Azim Premji University, Bangalore: Latest Rankings, Courses, Fees, Admissions, 2025 Cutoffs, Reviews

The Azim Premji Foundation established Azim Premji University (APU) as a non-profit organization in 2010. Located in Bengaluru, it focuses strongly on social sciences, education, development, environment, and sustainability. The university has expanded with a campus in Bhopal (2023) and plans for campuses in Ranchi and Northeast India. APU is notable for its emphasis on accessible education, research-driven learning, and dedication to social impact.

Azim Premji University Highlights

The table below shows the highlights of the university, it covers all the important points to be noted:

• Applications open in two cycles (December & April).
• Selection via National Entrance Test (reading comprehension, reasoning, subject-specific).
• Shortlisted candidates attend a personal interview (online/offline).
• PG admissions follow the same pathway.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate (BA, BSc, BSc+BEd)
  
  • 10+2 or equivalent with at least 50% marks (45% for SC/ST/OBC).
  • Students appearing for Class 12 exams in 2025 are also eligible.
• Postgraduate (MA, MSc, MBA)
  
  • Bachelor’s degree in relevant stream with at least 50% marks.
  • For MBA in Development Management, work experience in the social sector is preferred.
• Ph.D.
  
  • Master’s degree (55% marks, 50% for SC/ST/OBC) in related discipline.
  • Admission through entrance test + interview.

Important Dates (2025)

APU does not have rigid cutoffs like many traditional universities. Instead, selection depends on entrance test performance, interview quality, and alignment with the university’s social focus. The process is holistic, ensuring equal access to students from diverse backgrounds.

APU placements are focused on the social sector, including education NGOs, research organizations, policy institutes, and grassroots movements.

• 90% of graduates were placed in development or social work positions.
• Average package: ₹3–₹3.6 LPA.

Key recruiters: Teach for India, Room to Read, Samhita, heritage schools, CSR departments, and research organizations.

• Ranked 2nd among private universities and 7th overall (IIRF 2024).
• Recognized nationally for its focus on development and social change, and not just for academics.
• Research centres at Azim Premji University (APU) are working on climate, employment, education, and democracy.

Azim Premji University offers need-based financial assistance aimed at making education accessible to students, regardless of their economic background:

• Covers tuition, campus housing, field components (like internships or immersions), and, in rare cases, even food subsidies. Over half of UG and PG students receive this aid.
• Eligibility:
  
  • UG students qualify if annual family income is below ₹10 lakh.
  • PG students qualify if income is below ₹8 lakh.
  • Additionally, PG students with 3+ years of work experience and a family income under ₹15 lakh may get a 50% tuition fee waiver.

Azim Premji Foundation Scholarship for Girls

Separately, the Azim Premji Foundation runs a massive scholarship for girl students across India:

• Targets 250,000 girls from government schools in 18 states for the 2025–26 academic year.

Provides ₹30,000 per year to each girl, directly transferred in two instalments. Total budget: ₹2,250 crore over three years.