CU-image
University of Calcutta: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Kolkata Campus Life
location
Kolkata, West Bengal
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 10 January 2026

More About CU

Calcutta University is widely recognized for its profound academic heritage and significant contributions to education since its establishment in 1857. As a public state university located in Kolkata, West Bengal, it stands as one of India''s oldest and most prestigious multidisciplinary institutions, deeply woven into the nation''s intellectual fabric.

The university offers an extensive array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs through its 65 departments, spanning disciplines from arts, science, and commerce to law, engineering, and technology. Its vibrant academic ecosystem fosters intellectual growth, supported by a dedicated teaching faculty of 649 members, serving 5663 students across its university departments as of the 2022-23 academic year, maintaining a healthy student-faculty ratio of approximately 1:8.7. The university promotes an inclusive environment with a gender ratio of approximately 41% male and 59% female students.

Calcutta University consistently secures notable positions in national rankings, including the NIRF, affirming its commitment to academic excellence and research output. It actively engages in international collaborations with esteemed institutions like the University of Hamburg, University of Milan, and the University of Sydney, enriching global exposure for its students and faculty.

The university''s multiple campuses in Kolkata provide a dynamic learning environment, equipped with essential resources to support comprehensive student development and research pursuits. Admissions are typically facilitated through various entrance examinations such as CUEE, WBJEE, CLAT, GATE, CAT, MAT, XAT, and JEMAT, reflecting its broad spectrum of academic offerings. Calcutta University continues its legacy of fostering critical thinking, innovation, and leadership, preparing its graduates for diverse career pathways and societal impact.

READ MORE

Faculty Student Ratio

1:8.7

Year Of Established

1857

Total Faculty Numbers

649

Key Highlights

The University of Calcutta was established on January 24, 1857. It is a public state research university.

The main campus of the university covers 2.7 acres. The university has 151 affiliated undergraduate colleges and 16 institutes.

You can visit the official website of the University of Calcutta at www.caluniv.ac.in.

Particulars Details
Establishment Year 24 January 1857
Campus Size 2.7 acres
Type Public state research university
Affiliated To 151 undergraduate colleges and 16 institutes
Website www.caluniv.ac.in

Courses Offered at CU

Specializations

B.Lib.I.Sc + M.Lib.I.Sc

Specializations

Bachelor of Library and Information Science

Specializations

Bachelor of Music

Specializations

Certification in ArabicCertification in BengaliCertification in Chinese+12

Specializations

Diploma in BengaliDiploma in ChineseDiploma in French+10

Specializations

Master of Arts in Applied PsychologyMaster of Arts in ArabicMaster of Arts in Archaeology+22

Specializations

Master of Philosophy in Applied MathematicsMaster of Philosophy in CommerceMaster of Philosophy in Comparative Literature+15

Specializations

Ph.D in Human RightsPh.D in AnthropologyPh.D in Applied Geology+57

Specializations

Post Doctoral Programme in Bioinformatics And BiophysicsPost Doctoral Programme in Biomedical InstrumentationPost Doctoral Programme in Biophysics And Molecular Biology+46

Specializations

Post Graduate Certificate in English Effective CommunicationPost Graduate Certificate in Urban Management And Planning

Specializations

Post Graduate Diploma in Applied Economics And Information ManagementPost Graduate Diploma in Book PublishingPost Graduate Diploma in Buddhist Studies+5

Specializations

B.A.L.L.B.

Admission Process 2025-26

The University of Calcutta offers admissions through merit and entrance exams. Most undergraduate courses use merit from qualifying exams. Postgraduate and specialized courses often require entrance exams.

The application process is online. You must upload documents in specified formats. Separate portals exist for different courses.

Course Admission Mode Exam Eligibility
B.Tech Entrance GATE B.E./B.Tech in relevant field
M.Tech Entrance GATE/University Exam B.E./B.Tech in relevant field
BA Merit 12th Marks 10+2 Any Stream
B.Sc Merit 12th Marks 10+2 with Science
B.Com Merit 12th Marks 10+2 with Commerce
MA Entrance University Exam Bachelor's degree in relevant field
M.Sc Entrance University Exam Bachelor's degree in relevant field
M.Com Entrance University Exam Bachelor's degree in relevant field
Ph.D Entrance RET Master's degree in relevant field
BA LLB Entrance/Merit University Exam/12th Marks 10+2 Any Stream
Event Date Remarks
Application Start December 2025 Online only
Last Date January 2026 No extension
M.Tech Application Deadline June 3, 2025 Extended
Counseling Start June 2025 For most courses
Admission Notification August 2025 For most courses
Ph.D RET Results November 2025 For Ph.D programs
Ph.D Selections December 2025 For Ph.D programs
Semester Exams July-November 2025 For ongoing UG courses

