSE, ICSE, or State Board) to a different board or university, this certificate proves their eligibility for higher education.
University/College Requirements
Most universities in India and abroad require a migration certificate for fresh admission. It helps institutions verify that:
- The student has cleared the previous academic level.
- There are no academic constraints preventing the student from continuing further education.
Document Verification
This certificate is also often required during document verification processes, especially in competitive exams or higher education applications. It helps establish continuity in education.
Distinction From Other Certificates
| Certificate Type | Purpose | Issued When |
| Migration Certificate | Required when moving to another board/university | After final board exams |
| Transfer Certificate | Required when shifting schools under the same board | Anytime during an academic year |
What Are the Documents Required for a Migration Certificate?
Before applying, it’s important to gather all the necessary documents. Missing even one may delay the process or lead to rejection.
Commonly Required Documents
- Final mark sheet of the class passed (10th or 12th)
- Provisional certificate of passing
- Aadhaar card or other valid ID proof
- Passport-sized photograph
- Fee payment receipt (challan/DD)
- Application form (available online/offline)
Board-Specific Requirements
Tamil Nadu DGE
Students must submit:
- A copy of the relevant qualifying certificate (SSLC/OSLC/HSE etc.)
- Demand Draft or Challan of ₹505
- Filled application form
- Documents to be submitted to the Deputy Director of Government Examinations
Andhra Pradesh SSC Board
Students who passed SSC after 2004 can apply online. Required details:
- Roll Number
- Exam Year and Type
- CFMS Transaction ID
- Fee: ₹80 (non-refundable)
The certificate can be downloaded in colour format and remains accessible for 30 days from the date of payment.
How to Apply for a Migration Certificate Online?
Applying online has become the preferred method for most students in 2025 due to its convenience and faster processing times.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit the Official Website
Log in to the official education board website (e.g., CBSE, Tamil Nadu DGE, AP SSC).
Step 2: Register or Login
Enter your:
- Roll number
- Passing year
- School code or board-issued student ID
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Provide accurate personal and academic details such as:
- Name
- Father’s Name
- Institution Name
- Contact Number and Email ID
Step 4: Upload Necessary Documents
Scan and upload:
- Marksheet
- Identity proof
- Photograph
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
The payment is done online via:
- UPI
- Net banking
- Debit/Credit Card
Board-wise Online Fees (2025):
| Board Name | Fee (INR) | Payment Mode | Access Duration |
| Tamil Nadu DGE | 505 | DD or Challan | 7–15 days (offline) |
| Andhra Pradesh SSC | 80 | Online Payment | 30 days (download) |
| CBSE | 250 | Online/Offline | ~15 days |
Step 6: Download Certificate
Post-payment, download the migration certificate. Ensure to save or print it, especially in boards like AP where the download link is active for only 30 days.
How to Get Migration Certificate in India?
Whether you studied in CBSE, ICSE, or a State Board, the process for obtaining a migration certificate in India broadly follows two methods.
Online Mode
Students of boards like CBSE, ICSE, Andhra Pradesh SSC, and some State Boards can apply online as described above.
Offline Mode
Still commonly used in Tamil Nadu and other state boards.
What Is the Offline Process to Obtain a Migration Certificate?
Offline application is still valid and essential in many states, especially where online systems are not fully integrated.
Step-by-Step Process
Step 1: Visit School or Board Office
Approach your former school or the respective regional board office.
Step 2: Collect Application Form
Request the official form for applying for the migration certificate.
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Submit copies of:
- Marksheets
- ID proof
- Fee receipt (DD or Challan)
Step 4: Fee Payment
Tamil Nadu DGE requires:
- A Demand Draft or Challan of ₹505
- In favour of: Director of Government Examinations, Chennai – 600006
Step 5: Submit Application
Submit to the Deputy Director of Government Examinations or your school admin office. The certificate will be processed and sent for collection or delivery.
What Are the Fees and Payment Methods for Migration Certificate?
Detailed Fee Structure by Board
| Education Board | Application Fee | Payment Options | Validity for Download |
| Tamil Nadu DGE | ₹505 | Nationalised Bank DD/Challan | Physical collection |
| Andhra Pradesh SSC | ₹80 | Online (CFMS Payment) | 30 days (online) |
| CBSE | ₹250 | Online/Offline | ~15 days |
Important Notes:
- Application fee is non-refundable
- Use correct email and phone number to receive transaction ID
- In Andhra Pradesh, the digitally signed certificate is valid and requires no school visit
How Long Does It Take to Receive a Migration Certificate?
The processing time varies based on the board and mode of application.
Typical Timelines
| Mode of Application | Processing Time |
| Online | 1 to 7 working days |
| Offline | 7 to 15 working days |
Certificate Access
- AP SSC: Download available immediately post-payment
- Tamil Nadu DGE: Collection may take 1–2 weeks via school or post
- CBSE: Issued within 15 working days
What Should You Do If Your Migration Certificate Is Lost or Damaged?
Losing your migration certificate can be stressful, but it’s possible to obtain a duplicate or certified copy.
What Is a CCM Certificate?
A Certified Copy of Mark List (CCM) or a Duplicate Certificate can be obtained in case of:
- Loss
- Fire/flood damage
- Misplacement
Reissue Process
Step 1: File a Police Complaint
Report the loss at the nearest police station and get a non-traceable certificate if the certificate is lost.
Step 2: Obtain Loss Certificate
Request a certificate from the Tahsildar mentioning the destruction due to flood/fire or attach the damaged certificate.
Step 3: Apply for Duplicate
Submit the necessary documents along with the partially damaged or loss certificate and request a duplicate which has lifelong validity.
| Type of Copy | Validity |
| Certified Copy (CCM) | Short-term use |
| Duplicate Certificate | Lifetime |
What Is the Validity of a Migration Certificate and Where Can It Be Used?
Once issued, a migration certificate is valid indefinitely unless the receiving university mentions otherwise.
Where It Can Be Used?
- Admission to colleges and universities
- Higher education abroad
- Change of board/university in India
- Educational verification
Some institutions may request that the certificate is issued within the last 6 months, especially during document verification for competitive exams.
Conclusion
A migration certificate is not just another academic document; it serves as a passport to your educational future when transitioning between boards or institutions.
Whether you’re planning to study in a different state in India or overseas, understanding how to get a migration certificate in India ensures that your academic journey continues without disruption.
Whether you’re applying online through a portal or manually submitting your documents offline, being prepared with the correct information and documentation will help streamline the process. Always ensure your personal details are accurate and keep digital and physical copies safely stored for future use.
FAQs
Is a Class 10 migration certificate important?
Yes, it is necessary when applying to a different board or university after Class 10, even if the new institution is within the same state.
Is a migration certificate mandatory for admission?
Absolutely. Most universities require it during admission, along with mark sheets and provisional certificates.
What is the CBSE migration certificate fee?
As of 2025, the CBSE board charges ₹250 for issuing a migration certificate or a duplicate copy.
Can I get a duplicate migration certificate?
Yes, in case of loss or damage, file a police complaint and obtain a non-traceable certificate. Then apply to the board for a duplicate.
How can I track my migration certificate application status?
Most boards provide an application tracking system. Use your application ID or transaction number to check the status online.
Is a digitally signed migration certificate valid?
Yes, especially for AP SSC and CBSE, the digitally signed certificate is legally accepted by institutions and requires no physical seal or signature.
What should I do if my migration certificate’s details are incorrect?
If there’s an error, inform the head of your institution immediately. They will help you submit a correction request to the respective board.
