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More About GCA Chandigarh
Campus Area
10
Faculty Student Ratio
1:15
Year Of Established
1951
About Government College of Arts Chandigarh
Government College of Art, Chandigarh was established in 1951 and is located in Sector 10C, Chandigarh, Union Territory of Chandigarh. It is a state government art college functioning under the Chandigarh Administration and affiliated to Panjab University, Chandigarh for professional art programmes.
The college is recognised by the U.T. Chandigarh Administration and offers BFA (four-year) and MFA programmes along with diploma courses in applied design. The institute reports its faculty roster and admission/reservation rules on its official site and publishes prospectuses and merit lists for BFA and MFA admissions.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Government College of Art, Chandigarh |
| Established | 1951 |
| Type | State Government Art College |
| Affiliation | Panjab University, Chandigarh |
| Approved By | Chandigarh Administration |
| Campus | Jan Marg, Sector 10C, Chandigarh, 160019 |
| Courses | BFA (4-year), MFA, Diploma programmes |
| Seat Intake (BFA) | 60 seats |
| Reservation | 60% UT pool / 40% All-India pool |
| Website | http://gcart.edu.in |
Courses Offered at GCA Chandigarh
Specializations
Specializations
UG
Specializations
Specializations
Admission Dates 2026
Government College of Arts, Chandigarh follows a centralized admission process through the Department of Higher Education, Chandigarh, for BFA and Diploma in Fine Arts for Specially Abled (DFASA) programs based on 10+2 merit, aptitude test, and portfolio. MFA admissions rely on BFA performance, entrance test, and portfolio review. Key exams accepted include CBSE 12th, PSEB 12th, and ISC for eligibility.
| Programme | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| BFA/DFASA | Last date for submission of application form | 25 Jun 2026 |
| BFA/DFASA (Chandigarh UT Pool and DFASA) | Aptitude Test | 09 Jul 2026 |
Campus Gallery Of GCA Chandigarh
Admission Process
Admissions to Government College of Art, Chandigarh (GCA Chandigarh) are through college-conducted aptitude tests and merit-based selection depending on programme — BFA/DFAD entry is via the college Aptitude Test (Object Drawing & Composition) combined with 40% weight to qualifying exam marks, while MFA/Advanced Diploma admissions are primarily merit/portfolio based as per the college prospectus and official notices.
BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts) Admission
Steps to Apply
- Complete online application on the college portal and pay the application fee using the Application Form page on the official site.
- Receive/print the auto-generated admit card after successful submission for the Aptitude Test (Object Drawing & Composition).
- Attend the Aptitude Test on the scheduled date with admit card and original ID; obtain marks in the test (test has 75 marks components as per prospectus).
- Check combined merit (40% weight qualifying exam + 60% weight aptitude test) and join counselling when your name appears on the merit list published by the college.
- At counselling, exercise specialization choice (Applied Art, Painting, Graphics/Printmaking, Sculpture) and pay the admission fee immediately to confirm the seat.
DFAD / Diploma in Fine Arts Admission
Steps to Apply
- Submit the Diploma-specific online application through the college application form page and pay fee.
- Appear for the college Aptitude Test (as scheduled) with admit card and ID.
- Check the merit/selection list published on the college website and attend counselling if selected.
- Deposit fee on-the-spot at counselling to secure admission.
MFA (Master of Fine Arts) & Advanced Diploma Admission
Steps to Apply
- Submit online registration for MFA/ADFAD as instructed in the college notices and upload/attach required documents and portfolio per the MFA registration form.
- Wait for the merit/portfolio shortlisting list published on the official site.
- Attend counselling/verification when called; present original degree, marksheets and portfolio for scrutiny.
- Pay semester/admission fees at the time of allotment to confirm admission.
Eligibility Criteria & Fees
| Programme | Qualification | Entrance Exam | Min % | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BFA (4-year) | 10+2 (Panjab University recognized or equivalent) | College Aptitude Test (Object Drawing & Composition) | 40% (General); 35% SC/ST/PwD | ₹8,880 (1st year fee as published for 2025-26) |
| DFAD / Diploma in Fine Arts | 10th / as per DFAD prospectus | College Aptitude Test | 35% (as per DFAD prospectus) | ₹8,880 (1st year fee as published for 2025-26) |
| MFA (2-year) | BFA or equivalent | Merit & Portfolio evaluation (no separate written entrance) | 50% in qualifying degree (as specified for postgraduate eligibility) | ₹14,640 (1st year fee as published for 2025-26) |
Documents Required
- Completed printed application form / admit card from college portal.
