Class 41 vs Class 42 — which trademark class do you need in India?

Edtech founders in India choose between Class 41 (education, training and content) and Class 42 (the software platform). Teaching and course content is Class 41; the app or platform that delivers it is Class 42. Most edtech startups file both, and often Class 9 for downloadable content.

Class 41
Services · Education & training

Education; providing of training; entertainment; sporting activities

Education; Providing of training; Entertainment; Sporting and cultural activities

Class 42
Services · Technology platform

Scientific and technological services; research and design

Scientific and technological services and research and design relating thereto; Industrial analysis, industrial research and industrial design services; Quality control and authentication services; Design and development of computer hardware and software

Class 41 vs Class 42 at a glance

  Class 41 · Education & training Class 42 · Technology platform
What it protects Education, training, coaching, courses, content, events The software platform, app development, hosting
Typical filer Coaching institutes, schools, course creators Edtech platforms, e-learning software
Example Running an online course or coaching programme The learning app/platform that hosts the courses
Edtech startup The teaching/content service The technology product

Which class should you choose?

Choose Class 41 if…

You provide teaching, training, coaching, courses or educational content.

Choose Class 42 if…

You build the software platform or app that delivers learning.

File both if: You are an edtech startup offering both courses (Class 41) and your own learning platform (Class 42) — the standard combination.

Frequently asked questions

What class is an edtech startup in India?
Edtech usually needs Class 41 for the educational and training services (courses, coaching, content) and Class 42 for the technology platform that delivers them. Downloadable content or apps may also need Class 9. Major Indian edtech brands are registered across these classes.
Is an online course Class 41 or Class 42?
The course — the teaching and educational content — is Class 41. The software platform hosting it is Class 42. If you offer both, file both.
What class is a coaching institute?
Coaching institutes, tuition centres and test-prep brands file under Class 41 for educational services. If they run their own learning app, Class 42 (and sometimes Class 9) is added.

Related class guides

Not sure which one fits your brand?

Describe your goods or services in plain words — AI Class Search returns the exact classes and officially accepted terms to file under.

Find my trademark class