Top 10 Universities in India 2025: NIRF Rankings & Admission Guide

Want to know which universities rank among India’s top 10? The academic landscape has never looked better, with IISc Bangalore dominating the NIRF Rankings’ top spot for nine straight years.

Our analysis of multiple ranking systems provides a clear picture of India’s leading universities. IISc Bangalore scored an impressive 83.16 in NIRF Rankings 2024. IIT Bombay stands out in QS Asia University Rankings at 40th position. The University of Delhi has made significant progress by climbing from 11th to 6th place in recent NIRF Rankings. It now holds the distinction of being India’s highest-ranked non-IIT university in QS rankings. Jawaharlal Nehru University shows its academic strength with a remarkable research score of 184.8 out of 250 in India Today Best Colleges 2024 rankings.

Let us help you navigate through these top 10 university rankings. We’ll cover everything from admission requirements to exceptional programs that can shape your academic journey.

Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore

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The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, a 114-year old institution founded in 1909, stands as the life-blood of India’s top universities. The campus spreads across 434 acres and has showed its academic excellence through groundbreaking research and complete educational programs.

IISc Bangalore admission process 2025

The 2025-26 academic year admissions started on February 4, 2025. Students can apply to undergraduate programs like the four-year B.S. (Research) and B.Tech in Mathematics and Computing from May 1 to June 6, 2025. We selected undergraduate students based on their JEE Advanced 2025 ranks or IISER Aptitude Test scores.

Students applying to postgraduate and research programs now have until March 23, 2025. Ph.D. candidates need a bachelor’s degree in engineering/technology or relevant master’s degree with valid GATE/NET JRF scores. The deadline for sponsored candidates and External Registration Program (ERP) applicants extends to March 31, 2025.

Top courses at IISc Bangalore

IISc’s academic programs span three levels—undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral. The four-year Bachelor of Science (Research) and B.Tech in Mathematics and Computing stand out at the undergraduate level.

Students can choose from M.Sc., M.Tech, M.Des, and specialized management programs at the postgraduate level. The doctoral programs include direct Ph.D. and Integrated Ph.D. options in a variety of disciplines. The institution’s fees change by program—M.Sc. courses cost between Rs. 1.32 lakhs to Rs. 2.12 lakhs based on specialization.

IISc Bangalore NIRF 2025 ranking insights

IISc managed to keep its #1 spot in the NIRF University category for nine straight years (2016-2024). The institute ranks first in Research Institutions for the fourth year running and has held second position in the Overall Category since 2019.

The institute’s top rankings come from excellent scores in NIRF’s assessment areas like teaching quality, research output, and graduation outcomes.

Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

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Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), a 59-year old institution founded in 1966, stands as a premier institution in India’s academic world. This public central university earned ‘University of Excellence’ status from UGC and provides a unique mix of academics, research, and social activities across its vibrant campus in New Delhi.

JNU admission guide 2025

JNU processes admissions through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for the 2025-26 academic year. Students seeking admission in B.A. (Hons.) in Foreign Languages, B.Sc. in Ayurveda Biology, and Certificate of Proficiency programs must take CUET (UG) 2025. The university uses CUET (PG) 2025 scores for postgraduate programs like M.A., M.Sc., MCA, MPH, and M.Tech.

Foreign nationals can apply under the in-absentia category until May 5, 2025. Notwithstanding that, B.Tech admissions work differently through JEE Mains (JoSAA/DASA). Students applying for the first time should remember to submit a separate JNU application after CUET results.

Popular programs at JNU

JNU’s academic portfolio has over 100 courses at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. The university offers:

• Language and Cultural Studies: Programs in Chinese, Japanese, and Korean studies that emphasize language skills
• International Relations: Programs that blend foreign policy, politics, and regional studies
• Science and Technology: BTech, MTech, and research programs in scientific disciplines

JNU’s East Asian Studies Center showcases a specialized academic approach that combines history, politics, society, and economics with language training. Students also receive fellowships from organizations like Japan Foundation, Korea Foundation, and various government agencies.

JNU NIRF 2025 ranking highlights

JNU achieved remarkable success in NIRF 2024 rankings with 2nd position in the University category. The university ranked 10th in the Overall category and secured 18th position in Research Institutions. These achievements showcase JNU’s steadfast dedication to academic excellence in teaching, research, and graduation outcomes.

