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Visva-Bharati University: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Santiniketan Campus Life
location
Santiniketan, West Bengal
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 9 January 2026

More About VBU

Visva-Bharati University was established in 1921 and is located in Birbhum, West Bengal. It is a top ranked premium Central University, renowned for its unique educational philosophy. The university has been ranked 97th by NIRF 2023 under the University category, and 7th by Outlook 2024 for Central Universities. Visva-Bharati University also secured a rank of 801 in QS Asia 2024 and 751-800 in QS World University Rankings 2024. The college also finds itself in the 151-200 band for NIRF Overall 2024, reflecting its diverse academic strengths. VBU (a part of the Central University system) offers 161 UG, PG, and Doctoral courses to students. These courses are provided across 40 departments. Visva-Bharati University, being a Central University, is naturally recognised by the UGC. The institution provides various Bachelor of Science (Honours) Agriculture programs and a wide array of fine arts and music courses, including B.F.A. Graphics, B.Mus. Manipuri Dance, and M.Mus. Hindustani Classical Music (Vocal), which are considered flagship courses and focus on arts, humanities, sciences, and agricultural studies. The institute is located in a sprawling 1129-acre campus in Santiniketan, and is equipped with the latest innovations and facilities. Visva-Bharati University, with its historical roots, continuously showcases its commitment to holistic and cultural development, aligning with its founder's vision. Visva-Bharati University is driven and promoted by its unique heritage and academic excellence. Located in Birbhum, this reputed university accepts CUET UG and CUET PG scores and also conducts its own entrance exam for admissions. The institution has a total of 11428 students enrolled, supported by 469 faculty members, maintaining a faculty-student ratio of 30:1. Visva Bharati faculty are dedicated professionals with years of academic and research experience.

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Campus Area

1129

Faculty Student Ratio

30:1

Year Of Established

1921

About Visva Bharati University - [VBU]

Visva Bharati University was established in 1921. It is located in Santiniketan, Birbhum, West Bengal. The university is a central university, declared by an Act of Parliament in 1951.

The university is recognized as an Institution of National Importance. It is accredited by NAAC and recognized by UGC. Visva Bharati is known for its focus on liberal arts, humanities, and interdisciplinary studies.

Visva Bharati offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Popular streams include arts, sciences, and specialized schools like music and fine arts. The university has multiple departments across various disciplines.

The campus is spread across Santiniketan and Sriniketan. It features hostels, academic buildings, and specialized centers. Students have access to facilities for language, art, and cultural studies.

Courses Offered at VBU

Specializations

Advanced Diploma in Graphic ArtAdvanced Diploma in MuralAdvanced Diploma in Sculpture+3

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts in Comparative ReligionBachelor of Arts in Education

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts {Hons.} in Ancient Indian History & CultureBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in BengaliBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in Chinese+13

Specializations

Bachelor of Fine Arts {Hons.} in Ceramics DesignBachelor of Fine Arts {Hons.} in Graphics ArtBachelor of Fine Arts {Hons.} in Mural+3

Specializations

Bachelor of Music {Hons.} in EsrajBachelor of Music {Hons.} in Hindustani Classical VocalBachelor of Music {Hons.} in Kathakali Dance+5

Specializations

Certification in AssameseCertification in Batik WorkCertification in Bengali+28

Specializations

Diploma in Advanced PaintingDiploma in BengaliDiploma in Chinese+20

Specializations

Master of Arts in Ancient Indian History And ArchaeologyMaster of Arts in Arabic And PersianMaster of Arts in Bengali+16

Specializations

Master of Arts {Hons.} in Physical EducationMaster of Arts {Hons.} in Indo-Tibetan Studies

Specializations

Master of Fine Arts in Ceramic & Glass DesignMaster of Fine Arts in History Of ArtsMaster of Fine Arts in Painting+1

Specializations

Ph.D in BengaliPh.D in BiotechnologyPh.D in Botany+21

Specializations

Bachelor of EducationBachelor of Education

Key Highlights

Particulars Details
Establishment Year 1901
Campus Size 1,128.895 acres
Type Central University
Affiliated To Not applicable
Approved By NAAC
NAAC Grade B+
Total Courses 296
Total Students 11,428
Placement Rate 735 students placed
Median Package INR 5.4 LPA (UG), INR 4.8 LPA (PG)
Website https://visvabharati.ac.in/index.html

Latest Rankings

Visva Bharati University has been ranked by NIRF and accredited by NAAC. These rankings and accreditations reflect the university's performance and standing.

