More About CIFE Mumbai
Campus Area
100
Faculty Student Ratio
Approximately 5:1
Year Of Established
1961
CIFE Mumbai Rankings, Accreditations & Recognitions
About Central Institute of Fisheries Education - [CIFE] Mumbai
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), established in 1961, is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a premier Deemed-to-be University under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), functioning as India’s first fisheries university with a focus on fisheries science and allied disciplines.
CIFE holds an A++ NAAC accreditation and secured the 8th rank in the Agriculture category by NIRF 2025. The institute offers specialized postgraduate and doctoral programs in fisheries science, with a student strength of around 300 and a faculty team dedicated to research and education. It is renowned for its contributions to fisheries research, aquaculture technology, and human resource development in the sector.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Central Institute of Fisheries Education |
| Established | 1961 |
| Type | Deemed-to-be University |
| Affiliation | Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) |
| Approved By | UGC |
| NAAC Grade | A++ (Valid till 2027) |
| NIRF 2025 | #8 in Agriculture and Allied Sectors |
| Campus | Urban campus, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Courses | Postgraduate (MFSc) + PhD programs |
| Popular Programmes | Aquaculture, Fish Genetics & Breeding, Fisheries Economics, Fisheries Extension, Fish Biotechnology |
| Students | Approximately 300 (PG + PhD) |
| Faculty | Data not specified |
| Fee Range | Data not specified |
| Highest Package | Data not specified |
| Average Package | ₹4.8 LPA (Median for PG graduates) |
| Website | www.cife.edu.in |
Courses Offered at CIFE Mumbai
Overview
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), established in 1961, is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a premier Deemed-to-be University under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), functioning as India’s first fisheries university with a focus on fisheries science and allied disciplines.
CIFE holds an A++ NAAC accreditation and secured the 8th rank in the Agriculture category by NIRF 2025. The institute offers specialized postgraduate and doctoral programs in fisheries science, with a student strength of around 300 and a faculty team dedicated to research and education. It is renowned for its contributions to fisheries research, aquaculture technology, and human resource development in the sector.
Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Central Institute of Fisheries Education |
| Established | 1961 |
| Type | Deemed-to-be University |
| Affiliation | Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) |
| Approved By | UGC |
| NAAC Grade | A++ (Valid till 2027) |
| NIRF 2025 | #8 in Agriculture and Allied Sectors |
| Campus | Urban campus, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Courses | Postgraduate (MFSc) + PhD programs |
| Popular Programmes | Aquaculture, Fish Genetics & Breeding, Fisheries Economics, Fisheries Extension, Fish Biotechnology |
| Students | Approximately 300 (PG + PhD) |
| Faculty | Data not specified |
| Fee Range | Data not specified |
| Highest Package | Data not specified |
| Average Package | ₹4.8 LPA (Median for PG graduates) |
| Website | www.cife.edu.in |
Campus Gallery Of CIFE Mumbai








Admission Dates 2026
Admissions at Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai for 2026 primarily follow entrance exams such as ICAR AIEEA and MCAER CET for postgraduate programs like M.F.Sc. and M.Sc. Ph.D. admissions involve a written test and interview. The admission cycle includes application submission, entrance exams, counselling, and document verification.
| Programme | Event | Date |
|---|---|---|
| M.F.Sc. | Application Start | 01 July 2026 |
| M.F.Sc. | Application Deadline | 31 July 2026 |
| M.F.Sc. | Entrance Exam | August 2026 (Exact date to be announced) |
| M.F.Sc. | Counselling Start | October 2026 |
| Ph.D. | Application Start | May 2026 |
| Ph.D. | Entrance Exam | June 2026 |
| Ph.D. | Interview | July 2026 |
| Ph.D. | Admission Finalization | August 2026 |
Nearest Attractions at CIFE Mumbai

Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport Mumbai
9.4 km

Seven Bungalows Bus Station
2 km

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital
2.5 km

Andheri Railway Station
3.8 km
Admission Process
Admission to Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai is primarily through entrance exams such as ICAR AIEEA and MCAER CET for postgraduate M.F.Sc. and M.Sc. programs, with eligibility based on relevant bachelor's degrees and minimum percentage criteria. The institute offers admission at postgraduate and doctoral levels in specialized fisheries science disciplines.
M.F.Sc. Admission
Steps to Apply
- Check eligibility: Bachelor’s degree in Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) with minimum 60% aggregate or equivalent.
- Register and apply online for the ICAR AIEEA or MCAER CET entrance exam through the official portals.
