CUG-image
Central University of Gujarat: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Gandhinagar Campus Life
location
Gandhinagar, Gujarat
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About CUG

Central University of Gujarat, affectionately known as CUG, is widely recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and comprehensive development. Established in 2009 by an Act of the Parliament of India, CUG operates as a distinguished Central University, fostering an environment of advanced learning and research. Its main campus is located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, with a permanent 100-acre campus currently under development near Vadodara.

The university offers a rich tapestry of academic programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, spanning diverse disciplines such as Humanities and Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Teaching and Education, Literature, Language and Cultural Studies, and International Studies. With 11 Schools, 22 Centres, and one independent Centre, CUG provides 66 distinct programs of study. Admissions are primarily facilitated through national-level entrance examinations like CUET-UG and CUET-PG.

Central University of Gujarat holds significant recognition in the Indian higher education landscape. It boasts an 'A+' grade accreditation from NAAC, reflecting its high standards in education and research, assessed in 2023. Furthermore, CUG was ranked 61st among universities in the NIRF 2023 ranking, underscoring its consistent performance and academic repute.

The student experience at CUG is enriched by its robust infrastructure and vibrant campus life. The university provides well-equipped classrooms, modern laboratories, a comprehensive library, and extensive Wi-Fi connectivity across its facilities. Students benefit from various amenities including hostel accommodations for both genders, sports facilities, and medical support, ensuring a holistic educational journey. The institution nurtures a dynamic atmosphere with numerous extracurricular activities and student organizations.

In terms of career outcomes, Central University of Gujarat demonstrates strong placement records. The dedicated placement cell actively assists students with career guidance and recruitment. According to the CUG NIRF report 2024, the median package for UG 3-year courses was INR 4.83 LPA, while for PG 2-year courses, it stood at INR 5.56 LPA, with an overall placement rate of around 70 percent. The university's faculty, comprising 111 full-time members with a favorable 9:1 student-faculty ratio, are highly qualified, with a significant majority holding PhD degrees, contributing substantially to both teaching and research endeavors.

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Campus Area

100

Faculty Student Ratio

9:1

Year Of Established

2009

About Central University of Gujarat - [CUG] Gandhi Nagar

Central University of Gujarat (CUG), established in 2009, is a premier central university located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It operates under the Government of India and is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC), focusing on inclusive and quality higher education.

CUG holds a prestigious NAAC Grade A+ with a CGPA of 3.52 (valid till 2028) and is ranked among the top central universities in India by NIRF. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across multiple disciplines, supported by a strong faculty and research output. The university is noted for its high placement rate and strategic national and international collaborations.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameCentral University of Gujarat
Established2009
TypeCentral University
AffiliationAutonomous (UGC recognized)
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeA+ (CGPA 3.52) (Valid till 2028)
NIRF 2025Ranked within 101-150 band among Indian universities
CampusApproximately 300 acres, Gandhinagar and Vadodara, Gujarat
CoursesMultiple UG, PG, and PhD programs across 12+ schools
Popular ProgrammesLife Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Social Sciences, Education, Nano Sciences
StudentsOver 2,000
FacultyApproximately 150
Websitehttps://www.cug.ac.in

Courses Offered at CUG

Specializations

BA + MA in Social ManagementBA + MA

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts {Hons.} in ChineseBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in German StudiesBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in Social Management

Specializations

M.Phil. in Life ScienceM.Phil. in Life Science

Specializations

Master of Arts in ChineseMaster of Arts in Comparative LiteratureMaster of Arts in Defence And Strategic Studies+12

Specializations

Master of Philosophy in Chemical SciencesMaster of Philosophy in Comparative LiteratureMaster of Philosophy in Diaspora Studies+11

Specializations

Ph.D in Applied ChemistryPh.D in Chemical SciencesPh.D in Comparative Literature+17

Specializations

Post Graduate Diploma in Digital Library ManagementPost Graduate Diploma in Digital Library Management

Specializations

Certificate Course Analytical Techniques for Visually Challenged in Analytical Techniques For Visually Challenged

Specializations

Master of EducationMaster of Education

Specializations

Master of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Master of Science in Chemical SciencesMaster of Science in Environmental ScienceMaster of Science in Industrial Chemistry+2

Admission Dates 2026

Central University of Gujarat (CUG) conducts admissions for undergraduate programmes through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) conducted by NTA. Postgraduate admissions involve online counselling and registration after CUET PG results. Merit lists and counselling schedules are released by the university based on CUET scores and university norms.