Ranking Agency Category Rank Year Grade/Score
NIRF University 151-200 2025 61.85
NAAC Overall 2023 B+ (3.08 CGPA)

Important Dates

The admission timeline for Visva Bharati University for the 2026-27 academic year will follow a similar pattern to the previous year. Applications are expected to open in March 2026.

Event Date/Period Remarks
Application Period March 2026 (Tentative) Online application
CUET 2026 Exam May-June 2026 (Tentative) For undergraduate programs
CUET UG 2026 Result July 2026 (Tentative)
XAT 2026 Registration Deadline December 5, 2025 For MBA/PGDM programs
XAT 2026 Exam Date January 4, 2026 For MBA/PGDM programs

Admission Process 2025-26

Visva Bharati University accepts admissions through CUET exams. Both UG and PG courses require CUET scores.

You must apply online via the university's admission portal. Make sure to submit all required documents and pay the application fee.

Course Entrance Exam Eligibility Application Mode
B.A. CUET (UG) 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.Sc. CUET (UG) 10+2 Science, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.Sc. Ag CUET (UG) 10+2 Science, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.Mus. CUET (UG) + Performance 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
Manipuri Dance CUET (UG) + Performance 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.F.A. CUET (UG) + Portfolio 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.P.E. CUET (UG) 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
B.S.W. CUET (UG) 10+2, 60% (Gen), 54% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
M.A. (Bengali, Indo-Tibetan) CUET (PG) Graduation, 55% (Gen), 49.5% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
M.Sc. (Mathematics) CUET (PG) B.Sc. Math, 55% (Gen), 49.5% (OBC), Pass (SC/ST) Online
Event Date Status Remarks
Application Start To be announced Tentative Expected July 2026, based on 2025 pattern
Application Deadline To be announced Tentative Based on 2025 pattern
Entrance Exam (CUET UG) To be announced Tentative CUET UG, NTA announcement expected late 2025
Entrance Exam (CUET PG) To be announced Tentative CUET PG, NTA announcement expected late 2025
Result Declaration To be announced Tentative Based on 2025 pattern
Counseling Start To be announced Tentative Based on 2025 pattern
Admission Deadline To be announced Tentative Based on 2025 pattern
Classes Begin To be announced Tentative Expected October 2026, based on 2025 pattern

BSc Admission

To get admitted to the BSc program at Visva Bharati University, you need to take the CUET UG exam. This exam is conducted by the National Testing Agency. You must qualify in CUET UG to be eligible for admission.

Criteria Details
Entrance Exam CUET UG
Eligibility 10+2 with 60% in science subjects (General), 54% for OBC, pass for SC/ST
Cutoff Merit-based on CUET UG scores
Seats Available Approx. 377
Duration 3 Years
Annual Fee Rs. 1000 (General/OBC), Rs. 300 (SC/ST/PWD)

Nearest Attractions at VBU

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Kazi Nazrul Islam Airport, Durgapur (domestic); Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata (international)

45.3 km

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Bolpur Bus Station

1 km

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Bolpur Santiniketan Railway Station (BHP)

3 km

Courses and Fee Structure

Visva Bharati University offers various undergraduate programs. You can pursue a B.A. in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology or a B.Sc. in Computer and System Science. They also offer a Bachelor of Rural Studies.

The university provides postgraduate courses as well. You can enroll in an M.Sc. in Biotechnology or Agriculture/Horticulture. These programs cater to diverse academic interests.

Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
B.A. (Hons) in Ancient Indian History, Culture and Archaeology 3 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. (Hons) in Computer and System Science 3 Years Not Available 65% in 10+2, 65% in Mathematics or 75% in Computer Science/IT
Bachelor of Rural Studies (Hons.) 3 Years Not Available 60% for UR, 54% for OBC in Higher Secondary
B.Tech CSE 4 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Tech ME 4 Years Not Available Not Available
BBA 3 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Com 3 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. in Agriculture 4 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. in Horticulture 4 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. in Botany 3 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. in Zoology 3 Years Not Available Not Available
B.Sc. in Chemistry 3 Years Not Available Not Available
Course Duration Annual Fee Eligibility
M.Sc. in Biotechnology 2 Years Not Available GAT-B Entrance Exam
M.Sc. in Agriculture 2 Years Not Available ICAR Entrance Exam
M.Sc. in Horticulture 2 Years Not Available ICAR Entrance Exam
M.A. in English 2 Years Not Available Not Available
M.A. in History 2 Years Not Available Not Available
M.A. in Economics 2 Years Not Available Not Available
MBA 2 Years Not Available Not Available
M.Tech 2 Years Not Available Not Available

BSc Program

The BSc program at Visva Bharati University offers multiple specializations. It follows a structured curriculum and specific eligibility criteria.

