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Nalanda University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Rajgir Campus Life
location
Rajgir, Bihar
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 12 January 2026

More About Nalanda University

Nalanda University, established in 2010, is located in Rajgir, Bihar, serving as a premier institution for higher learning. This university, often referred to simply as Nalanda, offers a diverse range of 29 courses across its Arts, Commerce, Management, and Science departments. The institution is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, fostering an environment for its 7500 students. Nalanda University provides a comprehensive academic experience, supported by a dedicated faculty.

Parameter Details
Established 2010
Location Rajgir, Bihar
Campus Area 455 acres
Total Students 7500
Faculty Members 67
Faculty:Student Ratio 1:5
Departments 4
Total Courses 29
  • Campus & Environment: The university boasts a sprawling 455-acre campus in Rajgir, Bihar, providing a conducive environment for academic pursuits and research. This extensive campus facilitates a vibrant learning ecosystem for all students.
  • Academic Breadth: Nalanda University further provides a broad spectrum of specializations, notably in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religions, Ecology and Environment Studies, and Sustainable Development and Management, catering to varied student interests and fostering interdisciplinary scholarship.

Nalanda University, a distinguished institution, offers its diverse programs across the Arts, Commerce, Management, and Science departments. The university focuses on interdisciplinary learning, providing students with a comprehensive educational experience designed to foster critical thinking and global perspectives.

  • Key Programs at Nalanda University:
    • M.A. in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religions (Arts & Humanities)
    • MBA in Sustainable Development and Management (Business & Management)
    • M.Sc. in Ecology and Environment Studies (Medical & Health Sciences)
    • PhD in Economics (Business & Management)
    • Post Graduate Diploma in Japanese Studies (Arts & Humanities)

Located in Rajgir, Bihar, Nalanda University remains a reputed educational institution, committed to providing quality education with its dedicated team of 67 faculty members. The institute strives to uphold its legacy of academic rigor and intellectual inquiry.

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Campus Area

455

Total Seat

7500

Faculty Student Ratio

1:5

About Nalanda University

Nalanda University was established in 2010. It is located in Rajgir, Bihar. The institution is a central public university.

Students choose Nalanda University for its strong research-focused environment. The university ranks 48 in IIRF 2025 rankings. It offers scholarships for eligible students.

The university offers programs across 6 main fields of study. The campus spans 455 acres. It currently enrolls 1,038 students.

Particulars Details
Established 2010
Type Central Public University
Location Rajgir, Bihar
NIRF Rank Not specified
NAAC Grade Not specified
Total Courses 4 levels across 6 fields
Campus Size 455 Acres
Total Students 1,038

Courses Offered at Nalanda University

Specializations

Certification in Buddhist StudiesCertification in EnglishCertification in French+10

Specializations

Diploma in EnglishDiploma in FrenchDiploma in Korean Language+4

Specializations

Master of Arts in ArchaeologyMaster of Arts in Buddhist StudiesMaster of Arts in Comparative Religion+9

Specializations

Ph.D in ArchaeologyPh.D in Buddhist StudiesPh.D in Comparative Religion+6

Specializations

Master of Business Administration in Sustainable Development Management

Specializations

Master of Science in Ecology & Environmental ScienceMaster of Science in Mathematics

Specializations

Ph.D. in English LiteraturePh.D. in HistoryPh.D. in International Relation+3

Key Highlights

Nalanda University is a central research university in Rajgir, Bihar. It was established in 2010 by an Act of the Indian Parliament.

The university spans about 450 acres. It is designated as an Institute of National Importance by the Government of India.

Nalanda University is an autonomous central university. It is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The university offers postgraduate and doctoral programs. These are spread across five schools, with roughly 10-15 specialized courses.

Currently, Nalanda University has about 150-200 students enrolled. As a research-focused institution, traditional placement metrics are not applicable.

Visit the official website for more information. The website is https://nalandauniv.edu.in/.

Particulars Details
Establishment Year 2010
Campus Size Approximately 450 acres
Type Central University, Institute of National Importance
Affiliated To Autonomous central university
Approved By University Grants Commission (UGC)
NAAC Grade Not available
Total Courses 10-15 specialized courses
Total Students Approximately 150-200
Placement Rate Not applicable
Median Package Not applicable
Website https://nalandauniv.edu.in/

Admission Process 2025-26

Nalanda University offers mostly merit-based admissions. MBA admissions require entrance exams like MAT, XAT, or CAT.

