PAU Ludhiana-image
Punjab Agricultural University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Ludhiana Campus Life
location
Ludhiana, Punjab
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About PAU Ludhiana

Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, established in 1962, stands as a distinguished public funded agricultural university in India. It holds the unique distinction of pioneering the Green Revolution in the nation, significantly contributing to food grain self-sufficiency. The university is spread across a vast 1220-acre main campus in Ludhiana, offering a conducive environment for learning and research. PAU provides a comprehensive range of 84 academic programs, encompassing 9 undergraduate, 44 Master's, 29 PhD, and 2 Diploma courses, demonstrating its academic breadth and depth. The institution is recognized by the UGC and has received a five-year accreditation by the National Agricultural Education Accreditation Board (NAEAB), alongside an 'A+' Grade by ICAR. In the NIRF 2024 rankings, Punjab Agricultural University achieved an impressive 3rd position in the Agriculture and Allied Sectors category, highlighting its national prominence in agricultural education and research. With a dedicated faculty of 844 members, PAU fosters a strong academic ecosystem for its around 5500 enrolled students. The university actively engages in international collaborations with institutions such as Ohio State University, University of Wisconsin, Purdue University, and Fresno State in the USA, and Olds College in Canada, fostering global research and academic exchange. Admissions are primarily entrance-based, accepting scores from exams like the PAU Entrance Exam (CET, BSET, AAT, MET), ICAR AIEEA, and GAT B. PAU is committed to developing skilled human resources and promoting sustainable agricultural practices.

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Campus Area

1220

Total Seat

1606

Faculty Student Ratio

approximately 6.5:1

About Punjab Agricultural University - [PAU] Ludhiana

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), established in 1962, is a premier state government agricultural university located in Ludhiana, Punjab. It operates as a state university under the aegis of the Government of Punjab and is affiliated with the University Grants Commission (UGC).

PAU holds an A+ grade from the National Agricultural Education Accreditation Board and has consistently ranked first among agricultural universities in India in the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) for 2023, 2024, and 2025. It offers over 90 academic programs across undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, with a student strength exceeding 4,000 and a highly qualified faculty. The university is renowned for its research excellence, global recognition, and significant contributions to agricultural education and innovation.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NamePunjab Agricultural University
Established1962
TypeState Government University
AffiliationUniversity Grants Commission (UGC)
NAAC GradeA+ (Valid till 2026)
NIRF 2025#1 among Agricultural Universities in India; #3 in Agriculture and Allied Sectors
Campus1500+ acres, Ludhiana, Punjab
Courses90+ UG, PG, and PhD programs
Students4000+
Faculty259+ (College of Agriculture alone)
Popular ProgrammesAgriculture, Horticulture, Agricultural Engineering, Forestry, Community Science
Websitehttps://pau.edu

Courses Offered at PAU Ludhiana

Specializations

B.Sc + M.Sc in BiochemistryB.Sc + M.Sc in BotanyB.Sc + M.Sc in Chemistry+3

Specializations

Bachelor of Science {Hons.} in Agri Business & ManagementBachelor of Science {Hons.} in AgricultureBachelor of Science {Hons.} in Community Science+3

Specializations

Master of Science in Agricultural EconomicsMaster of Science in Agricultural Extension EducationMaster of Science in Agriculture Meteorology+25

Specializations

Ph.D in BiochemistryPh.D in Agricultural EconomicsPh.D in Agricultural Extension+26

Specializations

Bachelor of Technology in Agricultural EngineeringBachelor of Technology in BiotechnologyBachelor of Technology in Food Technology+1

Specializations

Certification in Early Childhood Care & EducationCertification in Interior Designing And Decoration

Specializations

Diploma in AgricultureDiploma in Agriculture

Specializations

Master of Business Administration in AgribusinessMaster of Business Administration

Specializations

Master of Computer Application

Specializations

Master of Computer Application {Lateral}

Specializations

Master of Journalism and Mass Communication

Specializations

Master of Technology in Artificial Intelligence & Data ScienceMaster of Technology in Civil EngineeringMaster of Technology in Computer Science And Engineering+6

Admission Dates 2026

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana admission for 2026 is primarily entrance exam based, including PAU CET for undergraduate courses like B.Sc Agriculture and B.Tech, and PAU MET or national exams like CAT, CUET PG, ICAR AIEEA for postgraduate courses such as MBA. The university conducts counselling after entrance exams for seat allocation.

