Indian Council of Medical Research - National Institute of Nutrition: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Hyderabad Campus Life

About National Institute of Nutrition - [NIN] Hyderabad

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), established in 1918 and located in Hyderabad, Telangana, is a premier government research institute under the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). Originally founded by Sir Robert McCarrison as the 'Beri-Beri' Enquiry Unit, it evolved into a full-fledged nutrition research centre and was renamed NIN in 1969. It operates as an autonomous institute dedicated to public health and nutrition research.

NIN holds significant recognition for its pioneering work in nutrition science, particularly in protein-energy malnutrition and dietary guidelines for India. It offers advanced postgraduate and doctoral programs in nutrition, biochemistry, and public health, affiliated with universities like Osmania University and Dr. N.T.R. University of Health Sciences. The institute has a strong research output, modern facilities, and collaborates internationally, with over 150 PhD and MD graduates and a student body engaged in specialized nutrition studies.

Key Highlights

Admission Dates 2026

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, conducts admissions primarily for postgraduate and doctoral programs through entrance exams such as N-CET and merit-based selection. The Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Nutrition (PGCCN) admission involves offline application submission, while M.Sc. admissions require the N-CET entrance exam followed by counselling.

Admission Process

Admission to the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, is primarily through the NIN Common Entrance Test (N-CET) for postgraduate programs in nutrition. Some certificate courses offer direct admission without entrance exams.

Postgraduate Programs Admission (M.Sc. in Applied Nutrition, Sports Nutrition)

Steps to Apply

1. Visit the official NIN website and register online for the N-CET entrance exam during the application window (usually May-June).
2. Pay the application fee (₹3000 for General/OBC, ₹1500 for SC/ST/PwD/EWS) and download the admit card.
3. Appear for the N-CET exam on the scheduled date (typically early July).
4. Check the N-CET results and participate in the physical spot counseling at NIN, Hyderabad, with original documents.
5. Complete document verification and pay the tuition fee to confirm admission.
6. Enroll and attend classes starting from August.

Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Nutrition (PGCCN) Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Download the application form from the NIN website.
2. Fill the form and submit it along with xerox copies of required certificates and a demand draft of ₹1,000 as registration fee to NIN.
3. Wait for admission confirmation and pay the tuition fee of ₹50,000.
4. Join the course the schedule.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

Documents Required

• 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
• Graduation Mark Sheets and Degree Certificate
• N-CET Entrance Exam Scorecard (for M.Sc. programs)
• Proof of Identity (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Transfer Certificate (TC) and Migration Certificate (if applicable)
• Character Certificate
• Passport-size Photographs

Placements 2025

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, achieved a placement rate of approximately 84% in 2025, with 42 out of 50 registered students securing jobs. The highest package offered was ₹12 LPA, while the average package stood at ₹8 LPA. Top recruiters include WHO, UNICEF, and ICMR, reflecting strong ties with international and government health organizations.

Placement Statistics

Top Recruiters

IT: Not applicable

Consulting: Not specified

Core: World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), FAO

Branch-wise Placement

Rankings & Accreditations

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, is recognized as a leading research institution in nutrition and health sciences in India. In 2025, it ranks prominently in national research-focused rankings and holds notable positions in specialized health and nutrition categories, reflecting its strong research output and impact.

NIRF 2025

Other Rankings

Accreditations

• ICMR: Affiliated and recognized by Indian Council of Medical Research
• NABL: Accredited for laboratory standards

Scholarships & Financial Aid

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad, offers scholarships primarily based on academic merit and financial need, with additional support available through central government schemes accessible via the National Scholarship Portal (NSP). Students from NIN can also apply for various government scholarships targeting reserved categories and economically weaker sections.

Institute Scholarships

Government Scholarships

External Scholarships

• Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment: Financial aid for students from reserved categories with income limits scheme norms
• Telangana State Epass Scholarship: Up to ₹20 lakhs for eligible students including travel and visa expenses for overseas studies

Comparison

National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), Hyderabad is compared with the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi, and the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore, as all three are premier government research institutes in India specializing in nutrition, food science, and allied health sciences, offering advanced research and postgraduate education in these domains.

Key Strengths

• National Institute of Nutrition - [NIN] Hyderabad: Premier nutrition research institute under ICMR with strong clinical and community nutrition focus and advanced research facilities.
• Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi: Leading agricultural research and education institute with comprehensive programs in agricultural sciences and biotechnology.
• Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), Mysore: National leader in food technology research and innovation with extensive pilot plants and industrial collaborations.

Campus & Infrastructure

The National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) campus is located near Tarnaka flyover, Jamai-Osmania, Hyderabad, Telangana, set in lush green surroundings close to Osmania University. The institute occupies a spacious area with well-integrated research, academic, and residential facilities, including proximity to major transport hubs.

