Nagaland University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Zunheboto Campus Life

About Nagaland University Zunhebotto

Nagaland University, established in 1994, is a Central University located in Lumami, Zunheboto district, Nagaland. It was founded by an Act of Parliament in 1989 and serves as the only Central University in the state, with additional campuses at Kohima and Medziphema.

The university holds a NAAC accreditation grade of B+ and is ranked in the 151–200 band in the NIRF 2025 university rankings. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across 44 departments in disciplines including arts, sciences, agriculture, engineering, management, and social sciences. The university has made significant strides in infrastructure and academic excellence, contributing to higher education development in Nagaland and the North-East region.

Key Highlights

Parameter	Details
Full Name	Nagaland University
Established	1994
Type	Central University
Affiliation	Autonomous (Central University)
Approved By	UGC
NAAC Grade	B+ (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025	Ranked 176 in University Category
Campus	Multiple campuses: Lumami (Headquarters), Kohima, Medziphema; Lumami campus in Zunheboto district, Nagaland
Courses	Undergraduate, Postgraduate, PhD across 44 departments
Popular Programmes	Arts, Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Engineering & Technology, Management
Students	Over 1000 postgraduate and doctoral students at Medziphema campus alone
Website	https://nagalanduniversity.ac.in

Admission Dates 2026

Nagaland University Zunheboto admission for 2026 includes various UG, PG, and Ph.D. programs. Admissions consider scores from central exams like CUET, JEE Mains, GATE, CAT, and university-conducted entrance tests. The application process is online with specific deadlines for each program.

Programme	Event	Date
B.Tech	Application Deadline	22 August 2026
B.Ed.	Application Deadline	26 May 2026
Japanese Language Course	Application Deadline	24 August 2026
PG Certificate (South East Asia)	Application Deadline	30 July 2026
B.Sc. (Hons.) Agriculture High Fee Category	Application Deadline	27 June 2026
D.Sc./D.Litt./LL.D	Application Deadline	20 July 2026
EMBA	Application Deadline	31 July 2026
Certificate Course in English	Application Deadline	20 July 2026
Certificate Course in Zoology	Application Deadline	22 August 2026
PG Diploma (all programs)	Application Deadline	22 August 2026
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Online Application Start	8 November 2025
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Online Application End	30 November 2025
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Entrance Test	10 December 2025
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Result Declaration	12 December 2025
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Admission Period	22 January 2026 to 30 January 2026
Ph.D. (Winter Session)	Classes Start	5 February 2026

Admission Process

Nagaland University Zunheboto offers admission through a combination of merit in qualifying exams, central level entrance tests like CUET, GATE, CAT, and its own entrance exams for various UG, PG, and Ph.D. programs. Applications are submitted online via the university website with a mandatory application fee.

B.Tech Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Visit the official Nagaland University website and register for the B.Tech program.
2. Pay the application fee of ₹200 online through the SBI I-Collect portal.
3. Fill out the application form with accurate personal and academic details.
4. Submit the form and upload required documents as specified.
5. Selection is based on 70% weightage of 12th standard marks and 30% weightage of JEE Main score or through university quota.
6. Wait for the merit list and participate in counselling if shortlisted.
7. Complete admission formalities by paying the fees and submitting original documents.

Postgraduate (MA/MSc/MCom/MEd/LLM/MBA) Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Apply online on the university portal for the desired PG program.
2. Pay the application fee of ₹200 online.
3. Submit academic and category certificates as applicable.
4. Admission is based on merit in the qualifying degree or relevant entrance exams like CAT for MBA.
5. Attend counselling and document verification if called.
6. Pay the program fees to confirm admission.

Ph.D. Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Check the university website for Ph.D. entrance test notifications and syllabus.
2. Apply online and pay the application fee.
3. Appear for the entrance test conducted by the university.
4. NET-qualified candidates are exempted from the entrance test and proceed to interview.
5. Attend the interview and document verification.
6. Wait for the provisional selection list and complete admission by fee payment.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

Programme	Qualification	Entrance Exam	Min %	Fees (per year)
B.Tech (Fresh Entry)	10+2 with PCM + one of Chemistry/Biotech/CS/Biology	JEE Main + 12th Merit	50%	₹1,50,000
B.Tech (Lateral Entry)	B.Sc. or Diploma in Engineering	Merit in Qualifying Exam	50%	₹1,50,000
MA/MSc/MCom/MEd	Graduation with Honours/Major	Merit in Qualifying Exam	50% (45% SC/ST)	₹40,000
LLM	LLB or Integrated Law Degree	Merit in Qualifying Exam	55% (50% SC/ST)	₹50,000
MBA	Graduation	CAT/MAT	50%	₹2,50,000
Ph.D.	Postgraduate Degree	University Entrance Test/NET	As per UGC norms	₹30,000

Documents Required

• Application fee payment receipt
• Passport-sized photograph
• Mark sheets and certificates of qualifying examinations
• Category certificate (SC/ST/OBC/EWS) if applicable
• Valid entrance exam scorecard (JEE Main, CAT, NET, etc.) if applicable
• Identity proof (Aadhaar card, Passport, etc.)