ProgrammeEventDate
BSc, BTech (PAU CET)Application Start11 May 2026
BSc, BTech (PAU CET)Application Deadline08 April 2026
BSc, BTech (PAU CET)Entrance Exam Date01 June 2026
BSc, BTech (PAU CET)Counselling StartJune 2026
MBAApplication Start05 May 2026
MBAApplication Deadline08 June 2026
MBAAdmit Card Release28 June 2026
MBACounselling31 August - 30 September 2026
PhDApplication Deadline without late fee17 October 2026
PhDApplication Deadline with late fee24 October 2026

Admission Process

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana offers admissions primarily through entrance exams such as PAU CET, ICAR AIEEA, and PAU MET for various undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Candidates must apply online, clear the relevant entrance test, and participate in counselling for seat allocation.

B.Tech Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official PAU website and download the application form for B.Tech Agricultural Engineering.
  2. Register and fill out the online application form, then pay the application fee.
  3. Appear for the PAU Common Entrance Test (CET) or submit valid JEE Main scores.
  4. Check the merit list based on entrance exam rank and academic performance.
  5. Participate in the counselling process for seat allotment.
  6. Submit required documents and pay the admission fees to confirm admission.

MBA Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Apply online on the PAU official website for the MBA program.
  2. Appear for the PAU MET entrance exam or submit valid ICAR AIEEA/CUET PG scores.
  3. Shortlisted candidates will be called for a personal interview (PI) round.
  4. Participate in the counselling session conducted by PAU.
  5. Complete document verification and pay the admission fees to secure the seat.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
B.Tech Agricultural Engineering10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, MathematicsPAU CET / JEE Main50%
MBA (General / Agri-Business)Graduation in any disciplinePAU MET / ICAR AIEEA / CUET PG60%
B.Sc (Hons) Agriculture10+2 with PCM/PCB/AgriculturePAU CET / AAT50%
M.Sc AgricultureB.Sc AgriculturePAU MET / ICAR AIEEA60%

Documents Required

  • Class 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
  • Graduation mark sheet and degree certificate (for PG courses)
  • Entrance exam scorecard
  • Residence/Domicile certificate
  • Category certificate (if applicable)
  • Passport size photographs
  • Valid photo ID proof (Aadhar card, PAN card, etc.)
  • Income certificate (if applicable)
  • Character certificate

Nearest Attractions at PAU Ludhiana

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Sahnewal Airport (Ludhiana Airport)

18 km

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Ludhiana Bus Stand

4 km

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Deepak Hospital

1.1 km

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Ludhiana Junction Railway Station

5 km

Cutoff 2025

The 2025 cutoff trends at Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana show competitive ranks for JEE Main and ICAR AIEEA UG exams, with general category closing ranks for B.Tech Agricultural Engineering around 700 in JEE Main Home State quota. ICAR UG cutoffs for general category range between 370 and 390 rank, reflecting steady demand in agricultural courses. Category-wise cutoffs vary significantly, with OBC and EWS cutoffs higher than SC/ST where specified.

ExamBranch/CourseGeneralOBCSCSTEWS
JEE MainB.Tech Agricultural Engineering (Home State)700
ICAR AIEEA UGB.Sc Agriculture and Allied Fields370-390750550-650
PAU CETB.Sc (Hons) Agriculture2909
CUET PGMBA Agribusiness230 (approx. 80 percentile, 1st round)140-200 (category rounds)

Campus Facilities at PAU Ludhiana

Academic Spaces

Auditoriums

Classrooms

Conference Halls

Lecture Rooms

Museum Art Gallery

Research Hall

Accommodation for Parents

Guest House

Basic Services

Convenience Store

Water Facilities

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control System

Visitor Parking Policy (Proposed)

Food Options

Cafeteria and Canteens

Mess Halls

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostels

Girls Hostels

Hostel Accommodation for International Students

IT Facilities

College Computer Center

E-Governance Development Centre

University Data Centre

University Information Superhighway Centre

Virus Free Internet Café

Wi-Fi Campus

Incubation Centers

NIDHI-TBI (National Initiative for Developing and Harnessing Innovations - Technology Business Incubator)

Punjab Agri Business Incubator (PABI)

Skill Development Centre

Laboratories

Agro-Processing Centre (Planned)

Biotechnology Lab

Central Instrument Lab

Computer Labs

Electrical Machines Lab

Electron Microscopy and Nano-science Laboratory

Library

Central Library

Departmental Book Banks

Digital Library

Medical Facilities

PAU Health Centre / Hospital

Recreational Areas

Gardens and Green Campus

Indoor Games Rooms (Hostels)

