The University of Calcutta, commonly referred to as Calcutta University (CU), is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious educational institutions. Established in 1857, it has been a center of excellence for education and research for over a century. Located in Kolkata, West Bengal, CU is renowned for its rich history, comprehensive curriculum, and cutting-edge research.
1. Courses Offered by University of Calcutta
Calcutta University offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines. Whether you are interested in the sciences, humanities, social sciences, law, or engineering, CU provides diverse academic opportunities.
Undergraduate Programs:
- B.A. (Hons.) and B.Sc. (Hons.) in various subjects like English, Political Science, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, etc.
- B.Com. (Hons.) in Commerce and Accounting
- BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
- BCA (Bachelor of Computer Applications)
Postgraduate Programs:
- M.A., M.Sc., M.Com. in a wide range of subjects
- MBA (Master of Business Administration)
- MCA (Master of Computer Applications)
- M.Tech in various engineering disciplines
- LL.M. (Master of Laws)
Doctoral Programs:
- Ph.D. programs are available in various fields like Physics, Chemistry, Economics, Sociology, etc. CU has a strong research culture with significant contributions to global knowledge.
2. Admission Process for 2025
Calcutta University follows a centralized admission process for various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Admission to CU’s courses is primarily based on merit and entrance exams, depending on the program.
Undergraduate Admissions (2025):
- For B.A., B.Sc., and B.Com. programs, candidates need to have completed their higher secondary education (Class 12) from a recognized board.
- Selection is based on the marks obtained in the qualifying exam (Class 12). Some programs may also have a subject-specific entrance exam or interview.
Postgraduate Admissions (2025):
- For M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., and other postgraduate courses, candidates must have a relevant undergraduate degree.
- Entrance exams are conducted for various programs like M.A. (English), M.Sc. (Physics), and more.
- For MBA and MCA, CU conducts a common entrance test known as the CU-MAT for MBA and CU-CET for MCA admissions.
Ph.D. Admissions:
- Entrance exams and interviews are mandatory for admission to the Ph.D. programs. The university follows UGC regulations for Ph.D. admissions.
3. Fee Structure at Calcutta University
The fee structure at Calcutta University varies across different courses and programs. It is relatively affordable when compared to private institutions.
- Undergraduate Programs: The annual tuition fee for general undergraduate programs ranges from ₹4,000 to ₹10,000 depending on the course.
- Postgraduate Programs: The fees for M.A., M.Sc., and M.Com. range between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000 per year. For professional courses like MBA or MCA, the fees are higher and may range from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 annually.
- Ph.D. Programs: The Ph.D. admission fee is nominal, usually around ₹10,000 to ₹20,000, depending on the research area.
The university also offers various scholarships and financial assistance for deserving students.
4. Placements at Calcutta University
Calcutta University has a dedicated placement cell that facilitates campus recruitment for students. The university has tie-ups with leading national and international companies in sectors like IT, engineering, finance, management, and more.
- Top Recruiters: Some of the top recruiters at CU include Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), Cognizant, Wipro, Accenture, IBM, and HDFC Bank.
- Placement Records: Calcutta University has an impressive placement track record with a high percentage of students securing positions in reputed companies. The average salary package varies depending on the program, with management students typically receiving higher salary offers.
- Internships: CU students are also offered numerous internship opportunities that help them gain practical exposure and enhance their employability.
5. Ranking of Calcutta University (2025)
The University of Calcutta holds a prominent position in various national and international rankings, reflecting its excellence in education and research.
- National Ranking: As of 2025, CU is consistently ranked among the top 20 universities in India by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). It has a solid reputation in fields like arts, science, and law.
- International Recognition: CU is also recognized by global rankings, especially in research and academic contributions. The university ranks within the top 1000 universities globally, particularly for its science and engineering programs.
6. Campus Life and Infrastructure
Calcutta University boasts a sprawling and historic campus that blends heritage with modernity. The main campus is located on College Street, which is known for its academic significance and vibrant student life. The infrastructure includes:
- Libraries: CU has well-stocked libraries with extensive collections of books, journals, and e-resources.
- Sports and Recreation: The university has a variety of sports facilities, including basketball courts, tennis courts, and gymnasiums.
- Hostels: There are several hostels for outstation students, providing accommodation at reasonable rates.