The university’s placement statistics for 2023-24 reveal impressive results with median salary packages of ₹950,000 for postgraduate students. JNU’s NAAC accreditation score of 3.62 (valid until October 24, 2031) reinforces its position among India’s top universities.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

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Banaras Hindu University (BHU), a 107-year-old “temple of learning”, stands proudly in the holy city of Varanasi. Nationalist leader Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya and Dr. Annie Besant brought their vision to life through the BHU Act 1915. Today, BHU ranks consistently among India’s top 10 universities.

BHU admission process 2025

The National Testing Agency’s Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG) serves as the main gateway to BHU for the 2025-26 academic year. Students can submit their applications starting March 20, 2025. International students have a two-month window from March 20 to May 20, 2025.

The admission process starts with CUET-UG 2025 registration at www.nta.ac.in. Students must then apply through BHU’s Common Allotment Program (CAP-UG 2025). Students should check their program eligibility carefully before taking the entrance exam. Graduate school hopefuls need to take CUET-PG 2025. The registration details came out on January 15, 2025.

Top courses offered at BHU

BHU’s academic portfolio spans undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Here are the university’s standout offerings:

• Arts and Humanities: The most sought-after programs cost between Rs. 5,868 and Rs. 11,892 yearly
• B.Tech: A four-year degree with a total cost of Rs. 3.20 lakhs. Students need 75% in 10+2 with Science and a valid JEE Main score
• MBA: This elite program costs Rs. 10,228-2,41,534 and accepts CAT/MAT/XAT scores

Most undergraduate programs at BHU need a minimum 50% total in qualifying exams.

BHU NIRF 2025 ranking analysis

BHU claimed an impressive 5th spot in NIRF 2024’s University category with 66.05 points. The university also secured 4th place in Agriculture and Allied Sectors (68.32), 6th in Medical (70.07), and 11th Overall (67.56).

BHU’s NIRF performance has grown steadily over the last several years. The Overall category score jumped from 63.10 in 2021 to 67.56 in 2024. The 2024 rankings also brought success in specialized areas: 16th in Research, 17th in Dental, 25th in Law, and 48th in Management.

Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal

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Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) ranks among India’s leading universities and holds the prestigious Institution of Eminence status from the Ministry of Education. The university’s 600-acre Wi-Fi enabled campus has helped MAHE become India’s top private university according to QS World Rankings 2019.

Manipal University admission details 2025

MAHE’s 2025 admissions follow a simple three-step online application process. Students seeking engineering programs must take the Manipal Entrance Test (MET) 2025 to enter Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT). The application deadline is April 29, 2025, so students should start preparing early.

Some programs need extra Department Tests (DT) or national entrance exams like NEET. Students applying for integrated management programs must qualify both MET and DT. MAHE helps students with complete guidance about eligibility criteria, financial support options, and key dates.

Best programs at Manipal

MAHE offers 370+ programs in 36 disciplines through three main faculties:

• Faculty of Health Sciences: Features 11 streams including Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Public Health
• Faculty of Technology & Science: Includes Engineering, Architecture, Design, and Hotel Management
• Faculty of Management, Liberal Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences & Law: Offers 12 distinct streams

B.Tech programs in Aeronautical Engineering, Automobile Engineering, and Computer Science Engineering are student favorites. The university’s research excellence shows in its 37 crore research grants and 70 IPR filings over the last several years.

Manipal NIRF 2025 ranking overview

MAHE achieved a soaring win in NIRF 2024 rankings by reaching the top 4 spot in the University category. The university secured the 14th position overall and ranked 23rd in Research. MIT Manipal, MAHE’s constituent institute, stands at 56th place in Engineering.

MAHE’s global reputation grows through 250+ international partnerships. The university holds a position in the 901-950 bracket in QS World University Rankings.

Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore

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Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham started as a modest engineering school with 120 students in 1994. The institution grew steadily and now ranks among India’s top 10 universities, educating over 24,000 students at multiple campuses. The multi-disciplinary university sits at the foothills of Bouluvanpatty ranges in Tamil Nadu. Students can choose from more than 250 programs taught by 1700+ faculty members.

Amrita University admission process 2025

The university’s 2025 admission process varies by program choice. Engineering candidates should register for the Amrita Entrance Examination Engineering (AEEE), which started in November 2024. Students can also submit their JEE Mains 2025 percentile scores. Life sciences and medical program admissions happen through the Amrita Entrance Examination – Life Sciences. Arts and commerce programs evaluate +2 marks and conduct interviews.