Campus Details

Academic Facilities

• Library: Well-stocked with over 10,000 books and numerous scientific journals, considered one of the best science libraries in India
• Labs: Multiple specialized laboratories including clinical, biochemical, and toxicology labs (exact number not specified)
• Classrooms: Equipped with smart classrooms and computer facilities for data analysis and e-learning

Hostel

Other Facilities

• Vegetarian mess with hygienic and tasty food
• Internet connectivity and LCD facilities in hostels
• Water purifiers and geysers in hostel rooms
• Sports ground for outdoor activities
• Nutrition Museum showcasing food and nutrition research

Frequently Asked Questions

What entrance exams are required for admission to postgraduate courses at NIN Hyderabad?

Admission to M.Sc. programs like Applied Nutrition and Sports Nutrition requires passing the NIN Entrance Exam. PhD admissions require national exams such as ICMR-JRF, UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, DBT-BET, or GATE, followed by an interview.

What is the application process and fee for the Post-Graduate Certificate Course in Nutrition (PGCCN) at NIN?

Applicants must download the form from the official website, submit it offline with photocopies of certificates, and pay a ₹1,000 demand draft as registration fee. The tuition fee after admission confirmation is ₹50,000.

What are the eligibility criteria for M.Sc. courses at NIN Hyderabad?

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in Science (Biology/Medical) with a minimum of 50% marks to be eligible for M.Sc. Applied Nutrition or Sports Nutrition courses.

What is the fee structure for courses at NIN Hyderabad?

The PGCCN tuition fee is ₹50,000 payable after admission confirmation. Short-term training programs have fees ranging from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000 depending on the course.

Are scholarships or financial aid available for students at NIN?

NIN offers research fellowships to toppers of MSc courses for pursuing PhD programs, but general scholarships or education loans information is not publicly detailed.

What are the placement opportunities and career prospects after studying at NIN?

NIN graduates often pursue careers in nutrition research, public health, clinical nutrition, and academia, with opportunities in government research institutes, hospitals, and international organizations.

Does NIN Hyderabad provide internship opportunities during the course?

Yes, NIN offers internships and training programs integrated with its research projects and clinical nutrition wards in affiliated hospitals for practical exposure.

What is the curriculum focus of the M.Sc. Applied Nutrition program at NIN?

The curriculum covers clinical nutrition, community nutrition, biochemistry, molecular biology, and research methodology, emphasizing translational nutrition science and public health applications.

How experienced is the faculty at NIN Hyderabad?

NIN has highly qualified faculty involved in cutting-edge research recognized nationally and internationally, with expertise in nutrition, biochemistry, molecular biology, and public health nutrition.

What hostel facilities are available for students at NIN Hyderabad?

The on-campus hostel has separate buildings for boys and girls, with amenities like internet, LCDs, geysers, water purifiers, and a vegetarian mess serving hygienic food close to labs and library.

Is the hostel environment at NIN safe and well-maintained?

The hostel is supervised by wardens, maintains cleanliness, and is located in a green campus area, providing a safe and comfortable living environment for students and trainees.

What is the food quality like in the NIN hostel mess?

The vegetarian mess serves tasty and hygienic food, with positive feedback on quality and variety from residents.

How accessible is NIN Hyderabad for daily commute?

NIN is located in Tarnaka, Hyderabad, near Osmania University, with good connectivity by public transport and proximity to city amenities, making daily commute convenient.

Are there any dress code requirements for students at NIN?

There is no strict dress code, but professional and modest attire is expected during academic sessions and clinical visits.

Can students at NIN Hyderabad engage in part-time jobs?

As a research institute with intensive coursework and training, part-time job opportunities on campus are limited; students typically focus on academics and research.

How does NIN Hyderabad compare with other nutrition institutes in India?

NIN is the oldest and largest nutrition research institute in India, recognized as a Centre of Excellence by WHO and FAO, with superior research facilities and a strong alumni network.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses at NIN Hyderabad?

Given its reputation, research opportunities, and government affiliation, NIN offers strong ROI through quality education and career prospects in nutrition and public health sectors.

Does NIN Hyderabad have collaborations with other universities or research bodies?

NIN is affiliated with universities like Dr. Kaloji Narayana Rao University of Health Sciences and collaborates with national and international agencies including WHO, FAO, and ICMR.

What research facilities and equipment are available at NIN Hyderabad?

NIN is equipped with advanced instruments like LC-MS/MS, confocal laser scanning microscope, flow cytometer, DNA sequencers, and animal housing for comprehensive nutrition research.

How can PhD candidates apply and what is the selection process at NIN?

PhD candidates must qualify in national exams (ICMR-JRF, UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, DBT-BET, or GATE), followed by an interview assessing research capability, with selected candidates working under ICMR research projects.