Cutoff 2025

The CUET-PG cutoff trends at Nagaland University Zunheboto indicate that MA programs have closing marks ranging from 37 to 160 across categories, while M.Sc programs have a closing mark of 89 for the general category. The cutoffs reflect category-wise variations, with OBC and ST categories having lower closing marks compared to the general category.

Exam	Branch/Course	General	OBC	SC	ST	EWS
CUET-PG	MA English	160	55		133	124
CUET-PG	M.Sc Botany	89

Placements 2025

Nagaland University Zunhebotto recorded a placement rate of approximately 70% in 2024, with around 40 companies visiting the campus. The median salary package offered was ₹3 LPA for undergraduate students and ₹4 LPA for postgraduate students. Top recruiters include Hyundai, Royal Enfield, Cognizant, Infosys, and Tata.

Placement Statistics

Parameter	Value
Highest Package	₹4.5 LPA
Average Package	₹3.5 LPA
Median Package	₹3 LPA (UG), ₹4 LPA (PG)
Placement Rate	70%
Students Placed	Approx. 84/120 (2024 data)
Companies Visited	40

Top Recruiters

IT: Cognizant, Infosys

Consulting: Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

Core: Hyundai, Royal Enfield, Tata, Oil India Ltd.

Branch-wise Placement

Branch	Highest	Average	%Placed
Undergraduate (UG)	₹3 LPA	₹3 LPA	5-6%
Postgraduate (PG)	₹4.5 LPA	₹4 LPA	13-14%

Rankings & Accreditations

Nagaland University, Zunheboto, has re-entered the NIRF 2025 rankings within the 151–200 rank band, showing improvement after two years outside this range. It holds the 45th position among government and private universities in India according to India Today 2025 rankings.

NIRF 2025

Category	Rank
Overall University	#176

Other Rankings

Agency	Rank	Year
India Today (Govt/Private Universities)	#45	2025

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Nagaland University Zunhebotto students have access to various scholarships including state merit scholarships, post-matric scholarships for ST students, NEC stipend and book grants, and research fellowships. These scholarships are offered by the Government of Nagaland, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, NEC, and UGC, with applications processed through the National Scholarship Portal and Nagaland's Common Scholarship Portal. Merit scholarships can reach up to ₹21,000 annually, supporting students from diverse backgrounds including ST, SC, OBC, and minorities.

Institute Scholarships

Scholarship	Eligibility	Amount
Nagaland State Merit Scholarship	Top-ranking students of Nagaland residents studying in recognised institutions	Up to ₹21,000/year
Nagaland State Research Fellowship	Research scholars (MPhil/PhD) from ST & Indigenous categories	₹13,98,500 total disbursed (varies per scholar)

Government Scholarships

Scheme	For	Amount	Portal
Post Matric Scholarship for ST Students of Nagaland	ST students with family income ≤ ₹2.5 lakh	₹17,000/year approx.	National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
NEC Stipend and Book Grant Scheme	ST & General category students pursuing higher professional courses	₹21,88,800 total disbursed (varies)	National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
National Scholarship for Post Graduate Studies (UGC)	Postgraduate students	Varies	National Scholarship Portal (NSP)
Ishan Uday Special Scholarship Scheme	Students from North East Region	Varies	National Scholarship Portal (NSP)

External Scholarships

• Edu-Connect Scholarship Program: Up to 100% tuition fee waiver for various degree courses for Nagaland students, including B.A., B.Sc., B.Com., B.Tech, and others, offered by Government of Nagaland endorsed institutions.

Comparison

Nagaland University Zunhebotto is compared with North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, and National Institute of Technology (NIT) Nagaland as these institutions are prominent higher education centers in the North-East region of India, sharing similar academic profiles, government affiliation, and regional significance.

Parameter	Nagaland University Zunhebotto	North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong	NIT Nagaland
Type	Central University (Government)	Central University (Government)	Autonomous Institute (Government)
Established	1994	1973	2010
NIRF 2025	Rank Band 151–200 (Rank 176)	Rank Band 151–200 (Rank 178)	Rank Band 151–200
NAAC Grade	B+ (CGPA 2.52)	B+	Not Applicable (NITs accredited by NBA)
Fee (Total)	₹1.5 L (approx. for UG/PG courses)	₹1.8 L (approx. for UG/PG courses)	₹3.5 L (approx. for B.Tech)
Highest Package	₹8 LPA	₹10 LPA	₹20 LPA
Average Package	₹3 LPA	₹4 LPA	₹8 LPA

Key Strengths

• Nagaland University Zunhebotto: Strong regional focus with diverse postgraduate programs, improving NIRF ranking, and significant infrastructure development through HEFA funding.
• North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong: Established central university with a broad range of disciplines, strong research output, and recognized NAAC accreditation.
• NIT Nagaland: Premier technical institute with strong engineering programs, higher placement packages, and growing national recognition in NIRF rankings.