TV Rooms (Hostels)

Safety & Security

Campus Security System

Sports & Fitness

Sports Complex

Student Help Desks

Counselling Cell

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Placements 2025

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana recorded a strong placement performance in 2025, with a total of 244 students placed across undergraduate and postgraduate programs. The highest package reached , while the average package stood at . The median salary for UG and PG students was , reflecting steady growth in placement outcomes.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package
Average Package
Median Package
Placement RateApproximately 56%
Students Placed244/433 (UG + PG combined)
Companies Visited

Top Recruiters

IT: Infosys, Wipro, TCS

Consulting: EY

Core: John Deere, Mahindra and Mahindra, TAFE, Bayer, Syngenta, VERKA, HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, UPL

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighest ()Average ()%Placed
UG 4-year courses~28%
UG 6-year courses (median)~22%
PG 2-year courses (MBA Agri-Business highest) (median)~50%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Gurinder Singh

5

Today I visit punjab agriculture University ludhiana.... Well experience was very nice.....because of nest n clean environment and supportive professors....feel very good.... Specially, in skills development centre.... here's one pictures n videos

ABDUL RAHMAN

5

I went to this University during the exhibition days. The University is very big and beautiful. The staff and people there are very nice. Punjabis are amazing.

Hitendra Singh Negi

5

One of the best agriculture University in India. To research and development of New variety of seeds, plants and technologies to make farmers life better is the goal on this University. People can buy good quality of seeds, saplings and plants here.

Jon

5

I visited this institution with friends; one had been a student here. Very good facilities, he had a positive experience and the grounds are extensive. I really enjoyed the visit with my friends.

Rankings & Accreditations

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana, is ranked 3rd nationally in the Agriculture and Allied Sectors category by NIRF 2025 and holds the top position among state agricultural universities in India for the third consecutive year. Globally, PAU is recognized in the EduRank 2025 list, securing 93rd place among the world's top 100 agricultural institutions. It also ranks 64th among Indian universities overall in NIRF 2025.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
Agriculture and Allied Sectors#375.83/100
Overall University (India)#6450.84/100
State Public Universities#1

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
EduRank (Global Agricultural Sciences)#932025
Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF)#1 (State Agricultural Universities)2025

Accreditations

  • NAAC: A+ Grade (Valid till 2026)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana offers a range of scholarships to support meritorious and economically disadvantaged students, including merit-based awards, need-based scholarships, and category-specific financial aid. These include university scholarships, state government scholarships, and external foundation awards, with amounts varying from to per month and some full fee waivers for SC students.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
PAU Merit ScholarshipsTop 7 students based on merit list for COAE&T UG courses/month
Professor R. N. Kaul ScholarshipUG girl students with minimum OCPA 7.00/10.00/month
Dr. Gurdev Singh Khush ScholarshipUG students with minimum OCPA 7.00/10.00/month
Dr. GS Khush Foundation Merit ScholarshipsMeritorious undergraduate students from rural areasVaries; merit scholarships and travel grants awarded annually
Postgraduate FellowshipsTop 7 M.Sc./MBA/M.Tech students per discipline/month
ICAR PG ScholarshipICAR nominees for postgraduate programs/month + /year contingency
Special Merit Fellowships (e.g., Entomology, Chemistry, Zoology)Merit-based for specific disciplines to /month

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Punjab State Agriculture Marketing Board Merit-cum-Means ScholarshipMeritorious UG students from rural Punjab districts or Kandi area/monthState Portal
Post Matric Scholarship for SC Students (Punjab Govt.)SC category students with income criteriaFull fee waiver and maintenance as per policyState Portal
National Talent Scholarship (ICAR)ICAR nominees for UG programs/monthNSP
National Fellowship and Scholarship for Higher Education of ST StudentsST students with family income < to /year depending on courseNSP

External Scholarships

  • Dr. GS Khush Foundation: Merit scholarships and travel grants for rural undergraduate students, awarded annually
  • Piara Singh Parmar Memorial Society: cash prize for M.Sc. meritorious student in Plant Pathology
  • Vinay and Kumud Kaushal Scholarship: fellowship for outstanding MBA students at PAU

Comparison

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana is compared with Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) New Delhi and ICAR - National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) Karnal as they are the top three agricultural universities in India according to NIRF 2025, excelling in agricultural education, research, and allied sectors.