- Appear for the entrance exam on the scheduled dates (usually in September).
- Wait for the release of merit list based on entrance exam scores.
- Participate in counselling and document verification schedule.
- Pay the admission fee to confirm the seat.
- Complete enrollment formalities at CIFE Mumbai campus.
Ph.D. Admission
Steps to Apply
- Hold a relevant M.F.Sc. or equivalent degree with required experience if applicable.
- Obtain application form and information bulletin from CIFE office or official website.
- Submit completed application with necessary documents before the deadline.
- Appear for the entrance test/interview conducted by CIFE.
- Participate in counselling and document verification.
- Pay fees and complete admission formalities.
Eligibility Criteria & Fees
| Programme | Qualification | Entrance Exam | Min % | Fees (per year) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| M.F.Sc. | B.F.Sc. (10+2+4 system) or equivalent | ICAR AIEEA / MCAER CET | 60% | ₹1,00,000 |
| Ph.D. | M.F.Sc. or equivalent with experience | CIFE Entrance / Interview | ₹1,20,000 |
Documents Required
- High school certificate (proof of date of birth)
- Bachelor’s degree mark sheets and certificate
- Entrance exam scorecard (ICAR AIEEA / MCAER CET)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
- Transfer Certificate (if applicable)
Campus Facilities at CIFE Mumbai
Committee Room
Community Hall (Yari Road Campus)
Conference Hall
Modern Auditorium
Spacious Classrooms
Video Conference Room/Facility
Guest Houses
Aquarium Facility
Engineering and Electronics Workshops
Laundry Facilities (Washing Machines)
Museum (Seven Bungalows Campus)
Nearby Shops (Grocery, Stationery, Vendors)
Photography and Audio-Visual Services
Admission Reservations for Persons with Disabilities
Canteen/Cafeteria
Hostel Mess
Boys Hostels
Girls Hostel
International Hostel
Campus-wide Wi-Fi Connectivity
Learning Management System
Entrepreneurship and Skill Development Support
Algal Taxonomy and Culture Lab
Aquatic Radioecology Lab
Biochemistry, Nutrition and Feed Formulation Lab
Bioinformatics Lab
Biotechnology and Molecular Genetics Lab
Computer Laboratories
National Library for Fisheries and Allied Sciences
Medical Centre/Clinic
Medical Insurance Coverage
Cultural and Annual Events
Indoor Playground (Hostel)
Campus Oversight and Hygiene Protocols
Cricket Ground
Football Ground
Gymnasium
Indoor Games Facilities
Indoor Stadium
Outdoor Sports Courts
College Bus Services
Parking Facility
Cutoff 2025
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) Mumbai admissions for M.F.Sc. and other PG courses are primarily based on the ICAR AIEEA entrance exam. The cutoff ranks for admission vary by specialization and category, reflecting competitive selection with general category cutoffs typically requiring ranks within the top few hundreds to low thousands. The institute also reserves some seats for in-service candidates and state fisheries departments, which slightly affects cutoff trends.
| Exam | Branch/Course | General | OBC | SC | ST | EWS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ICAR AIEEA | M.F.Sc. Fisheries Science | Approx. 300-1000 | Approx. 1000-1500 | Approx. 1500-2000 | Approx. 2000-2500 | Approx. 900-1200 |
Student Reviews & Testimonials
Feroz Ahmad
ICAR- Central Institute Of Fisheries Versova. One of the most recognized fisheries universities all in India. Acedemics- The acedemics is essentially well taught thats is why the unversity is ranked good for it and there is a good chance of a very great prospective future be it acedemics or in the private sector. The library is very big with full access to so many books and topics. Campus- The campus is well managed and the security quite good. The gardens as well as the buildings are very well managed. The hostels are not that maintained, but that can be ignored considering the constant hamering of the young students. Sports complex is quite good, well maintained and has good equipments. Mess- Well organised, well maintained with good tasty food which is a rarety in hostel messes.
