Migration certificate: what it is and how to get it from your board

What is a migration certificate and who needs it?

A migration certificate (माइग्रेशन प्रमाण पत्र) is an official document issued by your education board after you pass Class 10 or Class 12. It certifies that you have completed your studies at one board and are eligible to join another board, college, or university. The certificate confirms that you are no longer enrolled at your previous board, allowing you to study elsewhere without duplicate registrations.

You need a migration certificate when moving from one education board to another (for example, from a state board to CBSE or ICSE, or between state boards), joining a university after school, or when an educational institution in another state requires proof of your exit from your previous board. It is commonly requested during admission procedures.

Migration certificate vs transfer certificate — the difference

Although the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, migration certificates and transfer certificates serve different purposes and are issued by different authorities.

A migration certificate is issued at the board level after you complete your final exams (Class 10 or Class 12) and pass. It is required when you change your education board or enroll in a university. Your education board itself issues it, confirming that you are free to join another board.

A transfer certificate (TC), by contrast, is issued by your school when you leave during the academic year or at its end, even before completing board exams. It is a school-level document that confirms you are no longer a student at that school. Transfer certificates are used when moving between schools within the same board during any class.

In short: a migration certificate is for board-to-board or board-to-university transitions after passing final exams, while a transfer certificate is for school-to-school changes within the board.

How to get your board migration certificate, step by step

1. 1

   Contact your school's administration and formally request your migration certificate. Most schools have a process to initiate the request on your behalf.

2. 2

   For CISCE (ICSE/ISC): Your school submits the request to CISCE and pays the prescribed fee (typically around Rs 150 per certificate). The board then dispatches the certificate by registered post to your school.

3. 3

   For UP Board (UPMSP): Visit the official UPMSP website or submit the application form to your school. Include your Class 10 and 12 marksheets, proof of identity (Aadhaar, school ID, or passport), and remit the fee (typically Rs 200–300) by demand draft or online. Submit to your nearest UP Board regional office.

4. 4

   For Maharashtra Board: Apply online through the official Maharashtra HSC or SSC verification portal, fill out the form with your registration details, and pay the application fee (Rs 375). Processing takes 7 to 15 working days.

5. 5

   For NIOS: You can download your migration certificate directly through your DigiLocker account (linked to NIOS results) once it is issued after your exam results.

6. 6

   For other state boards: Check your board's official website for the application form, required documents, fee details, and the submission method — each board's process may vary slightly.

7. 7

   Collect your certificate from your school, the board office, or via post, depending on how you applied. Processing time is typically a few weeks, though some boards now offer digital versions immediately after results.

DigiLocker vs your school/board office — which route to use

Many boards now issue migration certificates digitally through DigiLocker in addition to (or instead of) physical copies. Understanding the two routes helps you choose the faster option.

DigiLocker route: If your board offers digital documents on DigiLocker, you can download your migration certificate immediately after results without waiting for postal delivery. CISCE, NIOS, UP Board and Maharashtra Board all support DigiLocker for migration certificates. Simply create a DigiLocker account using your Aadhaar number and mobile number, link your exam details (such as roll number), and the certificate will appear in your 'Issued Documents' section once it is processed. A digitally signed DigiLocker copy is legally valid for most official purposes including college admissions, and you can share it electronically with institutions. This is the fastest route for most purposes.

School/board office route: If you need a physical copy — for example, where institutions specifically request hard copies or for official attestations — apply through your school or board office. This involves filling a form, paying a fee, and waiting for processing and dispatch by post. It is slower but gives you a physical document with an official stamp and signature.

Best practice: Download your digital copy from DigiLocker first for immediate access. If you also need a physical copy, request it separately from your school or board office. Many students now rely solely on the digital copy.

Migration certificate FAQ

• What if my board is not yet on DigiLocker? — Not all boards have enabled DigiLocker integration. Contact your school to check if your board issues migration certificates digitally or through the postal method. If neither option is available yet, apply through your board office directly. The availability of digital documents is expanding, so check your board's official website periodically.
• Can I get a migration certificate before I pass the exam? — No. A migration certificate is issued only after you have successfully passed the Class 10 or Class 12 exam and your results are published. It is not issued during the exam session or before results.
• How long does it take to receive a migration certificate? — Digital copies via DigiLocker are available immediately or within a few days after results. Physical copies sent by post take 2 to 4 weeks depending on the board and your location. Processing during busy result-announcement periods may take longer.
• Is the DigiLocker copy legally valid? — Yes. A digitally signed migration certificate from DigiLocker is legally valid for all official purposes, including admission to universities, colleges, and other boards. Most institutions now accept digital copies, so you do not need to request a physical duplicate unless specifically required.
• What is the fee for a migration certificate? — Fees vary by board. CISCE charges around Rs 150; UP Board charges Rs 200–300; Maharashtra Board charges Rs 375. Check your board's official website or ask your school for the exact current fee. Some boards waive fees for digital copies, while physical post-dispatched copies may have postal charges.