Central Universities in India are public universities established by the Government of India through an Act of Parliament. These universities are centrally funded and are governed by the University Grants Commission (UGC). They aim to provide high-quality education, research, and innovation across various disciplines. Each Central University typically has a specific geographical jurisdiction and focuses on academic excellence and research. Examples include the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), and Delhi University, among others.
Admissions to PG courses is via CUET PG from the year 2024, though you will have to apply to individual universities.
1. University of Delhi: A Premier Institution
Established in February 1922, the University of Delhi stands as one of India’s premier higher learning institutions. Offering a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, along with various certificate/diploma courses, the university is known for its excellence in academics. For more details, visit www.du.ac.in.
2. North Eastern Hill University (NEHU): Focused on Regional Advancement
Founded in 1973, NEHU aims to enhance the social, economic, and cultural conditions of the hill areas in the North East Region. With campuses in Shillong and TURA, NEHU is dedicated to intellectual, academic, and cultural advancement. Explore more at www.nehu.ac.in.
3. Assam University: A Hub for Diverse Courses
Established in 1994 in Silchar, Assam University serves as a teaching-cum-affiliating university, offering postgraduate, M.Phil., Ph.D., and integrated courses. Its jurisdiction spans several districts in Assam, and it is renowned for its commitment to education. Learn more at www.aus.ac.in.
4. Tezpur University: Education in the Heart of Assam
Located in Napaam, Tezpur, Tezpur University has been imparting education since January 1994. The university offers a range of PG and PG Diploma programs, including a part-time MBA program. Details can be found at www.tezu.ernet.in.
5. Mizoram University: A Central University in the Northeast
Established in 2000, Mizoram University offers diverse courses such as M.A., M.Sc., M.Phil, Ph.D., B.Tech, etc. With a commitment to providing quality education, the university caters to students across various disciplines. Explore further at www.mzu.edu.in.
6. Nagaland University: Multi-Campus Learning
Founded in 1994, Nagaland University operates across campuses in Kohima, Dimapur, Lumami, and Medziphema. The university offers courses at various levels, including MA, M.Sc, MMC, M.Phil, and Ph.D., contributing to the educational landscape in Nagaland. Visit www.nagalanduniversity.ac.in for more information.
7. Manipur University: Central University Status Since 2005
Established under the Manipur University Act, 2005, Manipur University has been a Central University since October 13, 2005. Offering a variety of degree programs, the university plays a pivotal role in higher education in Manipur. Details can be found at www.manipuruniv.ac.in.
8. University of Allahabad: Oldest and Prestigious
Founded in 1887, the University of Allahabad is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious universities. Declared an Institution of National Importance in 2005, the university offers a wide range of academic programs through its teaching departments and institutes. Explore more at www.allduniv.ac.in.
9. Rajiv Gandhi University: Educational Hub in Itanagar
Established in 2007 under the Rajiv Gandhi University Act, Rajiv Gandhi University in Itanagar serves as a Central University. It focuses on providing advanced knowledge in various disciplines, contributing to the educational landscape of Arunachal Pradesh. Learn more at www.rgu.ac.in.
10. Tripura University: Central University Since 2007
Founded in 2007 under the Tripura University Act, this institution caters to the educational needs of Tripura. Offering diverse courses, Tripura University has become a prominent hub for higher education in the region. Explore further at www.tripurauniv.in.
11. Sikkim University: Educational Hub in Gangtok
Established in 2007, Sikkim University operates from its headquarters in Gangtok. With a commitment to academic excellence, the university serves as a teaching and affiliating institution, contributing to the educational growth of Sikkim. For more information, visit www.cus.ac.in.
12. English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU): Linguistic Diversity
Founded in 2007 under the English and Foreign Languages University Act, EFLU is a multi-campus institution with campuses in Hyderabad, Lucknow, and Shillong. Specializing in English and foreign languages, the university offers various on-campus and distance programs. Explore offerings at www.efluniversity.ac.in.
13. Aligarh Muslim University (AMU): A Historic Academic Institution
Originating as M.A.O. College and later incorporated as a Central University in 1920, AMU stands as a fully residential academic institution. Renowned for its history, AMU offers a diverse range of programs and is committed to academic excellence. Learn more at www.amu.ac.in.
14. Banaras Hindu University (BHU): An Oldest and Largest Hub
Established in 1916, BHU is one of the oldest and largest Central Universities in India. A teaching and residential university, BHU offers a wide array of academic programs and has been a pioneer in higher education for over a century. Details are available at www.bhu.ac.in.
15. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): Focus on Postgraduate Education
Established in 1969, JNU primarily focuses on postgraduate education and research. Known for its academic rigor, JNU has been a key player in shaping the intellectual landscape of India. For more information, visit www.jnu.ac.in.
16. Jamia Millia Islamia: From Deemed to Central University
Functioning as a deemed-to-be university since 1962, Jamia Millia Islamia gained Central University status in December 1988. With a wide range of courses, the university caters to students from nursery to postgraduate and doctoral levels. Explore further at www.jmi.nic.in.
17. Visva Bharati: Founded by Rabindranath Tagore
Established by Rabindranath Tagore in 1921 and later incorporated as a Central University in 1951, Visva Bharati is known for imparting education from the primary school to postgraduate and doctoral levels. The university has campuses in Shantiniketan and Sriniketan. Details are available at www.visva-bharati.ac.in.
18. University of Hyderabad: Premier Postgraduate Institution
Established in 1974, the University of Hyderabad has emerged as a premier institution for postgraduate teaching and research. With various schools of study and additional centers, the university provides a comprehensive education. Explore more at www.uohyd.ernet.in.
19. Pondicherry University: Teaching-cum-Affiliating University
Founded in 1985, Pondicherry University operates as a teaching-cum-affiliating university. With jurisdiction over the Union Territories of Pondicherry and Andaman & Nicobar Islands, the university offers diverse postgraduate, M.Tech, M.Phil, Ph.D., and PG Diploma programs. Learn more at www.pondiuni.edu.in.
20. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow: Promoting Advanced Knowledge
Established in 1996, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University in Lucknow is a Central University focused on promoting advanced knowledge. The university offers instructional and research facilities in various disciplines. Explore further at www.bbau.ac.in.
21. MAULANA AZAD NATIONAL URDU UNIVERSITY
Established in 1998 in Hyderabad, the Maulana Azad National Urdu University is dedicated to promoting and developing the Urdu language. The university offers higher, technical, and vocational education in Urdu through both conventional and distance modes. For detailed information, visit www.manuu.ac.in.
22. MAHATMA GANDHI ANTARRASHTRIYA HINDI VISHWAVIDYALAYA
Founded in 1997 in Wardha, Mahatma Gandhi Antarrashtriya Hindi Vishwavidyalaya aims to promote and develop Hindi language and literature. The university actively engages in comparative studies and research in Hindi and other Indian languages. It also provides programs in translation, interpretation, and linguistics to enhance the functional effectiveness of Hindi. Explore more at www.hindivishwa.org.
23. INDIRA GANDHI NATIONAL OPEN UNIVERSITY (IGNOU)
Established in 1985 by an Act of Parliament, IGNOU has a dual mandate of enhancing access to higher education through distance mode and promoting standards in open learning. Over the years, IGNOU has expanded globally, becoming an international institution in the field of Open and Distance Learning. For further details, visit www.ignou.ac.in.
24. INDIRA GANDHI NATIONAL TRIBAL UNIVERSITY
Founded in 2007 in Amarkantak, Madhya Pradesh, the Indira Gandhi National Tribal University aims to fulfill the educational aspirations of tribal communities across the country. The university, fully funded by the Central Government through the University Grants Commission, caters to the long-standing dream of tribals for higher education. More information is available at www.igntu.ac.in.
25. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF BIHAR
Established in 2009 under the Central Universities Act, the Central University of Bihar is committed to disseminating and advancing knowledge in various branches of learning. The university provides instructional and research facilities to fulfill its objectives. For comprehensive details, visit www.cub.ac.in.
26. GURU GHASIDAS VISHWAVIDYALAYA
Established under the Central Universities Act 2009, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, formerly known as Guru Ghasidas University (GGU), operates as a residential-cum-affiliating institution. With its jurisdiction spread over Bilaspur Revenue Division of Chhattisgarh, the university has been contributing to education since its inauguration on June 16, 1983. Explore more at www.ggu.ac.in.
27. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF GUJARAT
Established in 2009 by the Parliament, the Central University of Gujarat focuses on disseminating and advancing knowledge. The university aims to provide integrated courses, educate and train manpower for national development, promote innovation in teaching-learning, and improve social and economic conditions. For detailed information, visit www.cug.ac.in.
28. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF HARYANA
Founded in 2009 by an Act of Parliament, the Central University of Haryana emphasizes the dissemination and advancement of knowledge. It offers instructional and research facilities in various branches of learning, with a special focus on integrated courses in humanities, social sciences, science, and technology. Learn more at www.cuh.ac.in.
29. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF HIMACHAL PRADESH
Established under the Central Universities Act 2009, the Central University of Himachal Pradesh aims to disseminate and advance knowledge in humanities, social sciences, sciences, and technology. The university’s educational programs include provisions for integrated courses. For further details, visit www.cuhimachal.ac.in.
30. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF KASHMIR
Formerly known as the Central University of Jammu and Kashmir, the Central University of Kashmir was established in March 2009. The university offers courses in MBA, M.Sc. I.T., and M.A. English, starting from its Transit Campus from August 25, 2010. For more details, visit www.cukashmir.ac.in.
31. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF JHARKHAND
Established in March 2009 under the Central Universities Act, 2009, the Central University of Jharkhand focuses on conducting research in cutting-edge technologies. For comprehensive information, visit www.cuj.ac.in.
32. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF KARNATAKA
Established at Gulbarga, Karnataka, the Central University of Karnataka (CUK) operates under the Central Universities Act 2009. The university, with territorial jurisdiction all over Karnataka, aims to achieve and maintain high levels of academic excellence and become a premier national educational and research institution. For more details, visit www.cuk.ac.in.
33. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF KERALA
Established under the Central Universities Act, 2009, the Central University of Kerala started functioning in January 2009. It began with academic programs in MA in English and Comparative Literature and MA in Economics. The university has statewide jurisdiction and can establish regional centers in any part of the State. Explore further at www.cukerala.ac.in.
34. DR. HARISINGH GOUR VISHWAVIDYALAYA
Declared a Central University from January 15th, 2009, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya offers conventional degree, postgraduate, and research courses. The university covers a wide range of subjects, including Geology, Pharmacy, Criminology & Forensic Science, Anthropology, Performing Arts, Journalism & Mass Communication, Adult Education, Electronics, Business Management, Microbiology, Biotechnology, and Computer Applications. The Institute of Distance Education of the University runs various self-finance correspondence courses. For more details, visit www.dhsgsu.ac.in.
35. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF ORISSA
Established by the Parliament under the Central Universities Act, 2009, the Central University of Orissa is recognized for its faculty’s excellence, students’ engagement in scholarship, and its commitment to addressing tribal society’s educational, economic, and cultural challenges. For detailed information, visit www.cuo.org.
36. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF PUNJAB
Established through the Central Universities Act 2009, the Central University of Punjab aims to disseminate and advance knowledge. The university provides instructional and research facilities in various branches of learning. For more details, visit www.cup.edu.in
37. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF RAJASTHAN
Established in February 2009 by an Act of Parliament under the Central Universities Act 2009, the Central University of Rajasthan has launched new PG programs. For further details, visit www.curaj.ac.in
.
38. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF TAMIL NADU
Established under the Central Universities Act 2009, the Central University of Tamil Nadu offers programs in M.A. English Studies and integrated M.Sc. programs in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. For more details, visit www.cutn.ac.in.
39. HEMWATI NANDAN BAHUGUNA GARWAL UNIVERSITY
First established in December 1973 and later declared a Central University in January 2009, Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University has three campuses and over 180 affiliated colleges and institutes. The university offers a variety of higher learning courses and academic programs through its 10 Faculties. For comprehensive details, visit www.hnbgu.ac.in
40. CENTRAL UNIVERSITY OF JAMMU
Established on August 08, 2011, by the Central Universities Act, 2009, the Central University of Jammu offers a range of educational programs. For more details, visit www.cujammu.in.
Other Central Universities in India which are not under Ministry of HRD
- 1. SOUTH ASIAN UNIVERSITY
The South Asian University is an International University sponsored by the eight Member States of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The eight countries are: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. For more details, visit www.sau.int
- 2. NALANDA UNIVERSITY
Nalanda University was established in November 2010. The University came into being by a special Act of the Indian Parliament – a testimony to the important status that Nalanda University occupies in the Indian intellectual landscape. For more details, visit: www.nalandauniv.edu.in
- 3. CENTRAL AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), an apex body, which plans, undertakes aids, promotes, and coordinates agricultural education, research and extension education in India. For more details, visit: www.cau.org.in
- 4. INDIAN MARITIME UNIVERSITY
The Indian Maritime University, came into being through an Act of Parliament (Act 22) on 14th November, 2008 as a Central University and is poised to play a key role in the development of trained human resource for the maritime sector. For more details, visit : www.imu.edu.in
- 5. RAJIV GANDHI NATIONAL AVIATION UNIVERSITY
Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University is an autonomous central university at Fursatganj Airfield in Uttar Pradesh, India, for aviation studies and research. For more details, visit www.rgnau.ac.in