sat yaa
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) was established by the Government of India, with the assistance of FAO/UNDP on 6th June 1961. The main purpose of its establishment was to impart post-graduate education and training largely to the inservice fisheries personnel of the country to support fisheries developmental activities. The CIFE started functioning at the Institute of Science Building in Bombay (Mumbai, now) and initially the academic activities were organized in three divisions viz. Fishery Biology, Fishery Technology and Fishery Economics for conducting a two-year postgraduate course of Diploma in Fisheries Science (D.F.Sc.). The Institute was shifted to a rented building at Masjid Bunder, Bombay in 1964. The Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, at this stage, actively collaborated with the Govt. of India and helped in strengthening infrastructural facilities at CIFE by providing sophisticated equipments together with expertise of high standard. The fishing vessel, MFV Harpodon received under FAO/UNDP assistance in 1968 provided basic facilities for on-board training in the areas such as marine fishing, fishery biology and oceanography. The Institute headquarters moved to its own building at Versova in March 1967 and acquired its first centre, the Inland Fisheries Training Centre, Barrackpore in West Bengal from Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (CIFRI) in October 1967. The Institute also took control of the erstwhile Fisheries Extension Centres of the Govt. of India and organized them as sub-centres for Inland Fisheries Operatives Training at Agra and Hyderabad. These centres were subsequently shifted to Chinhat near Lucknow (UP) and Kakinada (AP). The infrastructural needs in terms of aqua farms were greatly fulfilled by the transfer of Brackishwater Fish Farm at Kakinada in September 1968 and the Freshwater Fish Farm at Balabhadrapuram in 1973 from the Govt. of Andhra Pradesh. In 1967, the University of Bombay accorded recognition to CIFE as a study centre for M.Sc. and Ph.D. programmes by research in the fields of Applied Zoology and Biochemistry. Several other institutions such as IIT, Mumbai, IIT, Kharagpur and Mangalore University also recognized CIFE as a study centre for Ph.D. programmes.
Pashupat Vasmatkar
Fisheries related central research institute controlled by ICAR. GOOD ENVIRONMENT
Mukkeri Kranthirekha
It's a deemed university in fisheries with all facilities like, well equiped labs, hostels, play ground, research station, library and indoor stadium. They are offering different fishery science courses for PG and PhD students.
Placements 2025
Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, achieved a 100% placement rate for its postgraduate programs in fisheries sciences in 2025, with a median package of ₹4.8 LPA. The institute maintains strong industry connections in fisheries, aquaculture, and marine sciences, ensuring excellent opportunities for its graduates.
Placement Statistics
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Highest Package | ₹46.5 LPA |
| Average Package | ₹9 LPA |
| Median Package | ₹4.8 LPA |
| Placement Rate | 100% |
| Students Placed | 43/43 |
| Companies Visited | 60 |
Top Recruiters
Core (Fisheries & Aquaculture): ICAR, NABARD, Waterbase Ltd, Fisheries Department, Marine Research Institutes, Godrej, CP, Avanti
Branch-wise Placement
| Branch | Highest | Average | %Placed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fisheries Sciences (PG Programs) | ₹46.5 LPA | ₹4.8 LPA | 100% |
Rankings & Accreditations
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai, is ranked 8th in the Agriculture category by NIRF 2025 with a score of 63.92, reflecting its strong academic and research performance in fisheries education. No other major ranking agencies have published 2025 rankings for CIFE.
NIRF 2025
| Category | Rank | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Agriculture | #8 | 63.92/100 |
Other Rankings
| Agency | Rank | Year |
|---|
Accreditations
- NAAC: Accredited (Grade details not specified)
- NBA: Not specified for programs
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE), Mumbai offers various scholarships including institutional fellowships and ICAR Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) for meritorious students. Additionally, students can avail government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP) based on eligibility criteria such as income and academic performance.
Institute Scholarships
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Institutional Scholarship | Meritorious and economically backward students | ₹7,560/month |
| ICAR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) | Rank-based selection in respective disciplines | ₹12,000/month |
| PhD Fellowship (ICAR Post-Doctoral Fellowship) | Selected Post-Doctoral Fellows | ₹75,000/month + ₹2,00,000 research grant (one-time) |
Government Scholarships
| Scheme | For | Amount | Portal |
|---|---|---|---|
| Central Sector Scheme of Scholarships for College and University Students | General category students with income criteria | Varies, up to ₹20,000/year | NSP |
| National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students | ST category students | ₹750/month | NSP |
External Scholarships
- ICAR Post-Doctoral Fellowship: ₹75,000 per month plus ₹2,00,000 research grant for post-doctoral research in fisheries sciences at CIFE
Comparison
Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) Mumbai is compared with Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) and Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) as all three are premier government institutions specializing in agriculture and allied sciences, with strong research, education, and placement records in their respective domains.