Career prospects for BSc graduates are promising. They can work in research, academia, industry, and government sectors based on their specialization.

Specialization/Branch Duration Seats Annual Fee
Physics 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Chemistry 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Mathematics 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Botany 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Zoology 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Statistics 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Computer Science 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Agriculture 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Yoga 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000
Physical Education 3-4 Years 60 Rs 2,00,000

Campus Facilities at VBU

Academic Spaces

Auditoriums

Lecture Halls

Open-Air Stages

Seminar Halls

Accommodation for Parents

Guest Houses

Basic Services

ATM & Banking Facilities

Book Selling Counter

Garden Facilities

Laundry Services

Post Office

Quarter Facilities

Disability Services

Disability Support

Entry/Exit Rules

Hostel Timing Rules

Food Options

Canteens

Mess Halls

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostels

Girls Hostels

IT Facilities

Computer Centre

Wi-Fi Campus

Laboratories

Archaeology Lab

Computer Labs

General Laboratories

Library

Central Library

Departmental Libraries

Medical Facilities

C.F. Andrews Hospital

Pearson Memorial Hospital (PM Hospital)

Recreational Areas

Common Rooms

Cultural Centers / Art Studios / Music Rooms

Gaming Areas

Museums

TV Rooms

Safety & Security

Security and Surveillance Systems

Sports & Fitness

Sports Complex

Student Help Desks

Placement Cell

Students Grievance Redressal Committee (SGRC)

Students' Activities Center

Transport Services

Bus Services

Parking Facilities

Cutoff Trends and Analysis

Visva Bharati University uses CUET for undergraduate admissions. Cutoffs are based on CUET scores.

CUET cutoffs vary by course and category. They have shown variability over the last three years.

Course/Branch General OBC SC ST EWS
B.Tech CSE 95 %ile 92 %ile 85 %ile 80 %ile 94 %ile
B.Tech ME 90 %ile 87 %ile 80 %ile 75 %ile 89 %ile
BBA 85 %ile 82 %ile 75 %ile 70 %ile 84 %ile
B.Sc Mathematics (Integrated) 2-149 marks 4-116 marks 15-117 marks 15-60 marks 21-150 marks
B.Sc Botany (Integrated) 24-146 marks 23-81 marks 18-145 marks 32-101 marks 21 marks
B.Sc Physics (Integrated) 38-126 marks 57 marks 30-56 marks 38-45 marks 46 marks
B.Sc Agriculture (Integrated) 71-347 marks 65-231 marks 55-292 marks 91-163 marks 189-210 marks
BA History (Integrated) 83.8-92.8 marks 95 marks 79.8-92 marks
BA Geography (Integrated) 67-106 marks 49-106 marks 38-87 marks 78-111 marks
B.A. (Hons) English 29 marks
B.Sc (Hons.) 1-55 marks
B.F.A (Hons.) 5-97 marks
BA Hons Chemistry 30-50 ranks
BA Hons Computer and System Science 10-30 ranks
BA Hons Yoga 20-40 ranks
BA Hons History 500-600 ranks
BA Hons Geography 350-290 ranks
Integrated MSc 205-209 marks

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Srijan Ghosh

5

Visited this place as a tourist and it was fabulous. The canteen was also good and clean. You can see many things that belong to Rabindranath Tagore and the Tagore family. The major historical places may feel crowded but the surrounding is peaceful and quiet.

Moumita Sarkar

5

It was an amazing experience to visit the memorials and buildings once created by Rabindranath Tagore and his father Debendranath Tagore. From the place where Debendranath Tagore found peace (chatimtala) to the tree where Rabindranath Tagore started teaching kids under the clear blue sky, everything was so mesmerizing, we were absolutely taken back to those times. We visited the 5 massive palaces built by Rabindranath Tagore and various departments like Arts and Music. Although we were'nt allowed inside due to some restrictions, we clicked a lot of pictures and enjoyed our stay at Santiniketan. Looking forward to visit one more time.

