Courses, Fees, Eligibility, Selection Process, Seats, NEP‑2020 & Career Scope
Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh, is one of India’s leading public universities, offering a wide range of undergraduate Arts programs aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. For the 2026 admission cycle, PU offers both traditional 3-year BA programs and 4-year BA (Honours / Honours with Research) programs, providing flexibility, multidisciplinary learning, and strong academic foundations.
This blog compiles official program details, including courses, fees, eligibility, selection process, seat matrix, NEP structure, placements, and application steps for BA / BA Hons. admissions at Panjab University, Chandigarh.
Step 1: Overview of BA / BA Hons. Programs at Panjab University
Panjab University offers BA programs through multiple departments and institutes, catering to students with diverse academic and career goals:
3-Year BA Degree (Traditional format)
4-Year BA (Hons.) / BA (Hons. with Research) under NEP-2020
Multiple Entry & Exit Options: Certificate, Diploma, Degree, Honours, Honours with Research
These programs are suitable for students aiming for careers in civil services, economics, policy research, social sciences, NGOs, media, teaching, corporate roles, and higher studies.
Step 2: Program Summary – Department-Wise
📘 BA / BA Hons. Courses at PU Chandigarh (2026)
| Department / Institute | Course Name | Duration | Seats | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Department of Evening Studies – Multi Disciplinary Research Centre | Bachelor of Arts (BA) | 3 Years | 200 | Affordable, traditional BA program |
| Department of Economics | BA (Hons.) / BA (Hons. with Research) in Economics (FYUGP) | 4 Years | 29 + 4 NRI + 1 Foreign National | Quantitative focus, NEP multiple exits |
| Institute of Social Science Education & Research (ISSER) | BA (Hons.) Social Science with Research | 4 Years | 100 | Multidisciplinary social sciences, research-oriented |
Step 3: Understanding NEP 2020 for BA Programs
📖 What NEP 2020 Means
The National Education Policy 2020, announced on 29 July 2020, is India’s new education framework focused on:
Access, Equity, Quality, Affordability & Accountability
Multidisciplinary and holistic education
Skill-based and experiential learning
Academic flexibility with choice-based curricula
🎓 Entry & Exit Options under NEP
| Years Completed | Qualification Awarded |
|---|---|
| 1 Year | Certificate |
| 2 Years | Diploma |
| 3 Years | BA Degree |
| 4 Years | BA (Hons.) / BA (Hons. with Research) |
4-year Honours / Research programs include advanced coursework, research projects, and specialization, improving employability and PhD readiness.
Step 4: BA / BA Hons. Fee Structure (Reference for 2026)
💰 Department of Evening Studies – BA Fees
| Year | Approx. Fees |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | ₹14,185 |
| 2nd Year | ₹13,845 |
| 3rd Year | ₹13,455 |
| Total (Approx.) | ₹41,485 |
💰 BA (Hons.) Economics Fees
| Year | Approx. Fees |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | ₹22,085 (2025–26 reference) |
💰 BA (Hons.) Social Science Fees
| Year | Approx. Fees |
|---|---|
| 1st Year | ₹16,355 (latest available data) |
Notes:
Fees are approximate and year-specific.
Additional charges (examination, library, student activity) may apply.
Candidates must verify final fees on the official PU admission portal.
Step 5: Eligibility Criteria – At a Glance
🎓 Educational Qualification
Passed +2 examination (10+2+3 system) from a recognized Board/University.
Minimum 60% marks in Class XII.
📐 Subject Requirements
Mathematics at Class XII is mandatory for:
BA (Hons.) Economics
BA (Hons.) Social Science
English must be included among the subjects.
📊 Merit Calculation Rules
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Merit Basis | Best 5 subjects |
| Mandatory Subjects | Mathematics & English |
| Extra Weightage | +2% if Economics studied at +2 level |
🎯 Age Limit & Relaxations (Social Science Program)
| Category | Maximum Age (as on 1 August) |
|---|---|
| General | 20 Years |
| SC / ST | 22 Years |
| PwD | 25 Years |
5% concession in eligibility marks for SC / ST / BC / PwD candidates.
Step 6: Selection & Admission Process — Step by Step
Check Official Notification
Monitor the Panjab University admissions portal for 2026 updates.Choose Program Type
Decide between:3-Year BA (Traditional)
4-Year BA (Hons. / Research) under NEP
Verify Eligibility & Documents
Class XII marksheet
Date of birth proof
Category certificate (if applicable)
NRI / Foreign documents (if applicable)
Apply Online
Fill out the PU online application form and pay the application fee.Merit Calculation
University prepares merit lists based on best-five subjects and applicable weightages.Counselling & Seat Allocation
Seats allotted as per merit and reservation norms.Fee Payment & Enrollment
Pay course fees and complete admission formalities.
Step 7: Seats, Reservation & Special Categories
| Program | Total Seats |
|---|---|
| BA – Evening Studies | 200 |
| BA (Hons.) Economics | 29 + 4 NRI + 1 Foreign |
| BA (Hons.) Social Science | 100 |
Reservation as per PU & Government of India norms.
NRI / Foreign National seats have separate eligibility and fee structures.
Step 8: Placements & Career Prospects
🏢 Placement & Career Support
Central placement assistance
Internship opportunities
Strong alumni network
💼 Career Options After BA / BA Hons.
Civil Services & Government Exams
Economics & Data-oriented roles
Policy research & think tanks
NGOs & development sector
Journalism, content & media
Teaching & academia
Higher studies: MA, MSW, MBA, LLB, PhD
4-year Honours / Research programs significantly improve research readiness and employability.
Step 9: Practical Tips for Applicants
Choose 4-year Honours if aiming for research or PhD.
Ensure Mathematics in Class XII if applying for Economics or Social Science.
Keep documents scanned and ready.
Track deadlines carefully.
Review category-wise seat matrix before applying.