Chandigarh-Based University Continues Fee Freeze for Third Consecutive Year to Boost International Admissions
Chandigarh: In a major relief for international students and Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), Punjab University (PU), Chandigarh, has decided not to increase tuition fees for foreign students for the upcoming academic session. The university has maintained a fee freeze for nearly three years as part of its strategy to strengthen its global presence and attract more students from overseas.
University officials confirmed that admissions for the new session will continue under the same fee structure that was implemented for the 2024-25 academic year.
The move is expected to make Punjab University more attractive to international applicants at a time when many universities worldwide are increasing tuition costs for foreign students.
Quick Highlights
- Punjab University has not increased international student fees for the third consecutive year.
- Admissions for 2026-27 will follow the same fee structure as 2024-25.
- The university has reserved 1,135 seats for foreign nationals and NRIs.
- Students from SAARC and underdeveloped countries continue to receive fee concessions.
- ICCR-sponsored students receive scholarships from the Government of India.
- Punjab University expects increased international enrolment due to stable fees.
Punjab University Continues Fee Freeze for Foreign Students
Punjab University has reaffirmed its commitment to international education by maintaining the existing tuition fee structure for foreign and NRI students.
According to university officials, the decision was taken to encourage greater participation from overseas applicants and strengthen Punjab University’s reputation as an international education destination.
The unchanged fee structure applies across various academic programs offered by the university and its affiliated teaching departments.
1,135 Seats Reserved for Foreign and NRI Students
Punjab University has allocated:
1,135 Seats
for:
- International students
- Overseas citizens
- Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
These seats are available across various undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional programs offered by the university.
University authorities believe that keeping fees stable will help improve seat occupancy and attract a larger number of international applicants in the coming admission cycle.
Special Benefits for SAARC and Developing Countries
Punjab University continues to offer significant fee concessions to students from:
SAARC Nations
Including countries such as:
- Nepal
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- Bhutan
- Maldives
Underdeveloped Countries
Students from eligible nations receive:
50% Fee Concession
under the university’s international student support framework.
The initiative is aimed at improving access to quality higher education for students from economically developing regions.
ICCR Students Continue to Receive Scholarships
The university also welcomes students sponsored through the:
Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR)
Students admitted under ICCR programs receive scholarships funded by the Government of India.
These scholarships typically cover tuition fees and other educational expenses, helping strengthen India’s educational and cultural ties with countries around the world.
Admissions to Follow Existing 2024-25 Guidelines
According to Dean International Students Professor Krishna Mohan, the university will continue using the admission policies and fee framework introduced during the 2024-25 academic session.
This means prospective international students can expect:
- No tuition fee increase.
- Existing admission guidelines.
- Continued scholarship and concession programs.
- Stable educational costs.
University officials say the decision provides clarity and financial predictability for students planning to study in India.
Entrance Test Exemption Continues for International Students
Punjab University has been actively implementing measures to improve international admissions.
Beginning in 2024, the university introduced important reforms including:
Entrance Test Exemption
Many international applicants became eligible for admission without appearing in certain university entrance examinations.
Reduced Fees for SAARC Students
Additional concessions were introduced to make education more affordable for students from neighbouring countries.
These policies remain in effect and are expected to continue supporting international recruitment efforts.
Students from Multiple Countries Choose Punjab University
Punjab University has attracted students from a wide range of countries in recent years.
During the 2024 admission cycle, approximately:
700 International Students Applied
Applicants came from countries including:
- United States
- Canada
- Nepal
- Iran
- Botswana
- Kenya
- Malawi
- Zimbabwe
- Nigeria
- Thailand
The diverse applicant pool reflects Punjab University’s growing recognition among international students seeking affordable, English-medium education in India.
Why International Students Are Choosing Indian Universities
India has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for international education because of:
Affordable Tuition Costs
Compared with many Western countries, Indian universities often offer significantly lower tuition fees.
Globally Recognized Degrees
Many Indian institutions maintain strong academic reputations and international recognition.
English-Medium Education
Most higher education programs are taught in English, making them accessible to students from around the world.
Cultural Diversity
International students gain exposure to India’s diverse academic and cultural environment.
Punjab University’s decision to maintain stable fees further strengthens its competitive position within the global education market.
What This Means for International Applicants
For students considering higher education in India, Punjab University’s latest announcement offers several advantages:
- Predictable educational expenses.
- Continued fee concessions for eligible countries.
- Scholarship opportunities through ICCR.
- Simplified admission procedures.
- Access to one of India’s well-known public universities.
The university expects the fee freeze to encourage additional applications during the upcoming admission cycle.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab University has not increased international student fees for the third consecutive year.
- Admissions will continue under the 2024-25 fee structure.
- 1,135 seats remain reserved for foreign nationals and NRIs.
- SAARC and underdeveloped country students receive a 50% fee concession.
- ICCR-sponsored students continue to receive government scholarships.
- Approximately 700 international students applied during the previous admission cycle.
- The university expects higher international enrolment in the coming academic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Punjab University increased fees for international students?
No. Punjab University has decided to keep fees unchanged for international and NRI students.
How many seats are available for foreign students?
The university has reserved 1,135 seats for foreign nationals and NRIs.
Do SAARC students receive any concessions?
Yes. Eligible students from SAARC countries receive a 50% fee concession.
What is ICCR?
The Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) provides scholarships to eligible international students studying in India.
Why is Punjab University keeping fees unchanged?
The university aims to attract more international students and strengthen global enrolment.
Source : Dainik Bhaskar
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