| Parameter | Central Institute of Fisheries Education - [CIFE] Mumbai | Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU) | Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Government (ICAR Autonomous) | Government | Government (ICAR) |
| Established | 1961 | 1906 | 1905 |
| NIRF 2025 (Agriculture) | #8 | #6 | #1 |
| NAAC Grade | A | A+ | A+ |
| Fee (Total) | ₹1.5 L (approx.) | ₹1.2 L (approx.) | ₹1.8 L (approx.) |
| Highest Package | ₹8 LPA (estimated) | ₹10 LPA (estimated) | ₹12 LPA (estimated) |
| Average Package | ₹4.8 LPA | ₹5 LPA (estimated) | ₹6 LPA (estimated) |
Key Strengths
- Central Institute of Fisheries Education - [CIFE] Mumbai: India's first Fisheries University with specialized focus on fisheries science, aquaculture, and aquatic animal health, strong research output, and high graduation outcomes.
- Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU): Comprehensive agricultural education with strengths in crop improvement, horticulture, and agroforestry, supported by extensive research and extension services.
- Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI): Premier national institute for agricultural research and education, consistently ranked #1 in agriculture, with cutting-edge research facilities and highest placement packages.
Campus & Infrastructure
The Central Institute of Fisheries Education (CIFE) campus is located in the Versova area of Andheri West, Mumbai. It functions as a specialized institute under ICAR, focusing on fisheries science education and research, with facilities supporting advanced academic and research activities.
Campus Details
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Area | Not specified |
| Location | Versova, Andheri West, Mumbai, Maharashtra |
| Nearest Railway | Andheri Railway Station (approx. 6 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (approx. 8 km) |
Academic Facilities
- Library: Specific number of books and e-journals not disclosed
- Labs: Multiple specialized fisheries science labs (exact number not specified)
- Classrooms: Smart classrooms available (exact number not specified)
Hostel
| Type | Capacity | Fee/Year |
|---|---|---|
| Boys | Data not available | Data not available |
| Girls | Data not available | Data not available |
Other Facilities
- Auditorium (specific seating capacity not disclosed)
- Research and training facilities for aquaculture and fisheries technology
Frequently Asked Questions
What entrance exams are accepted for admission to CIFE's postgraduate programs?
CIFE accepts the ICAR AIEEA and MCAER CET entrance exams for admission to its M.F.Sc. and other postgraduate programs. Candidates must clear these exams to be shortlisted for admission.
What is the minimum eligibility criteria for the M.F.Sc. program at CIFE?
Applicants must have a Bachelor's degree in Fisheries Science (B.F.Sc.) or an equivalent degree with at least 60% aggregate marks or an OGPA of 6.50 out of 10. Relaxation is provided for SC/ST candidates.
How much is the tuition fee for the M.F.Sc. program at CIFE?
The detailed fee structure varies by specialization, but the M.F.Sc. program fee is moderate and payable online after admission confirmation. Hostel and other charges are additional.
Are scholarships or financial aid available for CIFE students?
CIFE offers institutional fellowships and scholarships, especially for postgraduate and doctoral students, through ICAR and other government schemes to support meritorious candidates.
What is the placement scenario for CIFE graduates?
Most CIFE graduates are recruited by state fisheries departments, Agricultural Scientist Recruitment Board, and academic institutions. Some also find roles in banking as agriculture experts.
Which companies or organizations recruit from CIFE?
Recruiters include state fisheries departments, ICAR institutes, research organizations, and occasionally banks for agriculture-related expert roles.
What is the curriculum focus of the M.F.Sc. program at CIFE?
The curriculum covers specialized fields such as Aquaculture, Fisheries Resource Management, Fish Genetics, Fish Biotechnology, and Aquatic Environmental Management, blending theory with practical training.
How experienced and qualified is the faculty at CIFE?
CIFE faculty are highly qualified researchers and scientists with expertise in fisheries science, biotechnology, aquaculture, and related disciplines, supporting advanced research and teaching.
What are the hostel facilities like at CIFE Mumbai?
CIFE provides single rooms with basic furniture, laundry facilities, and common dining halls. Separate hostels are available for boys and girls on campus.
How is the food quality in the CIFE mess and canteen?
The canteen offers snacks at low rates and decent quality food, though the dining area is not very large. Students generally find it affordable and convenient.
What sports and recreational facilities are available on the CIFE campus?
CIFE has international standard badminton courts, gymnasium, tennis, volleyball, basketball courts, indoor games like table tennis, chess, and carrom, plus playgrounds and an indoor sports complex.
Is there a dress code or uniform requirement for students at CIFE?
There is no strict dress code, but students are expected to dress professionally during practical sessions and official events, especially in labs and fieldwork.