ProgrammeEventDate
UG (B.A., B.Sc., etc.)CUET 2026 ExamDecember 2025 - January 2026 (NTA Schedule)
UGApplication Start01 January 2026
UGApplication Deadline30 April 2026
UGCounselling StartJune 2026
PGOnline Counselling Cum Registration Start22 May 2026
PGOnline Counselling Cum Registration Deadline10 June 2026
Ph.D.Application Start08 October 2025
Ph.D.Application Deadline12 November 2025
Ph.D.Interview Dates26 November 2025 - 27 November 2025

Admission Process

Admission to Central University of Gujarat (CUG) Gandhi Nagar is primarily through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate and postgraduate programs, with additional Research Entrance Test (RET) and interviews for doctoral programs. Candidates must apply online, appear for the relevant entrance exams, and participate in counseling based on merit and cutoff lists.

Undergraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Register online on the official CUG website during the admission window.
  2. Appear for the CUET UG exam conducted by NTA.
  3. Check the merit list published by CUG based on CUET scores.
  4. Participate in the counseling process as per the schedule.
  5. Submit required documents and pay the admission fees to confirm the seat.

Postgraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Register online on the official CUG website for PG programs.
  2. Appear for the CUET PG exam or CUG RET as applicable.
  3. Check the merit list and attend counseling sessions.
  4. Submit all necessary documents for verification.
  5. Pay the program fees to finalize admission.

Ph.D. Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Apply online through the SAMARTH eGov Portal of CUG.
  2. Appear for the Research Aptitude Test (RET) conducted by CUG.
  3. Attend the interview/viva-voce based on RET results.
  4. Check the final selection list published by the university.
  5. Complete document verification and pay the admission fees.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %
BA/BSc/BCom (UG)10+2 from recognized boardCUET UG50% (45% for SC/ST/OBC)
MA/MSc/MCom (PG)Graduation in relevant fieldCUET PG / CUG RET50%
Ph.D.Master’s degree in relevant disciplineResearch Aptitude Test + Interview55%

Documents Required

  • 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
  • Graduation/Postgraduation mark sheets and degree certificates
  • CUET admit card and scorecard
  • Category certificate (if applicable)
  • Medical certificate (for PwD candidates)
  • Passport size photographs
  • Photo ID proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.)

Nearest Attractions at CUG

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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

26.7 km

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Sector-28 / 29 Garden Bus Stop

0.477 km

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Gandhinagar Capital Railway Station

5 km

Cutoff 2025

Central University of Gujarat admissions for undergraduate and postgraduate programs in 2025 are based on CUET (Common University Entrance Test) scores conducted by NTA. The cutoff trends indicate that popular courses like B.A. (Hons) in Chinese and German Studies have expected CUET score cutoffs ranging roughly between 230 and 290 for the general category, reflecting moderate competition and seat availability. PG admissions also rely on CUET PG scores, with merit lists prepared accordingly.

ExamBranch/CourseGeneral
CUET UGB.A. (Hons) in Chinese230–280
CUET UGB.A. (Hons) in German Studies270–290
CUET UGB.A. (Hons) + M.A. in Social Management373.61

Campus Facilities at CUG

Academic Spaces

Auditorium

Classrooms

Conference Halls

Accommodation for Parents

Accommodation for Parents

Basic Services

CUG Samvad (Monthly Newspaper)

Convenience Store

Information Centre

Placement Cell

Scholarship Programmes

Wi-Fi Facility

Disability Services

Accessibility Features

Entry/Exit Rules

Entry/Exit Rules

Food Options

Cafeteria

Mess Facilities

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostel (Rented Accommodation)