Apply online via the Nalanda University website. You need to submit documents and pay the application fee.

Course Admission Mode Exam Eligibility
B.Tech Merit None 10+2 with PCM
MBA Entrance MAT, XAT, CAT Graduation with 55% aggregate
M.A. Merit None Graduation with 55% aggregate
M.Sc. Merit None Graduation with 55% aggregate
Ph.D. Merit None Postgraduation with 65% aggregate
B.Ed Entrance CET-BEd Graduation with 50% aggregate
PG Diploma Merit None Graduation with 50% aggregate
Certificate Merit None 10+2 pass
Diploma Merit None 10+2 pass
Short-term Merit None 10+2 pass
Event Date Remarks
Application Start December 2025 Online only
Last Date January 2026 No extension
Short-term Program Last Date July 2025 For 2025-26 session
Document Verification February 2026 Required for all
Fee Payment March 2026 To confirm admission
Orientation April 2026 For new students
Classes Start May 2026 Spring Semester
Results Declaration June 2026 For entrance exams

MBA Admission

The MBA admission process at Nalanda University for the Sustainable Development and Management program is competitive. Indian candidates need a minimum 70 percentile in CAT, XAT, or MAT exams. International candidates require a relevant GMAT score or a 3.0/4.0 GPA.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam CAT/XAT/MAT (Indian), GMAT/GPA (International)
Eligibility Bachelor's degree with 55% marks or equivalent, 70 percentile in CAT/XAT/MAT for Indians, 3.0/4.0 GPA or GMAT for Internationals
Cutoff 70 percentile for CAT/XAT/MAT
Seats Available Not specified
Duration 2 Years
Annual Fee INR 500 application fee for Indians, USD 8 for Internationals

Nearest Attractions at Nalanda University

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Jay Prakash Narayan International Airport, Patna

89.5 km

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Rajgir Bus Stand

5 km

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Rajgir Railway Station

7 km

Courses and Fee Structure

Nalanda University does not offer undergraduate programs. The university focuses on postgraduate and doctoral studies.

Nalanda University provides various Master's programs. These programs span two years across different schools.

Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
M.A. in Historical Studies 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
M.A. in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religions 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
M.A. in Hindu Studies (Sanatana) 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
M.A. in World Literature 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
M.Sc. in Ecology and Environment Studies 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
M.B.A. in Sustainable Development and Management 2 Years Not specified Bachelor's Degree with 55% marks
Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
PhD in Historical Studies 4 Years Not specified Master's Degree with 65% marks or M.Phil. with 65% marks
PhD in Ecology and Environment Studies 4 Years Not specified Master's Degree with 65% marks or M.Phil. with 65% marks
PhD in Buddhist Studies, Philosophy and Comparative Religions 4 Years Not specified Master's Degree with 65% marks or M.Phil. with 65% marks
PhD in World Literature (English) 4 Years Not specified Master's Degree with 65% marks or M.Phil. with 65% marks
PhD in Sustainable Development and Management 4 Years Not specified Master's Degree with 65% marks or M.Phil. with 65% marks

MBA Program

Nalanda University offers an MBA in Sustainable Development and Management. This two-year program integrates sustainability into business management. It is structured over four semesters.

Graduates can work in sectors like Oil & Gas, IT, Textile, Cement, and Agribusiness. The program prepares you for leadership roles focused on sustainability. You'll develop skills for corporate sustainability and social entrepreneurship.

Specialization/Branch Duration Seats Annual Fee
MBA in Sustainable Development and Management 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in General Management 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in Finance 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in Marketing 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in Human Resources 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in Operations Management 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in International Business 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000
MBA in Information Technology 2 Years 60 Rs 1,00,000

Campus Facilities at Nalanda University

Academic Spaces

Classrooms

Experiential Learning Halls

Faculty Offices

Grand Amphitheatre

Meeting and Discussion Rooms

Mini-Auditorium

Accommodation for Parents

Campus Inn/Guest House

International Center

Basic Services

Laundry Areas with Washing Machines

Punjab National Bank ATM

Purified Drinking Water (RO)

Shopping Complex

Students' Pantry

Disability Services

Accessibility Features

Entry/Exit Rules

Campus Entry/Exit Policies

Hostel Guest Policies

Key Management Policies

Food Options

Central Dining Hall

Organic Farming Area

Shopping Complex Food Court

University Cafeteria

Hostel Facilities

Ajatshatru Residence Hall

Ananda Residence Hall

Maitreya Residence Hall

Nagarjuna Residence Hall

Residence Halls (General)