B.Tech Admission

The B.Tech admission process at the University of Calcutta requires you to take the WBJEE exam. You must have at least 60% in PCM for the general category or 55% for reserved categories in your 10+2 exams.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam WBJEE 2025
Eligibility 10+2 with PCM, 60% (General), 55% (Reserved), 30% in English
Cutoff Based on WBJEE rank
Seats Available 120
Duration 4 Years
Annual Fee Not specified

BSc Admission

The BSc admission process at the University of Calcutta is merit-based. No entrance exam is required. Admission depends on your Class 12 marks in the Science stream.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam None
Eligibility 10+2 with Science stream, 45% for General, 50% for Honours
Cutoff Merit-based on Class 12 marks
Seats Available Varies by college (e.g., 120-150 for General, 20-55 for Honours per subject)
Duration 3 Years
Annual Fee Varies by college

MBA Admission

The MBA admission process at the University of Calcutta involves submitting an offline application form. You need a valid score from national-level entrance exams like CAT, MAT, or XAT. The selection includes group discussions and personal interviews.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam CAT, MAT, XAT, JEMAT, XMAT, other UGC-specified national-level exams
Eligibility Bachelor’s degree (10+2+3), min 50% (45% for reserved), 50 percentile in entrance exam
Cutoff 50 percentile in any accepted entrance exam
Seats Available 77 (Full-Time MBA)
Duration 2 Years
Annual Fee INR 1,50,000

Courses and Fee Structure

The University of Calcutta offers a wide range of undergraduate programs. These programs span various fields like arts, science, and commerce. You can choose from general or honours degrees.

Postgraduate programs at the University of Calcutta are diverse. They include master's degrees in arts, science, and professional courses. Admission to these programs often depends on your undergraduate performance.

Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
B.A. (General) 3 years ₹1,800 10+2 (any stream)
B.A. (Honours) 3 years ₹2,100 10+2 (relevant subject)
B.Sc. (General) 3 years ₹1,800 10+2 (Science stream)
B.Sc. (Honours) 3 years ₹2,100 10+2 (Science stream, subject-specific)
B.Com. (General) 3 years ₹1,800 10+2 (any stream)
B.Com. (Honours) 3 years ₹2,100 10+2 (Commerce stream)
B.B.A. 3 years ₹2,100 10+2 (any stream)
B.C.A. 3 years ₹2,100 10+2 (Mathematics/Computer Science)
B.Lib.I.Sc. 1 year ₹1,200 Graduation in any discipline
B.Ed. 2 years ₹10,000 Graduation + 50% marks
B.P.Ed. 2 years ₹10,000 Graduation + 50% marks
B.A. LL.B. (Hons) 5 years ₹2,100 10+2 (any stream)
Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
M.A. (General) 2 years ₹2,100 Graduation in relevant subject
M.Sc. (General) 2 years ₹2,100 Graduation in Science (relevant subject)
M.Com. 2 years ₹2,100 Graduation in Commerce
M.B.A. 2 years ₹15,000 Graduation + 50% marks
M.C.A. 3 years ₹15,000 Graduation + Mathematics at 10+2 or Graduation level
M.Ed. 2 years ₹10,000 Graduation + B.Ed.
M.Lib.I.Sc. 1 year ₹1,200 Graduation in any discipline
M.P.Ed. 2 years ₹10,000 Graduation + B.P.Ed.

BSc Program

The University of Calcutta offers a 3-year B.Sc. (Hons.) program. It focuses on Home Science with specializations in Food & Nutrition and Human Development.

Graduates have strong career prospects. Food & Nutrition leads to dietetics and nutrition consultancy. Human Development opens doors to social work and counseling.

Specialization/Branch Duration Seats Annual Fee
Food & Nutrition (Hons.) 3 Years Not specified Rs 3,885
Human Development (Hons.) 3 Years Not specified Rs 3,885
Physics Not specified Not specified Not specified
Chemistry Not specified Not specified Not specified
Mathematics Not specified Not specified Not specified
Botany Not specified Not specified Not specified
Zoology Not specified Not specified Not specified

B.Tech Program

The B.Tech program at the University of Calcutta offers a comprehensive engineering education. It spans four years and includes ten specializations.

Career prospects for B.Tech graduates from this university are promising. You can expect an average salary of ₹4-8 LPA, with top performers earning up to ₹10 LPA.

Specialization/Branch Duration Seats Annual Fee
Chemical Engineering 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Chemical Technology (Ceramic Engineering) 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Chemical Technology (Oil Technology) 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Chemical Technology (Petrochemicals & Petroleum Refinery Engineering) 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Chemical Technology (Pharmaceuticals & Fine Chemical Technology) 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Computer Science & Engineering 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Information Technology 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Electronics & Communication Engineering 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Electrical Engineering 4 Years 60 ₹9,519
Instrumentation Engineering 4 Years 60 ₹9,519

Nearest Attractions at CU

icon

Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport (CCU)

16 km

icon

Esplanade Bus Stand

3.5 km

icon

Medical College and Hospital, Kolkata

1.5 km

icon

Sealdah Railway Station

2 km

Cutoff Trends and Analysis

The University of Calcutta uses WBJEE for B.Tech admissions. Cutoffs vary by course and category.

