Tata Institute of Social Sciences: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Hyderabad Campus Life

About Tata Institute of Social Sciences - [TISS] Hyderabad

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad campus, established as part of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences network, is located in Hyderabad, Telangana. It is a central autonomous university under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and operates as a premier institute for social sciences education and research.

TISS Hyderabad holds an A grade from NAAC and is ranked within the 101-150 band overall and 72nd among universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings. The campus offers diverse postgraduate programmes in social work, public policy, governance, education, and livelihoods, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and community engagement. It has a growing student and faculty body contributing to its academic excellence and social impact.

Key Highlights

Overview

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad campus, established as part of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences network, is located in Hyderabad, Telangana. It is a central autonomous university under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and operates as a premier institute for social sciences education and research.

TISS Hyderabad holds an A grade from NAAC and is ranked within the 101-150 band overall and 72nd among universities in the NIRF 2025 rankings. The campus offers diverse postgraduate programmes in social work, public policy, governance, education, and livelihoods, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and community engagement. It has a growing student and faculty body contributing to its academic excellence and social impact.

Key Highlights

Admission Dates 2026

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad admission cycle for 2026 includes undergraduate admissions through CUET with the TISS Under-Graduate Seat Allocation System (TUGSAS) and postgraduate admissions primarily based on CAT scores for MBA and other programs. The application process involves online registration, document verification, interviews (for some PG programs), and multiple merit list announcements.

Nearest Attractions at TISS Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Airport

31 km

Gachibowli Bus Stop

1.5 km

Continental Hospital

3.5 km

Secunderabad Junction

21 km

Admission Process

Admission to Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad is primarily based on entrance exams such as CUET-PG for postgraduate courses and TISSNET or CUET-UG for undergraduate courses. Some management-related PG programmes accept CAT scores. The process involves online application, merit-based shortlisting, document verification, and fee payment.

MA Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Check eligibility and select the desired MA specialization (e.g., Women Studies, Public Policy).
2. Register and apply online through the official TISS admission portal before the deadline.
3. Appear for CUET-PG 2025 exam (or CAT 2024 for select management programmes).
4. Wait for the merit list based on CUET-PG/CAT scores; no interviews or GDs are conducted.
5. If shortlisted, complete document verification instructions.
6. Pay the admission fee to confirm your seat.
7. Complete enrollment formalities as directed by the institute.

BA Admission

Steps to Apply

1. Ensure completion of 10+2 or equivalent with minimum 50% marks.
2. Register and apply online via the TISS CUET-UG portal within the application window.
3. Appear for the CUET-UG entrance exam.
4. Check merit list and attend document verification if shortlisted.
5. Pay the course fee to secure admission.
6. Complete enrollment procedures.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

Documents Required

• 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
• Graduation Mark Sheets and Degree Certificate (for PG programmes)
• CUET/ CAT Scorecard
• Proof of Identity (Aadhar card, passport, etc.)
• Passport-size Photographs
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Transfer Certificate and Migration Certificate (if applicable)
• Character Certificate

Cutoff 2025

For 2025, Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad admissions have shifted primarily to CAT scores for postgraduate programs, with cutoffs generally around the 70th percentile for the general category. The institute no longer uses CUET for PG admissions and does not release separate numerical cutoffs for undergraduate courses, instead publishing merit lists. The CAT percentile cutoffs reflect a competitive selection process with additional weightage given to interviews and academic diversity.

Placements 2025

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad achieved a placement rate exceeding 80% in 2025, with an average salary package ranging between ₹3 to ₹4 LPA and the highest package reaching up to ₹9 LPA. The placement cell actively engages with diverse recruiters, including NGOs, corporates, and consulting firms, ensuring robust opportunities for its students.

Placement Statistics

Top Recruiters

IT: Accenture, Persistent Systems, Virtusa Consulting

Consulting: PwC, KPMG, Ernst & Young, Deloitte

Core: Tata Motors, Bajaj Auto, Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Cipla

Branch-wise Placement

Rankings & Accreditations

The Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad, as part of the TISS system headquartered in Mumbai, holds a respectable position in national rankings, with its university ranking at 72nd in NIRF 2025. It is recognized for excellence in social sciences and has maintained strong accreditation credentials.

NIRF 2025

Other Rankings

Accreditations

• NAAC: 5-star rating (Valid last cycle, 2025)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad offers various scholarships including government-sponsored post-matric scholarships for SC/ST students, need-based financial aid, and minority scholarships. Additionally, students can access external scholarships such as those from Tata Trusts and UGC fellowships. Many scholarships require income certificates and category proofs, with some linked to the National Scholarship Portal for streamlined application and disbursal.

