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Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Banas Kantha Campus Life
location
Banas Kantha, Gujarat
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About SDAU

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU), situated in Banaskantha, Gujarat, is widely recognized as a leading State Agricultural University. Established on May 1st, 1972, by the Government of Gujarat, SDAU has built a strong legacy in agricultural education, research, and extension over five decades, significantly contributing to the region''s agricultural prosperity.

The university offers a comprehensive array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across its various faculties, including Agriculture, Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Dairy Science, Horticulture, and Renewable Energy and Environmental Engineering. These programs are designed to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for sustainable agricultural development and allied sectors. Flagship courses like B.Sc. (Hons) Agriculture, B.V.Sc. & A.H., and B.Tech. Dairy Technology attract aspiring professionals keen on making a mark in these crucial fields. Admission to these programs typically involves state-level entrance examinations such as GUJCET and NEET UG, along with the ICAR AIEEA for national quota seats, ensuring a competitive and merit-based selection process.

SDAU''s sprawling 500-acre campus in Sardarkrushinagar provides an ideal ecosystem for academic and research pursuits. It boasts modern infrastructure conducive to advanced learning, including well-equipped laboratories, extensive experimental farms, and a rich library. The university is dedicated to fostering a holistic student experience, emphasizing both academic rigor and co-curricular development. With its commitment to innovation and community service, SDAU aims to produce skilled professionals and researchers ready to tackle contemporary challenges in agriculture and related industries. The institution plays a pivotal role in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and food security in Gujarat and beyond.

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Campus Area

500

Year Of Established

1972

About Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University - [SDAU] Palanpur

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU), established in 2004, is a State Agricultural University located near Palanpur in Banaskantha district, Gujarat. It was formed by the division of the erstwhile Gujarat Agricultural University and functions under the Gujarat government as a state university with jurisdiction over seven districts in North Gujarat.

SDAU holds recognition from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). It offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs primarily in agriculture and allied sciences. The university has a NAAC accreditation and ranks 24th nationally in Veterinary Sciences according to NIRF 2025. It has a strong focus on research, extension, and education with multiple colleges and research centers under its umbrella.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameSardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University
Established2004
TypeState University
AffiliationAutonomous under Gujarat Government
Approved ByUGC, ICAR
NAAC GradeA (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 2025#24 in Veterinary Sciences
Campus126 acres, Sardarkrushinagar near Palanpur, Gujarat
CoursesMultiple UG, PG, and PhD programs in Agriculture and Allied Sciences
Popular ProgrammesB.Sc Agriculture, B.Tech Food Technology, M.Sc Agriculture, MBA Agri-Business
StudentsApprox. 260 (main campus)
FacultyHighly qualified with majority PhD holders
Fee Rangeper year (varies by program)
Websitehttps://sdau.edu.in/

Courses Offered at SDAU

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in BiochemistryBachelor of Science in BiotechnologyBachelor of Science in Home Science & Nutrition+3

Specializations

Bachelor of Science {Hons.} in Community ScienceBachelor of Science {Hons.} in Community Science

Specializations

Diploma in AgricultureDiploma in Animal HusbandryDiploma in Home Science+1

Specializations

Master of Science in BiochemistryMaster of Science in BiotechnologyMaster of Science in Fruit Science+3

Specializations

Ph.D in Agricultural Processing And Food EngineeringPh.D in AgriculturePh.D in Biochemistry+4

Specializations

Bachelor of Technology in BiotechnologyBachelor of Technology in Dairy Science and Food TechnologyBachelor of Technology in Energy and Environmental Engineering

Specializations

Bachelor of Veterinary Science & A.H.Bachelor of Veterinary Science & A.H. in Animal Husbandry

Specializations

Master of Business Administration in Agribusiness

Specializations

Master of Technology in Farm Machinery And Power EngineeringMaster of Technology in Process And Food EngineeringMaster of Technology in Renewable Energy+1

Specializations

Master of Veterinary Science

Admission Dates 2026

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) admission for undergraduate programs is primarily based on GUJCET or JEE Main scores, while postgraduate admissions require an entrance test conducted by the university. The selection process includes merit lists prepared with weightage to qualifying exam marks and entrance test scores, followed by counseling and document verification.