How accessible is the CIFE campus in Mumbai for daily commuting?
CIFE is located in Mumbai's Versova area with good public transport connectivity. Many students use local trains, buses, or institute shuttle services for commuting.
Can students at CIFE pursue part-time jobs or internships during their studies?
While the curriculum is intensive, students can engage in internships related to fisheries research and aquaculture, often facilitated by the institute's industry collaborations.
How does CIFE compare with other fisheries institutes in India?
CIFE is considered the premier fisheries education institute in India with superior research facilities, diverse specializations, and strong industry linkages, offering better ROI and placement opportunities.
What is the reputation of CIFE's alumni network?
CIFE has a strong alumni network with professionals placed in government, academia, research, and industry sectors across India and abroad, enhancing career opportunities for graduates.
Are laptops or specific technical equipment required for CIFE students?
Students are encouraged to have laptops for research, data analysis, and assignments, but specialized lab equipment is provided by the institute during practical sessions.
Does CIFE offer any unique research facilities or resources?
CIFE has advanced labs including electron microscopy, bioinformatics, aquatic animal health, and a digital aquatic biodiversity museum with VR/AR modules for immersive learning.
What is the application process timeline for CIFE admissions?
Applications for ICAR AIEEA-based admissions open in mid-year, with entrance exams conducted in September and counseling from August to September, followed by document verification and fee payment.
Are there any age limits for admission to CIFE programs?
The general age limit for M.F.Sc. admission is 25 years, with a relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST and OBC candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Central Institute of Fisheries Education is good for engineering with a placement rate of 95%, an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA, and a focus on aquaculture and fisheries-related engineering roles. The institution secured an 8th rank among other Agriculture and allied sector institutions by NIRF 2025, highlighting its strong standing in the field. CIFE Mumbai offers a range of postgraduate and doctoral programs including M.F.Sc Aquaculture, M.F.Sc Fisheries Extension, and PhD Fisheries Resource Management, providing specialized knowledge in fisheries engineering.
- Central Institute of Fisheries Education is known for its specialization in Fisheries Science and ranked #9 in the NIRF 2024 rankings under the category 'Agriculture and Allied Sectors'. The institute offers M.Sc. and M.F.Sc. programs, with fees for the M.Sc. program in Fisheries Science being Rs 1,50,000 per year.
- Central Institute of Fisheries Education is ranked 8th in NIRF 2025 and 12th in the QS ranking for Agriculture and allied sector.
- Students at Central Institute of Fisheries Education rate it 4.5/5 for placements, highlighting high job placement rates of 95% and average starting salaries of Rs. 3-4 lakhs per annum (LPA). They rate it 4/5 for faculty, noting strong expertise with 80% of faculty holding PhDs. For campus facilities, students rate it 4.5/5, praising the world-class sports facilities and comfortable hostels, but mentioning that the campus could benefit from more modernization.
- The admission process at Central Institute of Fisheries Education requires the GATE exam followed by counseling and document verification. CIFE Mumbai offers postgraduate programs such as M.F.Sc Aquaculture, M.F.Sc Fisheries Extension, and M.F.Sc Fisheries Economics, among others. For doctoral programs, candidates can apply for PhD in Post Harvest Technology and PhD in Fisheries Resource Management.
- The campus life at Central Institute of Fisheries Education offers modern hostels for both boys and girls, a well-equipped mess serving diverse meals, and a range of clubs including fishing and aquaculture clubs, along with a vibrant environment that fosters academic and extracurricular growth. The institute provides state-of-the-art facilities such as a comprehensive library, sports grounds, and a computer lab with the latest software, enhancing the overall learning experience. CIFE's strong placement record, with a 100% placement rate for eligible students in 2023, reflects its commitment to preparing students
- The eligibility for admission to Central Institute of Fisheries Education requires a minimum of 55% in the Bachelor's degree and a score of at least 60% in the entrance examination conducted by the institute.
- The entrance exams accepted at Central Institute of Fisheries Education are JEE Main and GATE with cutoff ranks of 15000 and 60th percentile, respectively.
- The important admission dates for Central Institute of Fisheries Education are: application starts on January 15, 2025, exam is conducted on March 10, 2025, and results are announced on April 15, 2025.
- The placement at Central Institute of Fisheries Education shows 100% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.8 LPA and a highest package of Rs 6 LPA.
- The placement at Central Institute of Fisheries Education shows 95% students placed with an average package of Rs 5 LPA and the highest package reaching Rs 10 LPA.



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