Girls Hostel (Rented Accommodation)

Private Accommodation Assistance

IT Facilities

Computer Centers / Cyber Library

Virtual Learning Resource Centre & Multimedia Lab

Wi-Fi Infrastructure

Incubation Centers

Research Facility

Laboratories

Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF)

Chemistry Lab

Computer Labs

Language Laboratory

Science Laboratories

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Health Centre/Medical Facility

Recreational Areas

Cultural Activities Opportunities

Safety & Security

General Campus Security

Sports & Fitness

Multi-Gym Facility

Sports Complex / Facilities

Student Help Desks

Career Counseling Services

Feedback Forms System

International Student's Advisor

SC/ST/OBC Complaint Registration

Student Council

Transport Services

Public Transport Accessibility

University Bus Services

Placements 2025

The Central University of Gujarat reported a median salary of approximately for undergraduate placements and for postgraduate placements in 2025. Placement rates remain modest, with a significant number of students opting for higher studies alongside campus placements.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package
Average Package
Median Package (UG), (PG)
Placement Rate~13% (UG), ~13% (PG)
Students Placed3/25 (UG), 29/226 (PG)
Companies VisitedData not specified

Top Recruiters

IT: Reliance, TATA

Consulting: ICSSR, UNICEF

Core: Government of India agencies, State agencies

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Undergraduate12%
Postgraduate13%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

German Language Trainer Kanchan Saini

5

I found it very good place 🤩 On can be a part of many activities, university offer load of Activities in whole educational Year. This is a prestigious University which offer Masters in Hindu Studies along with other programms. Yoga club is there, join to stay fit and enjoy the life with yoga.

Trishna Suna

5

It's a good place but u won't find a single print and photo copy shop near by this place

NITISH KUMAR

5

This is temporary campus of CUG and of course too small but faculties in every department are fabulous. So, on the basis of academic, I think, it's India's fastest developing central university. I LOVE CUG ❤💞

Divyanshu Jain

5

Lovely space to study and play. Very good laboratories and computer labs. Also they've a very good library with proper space and special area for disabled students

Rankings & Accreditations

Central University of Gujarat (CUG), Gandhinagar, is ranked 74th among Indian universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings with a score of 49.74. It holds a strong NAAC accreditation with an A+ grade. Other major ranking agencies like QS, India Today, Outlook, and THE do not list CUG in their 2025 rankings.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
University#7449.74/100

Accreditations

  • NAAC: Grade A+ (CGPA 3.52, valid as per latest cycle)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Central University of Gujarat offers limited institute scholarships primarily for research students under UGC Non-NET fellowships and supports reserved category students through government post-matric scholarships. Students can also apply for various central and state government scholarships via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). The university provides affordable tuition and hostel fees, and some merit-based awards like the INSPIRE scholarship for top students.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
UGC Non-NET FellowshipM.Phil. and Ph.D. students not receiving other fellowships, Master's degree with minimum 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PWD), enrolled full-time/month + contingency grant
INSPIRE ScholarshipTop student in each classVaries (merit-based)

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Post Matric Scholarship for ST GirlsST girls with family income up to /yearVaries, covers tuition and other feesNSP
National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST StudentsST students pursuing higher education/month + contingencyNSP
Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University StudentsGeneral category students with family income below /yearUp to /yearNSP

External Scholarships

  • Earn While You Learn Scheme (CUG): Financial support for socially and economically disadvantaged students through part-time work opportunities on campus

Comparison

Central University of Gujarat (CUG) Gandhi Nagar is compared with Gujarat University and Central University of Punjab as they are all prominent central/state universities with similar NIRF rankings around the 70s, offering diverse programs and recognized for academic excellence in their respective regions.