Institute Scholarships

Government Scholarships

External Scholarships

• Sir Ratan Tata Trust Scholarship: Financial aid for meritorious students based on need
• UGC Fellowships: Fellowships for postgraduate and doctoral research
• ICSSR Fellowships: Support for social science research scholars
• Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship: For SC/ST students pursuing M.Phil. and Ph.D.
• Taksheel Foundation Meritorious Scholarship: For School of Social Work students at TISS

Comparison

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad is compared with University of Hyderabad and Jamia Millia Islamia as these institutions are prominent public universities in India offering strong social sciences and interdisciplinary programs, with recognized NIRF rankings and reputations in research and social development education.

Key Strengths

• Tata Institute of Social Sciences - [TISS] Hyderabad: Specialized focus on social sciences and human service professions with strong interdisciplinary programs and field-based learning.
• University of Hyderabad: Renowned for research excellence and diverse postgraduate programs with a strong emphasis on science and social sciences.
• Jamia Millia Islamia: Historic central university with comprehensive programs in social sciences, humanities, and professional courses, known for inclusive education and research.

Campus & Infrastructure

Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Hyderabad operates from two temporary campuses located in Rajendranagar and Gachibowli, Telangana. The Rajendranagar campus is spacious, green, and somewhat secluded, while the Gachibowli campus is smaller and situated in the IT hub area. Plans are underway to develop a permanent 100-acre campus in Kothur Mandal, Mahabubnagar district.

Campus Details

Academic Facilities

• Library: Present at both campuses (specific number of books and e-journals not disclosed)
• Labs: Not specified
• Classrooms: Equipped with projectors and cushioned seats with attached tables

Hostel

Other Facilities

• Badminton court at Rajendranagar campus
• Wi-Fi campus
• Medical facilities
• Counsellor room
• Cafeteria
• Sports complex (limited to badminton court and nearby fields)

Frequently Asked Questions

What entrance exams are accepted for admission to TISS Hyderabad's postgraduate programs?

Admission to most PG programs at TISS Hyderabad is based 100% on CUET-PG 2025 scores. However, three management-related programs accept CAT 2024 scores instead.

What is the eligibility criteria for undergraduate admission at TISS Hyderabad?

Candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% marks, depending on the course. Final year students can apply provisionally.

How can I apply for admission to TISS Hyderabad programs?

Applications are submitted online through the official TISS admission portal. Candidates can apply for up to three programs per application by paying the respective application fees.

What is the fee range for courses at TISS Hyderabad?

Course fees range from approximately ₹83,900 to ₹2,13,000 depending on the program and specialization.

Are scholarships available at TISS Hyderabad?

Yes, scholarships are offered based on academic merit, reserved categories, and financial need. Students must check eligibility criteria and apply before deadlines.

Does TISS Hyderabad provide education loan assistance?

The institute offers resources and guidance for education loans, helping students access financial aid through various banks and schemes.

What is the placement scenario at TISS Hyderabad?

TISS Hyderabad has a growing placement record with recruiters from social sectors, NGOs, government, and corporate sectors. Internship opportunities are integral to most programs.

Which companies recruit from TISS Hyderabad?

Recruiters include NGOs, government agencies, social enterprises, and consulting firms focused on social development and public policy sectors.

What specializations are offered in the M.A. programs at TISS Hyderabad?

M.A. programs include specializations such as Women Studies and Public Policy, among others, with curriculum designed for social sciences and development studies.

How experienced is the faculty at TISS Hyderabad?

The faculty comprises experienced academicians and practitioners with expertise in social sciences, public policy, and allied fields, contributing to research and teaching.

What hostel facilities are available at TISS Hyderabad?

The campus provides separate hostel accommodations for male and female students with basic amenities, though availability may be limited and subject to application.

How is the food quality in the TISS Hyderabad mess?

The mess offers hygienic and nutritious meals with vegetarian and non-vegetarian options, catering to diverse dietary preferences of students.

Are there active student clubs and cultural fests at TISS Hyderabad?

Yes, the campus hosts various student clubs and organizes cultural and academic fests that encourage participation in extracurricular activities.

Is the TISS Hyderabad campus safe for students?

The campus maintains security measures including CCTV surveillance and security personnel to ensure a safe environment for all students.

What is the daily commute like to TISS Hyderabad campus?

The campus is accessible by public transport and local buses, with reasonable connectivity from major parts of Hyderabad city.

Are part-time jobs or internships available for TISS Hyderabad students?

Students often find internships related to social work and development sectors; part-time jobs on campus are limited but encouraged through project work.

Is there a dress code at TISS Hyderabad?

There is no strict dress code; students are expected to dress modestly and appropriately for academic and fieldwork activities.

How does TISS Hyderabad compare to other social sciences institutes in India?

TISS Hyderabad is part of the reputed TISS network, known for its focus on social sciences and development studies, offering strong academic and research opportunities.

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

Given the moderate fee structure and strong placement in social sectors, the ROI is favorable for students pursuing careers in social work, policy, and development.

How strong is the alumni network of TISS Hyderabad?

The alumni network is active and well-connected across social sectors, providing mentorship, networking, and career support to current students.