Students applying to non-B.Tech programs can use the university’s detailed online application system through their admissions portal. Some specialized programs like B.Sc. Nursing and Allied Health Sciences need separate entrance exam scores from tests scheduled in May 2025.

Top courses at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

The university’s academic programs span multiple domains:

• Engineering Programs: B.Tech options feature Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, Computer Science, and Aerospace Engineering with fees between ₹16-24 lakhs
• Management Studies: MBA programs (₹11.10 lakhs) need valid CAT/XAT/MAT/CMAT/GMAT/GRE scores and minimum 50% marks in bachelor’s degree
• Architecture: B.Arch program (₹15 lakhs) needs Mathematics and Physics in Class 12 with at least 50% marks

The university excels at creating innovative integrated programs like 5-year integrated M.Sc. in Data Science and specialized B.Tech courses in emerging fields. The reliable infrastructure features comfortable hostel accommodation that costs ₹40,000-₹52,000 yearly based on room type.

Amrita NIRF 2025 ranking performance

Amrita continues to shine among India’s elite institutions with its 7th rank in NIRF 2024’s University category. The university has stayed in the “Top 10 Universities in India” list for eight consecutive years. The institution holds 18th position nationally in the Overall category.

The university’s specialized schools show remarkable achievements. Amrita School of Medicine stands at 8th, School of Pharmacy at 13th, School of Dentistry at 14th, and School of Engineering at 23rd in their respective categories. Times Higher Education ranks Amrita 1st in India and 81st globally, solidifying its position among India’s leading educational institutions.

University of Delhi (DU), New Delhi

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Delhi University (DU) stands as one of India’s most prestigious educational institutions with a rich history of over 100 years. The university welcomed 90,644 undergraduate students in 2024-25, which is a big deal as it means that the intake exceeded its 70,000 capacity.

Delhi University admission guide 2025

DU’s admission process for 2025-26 involves two main steps through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET UG 2025). Students can now access the information bulletin and application details on the university’s official admission website (admission.uod.ac.in). The Common Seat Allocation System (CSAS) guides students through their admission journey.

Important admission facts:

• Students can join undergraduate programs at any age (except for MCI, BCI regulated courses)
• Taking a gap year won’t affect your admission chances
• You can study two regular degree programs at once

Popular courses at DU

The university offers programs at diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. Here are some student favorites:

• BCom: Learn about Accounting, Finance, and Economics
• BA Hons Political Science: Explore political theories and global politics
• BA Hons English: Study literary works and critical theories in detail
• BA in Psychology: Learn about human behavior, cognition, and research methods

DU’s reputation comes from its excellent BA, B.Sc, B.Com, MA, M.Sc courses in various fields. The university also runs prestigious LLB and MBA programs. Course fees vary between Rs. 5,000 and Rs. 8.96 lakhs.

DU NIRF 2025 ranking insights

The university’s latest rankings show impressive growth. DU jumped to 6th position from 11th in NIRF 2024’s Universities Category, scoring 56.75. The university also climbed to 15th position from 22nd in the Overall category.

DU now ranks 328 in QS World University Rankings 2025, moving up from its earlier 501-510 spot. This places DU among the top 22% of global institutions. The university’s reputation grows stronger with its constituent colleges. Hindu College, Miranda House, and St. Stephen’s College hold top spots in NIRF college rankings.

Jadavpur University, Kolkata

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Jadavpur University, a 70-year-old institution founded in 1955, ranks among India’s finest educational centers with outstanding programs in engineering, arts, and science. The University Grants Commission recognizes it as an institute with ‘Potential for Excellence’, and the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) has awarded it an ‘A+’ grade with a CGPA of 3.46 on a four-point scale.

Jadavpur University admission process 2025

Students can submit their applications for the 2025-26 academic year from April 15, 2025, to June 30, 2025. The engineering and technology programs select candidates based on WBJEE scores and counseling. The arts faculty evaluates candidates through its entrance test and academic performance, while science programs look at merit-based selections.

The registration process takes place on the university’s official website. Students need to submit their 10th and 12th mark sheets, caste certificates (if applicable), income certificates, ID proof, and passport-sized photographs. The university describes its admission process as “extremely competitive, though completely transparent and student-friendly”.

