Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

About the university

Jawaharlal Nehru University is India's top research university for humanities, social sciences, and international studies. Named after India's first Prime Minister, it is known for academic freedom and critical thinking. Renowned for Language Studies (30+ languages), International Relations, Political Science, History, and Life Sciences. Produces India's leading academics, diplomats, journalists, and policy makers. Heavily subsidized — some of the lowest fees among top Indian universities.

Key information

  • Location: New Delhi, IN
  • Ranking #751
  • QS #751
  • National ranking #2
  • Institution type: public

Popular faculties

  • International Relations
  • Political Science
  • History
  • Languages
  • Sociology
  • Life Sciences

Programs (9)

  • International Relations
  • Political Science
  • History
  • Sociology
  • Linguistics
  • Economics
  • Philosophy
  • Biology
  • Environmental Science

Student body

  • Total students: 8,500
  • International students: 8%

Housing & accommodation

Housing cost: $50 - $300 / per month

Career & internships

Employment rate: 82%

Admission requirements

Required tests

  • IELTS
  • TOEFL

Minimum GPA: 3

Tuition costs

  • $100 - $1,500 / per year
  • Acceptance rate: 10.00%
  • Scholarships available: Highly subsidized hostel fees, JNU merit fellowships, government fellowships (UGC-NET JRF), ICCR international scholarships, South Asian University partnership grants.
  • Additional costs: One of India's most affordable top universities. Hostel costs as low as $5/month for domestic, slightly higher for international.

Quick facts

  • Founded: 1969
  • Teaching languages: English, Hindi, Various languages
  • Study formats: offline

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