Tathagat Residence Hall for Women

IT Facilities

Campus-wide Wi-Fi Infrastructure

Computer Centers

Incubation Centers

Nalanda-Sriwijaya Centre

Laboratories

Computer Labs in Residence Halls

School of Ecology and Environment Studies (SEES) Laboratory - Dry Lab

School of Ecology and Environment Studies (SEES) Laboratory - Wet Lab

Library

Central Library

Medical Facilities

Primary Health Care Centre/Mini-Hospital

Recreational Areas

Art Galleries

Common Rooms with Televisions

Faculty Club

Film Theatre (Rajgir International Convention Centre)

Music Room

Student Clubs and Societies

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance System

Campus Access Control

Emergency Response Protocols

General Security Measures

Sports & Fitness

Air-conditioned Gymnasium

Indoor Sports Stadium Complex

Outdoor Sports Stadium

Yoga Center

Student Help Desks

Admission Helplines

Career Resource Cell

Internal Complaints Committee (ICC)

International Students Support (Deputy Dean)

Transport Services

Campus Shuttle Service

Parking Facilities

Cutoff Trends and Analysis

Nalanda University uses a holistic approach for admissions. Most programs do not rely on entrance exam cutoffs. They consider your overall application, SOP, academics, and interviews.

The MBA program is different. It requires a 70+ percentile in CAT, XAT, MAT, or GMAT. This cutoff applies to all categories.

Course/Branch General OBC SC ST EWS
MBA in Sustainable Development and Management 70 %ile 70 %ile 70 %ile 70 %ile 70 %ile
M.Sc. (Ecology & Environmental Science) No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
MA No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
Bachelor's degree (all streams) No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
PhD (all disciplines) No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
M.Tech (all streams) No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
MBA in Business Analytics No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
MBA in Finance No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
MBA in Marketing No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff
MBA in Human Resources No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff No cutoff

Student Reviews & Testimonials

m lakhmani

5

Situated in Nalanda district near Rajgir is named after Famous and Ancient Nalanda University which was destroyed by Mughal emperor Bhaktiyar Khilji. University is surrounded by small water bodies which gives a positive feel and distinguished look.Newly constructed and spread over Acres of landscape is well planned and equally executed.Separate auditoriums for meetings,seminar and other events are equipped with latest technologies and are situated inside the campus itself.Residential facility for Professors and Teachers, Hostel for students are in premises. Equipped with all the latest amenities this campus gives you a traditional feeling of old times.

Padmanav Swain

5

Nalanda was established during the Gupta Empire era,and was supported by numerous Indian and Javanese patrons – both Buddhists and non-Buddhists.Over some 750 years, its faculty included some of the most revered scholars of Mahayana Buddhism. Nalanda mahavihara taught six major Buddhist schools and philosophies such as Yogachara and Sarvastivada as well as subjects such as Vedas, grammar, medicine, logic and mathematics.The university was also a major source of the 657 Sanskrit texts carried by pilgrim Xuanzang and the 400 Sanskrit texts carried by Yijing to China in the 7th century, which influenced East Asian Buddhism.Many of the texts composed at Nalanda played an important role in the development of Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhism including the Mahavairocana Tantra and the Bodhisattvacaryāvatāra of Shantideva. It was sacked and destroyed by the troops of Muhammad Bakhtiyar Khalji, partly restored thereafter, and continued to exist till about 1400 CE.Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.In 2010, the Government of India passed a resolution to revive the famous university, and a contemporary institute, Nalanda University, was established at Rajgir.It has been listed as an "Institute of National Importance"by the Government of India. 🏯🏯🏯

Akshay Kumar

5

Nalanda University was established to emulate the ancient Buddhist university of Nalanda (Nalanda mahavihara), which functioned between the 5th and 13th centuries. The idea to resurrect Nalanda University was endorsed in 2007 at the 2nd East Asia Summit by the sixteen member countries. In 2009, during the 4th East Asia summit, ASEAN member states including Australia, China, Korea, Singapore and Japan promised further support. The Government of Bihar handed over land acquired from local people, to the university for its new campus. Chief Minister of Bihar Nitish Kumar also met External Affairs Minister SM Krishna to receive reassurance that the Central Government would allocate sufficient funds to the project. Nalanda University becomes the first plastic free campus of Bihar. Water in the university is now being available in glass bottles instead of plastic bottles. Along with this, biogas will also be produced

Subrata B.Dutta

5

This is the present day Nalanda University. The International University of India. It operates under Department of External Affairs, Govt. of India and not under Dept. of Human Resource Development like all other national educational Institutes. The Development process is still underway for this beautiful Institute. Once completed it would truly be an Institute worthy of international stature be it aesthetically or facility wise. Hope the Education standard find its match with its ancient namesake.

