GDC Kathua-image
Government Degree College: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Kathua Campus Life
location
Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 10 January 2026

More About GDC Kathua

Government Degree College, Kathua is widely recognized for its enduring legacy in higher education, established as a prominent government institution in 1961. Affiliated with the esteemed University of Jammu, it has served as a cornerstone of academic excellence in Kathua, Jammu & Kashmir, for over six decades. The college is committed to fostering intellectual growth and holistic development among its students.

Academically, Government Degree College, Kathua offers a comprehensive array of 15 undergraduate and postgraduate programs, spanning diverse fields such as Arts, Science, Commerce, Computer Applications, Business Administration, and Vocational Studies. These programs are meticulously designed and delivered across its 30 well-established departments, ensuring a rich and specialized learning experience. The curriculum is regularly updated to align with contemporary educational standards and industry requirements, preparing students for future challenges.

The institution''s commitment to quality is underscored by its NAAC B+ accreditation (Cycle IV - 2023, with a score of 2.68), reflecting its robust academic framework, strong faculty, and student support systems. This accreditation reaffirms the college''s dedication to maintaining high educational benchmarks.

Beyond academics, the college provides a conducive environment for student life. Its campus is equipped with essential infrastructure, including well-maintained laboratories for science and computer departments, a resourceful library, and facilities for sports and extracurricular activities. The dedicated faculty of 54 members strives to provide personalized attention and mentorship, ensuring a supportive learning atmosphere.

Government Degree College, Kathua plays a pivotal role in shaping the careers of its graduates, preparing them for higher studies, government services, and various professional avenues. It endeavors to equip students with critical thinking skills, ethical values, and practical knowledge, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to society and pursue successful career outcomes.

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Year Of Established

1961

Total Faculty Numbers

54

About Government Degree College Kathua

Government Degree College Kathua, established in 1961, is a prominent government institution located in Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir. It operates under the affiliation of the University of Jammu and is managed by the Higher Education Department of Jammu and Kashmir. The college was founded to provide quality higher education to the region and has grown significantly since its inception.

The college holds a NAAC B grade accreditation and is recognized by the UGC. It offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across arts, commerce, science, computer applications, and business administration. With a student strength exceeding 3,000 and a dedicated faculty, the college emphasizes academic excellence and holistic development. It also provides placement support and training to enhance student employability.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameGovernment Degree College Kathua
Established1961
TypeGovernment
AffiliationUniversity of Jammu
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeB (Valid till 2027)
CampusLarge campus, Kathua, Jammu and Kashmir
Courses6 UG + 1 PG
Popular ProgrammesBA, BSc, BCom, BCA, BBA, PG in Geography
Students3000+
FacultyData not specified
Fee Range₹7,500 - ₹10,000/year (approx.)
Websitehttps://www.gdckathua.in

Courses Offered at GDC Kathua

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts in EconomicsBachelor of Arts in EducationBachelor of Arts in English+8

Specializations

Master of Arts in Geography

Specializations

Bachelor of Business Administration

Specializations

Bachelor of Commerce

Specializations

Bachelor of Computer Application

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in BiotechnologyBachelor of Science in BotanyBachelor of Science in Chemistry+6

Admission Dates 2026

Admissions at Government Degree College, Kathua for the 2026 academic session are expected to follow the University of Jammu and Jammu & Kashmir Higher Education Department schedule. Admission is based on merit in the qualifying 10+2 examination, primarily accepting CBSE 12th and JKBOSE 12th scores.

ProgrammeEventDate
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Spot-Round-1 for Admission22 August 2026
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Spot-Round-1 Last Date31 August 2026
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Spot-Round-2 Opens01 September 2026
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Extension in Spot-Round14 October 2026
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Admission Notification (Biannual/Private 12th Passed Candidates)29 September 2026
UG Programmes (BA/BSc/BCom/BCA/BBA) Semester-I (NEP 2020)Last Date for Biannual/Private 12th Passed Candidates14 October 2026

Admission Process

Admission to Government Degree College Kathua is primarily merit-based, considering marks obtained in the qualifying 12th examination from CBSE, JKBOSE, or equivalent boards. Candidates apply online or offline, followed by document verification and seat allotment based on merit.

Undergraduate Admission (BA, BSc, BCom, BCA, BBA)

Steps to Apply

  1. Obtain the prescribed admission form from the college office by paying ₹50 or download it from the official website if available.
  2. Fill out the admission form with accurate personal and academic details.
  3. Attach attested copies of required documents including 12th class marksheet and certificates.
  4. Submit the completed form along with the admission fee before the last date announced by the University of Jammu.
  5. Attend the counselling session if called, based on merit list prepared from qualifying exam scores.
  6. Complete document verification and pay the final admission fee to confirm the seat.