Cutoffs have increased over the last three years. This trend is expected to continue in 2025.

Course/Branch General OBC SC ST EWS
B.Tech CSE 1499 (R5) 1880 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech IT 2141 (R5) 2546 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Electrical 2546 (R5) 3546 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Electronics & Comm. 2546 (R5) 3546 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Chemical 3546 (R5) 4402 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Instrumentation 3609 (R5) 3609 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Polymer Science 5256 (R5) 5256 (R5) 5041 (R5) 20751 (R5) 13248 (R5)
B.Tech Jute & Fibre Tech 98500 (R5) 28929 (R5) 28929 (R5) 97389 (R5) 13248 (R5)
MBA General 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile
MBA HRD 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile
MBM 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile 40 %ile
B.Sc Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based
M.Sc Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based
M.A. Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based
B.Ed Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based Merit-based
M.Tech GATE-based GATE-based GATE-based GATE-based GATE-based

Campus Facilities at CU

Academic Spaces

Centenary Hall

Conference Rooms

Darbhanga Hall (Senate House Auditorium)

Departmental Lecture Halls

Seminar Halls

Accommodation for Parents

University Guest House

Basic Services

ATM Facilities

Bank Branch/Extension Counter

Electricity Backup (Generators/UPS)

Stationery & Book Shops

Water Purifiers & Coolers

Disability Services

Ramps and Lifts

Special Assistance & Support

Entry/Exit Rules

Campus & Hostel Timing Policies

Main Gate & Access Control

Food Options

Campus Canteens

Hostel Mess Facilities

Tea & Snack Stalls

Hostel Facilities

Carmichael Hostel (Boys)

New Hostel for Girls

Other University Hostels

Postgraduate Ladies Hostel

Vidyasagar Hostel (Boys)

Incubation Centers

Innovation & Entrepreneurship Cell

University Research Centres & Institutes

IT Facilities

Campus-wide Wi-Fi Connectivity

Central Computer Centre

Laboratories

Biological Sciences Laboratories

Central Computer Laboratories

Chemistry Laboratories

Departmental Computer Labs

Engineering & Technology Labs (Rajabazar & Radio Physics)

Language Lab

Library

Central Library (Asutosh Building)

Departmental Libraries

Medical Facilities

Ambulance Service

University Medical Unit/Health Centre

Recreational Areas

Campus Green Spaces & Gardens

Hostel Common Rooms

Student Union Rooms/Lounges

Safety & Security

24/7 Security Personnel

CCTV Surveillance System

Fire Safety Systems

Sports & Fitness

Indoor Sports Facilities

University Gymnasium/Fitness Centre

University Playgrounds

Student Help Desks

Anti-Ragging Cell

Career Counseling & Placement Cell

Counseling and Psychological Support

Grievance Redressal Cell

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Placement Statistics and Trends

The University of Calcutta has a placement rate of 60-70%. Around 2860 students were placed in 2024-2025.

The highest package offered is INR 12 LPA. The average package is around INR 5 LPA, with a median of INR 4 LPA for UG and INR 6 LPA for PG students.

Top recruiters include TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Deloitte, and Cognizant. Other major companies are HSBC, Accenture, Genpact, and Axis Bank.

Year Placement Rate Highest Package Average Package Median Package Companies Visited
2024 65% Rs 12 LPA Rs 5 LPA Rs 5 LPA 150
2023 65% Rs 12 LPA Rs 5 LPA Rs 5 LPA 145
2022 65% Rs 12 LPA Rs 5 LPA Rs 5 LPA 140
Sector Top Companies
IT/Software TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant
Core Engineering L&T, Tata Motors, Mahindra
Finance ICICI, HDFC, Axis Bank
Consulting Deloitte, Accenture, Genpact
Energy ONGC, Reliance
Manufacturing Tata Steel, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Bhabani shankar Sahoo

5

The University of Calcutta, established in 1857, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in India. With a rich history, diverse academic programs, and esteemed faculty, it has earned a reputation as a center of excellence.The University of Calcutta is an excellent institution for students seeking academic excellence, research opportunities, and cultural experiences. While infrastructure upgrades are needed, the university's strengths outweigh its weaknesses.Calcutta University is renowned for its research contributions, particularly in fields like physics, chemistry, and biology. The university has produced several notable scholars and Nobel laureates.

Ibadat Hossain

5

Address, Phone ... Calcutta university is one of the best universities of West Bengal and of Eastern India.Academics is its strong point.There are many courses here for studying.