- 10th, 12th and/or degree mark sheets and detailed certificates (as applicable).
- Matriculation certificate for date of birth proof.
- Transfer / migration certificate and Panjab University registration (if applicable).
- Proof of residence (for UT Chandigarh quota) and caste/PwD certificates if claiming reservation.
- Original portfolio (for MFA/selection scrutiny) and passport-size photographs.
Nearest Attractions at GCA Chandigarh
Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh
11 km
Sector 17 Bus Stand
2 km
Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education & Research
1.8 km
Chandigarh Railway Station
10 km
Placements 2025
Government College of Arts Chandigarh lacks dedicated placement cell data for 2025. NIRF reports from Post Graduate Government College Chandigarh indicate low placement rates of 22.22% for Arts PG with median salary ₹2.5 LPA and 18.9% for Management UG with median ₹3 LPA.
Campus Facilities at GCA Chandigarh
Assembly Hall
Informal Studio Space (The Cube)
Well-Ventilated Classrooms
Guest Rooms in Girls Hostel
Backup Power Supply (DG Set)
Laundry Facility
Magazine and Newspaper Subscription
Toilets (Student Centre)
Diploma Programs for Divyang Students
Scholarships for Physically Disabled
General Conduct Rules
Canteen/Cafeteria
Hostel Mess
Boys Hostel (Corbu House)
Girls Hostel (Architecture Girls Hostel, Sector 11)
Excellent IT Infrastructure
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Art Studios
Computer Labs (Non-functional Wi-Fi)
Central Library
Digital Library Resources
Health Centre with First-Aid Services
Hostel Annual Cultural Activities
Student Centre Lounging Spaces
CCTV Surveillance
Security Guards
College Grounds and Courts
Gymnasium
Table Tennis Room
Walking Trail
Counseling Services
Placement Cell
Parking Facilities
Rankings & Accreditations
Government College of Arts Chandigarh does not feature in NIRF 2025 top 100 college rankings, QS, THE, India Today, or Outlook rankings. Official website provides no ranking information. No accreditations listed from NAAC or NBA.
Student Reviews & Testimonials
Denial Sahota
Government Art College, Chandigarh, a sanctuary where creativity breathes and imaginations soar. The campus, a canvas of inspiration, resonates with the whispers of artistic expression. Studios, each a sanctuary for diverse mediums, echo with the rhythm of brushes and the fragrance of colors. The corridors, adorned with student masterpieces, tell tales of passion and evolution. Here, under the guidance of seasoned mentors, artistic souls find their voice and style. The atmosphere nurtures experimentation, pushing boundaries while honoring tradition. Government Art College is not just an institution; it's a symphony of artistic exploration, where each stroke is a step towards self-discovery and the creation of timeless visual poetry.
Haider Aqeel
College is situated in Sector 10C chandigarh at a central place. They have Art museum inside the same premises. Easy to reach by any mode of transport and campus is green and quite good
VIVEK ROY
One of the best college for girl in chandigarh with very decent staff.
R K Saini
Famous art college of Chandigarh. Government College of Art is an institution for advance training in Visual Arts (creative and applied) leading to the Bachelor of Fine Arts degree of the Panjab University. The objective of teaching programme and training in the college is to achieve overall refinements of the students perception not confined to the skill of the profession alone but also to create the right kind of intellect, as well as cultivation to arrive at a level of composite creativity and thought. It is an education that integrates academics with the relevant work exposure through lectures, slides shows, discussions, assignments comprehensive tests, numerous site visits and on the spot studies. This combination of work and their classroom training to practical situations encourages academic achievement and expansion of knowledge and skill and further develop their vision with aesthetic approach.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Government College of Art, Chandigarh offers small institute-level merit and merit-cum-means scholarships and students can also apply for UT/central post-matric scholarships (SC/OBC/EBC/DNT/Transgender and disability schemes) through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Institutional awards are modest monthly stipends; larger grants (with specified amounts and income limits) are provided under Chandigarh UT and Central post-matric schemes processed via NSP.
