Who is authorized to issue a bonafide certificate in a school or college?

The certificate is usually signed and issued by an authorized person such as the Principal, Dean, or the Head of the Department (HOD), on the institution's official letterhead.

Is this certificate mandatory for applying for a student passport?

Yes, for students, a bonafide certificate is often a mandatory document for passport applications as it serves as proof of current enrollment and can be used for address verification.

What is the typical validity period of a bonafide certificate?

A bonafide certificate is generally considered valid for three to six months from its date of issue, as it confirms a student's *current* status. Most authorities prefer a recently issued document.

Can I receive a digitally signed bonafide certificate?

Some modern universities and colleges do issue digitally signed certificates via their student portals. However, for many official purposes, a physically signed and sealed certificate is still preferred.

Is it necessary to mention the purpose for which the certificate is needed?

Yes, it is highly recommended. Mentioning the specific purpose (e.g., 'for a visa application' or 'to open a bank account') helps the institution provide the certificate in the correct format and adds to its authenticity.

Can a former student or an alumnus get a bonafide certificate?

No, a bonafide certificate is exclusively for individuals who are currently enrolled as students. Alumni can request other documents like transcripts, migration certificates, or course completion certificates.

Can I get multiple copies of the certificate?

Yes, you can request multiple copies if you need to submit them to different authorities. Each copy should be an original, signed and sealed by the institution, and preferably have the current date.

Is the institute's logo and seal necessary?

Absolutely. The certificate must be on the institution's official letterhead, which includes the logo, and must have the official seal or stamp to be considered authentic.

Is the father's name compulsory on the certificate?

Yes, including the father's name is a standard practice in India for identification purposes, similar to most other official documents. It helps to avoid confusion with individuals having similar names.

Can I get the certificate in a different language?

Most institutions in India issue certificates in English. However, you can request a certificate in the local regional language if the institution has a provision for it. Our tool can generate templates in multiple languages.

Bonafide Certificate Format & Generator Online

Bonafide Certificate in India: Guidelines for Schools and Institutions

A Bonafide Certificate is an official document issued by educational institutions to confirm that a student is genuinely enrolled and studying there. It serves as proof of affiliation and is required for various purposes, including scholarships, education loans, student concessions, visa applications, job verifications, and opening bank accounts. Issuing accurate and authentic bonafide certificates is a key administrative responsibility for schools, colleges, and universities across India.

This guide provides institutions with clear instructions on issuing bonafide certificates—essential details to include, standard format, best practices, considerations, and tips to ensure compliance and efficiency.

What is a Bonafide Certificate?

A bonafide certificate (meaning "in good faith") verifies the student's legitimate association with the institution. It typically includes personal, academic, and institutional details, signed by an authorised official like the principal, dean, or head of department and stamped with the official seal.

Common Purposes of Bonafide Certificates

Students request them for:

Applying for scholarships and fee concessions
Education loans from banks
Student visa applications for higher studies abroad
Job applications requiring proof of current studies
Travel concessions (bus, train, flights)
Opening student bank accounts or availing special schemes
Higher education admissions or transfer processes
Address proof for Aadhaar or passport updates

Essential Details to Include

A valid bonafide certificate must contain:

Institution's letterhead with logo, full address, contact details
Certificate title: "Bonafide Certificate"
Student's full name, father's/mother's name, date of birth
Enrollment/admission/roll number
Course name, department, academic year, admission year
Statement confirming current enrollment as a bonafide student
Purpose of the certificate (if specified)
Issue date
Authorised signatory's name, designation, and signature
Institution's official seal/stamp

Standard Issuance Process

Receive formal application from student with purpose
Verify student's records in database/register
Prepare certificate on official letterhead
Include all required details accurately
Obtain authorised signature and seal
Issue within 3–7 days (or as per institution policy)
Maintain issuance register for records

Best Practices for Institutions

Use high-quality letterhead with security features if possible
Sign in blue ink for authenticity
Affix clear institution seal
Issue only to currently enrolled students
Charge nominal fee if policy allows (₹50–₹200 common)
Provide digital copies via email if requested
Keep digital/physical records for audit

Authenticity and Administrative Considerations

Institutions should:

Follow UGC/AICTE/state board guidelines
Avoid issuing to non-students or with false information
Verify purpose when sensitive (visas, loans)
Comply with data privacy—share only necessary details

Refer to official education department portals or the Department of School Education & Literacy.

Common Issues and Solutions

Delays: Set clear timelines and checklists
Inaccuracies: Double-check records before signing
Fake requests: Verify student identity
Outdated format: Update template periodically

Tips for Efficiency

Maintain a dedicated issuance register
Train administrative staff on standard procedures
Offer online application submission where possible
Provide sample formats to students
Coordinate with accounts for fee collection

Students can request via a Bonafide Application.

Conclusion

Issuing bonafide certificates accurately and promptly supports students in accessing opportunities while upholding institutional credibility. Standardised procedures ensure compliance and efficiency.

Our free generator helps institutions create professional, compliant certificates instantly—customizable, ready for letterhead printing and signing. Issue with ease and authenticity!

For educational guidelines, visit the Department of School Education & Literacy.

Last updated: January 2026

Bonafide Certificate Generator

Complete Guide to Issuing Bonafide Certificate in India