ProgrammeEventDate
UG (B.Sc, B.V.Sc.A.H, B.Tech)Application Start01 March 2026
UG (B.Sc, B.V.Sc.A.H, B.Tech)Application Deadline20 May 2026
UG (B.Sc, B.V.Sc.A.H, B.Tech)Counselling StartJune 2026 (Exact date to be announced)
PG (M.Sc, MVSc, M.E./M.Tech, MBA)Application Start01 March 2026
PG (M.Sc, MVSc, M.E./M.Tech, MBA)Entrance TestJune 2026 (Exact date to be announced)
PG (M.Sc, MVSc, M.E./M.Tech, MBA)Result and Merit ListJuly 2026
PG (M.Sc, MVSc, M.E./M.Tech, MBA)Counselling and Document VerificationJuly-August 2026
Ph.D.Application StartMarch 2026
Ph.D.Entrance Test and InterviewJuly 2026
Ph.D.Final Admission and Document VerificationAugust 2026

Admission Process

Admission to Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) Palanpur is primarily entrance-based, involving exams like ICAR AIEEA, GUJCET, JEE Main, or university-specific tests depending on the programme. Selection is merit-based, combining entrance exam scores and qualifying exam marks.

Undergraduate Admission (B.Sc., B.Tech, B.V.Sc.A.H)

Steps to Apply

  1. Check eligibility: 10+2 with minimum 50-60% marks depending on the programme.
  2. Appear for relevant entrance exam: ICAR AIEEA for agriculture/veterinary, GUJCET or JEE Main for engineering.
  3. Visit the official SDAU admission portal and register with a valid email.
  4. Fill out the online application form with personal and academic details.
  5. Upload required documents including photograph and signature.
  6. Pay the application fee online (for SEBC, for SC/ST candidates of Gujarat).
  7. Submit the application and download the confirmation receipt.
  8. Wait for merit list publication based on 60% theory marks and 40% entrance exam score for UG courses.
  9. Participate in counseling and document verification as per merit rank.
  10. Complete admission by paying the programme fees and enrollment formalities.

Postgraduate Admission (M.Sc., M.Tech, Ph.D.)

Steps to Apply

  1. Ensure eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with minimum 50-60% marks in relevant field.
  2. Apply online on the university portal during the admission window.
  3. Appear for the university entrance test or national level exams like GATE for M.Tech.
  4. Merit list prepared with 50:50 weightage to qualifying degree marks and entrance test score.
  5. Attend counseling and document verification.
  6. Pay fees and complete admission formalities.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
B.Sc. (Agriculture)10+2 Science (PCB)ICAR AIEEA / GUJCET50%
B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering)10+2 Science (PCM)JEE Main / GUJCET50%
B.V.Sc. & A.H.10+2 Science (PCB)ICAR AIEEA60%
M.Sc.Bachelor’s in relevant fieldUniversity Entrance Test55%(approx.)
M.TechB.Tech in relevant fieldGATE / University Entrance Test55%(approx.)
Ph.D.Master’s degreeUniversity Entrance Test55%(approx.)

Documents Required

  • 10th and 12th Mark Sheets and Passing Certificates
  • Entrance Exam Scorecard (ICAR AIEEA, JEE Main, GUJCET, GATE, etc.)
  • Graduation Mark Sheets and Degree Certificate (for PG/Ph.D.)
  • Proof of Identity (Aadhar Card, Passport, etc.)
  • Passport-size Photographs
  • Category Certificate (if applicable)
  • Transfer Certificate from previous institution
  • Migration Certificate (if applicable)

Nearest Attractions at SDAU

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Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad

150 km

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Dantiwada Bus Station

7 km

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Gujarat Multispeciality Hospital, Palanpur

35 km

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Palanpur Junction

30 km

Cutoff 2025

The admission cutoffs at Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) for undergraduate programs primarily depend on entrance exams such as ICAR AIEEA for agriculture courses and GUJCET or JEE Main for engineering-related courses. The selection is merit-based with weightage given to entrance exam scores and qualifying examination marks. Postgraduate admissions consider entrance test scores combined with academic performance. Cutoffs vary by category and course, reflecting moderate competition typical of state agricultural universities.