Postgraduate Admission (MA Geography)

Steps to Apply

  1. Ensure eligibility by holding a relevant bachelor’s degree with minimum required marks.
  2. Apply online or offline by filling the admission form available at the college or official website.
  3. Upload or submit attested copies of graduation marksheet and other required documents.
  4. Participate in the counselling process based on merit of graduation marks.
  5. Complete document verification and pay the admission fee to finalize admission.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
BA10+2 (Arts)Merit (CBSE/JKBOSE)85%₹3,000
BSc10+2 (Science)Merit (CBSE/JKBOSE)85%₹3,000
BCom10+2 (Commerce/Arts)Merit (CBSE/JKBOSE/ISC)85%₹3,000
BCA10+2 (Science/Commerce/Arts)Merit (CBSE/JKBOSE)85%₹3,000
BBA10+2 (Any stream)Merit (CBSE/JKBOSE)85%₹3,000
MA GeographyGraduation in relevant streamMerit50%₹5,000

Documents Required

  • Marks certificate of the last qualifying examination (two attested photocopies)
  • Provisional/Transfer certificate from the last attended institution (original)
  • Character certificate from the last attended institution (original)
  • Attested photocopy of Date of Birth certificate
  • Three recent passport size photographs
  • Reserved category certificate (if applicable, original and two attested copies)
  • Migration certificate (original and attested copy, if applicable)
  • Affidavits as required by the college

Nearest Attractions at GDC Kathua

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Jammu Airport (IXJ)

77.5 km

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Hiranagar Bus Stand

11 km

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Sub District Hospital, Hiranagar

11 km

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Hiranagar Railway Station

11 km

Placements 2025

Government Degree College Kathua has limited placement activity with a low placement rate around 10%. The highest package is ₹3.6 LPA, but overall placements are minimal due to the college being a government institution with few recruiting companies visiting. Most students pursue higher studies or competitive exams rather than relying on campus placements.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹3.6 LPA
Average PackageData not available
Median Package₹3.6 LPA
Placement Rate10%
Students Placed3/[Total students not specified]
Companies VisitedFew/Not specified

Top Recruiters

IT: Wipro

Banking & Private Sector: Various local/private companies (names not specified)

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
BCA₹3 LPAData not availableLow
B.ComData not availableData not availableVery low

Campus Facilities at GDC Kathua

Academic Spaces

General Classrooms

Seminar Hall

Accommodation for Parents

Guest Room Facility

Basic Services

Power Backup Generators

Stationery and Photocopy Shop

Water Coolers with Purifiers

Disability Services

Ramp Access and Accessible Restrooms

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control and Visitor Management

Food Options

College Canteen

Hostel Mess

Hostel Facilities

Boys'' Hostel

Girls'' Hostel

IT Facilities

Campus Wi-Fi Connectivity

Internet Resource Centre

Incubation Centers

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Cell

Laboratories

Chemistry Laboratory

Computer Laboratory

Physics Laboratory

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Health Centre / First-Aid Room

Recreational Areas

Common Room / Student Lounge

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance System

Fire Safety Systems

Security Personnel

Sports & Fitness

General Playgrounds

Indoor Games Room

Student Help Desks

Career Counseling and Placement Cell

Grievance Redressal Cell

Transport Services

Vehicle Parking Area

Rankings & Accreditations

Government Degree College Kathua is accredited with a NAAC B grade and participates in the NIRF rankings, but it does not appear in the top ranks of national or international ranking agencies like NIRF (2025), QS, India Today, Outlook, or THE for 2025. It holds a modest position with limited placement and recognition data available.

NAAC Accreditation

  • NAAC: B Grade (Valid till 2023)

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Eagle Eye Security System CCTV & ACS

5

Good staff and Gate security is good.

