Application for Character Certificate: Format and 7 Samples

An application for character certificate is a formal request to the principal of your school or college asking for a certificate that states your conduct and character while you studied there. Mention your full name, class or course, roll or enrolment number, the years you studied and the purpose, such as admission to a college, a job application or a scholarship. Schools usually issue it along with the TC or leaving certificate, but you can request it separately at any time.

This guide explains the format, how a school certificate differs from a police character certificate, a fill-in letter and seven samples.

Key Takeaways

• Address the principal of the institution you studied in.
• Write the subject “Application for character certificate”.
• Give your class or course, roll number and years of study.
• State the purpose and any deadline.
• For government jobs or passports, you may need a police verification or police certificate instead.

School Certificate vs Police Certificate

This article covers the school or college certificate. For police certificates, check your state police website, because the process and fee differ across states.

Application for Character Certificate: Format

Write Your Application

Fill in the fields on the right. The letter updates as you type; copy, print or save it as a PDF.

7 Samples

Each application for character certificate below is short and clear. Names are fictional.

1. For college admission

2. Current student for a scholarship

3. For a job application

4. For passport or visa support

5. With TC after leaving school

6. Duplicate character certificate

7. For NCC or sports selection

How Long It Takes

Most schools issue the certificate within one to five working days. However, former students may wait longer, because the office has to find old admission registers. Therefore, apply early, give your years of study and roll number, and keep your phone number in the letter so that the office can call you when it is ready.

What the Certificate Usually Says

Schools often use a standard format. For example: “This is to certify that ___, son/daughter of ___, was a student of this school from ___ to ___. To the best of my knowledge, he/she bears a good moral character.” The principal signs it and adds the school seal.

When Do You Need It?

Keep two or three signed copies after you receive the certificate. Many offices keep the copy you submit. Moreover, request it early, because the office may take a few days to verify old records.

Mistakes to Avoid

• No roll or enrolment number. The office needs it to check records.
• No years of study. Former students must mention when they studied.
• No purpose. Some institutions print it on the certificate.
• Last-minute request. Apply a few days before your deadline.

Useful Phrases

Related Guides

If you are leaving school, request the TC with our application for TC or the application for school leaving certificate. For proof of current enrolment, see the application for bonafide certificate. Other requests are in the application to principal guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Submit

Check your application for character certificate for your name, roll number, years of study and purpose. More formats are in our school letters section.