Presidency College, Kolkata

West Bengal
Fees: UG (B.A./B.Sc. Hons.) – ₹9,500 to ₹13,400 (Total for 4 years) | PG (M.A./M.Sc.) – ₹6,180 (Total for 2 years) | Ph.D. – ₹26,000 per year | Hostel – ₹4,580 to ₹4,820 per year
Average Package: ₹2.40 LPA (UG 3-year) | ₹4.31 LPA (PG 2-year) [NIRF 2025]
Highest Package: ₹6 LPA (Approximate, varies by department and year)

About Presidency College, Kolkata

Presidency University, Kolkata — popularly known as Presidency College — is one of India's oldest, most distinguished, and historically significant institutions of higher education. Founded in 1817 as Hindoo College, it was later renamed Presidency College in 1855 and functioned as a premier constituent college under the University of Calcutta for nearly two centuries. On 19 March 2010, the West Bengal government conferred full university status upon the institution, establishing it as a State Public University. The main campus is located at 86/1 College Street, Kolkata — in the very heart of the city's famous intellectual district — with a second campus at New Town (near Biswa Bangla Convention Centre) and a third campus in Kurseong, Darjeeling. The university holds an 'A' grade accreditation from NAAC and is recognised by UGC as an 'Institution of National Eminence'. It is consistently ranked among the top universities in India, securing a position in the 151–200 band in the NIRF University Rankings 2025 and 51–100 among State Public Universities. Internationally, it ranked 124th in the Asian University Rankings – Southern Asia in 2025 (QS). The university is also affiliated with the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and maintains active research collaborations with over 65 institutes across 22 countries. Presidency University offers undergraduate (B.A. Hons. and B.Sc. Hons.), postgraduate (M.A. and M.Sc.), and doctoral (Ph.D.) programmes across a wide array of disciplines in the sciences, humanities, and social sciences. Departments include Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Statistics, Life Science, Biotechnology, Geography, Geology, Economics, English, Bengali, Hindi, History, Political Science, Philosophy, Sociology, Performing Arts, Psychology, and a specialised School of Astrophysics. Admission to UG programmes is through PUBDET and to PG programmes through PUMDET, both conducted by the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examinations Board (WBJEEB). The legacy of Presidency is unparalleled. Its alumni include Nobel Laureates Amartya Sen (Economics, 1998) and Ronald Ross (Medicine, 1902), Academy Award winner Satyajit Ray, leaders of the Indian Independence Movement, heads of state, pioneers in science and literature, and luminaries who have shaped modern India. The campus itself is steeped in history, with a heritage building that dates back to the colonial era, yet houses modern infrastructure including an air-conditioned central library with over 3,00,000 books, smart classrooms, state-of-the-art science laboratories, and an advanced NMR facility. The institution's location on the iconic College Street makes it an intellectual hub of Kolkata, surrounded by bookshops, coffee houses, and centuries of academic tradition. With a budget of approximately ₹92.86 crore (FY2026–27), a teaching staff of 208, and over 2,000 students (2025), Presidency University continues its mission of nurturing scholarly excellence, interdisciplinary research, and socially responsible citizenship.

Admission Process

Undergraduate (UG) Admission: Candidates must have passed Class 12 (10+2) from a recognised board with a minimum of 50%–70% aggregate (varies by course). Admission is based on the PUBDET (Presidency University Bachelor's Degree Entrance Test) conducted by WBJEEB. Application fee is ₹500 for one paper and ₹250 for each additional paper. Category-wise merit lists are published and candidates attend counselling for seat allotment followed by document verification and fee payment. Postgraduate (PG) Admission: Candidates must hold a relevant bachelor's degree with a minimum of 50%–60% aggregate. Admission is through PUMDET (Presidency University Master's Degree Entrance Test) conducted by WBJEEB. Shortlisted candidates attend counselling as per the PUMDET merit list. Ph.D. Admission: Based on a university-level entrance test and personal interview. Candidates with valid UGC-NET/JRF, CSIR-NET, or GATE scores are exempted from the entrance test. Reservation policies of the Government of West Bengal are applicable. Applications are typically open from May to July each year via the official website: https://presiuniv.ac.in/web/

Cutoffs

UG cutoffs are based on PUBDET scores and vary by subject and category (General/SC/ST/OBC/PwD). For B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics and Mathematics, competitive PUBDET scores are typically required. For B.A. (Hons.) in English and Political Science, cutoffs are similarly merit-driven. Category-wise merit lists are published on the official WBJEEB portal after each round of counselling.