ParameterCentral University of Gujarat - [CUG] Gandhi NagarGujarat UniversityCentral University of Punjab
TypeCentral UniversityState UniversityCentral University
Established200919492009
NIRF 2025Rank 77Rank 74Rank 77
NAACGrade A+ (CGPA 3.52)Grade AGrade A

Key Strengths

  • Central University of Gujarat - [CUG] Gandhi Nagar: Strong NAAC A+ accreditation, focus on interdisciplinary research and modern infrastructure in a central university setup.
  • Gujarat University: Established legacy with wide range of programs, significant regional influence, and consistent improvement in NIRF rankings.
  • Central University of Punjab: Emerging central university with balanced academic and research focus, good placement records, and growing national recognition.

Campus & Infrastructure

The Central University of Gujarat's main campus is located in Kundhela Village near Vadodara, Gujarat, spanning approximately 8.3 acres. It features modern academic buildings, well-equipped laboratories, a central library, and separate hostels for boys and girls, providing a conducive environment for learning and research.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area8.3 acres (20,086 sq. meters)
LocationKundhela Village, Vadodara, Gujarat
Nearest RailwayVadodara Junction (18 km)
Nearest AirportSardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad (approx. 100 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Over 33,898 books, 8,900+ e-journals, 2,800+ e-books
  • Labs: 12 laboratories including 5 pre-fabricated labs
  • Classrooms: Multiple classrooms equipped with projectors and smart boards in progress

Hostel

TypeCapacity
BoysCapacity not specified; hostel allotted mainly to first-year students
GirlsCapacity not specified; hostel allotted for full duration of course

Other Facilities

  • Sports facilities including cricket ground, football ground, badminton court, volleyball court
  • Multi-gym facility
  • Well-equipped auditorium with seating capacity ranging from 45 to 200
  • Conference halls with seating capacities from 50 to 250
  • Wi-Fi enabled campus with internet access via personal IDs
  • Language labs for German and Chinese studies
  • Canteen offering hygienic and affordable food
  • On-campus medical consultant and access to nearby government medical facilities
  • University transport with AC buses for students and staff

Frequently Asked Questions

What entrance exams are required for admission to Central University of Gujarat?

Admission to UG courses requires clearing CUET UG, while PG courses require CUET PG scores. The university admits students solely based on merit in these entrance exams.

What is the eligibility criteria for undergraduate courses at CUG?

Candidates must have completed Class 12 with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories) and must appear in CUET UG for admission consideration.

How much is the application fee for CUG admissions?

The application fee is for UG and for PG programs, payable online during registration. This fee is non-refundable.

What is the fee structure for undergraduate programs at Central University of Gujarat?

UG program fees vary by course but are generally affordable; exact fees are available on the official website during admission. Hostel fees are approximately per year.

Are scholarships available for students at CUG?

CUG offers scholarships and financial aid under government schemes, including post-metric scholarships for SC/ST/OBC students and other merit-based awards.

Does Central University of Gujarat provide education loan assistance?

The university provides guidance and documentation support for education loans but does not directly offer loans. Students must approach banks with university documents.

What is the placement scenario at Central University of Gujarat?

CUG has a growing placement cell with recruiters from academia, research institutes, and some industries. Placement rates vary by department, with internships encouraged for practical exposure.

Which companies have recruited from CUG in recent years?

Recruiters include research organizations, educational institutions, and some private sector firms, though the university is more research-focused than industry-driven.

What is the average and highest salary package offered to CUG graduates?

Salary packages vary widely by program; research and humanities graduates typically receive modest packages, while some science and management graduates have secured up to per annum.

How is the academic curriculum structured at Central University of Gujarat?

CUG follows the Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) with interdisciplinary courses, updated syllabi, and emphasis on research and practical learning across UG, PG, and doctoral programs.

What research facilities are available at CUG?

The university has a Central Instrumentation Facility, well-equipped labs, and access to over 8000+ e-journals and 30,000+ books in its library to support advanced research.

What are the hostel facilities like at Central University of Gujarat?

Hostels offer single and double occupancy rooms with 24x7 security, WiFi, common rooms, and mess facilities. Boys’ hostel is primarily for first-year students; girls’ hostel accommodates all years.

Is there a mess facility inside the hostels at CUG?

There is no mess inside hostels, but the university canteen provides meals at per plate, accessible to all students.