ExamBranch/CourseGeneralOBCSCSTEWS
ICAR AIEEA (UG)B.Sc. Agriculture and Allied SciencesRank within 1500Rank within 3000Rank within 4500Rank within 6000Rank within 2000
GUJCETB.V.Sc. & A.H.60% aggregate in PCB + GUJCET score (merit-based)55% aggregate50% aggregate45% aggregate55% aggregate
JEE MainB.Tech Dairy & Food TechnologyRank approx. 25000Rank approx. 40000Rank approx. 60000Rank approx. 70000Rank approx. 30000
ICAR AIEEA (PG)M.Sc. AgricultureRank within 1000Rank within 2000Rank within 3000Rank within 4000Rank within 1500
CAT/MAT/GMATMBA Agriculture & Food Business50 percentile and above45 percentile and above40 percentile and above35 percentile and above45 percentile and above

Campus Facilities at SDAU

Academic Spaces

Auditoriums

Classrooms

Conference Rooms

Lecture Halls

Seminar Halls

Accommodation for Parents

University Guest House

Basic Services

ATM Facilities

Convenience Store/Stationery Shop

Laundry Services

Power Backup Systems

RO Water Purifiers

Disability Services

Accessibility Features

Entry/Exit Rules

Controlled Access Points

Hostel Entry/Exit Timings

Visitor Management System

Food Options

Cafeteria

Canteens

Hostel Mess Facilities

Hostel Facilities

Boys'' Hostels

Girls'' Hostels

Incubation Centers

Agro-Forestry Research Station

Dairy Research Centre

Main Date Palm Research Station

Seed Technology Research Center

IT Facilities

Central Computer Center

Wi-Fi Enabled Campus

Laboratories

Agronomy & Horticulture Labs

Biotechnology Lab (Molecular Biology & Tissue Culture)

Central Computer Center

Dairy Technology & Chemistry Labs

Departmental Computer Labs

Food Processing & Quality Control Lab

Library

Central Library (Banas Library)

Digital Library Section

Reading Hall

Reference Section

Medical Facilities

Health Centre/Dispensary

Recreational Areas

Music Room

TV Rooms

Safety & Security

Campus Security Personnel

CCTV Surveillance System

Fire Safety Equipment & Protocols

Sports & Fitness

Gymnasium

Indoor Sports Facilities

Outdoor Playgrounds

Student Help Desks

Counseling Centre

Grievance Redressal Cell

Student Welfare Office

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

University Bus Service

Placements 2025

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) recorded a placement rate of about 30-50% in 2025, with the highest package reaching and an average package around . Key recruiters include companies from banking, agrochemical, and agribusiness sectors such as HDFC Bank, BASF India, and Reliance Industries.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package
Average Package
Placement Rate30-50%
Students PlacedApprox. 50% of batch
Companies Visited10+

Top Recruiters

IT: HDFC Bank, Axis Bank

Consulting: Not specifically

Core: BASF India, Reliance Industries Limited, Reliance Retail, Dhanuka, Jain Irrigation, IFFCO, Kribhco, Du Pont

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Agriculture & Allied Sciences30-50%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Ganesh Balan

5

My wife works here as an assistant professor in the Economics department since October ‘16 and is also pursuing her in-service PhD. We stay close to the campus. I visit the campus whenever I visit Palanpur every month. Vast expanse of land, very serene, peaceful, far from the town’s noisy atmosphere. The flora and fauna live in so much harmony. Plenty of birds to be spotted inside the campus especially the peacock with its partners, gray langurs with the babies clinching to the mothers. There’s an SBI branch with an ATM and an India Post branch too.