ParameterPunjab Agricultural University - [PAU] LudhianaIndian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) New DelhiICAR - National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) Karnal
TypeGovernmentGovernmentGovernment
Established196219051923
NIRF 2025 (Agriculture & Allied)#3#1#2
NAAC GradeA+A+A+
Fee (Total)
Highest Package
Average Package

Key Strengths

  • Punjab Agricultural University - [PAU] Ludhiana: Leading state agricultural university with strong research output, ranked among the world's top 100 agricultural institutions, and a pioneer in agricultural education and innovation in Punjab.
  • Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) New Delhi: Premier national institute known for pioneering the Green Revolution, top-ranked in India for agricultural research, education, and technology development.
  • ICAR - National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) Karnal: Specialized in dairy science and animal husbandry research, with strong contributions to animal genetics, disease diagnostics, and vaccine development.

Campus & Infrastructure

Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) is located on Ferozepur Road in Ludhiana, Punjab, sprawling over a large area dedicated to agricultural education, research, and extension. The campus is well-established with multiple constituent colleges and facilities supporting its role as a pioneer in agricultural advancements in India.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area1500 acres
LocationLudhiana, Punjab
Nearest RailwayLudhiana Junction (5 km)
Nearest AirportSahnewal Airport, Ludhiana (15 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Over 1,00,000 books, 500+ e-journals
  • Labs: 50+ state-of-the-art laboratories
  • Classrooms: 40 smart classrooms equipped with modern teaching aids

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
Boys1200
Girls800

Other Facilities

  • Sports Complex with facilities for cricket, hockey, basketball, and athletics
  • Auditorium with seating capacity of 800
  • Gymnasium with modern fitness equipment
  • Farm machinery and equipment exhibition center
  • Research farms and experimental fields spanning several hundred acres

Frequently Asked Questions

What entrance exams are accepted for admission to Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana?

PAU accepts multiple entrance exams including its own PAU CET, ICAR AIEEA, CUET (ICAR-UG), BSET, and AAT for admission to UG, PG, and PhD programs. Admission is primarily entrance-based with counselling for seat allotment.

What is the application process and fee for PAU Ludhiana admissions in 2025?

Applications are submitted online via the official PAU website. The application fee is , payable by credit/debit card or net banking. The last date for submission is May 18, 2025, with a late fee option until May 25, 2025.

What is the fee structure for undergraduate courses at PAU Ludhiana?

Exact course fees vary, but the application fee is . Hostel fees range from to per semester excluding mess charges. Mess fees depend on consumption, with non-vegetarian meals served thrice weekly.

Are scholarships or financial aid available at PAU Ludhiana?

PAU offers scholarships based on merit and reserved categories, including government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC and economically weaker sections. Education loans are also accessible through partnered banks.

What companies recruit from PAU Ludhiana and what are the placement statistics?

PAU has a strong placement record in agricultural and allied sectors with recruiters including government agencies, agribusiness firms, and research institutes. Placement rates are high for Agricultural Engineering and related fields, with competitive packages.

What is the average and highest salary package offered to PAU graduates?

Salary packages vary by specialization; Agricultural Engineering graduates often receive packages ranging from to per annum, with some top recruiters offering higher packages based on skills and internships.

How is the curriculum structured at PAU Ludhiana for agriculture-related courses?

The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical training, including fieldwork, lab experiments, and research projects. Specializations include Agronomy, Horticulture, Agricultural Engineering, and Biotechnology.

What research facilities and labs are available at PAU Ludhiana?

PAU has advanced research labs such as Toxicology, Electron Microscopy, Nano-science, Plant Clinic, and Insect Molecular Biology labs. The university also has specialized farm facilities and a National Insect Museum.

What are the hostel facilities and charges at PAU Ludhiana?

Separate hostels for boys and girls with WiFi, personal lockers, indoor games, and 24/7 water supply. Hostel fees range from to per semester excluding mess charges. Rooms are mostly shared, with allocation based on academic performance.

How is the food quality and mess system in PAU hostels?

Mess food is generally well-received, offering hygienic meals with non-vegetarian options thrice a week. Charges are based on consumption, and the university enforces strict quality control for healthy diets.

What sports and recreational facilities does PAU Ludhiana provide?

PAU offers extensive sports facilities including cricket, football, hockey, basketball, badminton, tennis, volleyball, swimming pool, gymnasium, and indoor games. A new gym with 64 machines and professional trainers is available for both male and female students.

Is WiFi available across the PAU campus and hostels?

WiFi is available in hostels and several campus locations, though coverage is limited to specific areas. Students must fill out a WiFi form to access the network.

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

The campus has good security with guards present at all hostels and key areas. The university maintains a safe environment with strict anti-ragging policies and surveillance.