Ojesvi Sharma

3

Washrooms are dirty, most of them aren't capable of using!! Lotsss of dust in classroom as well as the other areas!!! Most of the teachers are excellent! Academically alright but mangement wise this college is in the wrong path

sudhanshu dhotra

2

Placements: There are no placements in this college. I studied in this college for a long time, but there is no placement. Some students tried to convince the administration for placements. Please who read this, do help us for better future. We want placements for a better future. Infrastructure: Wi-Fi, labs, classrooms(big), library, sports and games, etc. are available in this college. Parking is separated for students and teachers. The canteen is good in this college. Students security is good. High rated classes are available. The college gives the best to the students. Faculty: The faculty in this college are good. They were too brilliant. They are well qualified, this college is government based, so faculty members come by knowledge. Teaching quality is good, the students understand what teachers want to tell us or teach us.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Government Degree College Kathua offers scholarships primarily through government schemes accessible via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) and state government programs. Additionally, merit-based scholarships are available for students scoring above 92% and 95% in class 12, providing partial to substantial fee waivers. Financial aid is also extended to economically weaker sections and reserved categories.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Merit-Based ScholarshipStudents with 92%+ in Class 1250% tuition fee waiver (approx. ₹7,000/year)
Merit-Based ScholarshipStudents with 95%+ in Class 1290% tuition fee waiver (approx. ₹12,600/year)

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Post-Matric Scholarship for ST StudentsScheduled TribesUp to ₹30,000 per annum (tuition fees)NSP
Post-Matric Scholarship for SC StudentsScheduled CastesUp to ₹30,000 per annum (tuition fees)NSP
Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Protsahan Yojana (PM-USP)General and Reserved CategoriesVaries, covers tuition fees and maintenanceNSP
J&K State Scholarship for General Degree StudentsJ&K Residents, income criteria applicableUp to ₹30,000 per annum (tuition fees)State Portal/NSP

External Scholarships

  • National Merit Scholarship: ₹5,000 to ₹30,000 for meritorious students based on academic performance and income criteria

Comparison

Government Degree College Kathua is compared with Government Degree College for Women Kathua and Government Degree College Sopore as they are government-run institutions in Jammu & Kashmir offering undergraduate and postgraduate courses, catering to similar student demographics and academic disciplines.

ParameterGovernment Degree College KathuaGovernment Degree College for Women KathuaGovernment Degree College Sopore
TypeGovernmentGovernmentGovernment
Established1961Not specified (established before 2017)Not specified
NIRF 2025Not ranked in top 100 collegesNot ranked in top 100 collegesNot ranked in top 100 colleges
NAAC GradeBNot specifiedNot specified
Fee (Total)₹0.75 L approx. (estimated typical government college fees)₹0.75 L approx. (typical government college fees)₹0.75 L approx. (typical government college fees)
Highest Package₹3 LPA (approx.)₹3 LPA (approx.)₹3 LPA (approx.)
Average Package₹1-1.5 LPA (estimated)₹1-1.5 LPA (estimated)₹1-1.5 LPA (estimated)

Key Strengths

  • Government Degree College Kathua: Established institution with a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses affiliated to University of Jammu, with a focus on arts, commerce, and sciences.
  • Government Degree College for Women Kathua: Dedicated women’s college providing focused academic environment and empowerment opportunities for female students in the region.
  • Government Degree College Sopore: Well-known government college in Baramulla district offering diverse courses and serving as a key educational hub in northern Kashmir.

Campus & Infrastructure

Government Degree College Kathua is situated about 3 km from the heart of Kathua city in Jammu and Kashmir, spread over a large campus of 24.375 acres. The campus includes distinct blocks for Arts, Science, Commerce, Home Science, and postgraduate Geography, with well-maintained green lawns and modern academic facilities.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area24.375 acres
LocationKathua, Jammu & Kashmir
Nearest RailwayKathua Railway Station (approx. 3 km)
Nearest AirportJammu Airport (approx. 80 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Over 50,000 books
  • Labs: 6 well-equipped labs (Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Computer Applications, Geography) with 24x7 power backup and modern teaching aids
  • Classrooms: Multiple smart classrooms with LED projectors and interactive boards

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
BoysNot specifiedNot specified
GirlsNot specifiedNot specified

Other Facilities

  • Auditorium for academic and cultural events
  • Cafeteria
  • College dispensary
  • Sports facilities including indoor and outdoor stadiums
  • Wi-Fi enabled computer labs and browsing center
  • Hostels with amenities such as telephone, sports facilities (badminton, chess), drinking water with Aquaguard, refrigerators, water coolers, geysers, inverters, and reading rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for B.A./B.Sc. at Government Degree College Kathua in 2026?

Admission to B.A. and B.Sc. is based on merit in the 10+2 examination, with seats allocated through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for University of Jammu affiliated colleges. Students must apply via the official Jammu University admission portal and follow the merit list and counselling schedule.

What is the cutoff for B.Sc. (Medical) at Government Degree College Kathua?

