General Questions
FORTUNE 300 SCHOOLS – School Quality & Impact Index (SQII) 2026 is a national recognition, certification, and benchmarking initiative that identifies and celebrates schools demonstrating excellence in education, innovation, leadership, inclusivity, sustainability, and measurable social impact.
No. FORTUNE 300 SCHOOLS is not a conventional ranking. It is a comprehensive recognition and certification programme that evaluates schools using a multidimensional impact framework. Schools are recognized based on their performance and impact rather than being ranked solely on academic outcomes.
The programme is developed and administered by the Sustainable Development Council (SDC), an international organization with Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
The initiative was established to recognize schools that go beyond academic achievement and contribute to holistic student development, innovation, sustainability, inclusion, and positive societal impact.
Eligibility & Participation
Applications are open to: CBSE Schools, ICSE Schools, State Board Schools, Government Schools, Private Schools, Residential Schools, International Schools, and Innovative and Emerging Educational Institutions.
Yes. Schools of all ages may apply, provided they are legally recognized and can demonstrate evidence of educational practices and institutional impact.
Yes. Government, aided, and public-sector educational institutions are encouraged to participate.
No. Schools from urban, semi-urban, rural, and remote regions across India are welcome to apply.
Evaluation & Assessment
Schools are assessed through the School Quality & Impact Index (SQII), a comprehensive 1000-point evaluation framework covering academic excellence, governance, student development, social impact, and sustainability.
The assessment includes: Teaching, Learning & Academic Excellence; Governance, Faculty & Personalisation; Holistic Development & Student Experience; Outcomes, Engagement & Social Impact; and Residential & Pastoral Care (Optional).
The assessment is primarily evidence-based. However, the evaluation committee may request additional documentation, interviews, virtual verification, or institutional visits if required.
Examples include: School profile, accreditation and affiliation details, academic and co-curricular records, sustainability initiatives, student achievement records, institutional policies and reports, and evidence supporting submitted information.
Applications are reviewed through a structured evaluation process involving qualified assessors, education experts, and an independent moderation panel.
Recognition & Benefits
Participating schools receive: School Quality & Impact Certification, Institutional Benchmarking Report, Digital Recognition Badge, National Recognition, opportunity for inclusion in the FORTUNE 300 SCHOOLS Listing, and international visibility opportunities.
The Digital Trust Mark is an official recognition badge that schools may display on their website, prospectus, social media, and institutional communications.
Inclusion in the final listing is based on evaluation outcomes and fulfillment of programme requirements.
Schools may be recognized under: Platinum Institution – SDG Leader, Gold Institution – High Impact School, Silver Institution – Emerging Leader, and Bronze Institution – Developing SDG School.
Yes. Recognized schools may use approved programme logos, certificates, badges, and recognition materials in their communications and promotional activities, subject to programme guidelines.
International Visibility
Recognized institutions may be featured through publications, sustainability networks, international forums, and global education platforms associated with the programme.
The SDG Impact Book is a special publication showcasing recognized institutions, educational innovations, and best practices in school education.
Selected institutions may be invited for international showcases, forums, and recognition events associated with the programme.
Fees & Registration
The Institutional Assessment, Certification & Recognition Contribution is INR 18,500 per institution.
The contribution includes: Application processing, evaluation and assessment, verification, benchmarking, certification, recognition consideration, and digital recognition materials.
No. The contribution covers administrative, assessment, and evaluation processes and is non-refundable.
No. All standard programme-related assessment and certification activities are covered under the stated contribution unless additional optional services are requested.
Application Process
The application process involves: Submit Expression of Interest (EOI), Complete Registration, Make Contribution Payment, Submit Application Form, Upload Supporting Documents, and Evaluation & Verification.
The evaluation process typically takes place during the designated assessment period and may vary depending on the completeness of submissions.
Schools receive evaluation outcomes, certification status, recognition details, and benchmarking insights where applicable.
Timeline
Applications open in July 2026.
The final listing and recognition outcomes are expected to be released in September 2026.
Support & Contact
The programme secretariat is available to support institutions throughout the application process. 📧 Email: secretariat@unsdc.org · 🌐 Website: www.unsdc.org
Institutions and organizations interested in partnerships, sponsorships, or strategic collaborations may contact the Programme Secretariat through the official communication channels.