Rankings & Recognition

NIRF 2025 – University Category: 151–200 | NIRF 2025 – State Public Universities: 51–100 | NIRF 2025 – Colleges: Rank 15 | QS Asian University Rankings – Southern Asia 2025: 124th | NAAC Grade: A

Top Recruiters & Placements

TCS,Infosys,Wipro,Accenture,HCL Technologies,Amazon,L&T,Deloitte,KPMG Global Services,PwC,HSBC,EY (Ernst & Young),Genpact,IBM,Capgemini,Byju's,Federal Bank,Cognizant

Scholarships

1. Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship (Government of West Bengal) – for meritorious students from economically weaker sections. 2. Post-Matric Scholarship for SC/ST/OBC/Minority Students – Government of India scheme. 3. INSPIRE Scholarship (DST, Government of India) – for top Science students. 4. Departmental Merit Scholarships – awarded by individual departments to top-performing students. 5. External scholarships from trusts, banks, and international organisations are also accessible via the official website.

Student Life & Campus

Student life at Presidency University is vibrant, intellectually stimulating, and steeped in a rich cultural legacy. Located on the iconic College Street — the hub of Kolkata's literary and academic life — students are immersed in a unique blend of rigorous academics and cultural activity. The university hosts numerous departmental seminars, national and international conferences, workshops, and guest lectures throughout the year. The NSS (National Service Scheme) unit actively engages students in community outreach and social service. Cultural festivals, inter-departmental competitions, and performing arts events are a regular feature of campus life. Students have access to a vast, air-conditioned central library, modern labs, smart classrooms, and Wi-Fi across campus. Separate hostels for boys and girls provide a safe and comfortable residential experience. Multiple student clubs, debate societies, and research groups nurture diverse interests. The college's proximity to the famous Coffee House on College Street — historically associated with Bengal's greatest intellectuals — makes Presidency not just a university, but a living cultural institution that continues to inspire generations.

Facilities

AC Central Library (3,00,000+ books, journals & e-resources),E-Library & Digital Resource Centre,High-Speed Wi-Fi Campus,Smart Classrooms with AV Equipment,Physics, Chemistry, Biology & Computer Science Laboratories,School of Astrophysics Observatory,Auditorium & Multiple Seminar Halls,Canteen & Cafeteria,Medical & Health Centre,Separate Hostels for Male & Female Students,NMR (Nuclear Magnetic Resonance) Facility,Placement & Career Guidance Cell,Sports & Recreation Facilities,NSS (National Service Scheme) Unit,Disability-Friendly Infrastructure,Student Common Rooms,Grievance Redressal Cell,International Collaboration Programmes (65+ institutes in 22 countries)

Faculty Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for Presidency University, Kolkata?

Undergraduate admissions are based on the PUBDET (Presidency University Bachelor's Degree Entrance Test) conducted by WBJEEB. Postgraduate admissions require PUMDET (Presidency University Master's Degree Entrance Test). PhD admissions involve an entrance test and interview; candidates with valid UGC-NET/JRF, CSIR-NET, or GATE scores are exempted from the entrance test.

Is Presidency University, Kolkata a government or private institution?

Presidency University, Kolkata is a State Public University established by the Government of West Bengal. It was upgraded from Presidency College to a university on 19 March 2010.

What is the total fee structure at Presidency University, Kolkata?