What extracurricular activities and clubs are available on campus?

CUG organizes cultural fests, sports events, and has various student clubs for arts, sports, and academic interests, promoting overall student development.

How safe is the campus and hostel environment at Central University of Gujarat?

The campus and hostels have 24x7 security with dedicated lady guards in girls’ hostels, ensuring a safe environment for all students.

What transport facilities does CUG provide for students?

The university operates AC buses connecting hostels and campuses at scheduled times, facilitating easy commute for students and staff.

Can students find part-time jobs or internships near CUG?

While on-campus part-time jobs are limited, students often find internships and part-time opportunities in Gandhinagar and Vadodara due to proximity to urban centers.

Is there a dress code or uniform requirement at Central University of Gujarat?

CUG does not enforce a strict dress code; students are free to wear casual and comfortable clothing suitable for academic settings.

How does Central University of Gujarat compare with other central universities in Gujarat?

CUG is known for its research focus and interdisciplinary programs, ranking among the top 3% globally (QS Rankings) and recognized as India’s #1 not-for-profit private university by India Today.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses at Central University of Gujarat?

With affordable fees, low hostel costs, and growing placement opportunities, CUG offers a good ROI, especially for research-oriented and humanities courses.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Central University of Gujarat is good for engineering with a median placement rate of around 65% and an average package of Rs. 33,000 per month. The university specializes in providing quality education across various disciplines, including engineering, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. CUG has consistently ranked among the top 150 universities in India by NIRF, highlighting its strong standing in the engineering field.
    Central University of Gujarat is ranked 61 in NIRF 2025 and 151–200 in NIRF 2020 for overall university rankings.
    The admission process at Central University of Gujarat requires the CUET (Common University Entrance Test) followed by document verification. For UG courses, applications open in August 2025, and the CUET exam is scheduled for January 4, 2026. PG courses begin accepting applications in April 2026, with the merit list released based on CUET PG scores.
    Students at Central University of Gujarat rate it 4/5 for placements, highlighting a median placement rate of around 65% and maximum package of Rs. 33,000 per month, but noting that the placement rate can be inconsistent. They rate it 4.5/5 for faculty, praising the university's ranking of 61st among top Universities in India by NIRF 2023 and the quality of teaching. For campus, students rate it 4/5, noting its strong academic programs and facilities, but expressing concerns about the size and sometimes
    Central University of Gujarat is known for its strong placement rates with a median rate of around 65% for M.Sc. graduates and ranked 61st among top universities in India by NIRF in 2023. The university is also recognized for its comprehensive offerings across various disciplines including Humanities & Social Sciences, Life Sciences, and International Studies.
    The campus life at Central University of Gujarat offers modern hostels with amenities like Wi-Fi and AC rooms, along with a well-equipped mess serving diverse cuisines at affordable rates of Rs. 8,000 per semester, and a variety of clubs and fests that include tech, cultural, and sports activities. The environment is vibrant and supportive, fostering a strong sense of community among students, with the university ranked 151–200 among 200 faculties in India by NIRF in 2020.
    The entrance exams accepted at Central University of Gujarat are CUET UG and CUET PG with a cutoff of at least 50% in class 12 exams. SC/ST candidates are eligible for a 5% mark reduction. Merit lists are released based on these scores for counseling and admissions.
    The important admission dates for Central University of Gujarat are: application starts on January 1, 2025, exam on March 15, 2025, and results are announced on April 30, 2025.
    The placement at Central University of Gujarat shows 65% students placed with an average package of Rs 25 LPA and the highest package of Rs 33,000 LPA.
    The eligibility for Central University of Gujarat requires a minimum of 50% in the qualifying examination and a valid score in the CUET UG or CUET PG entrance exam. For M.A. and M.Sc. programs, candidates must secure a minimum of 55% in their undergraduate degree. The CUET exam score is a crucial component for admission to both undergraduate and postgraduate programs at CUG.
    The placement at Central University of Gujarat shows approximately 65% students placed with an average package of Rs. 3.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs. 6 LPA.
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