Nalanda University

Bihar
Fees: M.A. / M.Sc. (Indian): INR 1,34,000 for 2 years (INR 73,000 Year I + INR 61,000 Year II). MBA (Indian): INR 2,22,000 for 2 years (INR 1,17,000 Year I + INR 1,05,000 Year II). Ph.D. (Indian): INR 3,67,000 for 4 years. PG Diploma: INR 79,000. Application fee: INR 500. International students pay in USD: M.A./M.Sc. USD 2,066; MBA USD 3,422; PhD USD 5,649. Hostel charges (Indian): AC Twin-sharing INR 22,500/semester; Non-AC Single INR 16,000/semester; Non-AC Twin INR 12,500/semester. Meal charges approx. INR 22,420/semester. All fees subject to revision as per university rules.
Average Package: INR 2.4 LPA (Median salary for PG students as per NIRF 2024 data)
Highest Package: Data not officially published. Internship placements for MBA batch 2022 were reported at reputed organizations including Tata Group companies and United Nations Global Compact Network.

About Nalanda University

Nalanda University is a postgraduate, research-intensive international central university located in Rajgir — the ancient imperial capital city — in the Nalanda district of Bihar, India. Established on 25th November 2010 through a special Act of Parliament (Act No. 39 of 2010), the university is declared an Institution of National Importance and operates under the aegis of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. The university is a modern revival of the legendary ancient Nalanda Mahavihara, which thrived from the 5th century CE to the 12th century CE as the world's first residential university, attracting thousands of students and scholars from across Asia and beyond. The rejuvenation of ancient Nalanda was first proposed by the late former President of India, Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. The initiative was also supported by the participating member states of the East Asia Summit (EAS) — held in Cebu in 2007 and Hua Hin in 2009 — who collectively sought the revival to strengthen regional educational cooperation, promote mutual understanding of heritage and history, and build a global learning community that symbolizes shared spiritual and intellectual values. The new state-of-the-art campus, inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on June 19, 2024, spans over 450 acres at the foothills of Rajgir and is one of India's most modern and environmentally sustainable university campuses. It is a certified Net-Zero Green Campus, powered by a 6.5 MW DC on-grid solar plant, a 500 KLD water treatment facility, a 400 KLD wastewater recycling plant, and more than 100 acres of water bodies including the iconic Kamal Sagar lotus ponds. The campus features two academic blocks with 40 classrooms accommodating nearly 1,900 students, two auditoriums, a 550-capacity student hostel, an international convention centre, a 2,000-capacity open-air amphitheatre, a 250-capacity Yoga Centre, a fully equipped sports complex, a faculty club, and an organic farming area. The university currently houses five active Schools of Study: School of Historical Studies, School of Buddhist Studies Philosophy and Comparative Religions, School of Ecology and Environment Studies, School of Languages and Literature/Humanities, School of Management Studies, and the newly formed School of International Relations and Peace Studies. The academic offering is exclusively postgraduate and doctoral — the university does not admit students at the undergraduate level. As of 2023–24, the university had 1,038 enrolled students from over 24 countries, reflecting its deeply international character with approximately 18% of its student population being foreign nationals. Recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and accredited A++ by NAAC, Nalanda University ranks in the 151–200 band in the NIRF 2024 University category ranking and is ranked #45 overall by IIRF 2024. The university has signed MoUs with numerous global academic institutions and research organizations, including ICWA, ICCR, ASI, ISEAS, CSIR, and multiple East Asian universities. It also hosts the Centre for Bay of Bengal Studies, Centre for Conflict Resolution and Peace Building, and the Common Archival Resource Centre (CARC), making it a hub of civilizational dialogue and interdisciplinary research. The university is an instrument of India's Act East Policy and represents the nation's commitment to being a global knowledge civilization.

Admission Process

Admissions to Nalanda University are conducted annually through the official portal at nalandauniv.edu.in. The application fee is INR 500 (non-refundable). For M.A. programmes, students must appear in the CUET (Common University Entrance Test) or qualify on merit, followed by a university interview. For M.Sc. in Ecology & Environment Studies, CUET scores along with merit and interview are considered. For MBA in Sustainable Development & Management, valid CAT/MAT/CMAT scores are required, followed by Group Discussion and Personal Interview. For Ph.D. programmes, applicants must hold a Master's degree in the relevant subject with a minimum of 65% marks (or equivalent CGPA) from a recognized university. PhD admission involves a written entrance test and a personal interview. For PG Diploma and Certificate programmes, a relevant graduation degree is required with linguistic competence in the concerned language/discipline. All admissions for international students are processed under specific international scholarship schemes (ICCR, ASEAN, BIMSTEC, etc.) and through the Study in India portal. Eligibility criteria, intake schedules, and seat allotment processes are notified via the official website.