Campus & Infrastructure

Nagaland University’s headquarters is located at Lumami in Zunheboto district, Nagaland, set amidst serene hills and lush greenery, providing an ideal academic environment. The campus is Wi-Fi enabled and equipped with modern facilities including spacious classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, a digital library, and separate hostels for boys and girls.

Campus Details

Parameter	Details
Location	Lumami, Zunheboto, Nagaland
Nearest Railway	Dimapur Railway Station (approx. 70 km)
Nearest Airport	Dimapur Airport (approx. 70 km)

Academic Facilities

• Library: Multiple campus libraries with extensive collections of textbooks, reference books, journals, e-books, and e-journals; Lumami campus library has multiple computer terminals with high-speed internet access
• Labs: Numerous course-specific laboratories equipped with modern machinery and apparatus
• Classrooms: Spacious, well-ventilated classrooms including digital classrooms with smart technology and video conferencing facilities

Other Facilities

• Auditorium with seating capacity of 800
• Cafeteria and mess facilities with hygienic food
• Medical facilities including emergency health center
• Sports facilities and playgrounds
• Gym facilities
• Wi-Fi enabled campus with high-speed internet
• Shuttle bus service for transportation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for postgraduate courses at Nagaland University Zunheboto?

Admission to PG courses like MA, MSc, MCom, MBA, and MEd is based on merit and entrance tests conducted by the university. Candidates must apply online through the official portal and meet the eligibility criteria specified for each program.

Are there any entrance exams required for PhD admissions at Nagaland University?

Yes, PhD admissions require candidates to clear a university-level entrance test followed by an interview. The process is conducted twice a year for winter and summer sessions.

What is the fee structure for undergraduate and postgraduate programs?

Fees vary by program but generally range from ₹10,000 to ₹30,000 per year for most UG and PG courses. Detailed fee structure is available in the university prospectus for each academic session.

Does Nagaland University offer scholarships or financial aid to students?

The university provides scholarships primarily for SC/ST/OBC students and meritorious candidates. Students can also apply for government scholarships and education loans through affiliated banks.

What are the placement statistics and average salary packages for graduates?

Placement opportunities are limited but improving, with an average package around ₹2-3 lakh per annum. Major recruiters include local government agencies and regional companies, with internships offered in agriculture and management sectors.

Which companies or organizations recruit from Nagaland University?

Recruiters mainly include regional public sector units, NGOs, and local businesses. The university also facilitates internships in agricultural research institutes and management firms.

How is the curriculum structured for the School of Agricultural Sciences at Medziphema campus?

The curriculum includes 12 specialized departments such as Agronomy, Genetics & Plant Breeding, and Soil & Water Conservation, focusing on practical and research-oriented learning aligned with current agricultural practices.

What is the faculty strength and qualification level at Nagaland University?

The university has over 40 departments with faculty members holding PhDs and postdoctoral experience, supported by DST-FIST and UGC-SAP funded departments to enhance research quality.

What hostel facilities are available for students at the Lumami campus?

Lumami campus offers 5 boys' and 6 girls' hostels with Wi-Fi connectivity, mess facilities, and basic amenities. Hostel accommodation is limited and allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.

How is the food quality and mess facility on campus?

Mess facilities provide local and standard meals with hygienic conditions maintained. Food quality is generally satisfactory, catering to diverse dietary preferences of students.

Are there active student clubs and cultural fests at Nagaland University?

Yes, the university organizes annual cultural fests and sports meets. Various student clubs focus on sports, cultural activities, and social service, enhancing campus life.

What is the safety and security situation on the university campus?

The campus maintains security personnel and CCTV surveillance. The university has an anti-ragging committee and grievance redressal system to ensure student safety.

How do students typically commute to the Lumami campus from nearby towns?

Students use shared taxis and buses from Zunheboto town and nearby areas. The campus is accessible by road, approximately 15 km from Zunheboto town center.

Is there a dress code or uniform requirement for students?

There is no strict dress code; however, students are expected to dress modestly and appropriately for academic and official events.

Can students find part-time job opportunities in Zunheboto or nearby areas?

Part-time job options are limited due to the rural setting, but some students engage in tutoring, research assistance, or work within university departments.

How does Nagaland University compare with other central universities in the Northeast region?

Nagaland University is unique as the only central university in Nagaland with a focus on regional culture and agriculture, but it has fewer resources compared to larger universities like NEHU or Tezpur University.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses offered at Nagaland University?

ROI is moderate; tuition fees are low, but placement packages are also modest. The university is best suited for students seeking affordable education with regional relevance.

Does Nagaland University have a strong alumni network for career support?

The alumni network is growing but still developing. Alumni engagement activities and mentorship programs are being introduced to support current students.

Are laptops or specific technical equipment required for courses at Nagaland University?

Laptops are recommended for research and assignments, especially in science and management courses, but not mandatory. Computer labs are available on campus for student use.

What are the library facilities and digital resources available to students?

The Central Library at Lumami has over 1,600 square meters of space, with extensive print and electronic resources, including access to National Digital Library and RFID-enabled management systems.