Fees at Presidency University are very affordable. B.A. (Hons.) total fee is ₹9,500 for 4 years, B.Sc. (Hons.) is ₹10,500–₹13,400 for 4 years, M.A./M.Sc. is ₹6,180 for 2 years, and Ph.D. fee is approximately ₹26,000 per year. Hostel fees range from ₹4,580 to ₹4,820.

What is the NAAC grade of Presidency University?

Presidency University, Kolkata holds an 'A' grade accreditation from the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). It is also recognized as an 'Institution of National Eminence' by UGC.

What is the NIRF ranking of Presidency University, Kolkata?

As per NIRF Rankings 2025, Presidency University is ranked in the band of 151–200 in the University category and 51–100 in the State Public Universities category.

What are the top recruiters at Presidency University, Kolkata?

Top recruiters include TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Accenture, HCL, Amazon, L&T, Deloitte, KPMG, PwC, HSBC, EY, Genpact, IBM, Capgemini, Byju's, and Federal Bank, among others.

Does Presidency University, Kolkata offer hostel facilities?

Yes, Presidency University provides separate hostel facilities for male and female students. Hostel allocation is on a priority basis for outstation students. Hostel fees range from approximately ₹4,580 to ₹4,820 per year.

What scholarships are available at Presidency University?

Students can avail the Swami Vivekananda Merit-cum-Means Scholarship, Post-Matric Scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/Minority students, INSPIRE Scholarship (for Science students), and other government and institutional scholarships. Merit-based scholarships are also awarded by individual departments.

Courses & Fees

  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Physics - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Chemistry - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Mathematics - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Statistics - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Life Science (Biological Sciences) - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Microbiology / Biotechnology - ₹13,400 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Geography - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Geology - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Economics - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in English - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Bengali - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Hindi - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in History - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Political Science - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Philosophy - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Sociology - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.A. (Hons.) in Performing Arts - ₹9,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • B.Sc. (Hons.) in Psychology - ₹10,500 (Total - 4 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Physics - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Chemistry - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Mathematics - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Statistics - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Life Science (Biological Sciences) - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Biotechnology - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Geography - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Geology - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Economics - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in English - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in Bengali - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in Hindi - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in History - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in Political Science - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in Philosophy - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.A. in Sociology - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • M.Sc. in Astrophysics (School of Astrophysics) - ₹6,180 (Total - 2 Years)
  • Ph.D. in Physics - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Chemistry - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Mathematics - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Statistics - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Life Science / Biotechnology - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Geography - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Geology - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Economics - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in English - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Bengali - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in History - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Political Science - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Philosophy - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Sociology - ₹26,000 (Per Year)
  • Ph.D. in Astrophysics - ₹26,000 (Per Year)

Reviews & Ratings

Overall Rating: 0 out of 5 (0 reviews)

Pros

  • One of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in India with a legacy since 1817
  • Highly affordable fee structure for quality education
  • Strong emphasis on research and academic excellence
  • Illustrious alumni including Nobel Laureates, national leaders, and scientists
  • Excellent faculty with strong academic and research credentials
  • Vibrant campus life on the famous College Street, Kolkata
  • International collaborations with 65+ institutes across 22 countries
  • UGC-recognized 'Institution of National Eminence'

Cons

  • Limited on-campus placement opportunities compared to professional colleges
  • Infrastructure upgrades needed in some older sections of the building
  • Limited professional/vocational courses; primarily focused on pure sciences and arts
  • Some departments have fewer faculty members relative to student strength

Photo & Video Gallery

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Notifications & Updates

  • Presidency University UG Admission 2026-27 – Application Form Released (2026-05-19)
  • Book Exhibition on Old and Rare Archives of Presidency University Library (09–12 June 2026) (2026-06-09)

Location

86/1, College Street, Kolkata, West Bengal - 700073

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Contact Details

Phone: 033-4052-9999

Email: registrar@presiuniv.ac.in

Medical Details & Hospital Load

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OPD Load: —, IPD Load: —

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