Cutoffs

Cutoffs for M.A./M.Sc. programmes vary by school and are based on CUET scores and merit. Minimum eligibility is 55% aggregate marks in the qualifying degree for Indian students and 60% for international applicants. MBA cutoff considers valid CAT/MAT/CMAT scores. PhD requires a minimum of 65% in Master's. University publishes merit lists on its official website after the admission process is complete.

Rankings & Recognition

NIRF 2024: 151–200 Band (University Category) | NAAC: A++ Accredited | IIRF 2024: #45 Overall in India | Institution of National Importance | Top 100 Universities in India

Top Recruiters & Placements

Tata Cleantech Capital Ltd.,Tata Refractories Ltd.,Tata Steel Ltd.,Indian Oil Corporation,Bharat Petroleum,United Nations Global Compact Network,Marine Solutions Pvt. Ltd.,Muhammadiyah Environmental Council,General Carbon Advisory Services Pvt. Ltd.,Indian Society of Agribusiness Professionals,Willsmeet Solutions Ltd.,Mahasarakham University

Scholarships

1. ICCR Scholarship – for international students via Indian Council for Cultural Relations. 2. BIMSTEC Scholarship – for students from BIMSTEC member countries. 3. ASEAN Scholarship – for students from ASEAN nations. 4. NU Bhutan Scholarship – for Bhutanese students. 5. Prof. Pyong Rae Lee Scholarship – merit-based for deserving students. 6. Prof. Sunaina Singh Merit Scholarship – for academic toppers. 7. NU Excellence in Academics Scholarship – for outstanding academic performance. 8. NU Scholarship for International Meritorious Students – for high-achieving foreign students. 9. NU Scholarship for Monks/Nuns – for ordained Buddhist monks and nuns. 10. Thai Endowment Scholarship – funded by Thailand for eligible students. Scholarships can cover up to 100% of tuition fees based on merit and eligibility.

Student Life & Campus

Student life at Nalanda University is uniquely enriched by its deeply international and residential character. With students from over 24 nations living and studying together in Rajgir's serene natural environment, the campus fosters a vibrant multicultural community. The university encourages student societies and clubs aimed at channeling creative and intellectual energies. Cultural events, inter-faith dialogues, academic seminars, and the annual Nalanda Dialogue connect students with scholars and policymakers globally. The campus offers shuttle services, organic farming engagement, a Yoga Centre, sports facilities, and an amphitheatre for performances and public events. The central dining hall serves up to 1,000 people at a time, and the organic farm supplies fresh produce to the campus community. The residential environment, away from urban distractions, promotes focus on academics and research. The university also has an active alumni network and a Placement & Internship Cell that connects students with leading organizations for internships and career opportunities.

Facilities

Central Library (Stupa-shaped 6-storey building, 17,545 sq.m., capacity 3,00,000 books, seats 3,000 users),Digital & e-Library (Knimbus platform),Two Academic Blocks (40 classrooms, seating 1,890 students),Two Auditoriums (300 seats each),Amphitheatre (2,000 capacity),International Convention Centre,Student Hostels (550 capacity, AC & Non-AC options),197 Academic Residential Units for Faculty,Campus Inn / Guest House,Central Dining Hall (1,000 capacity),Yoga Centre (250 capacity),Sports Complex,Medical Centre / Health Centre,Cafeteria,Commercial Centre (Kamal Sagar Arcades),Faculty Club,Organic Farming Area (on-campus),Net-Zero Green Campus (6.5 MW DC on-grid Solar Plant),500 KLD Water Treatment Plant,400 KLD Wastewater Recycling Plant,1.2 MW Biogas-based Waste-to-Energy Plant,100+ Acres of Water Bodies (Kamal Sagar Lotus Ponds),100+ Acres of Green Cover,Anti-Plagiarism Tool (iThenticate),Grammarly Access for Students,OPAC / KOHA Integrated Library Management System,Shuttle Service (Campus to Residence Halls & inter-city),Wi-Fi Campus,Fully Automated Security System

Faculty Details

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of university is Nalanda University?

Nalanda University is a postgraduate, research-intensive international central university established by an Act of Parliament (Act No. 39 of 2010) and declared an Institution of National Importance. It is located in Rajgir, Bihar, and is supported by the participating countries of the East Asia Summit.

Is Nalanda University recognized by UGC?

Yes, Nalanda University is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India and is accredited A++ by NAAC. It is also an Institute of National Importance under the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.

Does Nalanda University offer undergraduate programmes?