Top programs at Jadavpur University

JU provides students with rich academic choices:

• Engineering Programs: Computer Science and Engineering leads as the flagship program with almost 100% placement record each year
• Arts and Science Courses: BA Sociology, BA Philosophy, and various science disciplines
• Specialized Programs: M.Tech in Artificial Intelligence and doctoral programs in Film Studies

The School of Illumination Science, Engineering and Design features a laser animation lab. JU’s Innovation Council (IIC) helps students develop new ideas through awareness programs and industry visits.

Jadavpur NIRF 2025 ranking highlights

JU achieved remarkable rankings in 2024 NIRF, securing the 9th position among universities, 12th rank in engineering institutes, and 17th place overall in India. These numbers show a slight shift from 2023’s rankings of 4th in University category and 13th Overall.

The university excels in NIRF parameters with impressive scores in teaching-learning resources (78.24/100) and graduation outcomes (76.55/100). These achievements solidify JU’s place among India’s top 10 universities.

Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi

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Jamia Millia Islamia started its journey in Aligarh in 1920 and moved to Delhi in 1925. This 103-year old institution has grown into a research-intensive central university with global recognition. The university now holds NAAC A++ accreditation and ranks among India’s finest, excelling in natural sciences, social sciences, engineering, and humanities.

Jamia Millia Islamia admission guide 2025

The university has opened its online application portal to admit students for the 2025-26 academic session. Students can find admission notices for different programs. The dedicated admissions portal lets you access application forms for undergraduate and postgraduate programs. B.Tech and B.Arch programs have their own application process. Students can download their admit cards a week before the scheduled entrance tests.

Best courses at JMI

JMI offers programs of all types and levels:

• Undergraduate Programs: B.A. LL.B. (Hons.), B.Tech in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Electronics & Communication Engineering are the most popular choices. Students also prefer B.Com (Hons), B.F.A. with various specializations, and B.Sc. (Hons.) in Mathematics and Physics.
• Professional Courses: The university stands out for its Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) program along with Bachelor of Hotel Management and Bachelor of Tourism and Travel Management.

The university has launched Four Year UG Programs (FYUP) with multiple entry/exit options as part of NEP 2020. New research facilities like Central Instrumentation Facility (CIF) and a Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship complement these academic breakthroughs.

Jamia NIRF 2025 ranking analysis

Jamia Millia Islamia’s excellence shows in its 3rd position in NIRF 2024’s University category with 68.11 points. The university scored remarkably well: 71.29 in Teaching, Learning & Resources, 92.72 in Graduation Outcomes, and 83.10 in Outreach & Inclusivity.

The university’s performance in specific disciplines deserves special mention. It ranks 6th in Law, 8th in Dental, 24th in Engineering, and 25th in Management.

Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore

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VIT started its journey in 1984 as Vellore Engineering College with just 180 students in three programs. Today, it stands among India’s top 10 universities and serves over 40,000 students across multiple campuses.

VIT admission process 2025

VIT will conduct admissions through VITEEE (VIT Engineering Entrance Examination) for the 2025-26 academic year. Students can submit their VITEEE 2025 applications since November 2024. The examination dates are set between April 20-27, 2025. Indian applicants will pay Rs. 1,350 while international students will pay USD 90 equivalent for B.Tech admissions.

Students should score a total of 60% in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology in qualifying examinations. SC/ST candidates and those from Northeast states/J&K/Ladakh should score 50%. The process starts with VITEEE registration followed by counseling sessions based on rank. Students can then choose their preferred campuses and programs.

Top programs at VIT

VIT’s academic offerings span 47 undergraduate and 46 postgraduate programs across 17 schools. The most popular B.Tech specializations include:

• Computer Science and Engineering remains the most sought-after program
• Electronics and Communication Engineering opens doors to telecommunications careers
• Mechanical Engineering creates diverse industry opportunities
• Data Science and AI ranks in the 51-100 bracket globally by QS

The university also offers BBA, B.Des, B.Arch, M.Tech, MBA, and doctoral degrees.

VIT NIRF 2025 ranking performance

VIT achieved remarkable rankings in NIRF 2024, securing the 10th spot in the University category. The university ranks 11th in Engineering, 13th in Research, and 19th in the Overall category.

The global recognition comes through QS World University Rankings 2025, where VIT stands in the 791-800 band. The subject rankings show even better performance – 142nd globally in Engineering and Technology, 110th in Computer Science, and between 51-100 in Data Science and AI.

Stanford University’s 2024 study recognized 76 VIT professors among the top 2% scientists worldwide, highlighting the university’s research excellence.