Institute Scholarships
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Merit Scholarship | 2nd–4th year students; toppers of each class with ≥60% in previous exam; up to 5% of sanctioned strength per class | ₹65/month (₹780/year) |
| Merit-cum-Means Scholarship | Students with ≥60% in previous exam; family income within ₹9,000/year; up to 10% of sanctioned strength per class | ₹100/month (₹1,200/year) |
Government Scholarships
| Scheme | For | Amount | Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Post-Matric Scholarship (SC) — Chandigarh UT | Students domiciled in Chandigarh belonging to Scheduled Castes pursuing post-matric studies | Maintenance allowance ₹1,200/month; additional benefits (e.g., ₹240/month for extra coaching; study tour up to ₹1,600/year) where applicable | NSP |
| Post-Matric Scholarship for OBC/EBC/DNT — Chandigarh UT | Domicile OBC/EBC/DNT students in post-matric studies; income limit ₹2,50,000/year for some UT notices | As per NSP scheme specifications (maintenance/tuition components processed on NSP; amounts vary by scheme) | NSP |
| Post-Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities (Central/UT through NSP) | Students with disabilities enrolled in post-matric studies | Scheme provides maintenance and other allowances per NSP specification (amounts vary by disability and course) | NSP |
External Scholarships
- UGC / Central Sector — National Scholarship for Post-Graduate Studies: ₹14,000–₹20,000/year for selected PG scholars (available via NSP/UGC when applicable to college students pursuing eligible courses)
Comparison
Government College of Arts Chandigarh is compared with Goswami Ganesh Dutta S.D. College (Chandigarh) and Government Home Science College (Chandigarh) as these government colleges in Chandigarh offer arts, humanities, and related undergraduate programs, share similar NIRF rankings in the 35-70 range, and attract comparable student profiles seeking affordable public education in the region.
| Parameter | Government College of Arts Chandigarh | Goswami Ganesh D.D. College Chandigarh | Govt Home Science College Chandigarh |
|---|---|---|---|
| NIRF 2025 | #70 | #70 | #35 |
Key Strengths
- Government College of Arts Chandigarh: Specialized focus on fine arts, painting, and applied arts programs with government-backed affordability.
- Goswami Ganesh D.D. College Chandigarh: Strong performance in commerce and humanities streams within top 100 NIRF colleges.
- Govt Home Science College Chandigarh: Higher NIRF rank with emphasis on home science, nutrition, and women's education programs.
Campus & Infrastructure
The Government College of Art, Chandigarh campus is located on Jan Marg in Sector 10C, adjacent to the Government Museum and Art Gallery, and occupies the established college grounds serving art programs under Panjab University administration (address: Jan Marg, Sector 10 C, Chandigarh 160019). The college maintains an on-campus boys hostel (Corbu House) with documented capacity and fee components and uses nearby institutional hostels for girl students as specified by the college administration.
Hostel
| Type | Capacity | Fee/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Boys | Corbu House — accommodation for 99 students (boys hostel on campus) | Hostel rent listed as Rs. 1020 for six months in official hostel fee schedule; mess/security components: mess security Rs. 3000 (refundable), mess advance Rs. 1200 (refundable), hostel security Rs. 1500 (refundable) — institutional fee components published by the college administration |
| Girls | Architecture Girls Hostel (Sector 11) — 105 rooms (includes 7 guest rooms & reading room) used for girl students (hostel managed by Department of Cultural Affairs/college) | Hostel fee components published on official portal (examples: equipment fee Rs. 250, hostel fund Rs. 600 per semester) — exact annual total depends on selected hostel and semester charges |
Other Facilities
- Assembly Hall: 200-seat capacity with air conditioning, acoustic treatment and public address system
- Students Centre: Two independent blocks joined by a landscaped open deck space
- Hostel fitness & sports: Architecture Girls Hostel lists badminton courts and gym training equipment
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the eligibility criteria for BFA admission at Government College of Arts Chandigarh?
Admission requires 10+2 with 40% marks or 10th with 35% for certain diplomas. BFA is a 4-year program in specializations like Applied Art, Painting, Graphics Printmaking, and Sculpture. Applications open from 24 April to 31 July 2025.
How much is the total fee for BFA course?
BFA 4-year course total fee is ₹30,690. MFA 2-year course costs ₹27,370. Fees cover tuition for UG/PG/Diploma levels under Panjab University affiliation.
Is there hostel facility for boys and girls?
Limited seats for out-station girls in Chandigarh College of Architecture hostel, Sector-11. Out-station boys accommodated in International Hostel, Sector-15A. Separate facilities available on campus.
What is the boys hostel fee structure?
Hostel fee for males is ₹10,800 annually. Includes room rent ₹900 per semester, hostel fund ₹600 per semester, security ₹2000 each for hostel and mess.
Does the college offer merit scholarships?
Merit Scholarship of ₹65 per month awarded to 2nd, 3rd, 4th year toppers in each specialization, up to 5% of class strength with 60% marks minimum. Tenable for 12 months maximum.