No. Nalanda University is exclusively a postgraduate institution. It offers M.A., M.Sc., MBA, Ph.D., PG Diploma, and Certificate programmes. There are no undergraduate (B.A./B.Sc./B.Com) degree programmes.

What is the admission process for Nalanda University?

Admissions to M.A. and M.Sc. programmes are based on CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores or merit, followed by an interview conducted by the university. MBA admissions consider CAT/MAT/CMAT scores along with group discussion and personal interview. PhD admissions require a qualifying master's degree with minimum 65% marks, followed by a written test and interview. Application fee is INR 500 and can be submitted online at nalandauniv.edu.in.

What are the scholarships available at Nalanda University?

Nalanda University offers multiple scholarships including: ICCR Scholarship (for international students), BIMSTEC Scholarship, ASEAN Scholarship, NU Bhutan Scholarship, Prof. Pyong Rae Lee Scholarship, Prof. Sunaina Singh Merit Scholarship, NU Excellence in Academics Scholarship, NU Scholarship for International Meritorious Students, NU Scholarship for Monks/Nuns, and Thai Endowment Scholarship. Up to 100% fee waivers are available for eligible candidates.

Is hostel accommodation available at Nalanda University?

Yes. The new campus has student hostels with a capacity of 550 students. Accommodation options include AC twin-sharing, Non-AC single, and Non-AC twin-sharing rooms. Room allotment is on a first-come, first-served basis. Residence and meal charges are extra and paid semester-wise.

How can I reach Nalanda University?

The university is located in Rajgir, Nalanda District. Nearest railway station is Rajgir Railway Station (~7 km, ~10 min). Nearest major airport is Gaya International Airport (~78 km) and Patna (Jay Prakash Narayan) International Airport (~110 km). The university also operates a shuttle service from the campus for students.

What is the NIRF ranking of Nalanda University?

Nalanda University is ranked in the 151–200 band under the University category by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024. It is also ranked #45 overall by IIRF 2024.

Courses & Fees

  • MA in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions - INR 1,34,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • MA in Historical Studies - INR 1,34,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • MA in Languages & Literature / Humanities - INR 1,34,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • MA in International Relations & Peace Studies - INR 1,34,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • M.Sc. in Ecology & Environment Studies - INR 1,34,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • MBA in Sustainable Development & Management - INR 2,22,000 (Total 2 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy & Comparative Religions - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in Historical Studies - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in Ecology & Environment Studies - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in Management Studies - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in International Relations & Peace Studies - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • Ph.D. in Languages & Literature - INR 3,67,000 (Total 4 Years, Indian Students)
  • PG Diploma in Buddhist Studies - INR 79,000 (1 Year)
  • PG Diploma in Ecology & Environmental Studies - INR 79,000 (1 Year)
  • Certificate Programme in Buddhist Studies - As per university norms (Short-Term)
  • Certificate Programme in Pali Language - As per university norms (Short-Term)
  • Certificate Programme in Sanskrit Language - As per university norms (Short-Term)
  • Certificate Programme in Chinese Language - As per university norms (Short-Term)
  • Certificate Programme in Environment & Sustainability - As per university norms (Short-Term)
  • Certificate Programme in Sustainable Management - As per university norms (Short-Term)

Reviews & Ratings

Overall Rating: 0 out of 5 (0 reviews)

Pros

  • Unique internationally focused postgraduate university with students from 24+ countries
  • NAAC A++ accreditation and UGC recognized
  • Net-Zero, eco-friendly campus — one of India's most sustainable university campuses
  • Strong research culture with 20+ active research projects
  • Multiple government and international scholarships available, including ICCR, ASEAN, BIMSTEC
  • Serene, pollution-free campus in historical Rajgir foothills — ideal for focused learning
  • Global academic collaborations and MoUs with international universities and research institutes
  • Residential campus with 197 faculty residential units and 550-capacity student hostels

Cons

  • Located in rural Rajgir — limited access to urban amenities and metropolitan infrastructure
  • Very limited programme offerings compared to large multi-faculty universities
  • Placement data is not robust; limited corporate recruiter base for non-MBA streams
  • No undergraduate programmes offered
  • Still relatively young; building brand recognition takes time

Photo & Video Gallery

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Notifications & Updates

  • Admissions 2026-27 Open – Apply Online by March 10, 2026 (2026-02-01)
  • Short-Term Certificate & Diploma Programmes – Spring 2024 Admission Open (2024-01-01)

Location

Rajgir, Nalanda District, Bihar – 803116, India

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Contact Details

Phone: 06112-255330 / +91-7033291552 / 011-40040813

Email: admissions@nalandauniv.edu.in

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