Cutoffs vary yearly based on CUET scores and category; for general category, B.Sc. Medical cutoffs in recent years have ranged between 75%–85% in aggregate in 10+2 with Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. Exact cutoffs are released annually by the University of Jammu after CUET results.

Does Government Degree College Kathua accept direct admission without CUET?

No, for undergraduate courses like B.A., B.Sc., B.Com., BCA, and BBA, admission is strictly through CUET University of Jammu norms. Direct admission without CUET is not permitted for regular semester admissions.

What is the annual fee for B.Sc. at Government Degree College Kathua?

The annual fee for B.Sc. is approximately ₹1,800–₹2,200 per year, excluding examination and other university charges. Exact figures are updated in the official fee notification issued by the college each academic year.

Are there scholarships available for SC/ST/OBC students at Government Degree College Kathua?

Yes, SC/ST/OBC students can avail post-metric scholarships from the Jammu & Kashmir government and central schemes like PM-USP. The college assists in documentation and verification for eligible students.

Is there a separate hostel fee, and how much is it for boys and girls?

Hostel charges are nominal; boys’ hostel fee is around ₹1,200–₹1,500 per semester, and girls’ hostel is similarly priced. These include basic accommodation, but mess charges are extra and vary based on consumption.

Does the college provide any placement support or campus recruitment?

The college does not have regular campus placements; students are encouraged to prepare for competitive exams and higher studies. Limited support is available through the UMANG scheme and government job counselling.

Which companies or sectors recruit from Government Degree College Kathua?

There are no regular recruiters on campus; most graduates pursue government jobs, teaching, banking, or higher education. Alumni work in state and central government services, schools, and private sector roles after clearing competitive exams.

Is there an internship or industry tie-up for BBA/BCA students?

There are no formal industry tie-ups or mandatory internships for BBA/BCA; students arrange internships independently. The college occasionally organizes workshops and skill development sessions in collaboration with government departments.

What are the specializations offered in B.Sc. at Government Degree College Kathua?

B.Sc. offers combinations in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology, and Industrial Fish and Fisheries. Students can choose combinations like PCM, PCB, or PCM with Computer Science eligibility and seat availability.

How is the faculty quality in the Science and Commerce departments?

Faculty in Science and Commerce are UGC NET/SET qualified or experienced postgraduates; teaching is theory-focused with limited lab exposure in some streams. Attendance and semester exams are strictly monitored.

Does the college offer any research or PG programs apart from Geography?

Government Degree College Kathua offers a postgraduate program only in Geography; no other PG courses or research programs (M.Phil/Ph.D.) are currently available on campus.

Is there a separate girls’ hostel, and what are the facilities like?

Yes, there is a separate girls’ hostel with basic accommodation, common rooms, and security. Facilities include beds, study tables, and attached washrooms, but mess and maintenance are as minimal.

How is the food quality and mess system in the boys’ hostel?

The boys’ hostel mess serves basic vegetarian meals; quality and hygiene are average, and students often supplement with outside food. Mess charges are paid monthly and revised occasionally by the hostel committee.

Are there student clubs, NCC, NSS, or cultural activities on campus?

NCC and NSS units are active; the college organizes annual fests, sports events, Republic Day, Independence Day, and Teacher’s Day celebrations. There are no formal student-run clubs or social media groups managed by students.

What sports facilities are available for students at Government Degree College Kathua?

The college has a large ground for cricket, football, and hockey, an outdoor stadium, and an indoor stadium. Inter-college and district-level tournaments in football, cricket, and hockey are regularly hosted.

Is there a canteen on campus, and what is the price range for food?

Yes, there is a canteen offering tea, snacks, and simple meals; prices are low, with tea at ₹10–₹15, samosa/paratha at ₹20–₹30, and meals like rice-roti with dal/vegetables around ₹40–₹60.

How far is the college from Kathua bus stand and railway station?

The college is about 3 km from Kathua city center, near the main road; it is approximately 3–4 km from Kathua bus stand and Kathua railway station, accessible by local buses, auto-rickshaws, and college transport.

Is wearing a uniform or following a dress code mandatory at Government Degree College Kathua?

There is no formal uniform; students wear casual or semi-formal attire. Modest and decent clothing is expected, especially during exams, official events, and college functions.

Is Government Degree College Kathua better than other government colleges in Jammu region for B.A./B.Sc.?

It is one of the oldest and largest government colleges in Jammu region, consistently among the top performers in University of Jammu final year results. For B.A./B.Sc., it is preferred over many newer colleges due to faculty stability and exam performance.

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