Suman Bhadra

5

Visva-Bharati University is a prestigious central university located in Santiniketan, West Bengal, India. Founded in 1921 by the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore, it is renowned for its unique blend of Indian and Western educational traditions, emphasizing a holistic and interdisciplinary approach to learning. The university was established as a place to promote cultural exchange and creative freedom, fostering education in arts, humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. Visva-Bharati holds the status of an Institution of National Importance and is recognized for its open-air classrooms, artistic environment, and close ties with Indian culture and philosophy. Notable departments include Kala Bhavana (Institute of Fine Arts), Sangit Bhavana (Institute of Music and Performing Arts), and Patha Bhavana (School for primary and secondary education). It continues to attract students and scholars from around the world, preserving Tagore’s vision of a global, inclusive education.

Abu Tahir

5

Visva Bharati University is one of the oldest and traditional universities of the country. Arts, music, etc. are taught under this university. I had the opportunity to visit this university once, the world famous poet Rabindranath Tagore's memory is hidden inside this university campus. The presence of ancient trees, ancient sculptures, chirping of birds, clear sky inside this campus is like a strange joy that gives peace to the mind.

Placement Statistics and Trends

Visva Bharati University's placement rate for the 2024-2025 batch was about 70%. Placement rates vary by program. UG 4-year programs had a 45% rate, while PG 2-year programs placed 918 students.

The highest package offered in 2024-2025 was ₹7.2 LPA. Some MBA students received up to ₹12-15 LPA. Microsoft offered ₹23 LPA in previous years.

Top recruiters at Visva Bharati include TCS, Wipro, Infosys, and Oracle. HDFC Bank and Axis Bank also hire from the university. Other notable companies are Amazon, IBM, and Tata.

Year Placement Rate Highest Package Average Package Median Package Companies Visited
2024 70% Rs 7.2 LPA Rs 5-6 LPA Rs 5-6 LPA Data not specified
2023 Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified
2022 Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified Data not specified
Sector Top Companies
IT/Software TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Oracle
Core Engineering Tata Motors, Mahindra
Finance HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, Union Bank
Agriculture IFFCO
Consulting Data not specified
Retail Data not specified

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Visva Bharati University offers various scholarships. These help students with their education costs.

To apply, check the eligibility for each scholarship. Submit your application online with required documents.

Scholarship Name Eligibility Amount Application Process
University Merit Scholarship (UG) Top rankers in admission merit list INR 250/month Automatically considered during admission
University Merit Scholarship (PG) Top rankers in admission merit list INR 300/month Automatically considered during admission
Merit-cum-Means Scholarship (UG) Academic merit + family income ≤ INR 2.5 lakh/year INR 200/month Automatically considered during admission
Merit-cum-Means Scholarship (PG) Academic merit + family income ≤ INR 2.5 lakh/year INR 250/month Automatically considered during admission
Indira Gandhi Single Girl Child Fellowship Female PG students INR 300/month Automatically considered during admission
Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship SC/ST PG/PhD students, UGC-NET qualified INR 28,000/month + HRA + INR 20,000/year contingency Apply through university research office
Bridging Fellowship (PhD) PhD researchers, based on merit INR 34,100/month Apply through university research office
Bridging Fellowship (Postdoc) Postdoctoral researchers, based on merit INR 43,400/month Apply through university research office

Campus Facilities

Visva Bharati University has excellent academic facilities. The central library holds over 413,000 books. Labs and workshops support various departments.

The university provides comfortable residential facilities. It has 21 hostels with 918 beds for boys and 966 for girls. Other amenities include a medical center, sports complexes, and cafeterias.

Facility Details
Library 413,563 books, digital resources, supports 10,000 users
Hostel Boys: 918 beds, Girls: 966 beds, single/shared rooms, amenities
Laboratories Labs in 7 core, 3 applied science departments, computer labs
Sports Complex 6 nodal complexes, football, cricket, swimming pool, gym
Medical Center 50-bedded Health Centre, hospital facilities in hostels
Cafeteria Canteens at Santiniketan and Sriniketan, hostel mess facilities
Wi-Fi Unlimited internet access across campus
Computer Centers Support academic work, available to students and staff
Post Office On-campus postal services for convenience
Bank and ATM Financial services available within the campus
Museum Cultural and historical exhibits for educational purposes
Guest House Accommodation for visitors and guests
Shuttle Services Transportation within and around the campus

Frequently Asked Questions

When does admission start for 2025-26?

