These Bengaluru Colleges Could Turn Costlier Soon: Here’s How Much Fees May Rise

Last Updated:February 04, 2026, 12:12 IST

University sources say fee hikes may become unavoidable if government grants stop once the colleges become constituent units.

Students point to a similar merger that took place earlier, after which fees rose substantially. Image: Canva

Bengaluru’s higher education landscape may soon see a structural change, with efforts underway to bring Ramnarayan Chellaram College and Government Arts College under the constituent fold of Bengaluru City University. While the move is still under consideration, it has prompted discussions among students, parents and educators about its possible impact, particularly on fees and access to affordable degree education in the city.

Together, the two colleges currently cater to more than 7,000 students and are widely seen as some of the city’s most accessible public institutions for undergraduate education.

Why the Proposal Is Being Questioned

At present, both colleges operate with government grants that help keep fees low. Students worry that once they become constituent colleges of the university, this support could be reduced or withdrawn, shifting the financial burden to the university and, eventually, to students through higher fees.

Their anxiety is rooted in precedent rather than speculation. Students point to a similar merger that took place earlier, after which fees rose substantially.

What Happened After a Similar Merger Earlier

Students cite Malleshwaram Women’s College, which earlier became a constituent college of Bengaluru City University. Following that transition, the fee structure at the college was revised upward.

They argue that if Ramnarayan Chellaram College (RC college) and Government Arts College undergo the same process, a similar increase in fees is likely.

Fee Comparison: Current Fees vs Post-Merger Fees

The comparison below is frequently cited by students to explain why they are worried.

Students also compare this with Malleshwaram First Grade College, which did not become a constituent unit and continues to charge around Rs 6,021 for boys and Rs 5,034 for girls for BA, BCom and BBA courses.

They argue this clearly shows that the merger, rather than course quality or facilities, is what drives the fee jump.

What College and University Officials Say

College authorities acknowledge the concern. The principal of Government Arts College has said it would be beneficial if the current fee structure is retained, but added that the final decision lies with the government after weighing the pros and cons.

University sources say fee hikes may become unavoidable if government grants stop once the colleges become constituent units. Officials argue that infrastructure development, maintenance and salaries cannot be sustained at current fee levels without continued financial support.

A factual report outlining these challenges has reportedly been submitted to the government.

Students and parents argue that the merger benefits institutions more than learners. They point out that staff members would see their retirement age extended from 60 to 62 years and would no longer face transfers. The university, they say, would benefit from increased fee revenue.

From the student perspective, they argue that the academic value of the degree remains the same, while the cost of education rises sharply.

Students Urge Government to Rethink

Students and parents have urged the government to either reconsider the proposal or provide written assurances that existing fee structures will be protected. For many families, these colleges represent one of the last remaining pathways to affordable higher education in Bengaluru.

As discussions continue, the debate has brought into focus a larger question: how to strengthen universities without weakening access to public education for those who need it the most.

News education-career These Bengaluru Colleges Could Turn Costlier Soon: Here’s How Much Fees May Rise