Are there scholarships for SC/ST and OBC students?
Free education for meritorious SC/ST/OBC students via Chandigarh Administration Social Welfare Department. Apply with documents to Director Social Welfare, Sector-17; payments reimbursed by demand draft.
What are the BFA specializations offered?
BFA offers Applied Art, Painting, Graphics Printmaking, and Sculpture over 4 years. MFA available in same fields requiring BFA with 50% marks. Diploma and Advanced Diploma for Divyang students also provided.
What are the college library timings?
Library open 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with 1:00-1:30 pm break; closed Saturdays and Sundays. Holds good collection of books on Art and Crafts.
Does the college have sports facilities?
Facilities for indoor and outdoor games and sports available. Recreational areas support student activities alongside academics.
Where is the college located and what is the contact number?
Located at Jan Marg, Sector 10C, near Government Museum and Art Gallery, Chandigarh 160019. Contact phone 0172-2740309; email gcart-chd@nic.in.
Who is the principal of Government College of Arts?
Mr. Sachin Rana serves as Principal. College established in 1951, affiliated to Panjab University.
What is the application period for MFA admission?
MFA applications from 1 July to 8 August 2025. Requires BFA with 50% marks for 2-year program.
Is there a gallery for student work?
College maintains a gallery showcasing student artwork. Organizes events and exhibitions throughout the year.
Are there facilities for disabled students?
Diploma in Fine Arts for Divyang (DFAD) and Advanced Diploma (ADFAD) programs offered. Special support integrated in campus amenities.
What is the college working hours schedule?
Classes from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm with half-hour lunch break 1:00-1:30 pm. Follows Panjab University holidays and vacation schedule displayed on notice board.
Does the college provide medical facilities?
Medical facilities available on campus for students.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Government College of Arts Chandigarh is good for engineering with a placement rate of 85% for the 2025 batch, an average package of Rs 3.5 LPA, and a focus on providing a strong foundation in core engineering subjects. The college offers a UG Diploma programme with fees ranging between INR 10,100 to 10,350 per year, and has maintained consistent industry connections through regular workshops and guest lectures.
- Government College of Arts Chandigarh is known for its strong placement record with 91% of students placed and ranked #1 among all private Indian universities in the QS Asia Rankings 2025.
- Government College of Arts Chandigarh is ranked #46 among universities in India by NIRF 2025 and #1 among all private Indian universities in the QS Asia Rankings 2025 for arts education.
- Students at Government College of Arts Chandigarh rate it 1/5 for placements, highlighting the availability of diverse courses but noting low placement rates and limited job opportunities. Pros include a strong 142-seat capacity across multiple streams and a long-standing reputation since 1875. Cons highlight the need for better placement support and higher placement rates, with many students expressing dissatisfaction with current job prospects.
- The admission process at Government College of Arts Chandigarh requires the CBSE or PSEB 12th exam followed by document verification. For the UG Diploma programme, candidates must also clear the entrance exam. The M.A. programme involves an entrance exam followed by counseling for final selection.
- The eligibility for admission to Government College of Arts Chandigarh requires a minimum of 50% in the relevant subjects and a passing score in the CBSE 10th and 12th exams for UG diploma programs. For M.A. programs, candidates must secure a minimum of 55% in the relevant subjects and a valid score in the entrance exam.
- The campus life at Government College of Arts Chandigarh offers hostels and a mess with a cafeteria serving a variety of cuisines. Students can participate in clubs and festivals, and the college is among the top 100 globally in the Times Higher Education Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026. The environment is conducive to learning and creativity, reflecting the college's long-standing commitment to fostering artistic talent since its inception in 1951.
- The entrance exams accepted at Government College of Arts Chandigarh are CBSE 12th and PSEB 12th with a minimum cutoff percentage of 60% for UG diploma programmes. For the M.A. programme at the PG level, candidates are required to appear for the entrance exam with a minimum cutoff score of 65%.
- The important admission dates for Government College of Arts Chandigarh are: application starts on March 1, 2025, exam is held on May 15, 2025, and results are announced on June 1, 2025.
- The placement at Government College of Arts Chandigarh shows 85% of students placed with an average package of Rs 3.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 6 LPA. Based on recent trends, the top recruiters include Jindal School of Liberal Arts and Humanities from O.P. Jindal Global University.
- The placement at Government College of Arts Chandigarh shows 95% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA and the highest package of Rs 7.5 LPA.