Admissions for 2025-26 are closed. The next session's admissions will open soon. Check the official website for updates.

What is the eligibility for UG admission?

Students need to pass 12th grade. Minimum 60% for General category and 54% for OBC. Subject-specific criteria may vary.

What is the fee structure for PG courses?

PG course fees range from Rs. 7,610 to Rs. 14,500 per year. M.A. Languages costs Rs. 7,610 – 8,500. M.Ed. Education costs Rs. 13,440 – 14,500.

What is the placement rate?

Specific placement statistics are not available. VBU is known for cultural, arts, and humanities programs. Large-scale campus placements are less common.

Are hostel facilities available?

VBU typically provides hostel facilities. Specific details should be confirmed on the official website. No capacity data is currently available.

What scholarships are available?

No direct information on scholarships was found. Students may explore merit, category, or government schemes. Check the university’s official website for details.

What entrance exams are accepted?

UG and PG admissions are through CUET. MBA/PGDM admissions require XAT scores. Foreign nationals have separate admission tests.

How is the campus infrastructure?

VBU is known for its heritage campus. It has libraries, cultural centers, and research facilities. It focuses on arts, humanities, and agricultural sciences.

What are popular courses offered?

VBU offers UG, PG, certificate, diploma, and Ph.D. programs. Popular PG courses include M.A. in Languages, M.F.A in Fine Arts, and M.Ed. MBA/PGDM courses are also available.

How to apply online?

Register on the official admission portal: visvabharatiadmission.samarth.edu.in. Fill in personal, academic, and course preferences. Upload documents and pay the fee online.

Frequently Asked Questions

    Students at Visva Bharati University rate it 3.5/5 for placements, highlighting moderate package offers of ₹2–4 LPA and good faculty support, while noting the average placement outcomes. The university scores 4/5 for its faculty and campus, with a large, heritage-rich campus and excellent departmental libraries, but with aging buildings and basic classrooms. Pros include a holistic, culturally rich environment and unique social work programs rooted in Tagore’s ideals, while cons mention basic facilities and average placement opportunities.
    The admission process at Visva Bharati University requires the XAT 2026 followed by counseling and document verification. The XAT registration for MBA/PGDM courses is open until Dec 5, 2025, with the exam scheduled for Jan 4, 2026.
    The entrance exams accepted at Visva Bharati University are NEST with a cutoff rank of around 1500 for the 5-year Integrated BSc-MSc course, and XAT with a cutoff percentile of approximately 90 for MBA/PGDM courses.
    The campus life at Visva Bharati University offers well-equipped hostels with modern facilities, including a mess that provides nutritious meals at Rs 8,000 per semester for undergraduate students, and a variety of clubs and fests that enhance student engagement. The environment is serene and fosters a holistic learning experience, with a strong emphasis on arts, culture, and outdoor activities.
    The eligibility for admission to Visva Bharati University's postgraduate programmes requires a minimum of 55% in the relevant undergraduate subjects and a valid score in the CUET entrance examination.
    The important admission dates for Visva Bharati University are: application for the 5-year Integrated BSc-MSc course starts in February 2026, the XAT exam for MBA/PGDM courses is on January 4, 2026, and the results for both exams are expected to be announced in March 2026.
    The placement at Visva Bharati University shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 10 LPA.
    The placement at Visva Bharati University shows 75% of students placed with an average package of Rs 2 LPA and a highest package of Rs 4 LPA.
    Visva Bharati University is good for engineering with a placement rate of 85%, an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA, and a focus on sustainable and innovative engineering solutions. The university offers various engineering courses, and selected candidates must secure a valid score in the CUET entrance examination. The university also emphasizes strong industry connections through internships and projects.
    Visva Bharati University is ranked #151-200 in NIRF 2025 for the 'Overall' category and #101 in NIRF 2024 for the 'University' category.
    Visva Bharati University is known for its unique curriculum and cultural studies programs and ranked 42nd in the NIRF University Rankings 2025. The university offers a 5-year Integrated BSc-MSc course, and its CUET UG Counselling Process 2025 is currently underway for admission to various undergraduate courses.
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