Are there opportunities for internships or part-time jobs for PAU students?

PAU encourages internships with agricultural firms, research institutes, and government projects. Part-time jobs on campus are limited but research assistantships and project work are available for eligible students.

What is the dress code or uniform policy at PAU Ludhiana?

There is no strict dress code for most courses, but some practical labs and fieldwork require appropriate attire such as lab coats or safety gear. Students are advised to dress modestly and comfortably.

How does PAU Ludhiana compare with other agricultural universities in India?

PAU is among the top agricultural universities in India, known for its research output, infrastructure, and placement opportunities. It ranks highly in NIRF and has a strong alumni network nationally and internationally.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for a degree from PAU Ludhiana?

Given moderate fees and strong placement prospects in agriculture and allied sectors, PAU offers a good ROI, especially for students pursuing Agricultural Engineering and research-oriented careers.

How active are student clubs and cultural festivals at PAU Ludhiana?

PAU hosts various student clubs related to agriculture, sports, and cultural activities. Annual fests and events are organized, fostering a vibrant campus life with opportunities for leadership and social engagement.

What is the commute like to PAU Ludhiana from the city center?

PAU is located centrally in Ludhiana with good connectivity via public transport and private vehicles. Many students prefer staying in hostels or nearby PG accommodations to avoid daily commute.

Are laptops or specific technical devices required for PAU courses?

Laptops are recommended for coursework and research but not mandatory. Some departments may require specific software or devices for practicals, which are generally available in university labs.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Punjab Agricultural University is known for its leadership in farm mechanisation and conservation agriculture, and ranked #3 in the NIRF 2025 rankings under the category 'Agriculture and Allied Sectors'. The university offers 43 PG, 29 PhD, and 11 UG programmes across various streams, including management and engineering, through its 32 departments and 3 schools in six constituent colleges.
    Punjab Agricultural University is good for engineering with a placement rate of 92% and an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA, specializing in placements in companies like Amul, Nestle, and PepsiCo. The university provides training on modern machinery and technology, enhancing students' practical skills. PAU Ludhiana ranks #3 in the NIRF 2025 rankings under the category 'Agriculture and Allied Sectors'.
    Punjab Agricultural University is ranked #3 in NIRF 2025 for the category 'Agriculture and Allied Sectors'. PAU Ludhiana is not ranked in the QS World University Rankings for 2025. The university offers 43 PG, 29 PhD, and 11 UG programmes across various streams including Management and Engineering.
    Students at Punjab Agricultural University rate it 4.5/5 for faculty, highlighting the university's strong research capabilities and experienced faculty members, while also noting the high quality of teaching and the availability of experienced professionals. Pros include the university's ISO certification, its leadership in farm mechanization and conservation agriculture, and its strong placement record with many students securing jobs in top agricultural companies. Cons include the limited availability of seats in some courses, with applications being closed for certain programs, and the need for students to visit the official website for more information.
    The admission process at Punjab Agricultural University requires JEE Main scores followed by counseling for seat allotment. For the MBA program, candidates need to participate in an interview after clearing the entrance exam. The fees for BE/BTech courses range from Rs 1,50,000 to Rs 2,00,000 per year, depending on the specialisation.
    The campus life at Punjab Agricultural University offers 1220-acre facilities with 24 well-equipped hostels and a state-of-the-art mess serving over 5000 students, and includes a variety of clubs and fests such as the annual AgriTech Fest and sports events like the Inter-University Sports Meet. The environment is conducive to learning and research, with a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1 and a vibrant academic community.
    The eligibility for Punjab Agricultural University requires a minimum of 55% in the qualifying examination and a qualifying score in JEE Main for BE/BTech admission in 2025. For the MBA programme, candidates need to have a minimum of 50% in their undergraduate degree and a good score in the CAT or MAT examination. Interested students should check the specific eligibility criteria for each course on the university's official website.
    The entrance exams accepted at Punjab Agricultural University are CUET and ICAR AIEEA with cutoffs typically ranging from 250 to 300 ranks.
    The important admission dates for Punjab Agricultural University are: application starts on January 1, 2025, exam is conducted on March 15, 2025, and results are announced on April 10, 2025.
    The placement at Punjab Agricultural University shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.8 LPA and a highest package of Rs 10 LPA. Top recruiters include Amul, Nestle, and Beri Udyog Pvt Ltd.
    The placement at Punjab Agricultural University shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.8 LPA and a highest package of Rs 7.5 LPA.
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