Children Education Allowance (CEA) — Revised Rates and Key Details

Children Education Allowance (CEA) — Revised Rates and Key Details

Children Education Allowance (CEA) is a reimbursement given to Central Government employees to assist in their children’s educational expenses. It helps reduce the financial burden and ensures quality education for their wards.




Key Features

  • Eligibility: Payable for the two eldest surviving children of the employee.
  • Coverage: Nursery to Class 12 in recognized schools (CBSE/ICSE/state boards).
  • Claim: Reimbursement once per academic year. Self-certification is sufficient.
  • Divyang Benefit: Double rate for differently-abled (Divyang) children.
  • Tax: Exempt from income tax within the prescribed limit.







Previous Rates (Before 1 January 2024)

Allowance TypeAmount (₹ / Month)
Children Education Allowance (CEA)2,250
Hostel Subsidy6,750
CEA for Divyang Children4,500
Child Care Allowance (Women with Disabilities)3,000


Revised Rates — Effective from 1 January 2024

Allowance TypeRevised Rate (₹ / Month)Remarks
Children Education Allowance (CEA)2,812.50For up to two eldest surviving children
Hostel Subsidy8,437.50For students in boarding institutions
CEA for Divyang Children5,625Double the standard rate
Child Care Allowance (Women with Disabilities)3,750Fixed monthly allowance


Official Reference

Office Memorandum: No. A-27012/01/2023-Pers.Policy (Allowance)
Issued by: Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions
Date: 25 April 2024
Subject: Clarification on increase in CEA and Hostel Subsidy by 25% after DA enhancement w.e.f. 01.01.2024.
Source: DoPT O.M. dated 25.04.2024

Comments