Aditya Chatterjee

5

One of the oldest universities in Asia. It's just an elemental presence overlooking the famed boi para of North Calcutta. The air of this university exudes regalia and colonial hangover that has touched the quintessential Bengali nerve. Being a student at this university pursuing Post graduation in english language and literature, it's like a privilege which when looked back will evoke a nostalgic feeling for the past. One hell of a rollercoaster of emotions.

Pratik Sanyal

5

Calcutta University, established in 1857, is a prestigious public state university located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India. With its 151 affiliated undergraduate colleges and 16 institutes in Kolkata and nearby areas, CU has been a beacon of academic excellence for over a century. Its outstanding reputation is reflected in its recognition as a "Five-Star University" and accreditation with an "A++" grade by NAAC. CU's rich history is evident in its catchment area, which initially ranged from Kabul to Myanmar. Today, its jurisdiction is limited to a few districts of West Bengal. However, the university's commitment to providing quality education and fostering intellectual growth remains unwavering. Overall, Calcutta University is a true gem in the Indian education system, offering students a world-class education and an opportunity to excel in their chosen fields.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

The University of Calcutta offers various scholarships. These include merit-based, need-based, and government scholarships.

To apply, visit the university's website. You will need academic records and income certificates.

Scholarship Name Eligibility Amount Application Process
Swami Vivekananda Merit cum Means Scholarship Academic merit + family income <2.5L Rs 12,000-60,000/year Online, specific deadlines
Kanyashree Female students, family income <1.2L Varies Online, income certificate
Aikyashree SC/ST/OBC students, family income <2.5L Varies Online, caste certificate
Anil Chandra Gupta Memorial Studentship 60%+ marks in Bengali or Philosophy Not specified University office, merit list
Bhupendranath Memorial Scholarship 60%+ marks in Sanskrit Not specified University office, merit list
Need cum Merit Scholarship 60%+ marks in Economics, family income <2L Not specified University office, income certificate
Uma Mukherjee Memorial Scholarship 60%+ marks in Food & Nutrition Not specified University office, merit list

Campus Facilities

The University of Calcutta has a vast central library. It holds over 1.5 million books. You can access e-books, e-journals, and online databases.

The university provides hostels for students. There are 16 halls with a total capacity of 1,550 students. You can enjoy amenities like Wi-Fi, security, and three meals a day.

Facility Details
Library Over 1.5 million books, e-books, e-journals, online databases
Hostel 16 halls, 1,550 capacity, Wi-Fi, security, three meals a day
Laboratories Modern labs for Science, Technology, Commerce, Law
Sports Complex Indoor/outdoor games, playgrounds, courts, gymnasium
Medical Center On-campus health center, tie-ups with hospitals
Cafeteria Mess with three meals, multiple canteens with diverse menu
Auditorium Large hall for events, conferences, and performances
Computer Center High-speed internet, software, technical support
Student Union Activities, events, student representation
Career Counseling Guidance, job placement, internship opportunities

Frequently Asked Questions

When does admission start for 2025-26?

UG admission starts in July 2025. The application deadline is 30 November 2025. Classes start in September-October 2025.

What is the eligibility for BA/BBA LLB (Hons) admission?

Students need 10+2 qualification. Minimum marks required are 45% for General and 40% for SC/ST. CULET 2025 score is mandatory for admission.

What is the annual fee structure?

UG (BA, BSc, BCom) fee ranges from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000 per year. MBA fee is between Rs 15,000 to Rs 25,000 per year. All fees are payable online through the university portal.

What is the placement rate?

The placement rate varies between 65-75% across departments. The average package is Rs 3.5 to Rs 6.5 LPA. The highest package offered is Rs 12 LPA for MBA and M.Tech students.

Are hostel facilities available?

Yes, there are two hostels for boys with 300 seats. One hostel for girls has 150 seats. Hostel fees range from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,500 per month, including mess charges.

What scholarships are available?

Merit scholarships are available for top 10% students. SC/ST and OBC students can apply for specific scholarships. University Merit Cum Means scholarships are based on merit and financial need.

What entrance exams are accepted?

CUET-PG is accepted for PG courses. GATE 2026 is required for M.Tech admission. CAT, XAT, MAT, and CMAT are accepted for MBA.

How is the campus infrastructure?

The campus has a central library with over 500,000 books. High-speed Wi-Fi is available campus-wide. Sports facilities include cricket, football, basketball, and tennis.

What are popular courses offered?

Popular UG courses include BA, BSc, and BCom. Popular PG courses are MA, MSc, and MCom. MBA and M.Tech are also in demand.

How to apply online?

Visit the official University of Calcutta website. Fill out the application form for your desired course. Submit the form and pay the application fee online.

whatsapp

Chat with us