Ratan Rajpurohit

5

The Gujarat Agricultural University started functioning in June 1972. It was established with specific mandates of promoting productivity of agriculture by pursuing research in agriculture and allied sciences. The unique feature of the Gujarat Agricultural University was a multi-campus set-up. The other three campuses were at Junagadh, Navsari and Anand. Since 2004, the GAU was split into four campuses. The Gujarat Agricultural University started functioning with specific mandates for promoting productivity of agriculture through the pursuance of research in agriculture and allied sciences. The Gujarat Agricultural University had 11 constituent colleges faculties which undertook undergraduate and postgraduate teaching under a semester system.

dhinojboy

5

I had completed my graduation in this University... It can given role 1)to connect with rural people 2) to connect with rural languages and their tradition, festival 3) to connect with national level culture or sports event 4) University tour 5) to connect with beauty of nature which free from noise, pollution. And other extra..which I don't mention. I never forget this University contribution in my life ...always 💓😍

Dr. Abhay Ladumor

5

One of the old and biggest university more than 140 species of birds in this university, very diversity also birds migrane . Veterinary clinic is much better for large animal specially horse pregnancy diagnosis by USG etc ...

Rankings & Accreditations

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) Palanpur is ranked #24 in Veterinary Sciences and #23 overall among agricultural universities in India in 2025. It holds the 2nd position in Gujarat for Veterinary Sciences according to NIRF innovation rankings.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
Veterinary Sciences#24Not disclosed
Innovation (Overall)#23Not disclosed

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
ICAR Agricultural University Ranking#602025

Accreditations

  • NAAC: Grade not specified
  • NBA: Not specified

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) offers merit-based and general scholarships to eligible students as per university regulations and government orders. Additionally, SC/SEBC girl students admitted in engineering courses receive a post-metric scholarship. Students can also apply for various government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal (NSP).

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Merit ScholarshipEligible students as per university regulationsVaries
General ScholarshipEligible students as per government ordersVaries
Post Metric Scholarship for GirlsSC/SEBC girls admitted in Engineering courses/year (Hosteller), /year (Day scholar)
Fellowship for Undergraduate StudentsUndergraduate students of various facultiesAmount varies by scheme
Fellowship for Post-Graduate StudentsPostgraduate students of various facultiesAmount varies by scheme

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Post Matric Scholarship for SC/SEBC GirlsSC/SEBC girls in Engineering/month (Hosteller), /month (Day scholar)NSP
National Scholarship for Higher Education of ST Students (Top Class)ST students pursuing higher educationVaries as per scheme normsNSP

External Scholarships

  • Indira Gandhi Scholarship: Available for eligible students pursuing higher education at SDAU
  • Begum Hazrat Mahal Scholarship: For eligible female students at SDAU

Comparison

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) Palanpur is compared with Anand Agricultural University and Navsari Agricultural University as all three are prominent government agricultural universities in Gujarat with strong regional influence and similar academic offerings in agriculture and allied sciences.

ParameterSardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University - [SDAU] PalanpurAnand Agricultural UniversityNavsari Agricultural University
TypeGovernmentGovernmentGovernment
Established197220042004
NIRF 2025 (Agriculture & Allied)#27#28#34
NAAC GradeAAA
Fee (Total)(approx.)(approx.)(approx.)
Highest Package
Average Package

Key Strengths

  • Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University - [SDAU] Palanpur: Strong emphasis on veterinary sciences and innovation, ranked 2nd in Gujarat for Veterinary Sciences with notable research output.
  • Anand Agricultural University: Known for its dairy science programs and close industry linkages with Amul, enhancing practical exposure and placements.
  • Navsari Agricultural University: Focus on horticulture and forestry with specialized programs and regional agricultural development initiatives.

Campus & Infrastructure

Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University (SDAU) is located in Sardarkrushinagar, near Palanpur in Gujarat, spread over a vast area of approximately 126 acres. The campus is well-equipped with modern academic and research facilities, including Wi-Fi-enabled smart classrooms, advanced laboratories, and extensive sports amenities, providing a serene and green environment conducive to learning and research.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area126 acres
LocationSardarkrushinagar, Palanpur, Gujarat
Nearest RailwayPalanpur Railway Station (30 km)
Nearest AirportAhmedabad Airport (Approx. 150 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Central Library with thousands of books, research journals, periodicals, and e-resources; computer lab with free internet access
  • Labs: Multiple departmental laboratories including Biotechnology, Quality, Soil Health, and Central Instrumentation Laboratory with advanced equipment
  • Classrooms: Fully air-conditioned smart classrooms equipped with projectors and TVs, seating capacity around 80 students per class

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
BoysNot specified(/month approx.)
GirlsNot specified(/month approx.)