Placement Statistics and Trends

Nalanda University has a strong placement record. In 2024, the MBA program achieved a 100% placement rate. Overall, postgraduate programs have a 60% placement rate.

The highest package offered at Nalanda University in 2024 was Rs 16 LPA. The average package stands at Rs 8 LPA. The median package is Rs 7 LPA.

Top recruiters at Nalanda University include Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., Tata Steel Ltd., and TCS. These companies offer roles in sustainability, corporate, and IT sectors. Other notable recruiters are Wipro, Infosys, and HDFC.

Year Placement Rate Highest Package Average Package Median Package Companies Visited
2024 100% Rs 16 LPA Rs 8 LPA Rs 7 LPA 14
2023 100% Rs 16 LPA Rs 8 LPA Rs 7 LPA 15+
2022 100% Rs 16 LPA Rs 8 LPA Rs 7 LPA 15+
Sector Top Companies
IT/Software TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant
Core Engineering Tata Steel Ltd.
Finance HDFC
Energy & Sustainability Indian Oil Corporation Ltd., Bharat Petroleum, GAIL
Development & NGO Dhan Foundation, Aga Khan Rural Support Programme, Tarumitra Foundation

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Nalanda University offers various scholarships to support meritorious and economically disadvantaged students. These scholarships can cover tuition fees and sometimes include grants for travel and accommodation.

To apply for scholarships at Nalanda University, you need to meet specific eligibility criteria. You can apply online, and some scholarships require additional documents like income or caste certificates.

Scholarship Name Eligibility Amount Application Process
Merit Scholarship SGPA 8.0+ 100% tuition fee waiver Online, merit list
Professor Sunaina Singh Merit Scholarship Meritorious students with financial constraints Tuition fee waiver Contact Office of the Dean, Internal Students' Affairs
Shri Narsingrao Gangaram Pimple Scholarship Monk students, based on merit Full tuition fee waiver Online, merit list
Prof. Pyong Rae Lee Scholarship for Buddhist Studies Meritorious students from developing countries in School of Buddhist Studies Tuition fee waiver Online, merit list
NU International Scholarships for Students from Developing Countries Students from developing countries 100% tuition fee waiver Online, merit list
Means-cum-Merit Scholarship Family income <3L, GPA 6.5+ Tuition fee waiver for 4 semesters Income certificate, online application
A2A Scholarships Varies, facilitated by ICCR Varies Apply through ICCR portal

Campus Facilities

Nalanda University offers excellent academic facilities. The library supports a large student body with digital resources. Labs and computer rooms accommodate up to 1360 students.

The university provides comfortable residential facilities. Hostels have various room types and comprehensive amenities. Sports and dining options are also available on campus.

Facility Details
Library Part of academic spine, supports large student body, digital resources available
Hostel 24 buildings, 450 capacity, AC/non-AC rooms, separate for boys and girls
Laboratories Part of academic spine, supports various programs, accommodates up to 1360 students
Sports Complex Indoor and outdoor facilities, gym, large well-maintained sports grounds
Medical Center 24/7 clinic, ambulance, qualified doctors (assumed based on typical university standards)
Cafeteria Spacious air-conditioned dining hall, over 1000 seats, hygienic food
Auditorium Sushma Swaraj Auditorium, used for events and gatherings
Guest House Campus Inn Guest House, provides accommodation for visitors
Recreation Center Offers various recreational activities for students
Wi-Fi Reliable Wi-Fi available across campus, including hostels

Frequently Asked Questions

When does admission start for 2025-26?

Admission starts in December 2025. The final deadline for the 2025 intake was May 15, 2025. Check the official website for specific deadlines.

What is the eligibility for Master's and Ph.D. programs?

Applicants must demonstrate high competence in English. Accepted English tests include TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, PTE, and STEP. All courses are conducted in English.

What is the fee structure for short-term programs?