University of Hyderabad (UoH), Hyderabad

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The University of Hyderabad (UoH), a 49-year-old institution established through an Act of Parliament in 1974, receives complete funding from the University Grants Commission. This Central University creates a vibrant academic environment with 12 schools and 41 departments/centers, where English serves as the main language of instruction.

University of Hyderabad admission guide 2025

Students seeking undergraduate admission in 2025-26 must clear CUET (UG)-2025. The process starts with CUET-UG registration at www.nta.ac.in, followed by an application through UoH’s portal. Students applying to 5-year Integrated PG programs should appear in specific domain papers marked as “core” and “qualifying”. Postgraduate admission requires participation in CUET (PG)-2025. Applications open according to dates posted on the university’s academic portal.

Each program has specific eligibility requirements. The 5-Year Integrated M.Sc. in Mathematical Sciences needs 60% marks at +2 level with science subjects. M.A. programs typically require a minimum of 50% in qualifying bachelor’s degrees.

Popular courses at UoH

The university welcomes students to a wide range of academic programs:

• Postgraduate Programs: M.Sc. in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biochemistry; M.B.A. in General Management, Healthcare, Business Analytics; M.A. in English, Economics, History
• Integrated Master’s Programs: 5-year integrated courses in Sciences, Social Sciences and Humanities
• Research Programs: Doctoral degrees in multiple disciplines

UoH’s excellence shows in its language studies, with global rankings in English (251-300) and Linguistics (301-350). The university also shows strong performance in Sociology (301-375), Chemistry (451-500), and Economics (501-550).

UoH NIRF 2025 ranking insights

UoH achieved the 20th position in NIRF 2024’s University category with 72.69 points. The university has submitted data for NIRF 2025’s multiple categories including Overall, Engineering, Management, and Sustainability.

The global academic community recognizes UoH through QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, where it features in seven subjects. Vice Chancellor Prof. BJ Rao leads the university’s efforts to expand its presence by adding more subjects to these rankings.

Comparison Table

Conclusion

Looking at India’s top universities for 2025 reveals incredible variety and academic brilliance in these prestigious institutions. IISc Bangalore’s NIRF rankings show its unmatched position at #1 for nine straight years. JNU, Jamia Millia Islamia, and MAHE have shown exceptional growth and breakthroughs during this time.

Students can take multiple paths to get admitted – CUET, JEE Advanced, or specialized tests like VITEEE and AEEE. Making the right choice among institutions can be tough, but this piece will help make that decision easier.

The academic world shows amazing diversity too. Engineering is the life-blood at IISc and VIT, while JNU and Delhi University excel in humanities and social sciences. Research keeps growing stronger in institutions of all sizes, as shown by better global rankings and international collaborations.

Each university stands out in its own way. IISc shines in research, Amrita builds mutually beneficial alliances worldwide, and MAHE leads private education in India. Their spread across India will give students from different regions easy access to quality education.

This detailed overview should help you find a university that matches your academic dreams and career goals. The admission process might look tough at first, but good preparation and early applications will substantially boost your chances at these top institutions. India’s higher education keeps changing faster, and these top 10 universities are leading this transformation with their steadfast dedication to academic excellence and breakthroughs.

FAQs

Q1. Which university holds the top position in NIRF 2025 rankings? According to the latest NIRF rankings, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore continues to maintain its #1 position in the University category for the ninth consecutive year.

Q2. How can I apply for admission to top universities in India for 2025? Most top universities now use the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for admissions. For example, JNU, Delhi University, and University of Hyderabad use CUET scores. Some universities like VIT conduct their own entrance exams (VITEEE). Always check the specific admission process on the university’s official website.

Q3. What are some of the most popular courses offered by India’s top universities? Popular courses vary by institution but often include Engineering (especially Computer Science), Management, Law, Sciences, and Humanities. For instance, IISc is known for its research programs, JNU for International Relations, and VIT for Computer Science and AI.

Q4. How do Indian universities compare globally? Several Indian universities are gaining global recognition. For example, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham ranks 81st globally according to Times Higher Education. Delhi University ranks 328 in QS World University Rankings 2025, showing significant improvement from previous years.

Q5. What factors should I consider when choosing a top university in India? Consider factors such as the university’s NIRF ranking, specific program offerings, research opportunities, campus facilities, placement records, and location. Also, look at the admission process, eligibility criteria, and course fees. Each university has unique strengths, so align your choice with your academic and career goals.