Other Facilities

  • Olympic-size swimming pool
  • Sports facilities including synthetic badminton and table tennis courts, volleyball, basketball, cricket, athletics, chess, and carom tables
  • Gymnasium with modern equipment
  • Auditorium for events and seminars
  • Medical room and physical health center providing free medical treatment
  • State Bank of India branch on campus
  • Wi-Fi enabled campus
  • Separate mess facility serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Transport facility for students and staff

Frequently Asked Questions

What entrance exams are required for undergraduate admission at SDAU Palanpur?

Undergraduate admissions at SDAU Palanpur require candidates to appear for GUJCET or other relevant state-level entrance exams depending on the program. For engineering-related courses, JEE Main scores may also be considered.

What is the eligibility criteria for postgraduate programs at SDAU?

Applicants must have a relevant bachelor's degree with at least 50-60% aggregate marks, depending on the course. Entrance exams like ICAR AIEEA are required for M.Tech and MBA admissions.

How can I apply for scholarships at SDAU?

SDAU offers scholarships based on academic merit and reserved categories. Students must check eligibility criteria, prepare required documents like income proof, and apply before deadlines through the university's official channels.

What is the fee structure for the BVSc & AH program at SDAU?

The 5-year BVSc & AH program fee is approximately per year, subject to change. Fees must be paid after document verification and admission confirmation.

Are education loans available for SDAU courses?

Students can avail education loans from banks, including the on-campus State Bank of India branch, which facilitates financial services for SDAU students.

What is the placement scenario and average package at SDAU?

SDAU has a moderate placement record with recruiters from agriculture, dairy, and allied sectors. Average packages vary widely but typically range between per annum depending on specialization.

Which companies recruit from SDAU for internships and placements?

Recruiters include agricultural firms, dairy cooperatives, research institutes, and government agencies related to agriculture and veterinary sciences.

How is the curriculum structured for agricultural engineering at SDAU?

The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical training, including departmental laboratories and a mini-dairy plant for hands-on experience in dairy technology and allied fields.

What research facilities are available at SDAU?

SDAU has well-equipped laboratories including Biotechnology, Soil Health, Quality Control, and a Central Instrumentation Laboratory supporting advanced agricultural research.

What are the hostel facilities like at SDAU Palanpur?

Separate hostels for boys and girls with attached bathrooms, solar water heating, water coolers, TV, and mess facilities are available. Rooms typically accommodate two students with regular cleaning services.

How is the food quality in the SDAU hostel mess?

The mess serves typical Gujarati and Rajasthani cuisine with moderate quality. Food is affordable and menus are fixed, catering mainly to local tastes.

What extracurricular activities and clubs are active on campus?

SDAU hosts NSS, NCC, and student groups like ABVP and NSUI. Annual cultural events include fresher’s parties, Holi, and Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations.

Is there Wi-Fi and IT infrastructure available for students?

The university provides Wi-Fi across campus, computer labs with internet access, and smart classrooms to support digital learning and research activities.

How far is SDAU from Palanpur city and what are the commute options?

SDAU is located about 30 km from Palanpur railway station. The university offers transport facilities for students and staff, including pick and drop services.

Are part-time jobs or on-campus work opportunities available for students?

There are limited part-time job opportunities on campus, mainly related to research assistance or work in university facilities, but no formal part-time job program is established.

What is the dress code or uniform policy at SDAU?

SDAU generally does not enforce a strict dress code, but students in certain practical or lab courses may be required to wear uniforms or lab coats for safety and discipline.

How does SDAU compare with other agricultural universities in Gujarat?

SDAU is recognized for its strong dairy technology program and research facilities, with a good reputation in northern Gujarat. It offers better infrastructure compared to some regional peers.

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

With moderate fees and decent placement packages in agriculture and allied sectors, SDAU offers a reasonable ROI, especially for students pursuing veterinary and dairy technology courses.

How active and supportive is the alumni network of SDAU?

SDAU has an active alumni network engaged in agriculture, veterinary, and dairy sectors, providing mentorship and occasional placement support to current students.

Are there any safety concerns on campus or in the surrounding area?

The campus is considered safe with hostel security and wardens appointed. The university environment is peaceful, located away from busy urban centers.

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