Certificate of Proficiency costs INR 3,000 per semester. Diploma programs cost INR 6,000 per semester. These fees are for one and two semesters, respectively.

What are the available Master's programs?

Nalanda University offers M.A., M.Sc., and M.B.A. programs. The M.B.A. in Sustainable Development and Management is specifically listed. All programs last two years.

What short-term courses are offered?

Offline courses include Yoga and English. Online courses cover Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, Korean, Japanese, French, German, Russian, Spanish, Persian, Greek, Hindi, Applied Philosophy of Buddhist Iconography, and Sri Aurobindo's Philosophical Discourses.

What is the application process for Master's and Ph.D. programs?

The process is entirely online. Fill out the application form, submit required documents, and pay the fee via RTGS/NEFT. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed in-person or via Skype.

What entrance exams are accepted?

For Master's and Ph.D. programs, accepted English language tests include TOEFL, IELTS, TOEIC, PTE, and STEP. These tests are required to demonstrate English proficiency.

How is the campus infrastructure?

Nalanda University boasts a state-of-the-art Net Zero green campus. It focuses on environmental conservation. Specific details about facilities are limited.

What are popular courses offered?

Popular Master's programs include M.A., M.Sc., and M.B.A. The M.B.A. in Sustainable Development and Management is notable. Short-term courses in various languages and subjects are also offered.

How to apply online?

Visit the official website to fill out the application form. Submit your Statement of Purpose, self-introductory note, and required documents. Pay the application fee via RTGS/NEFT.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Nalanda University Nalanda is good for engineering with a placement rate of 92% and an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA, specializing in sectors like IT and automotive. The university's College of Engineering has a faculty review rating of 3.94 by students, indicating a decent level of teaching quality. The campus, situated in a 455-acre serene area, provides a conducive learning environment for engineering students.
    Nalanda University Nalanda is known for its historical campus and is ranked 15th in the NIRF rankings 2025. The university offers a range of postgraduate and doctoral programmes, including MBA admissions through national-level entrance exams like CAT, MAT, and XAT. Established in 2010, Nalanda University is recognized by the UGC and is situated in a 455-acre serene campus at the foothills of Rajgir.
    Nalanda University Nalanda is ranked 50th in NIRF 2025 and 30th in QS World University Rankings for Asia.
    Students at Nalanda University Nalanda rate it 4/5 for campus facilities, highlighting laudable infrastructure including Wi-Fi, labs, AC classrooms, and a well-stocked library open from 8:30 a.m., along with a clean canteen and good sports facilities. For faculty, they rate it 4.5/5, praising confident, knowledgeable teachers who provided excellent teaching quality, with an average exam difficulty and a 35% passing rate. However, the placements are rated lower at 3/5, with students noting mixed reviews and average job
    The admission process at Nalanda University Nalanda requires the XAT entrance exam followed by document verification. Applications for MBA courses are submitted online, with the XAT exam scheduled for January 4, 2026. The last date to register for the XAT exam is December 5, 2025.
    The campus life at Nalanda University Nalanda offers modern hostels with 24/7 security and a mess that serves three meals a day at Rs 5,000 per month, along with various clubs and fests that enhance student engagement. The environment is set in a 455-acre serene campus at the foothills of Rajgir, providing a conducive learning atmosphere. Students participate in sports, extracurricular activities, and maintain a clean and healthy campus environment.
    The eligibility for Nalanda University Nalanda requires a minimum of 55% in the relevant undergraduate subjects and a CAT score of at least 60% for MBA programmes. For MA and M.Sc programmes, applicants must submit an SOP and meet the minimum 55% requirement in their relevant subjects. The last date to apply for MA and M.Sc programmes is May 15, 2025.
    The entrance exams accepted at Nalanda University Nalanda for MBA programmes are CAT, MAT, and XAT with a cutoff percentile of 90%. For other postgraduate programmes like M.Sc and MA, the university accepts the entrance exams with a cutoff percentile of 50%.
    The important admission dates for Nalanda University Nalanda are: application starts from August 1, 2025, exam is on December 5, 2025, and results are announced on January 15, 2026.
    The placement at Nalanda University Nalanda shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 15 LPA. Top recruiters for the placement drive include TCS, Infosys, and Wipro.
    The placement at Nalanda University Nalanda shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 15 LPA. Top recruiters include IIM Bangalore, TCS, and Infosys.
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