Jawaharlal Nehru University
(JNU)Last Updated: Apr 24, 2026
Established
1969
Campus Size
1019.00 Acres
Total Students
9,000
Faculty
550
Student-Faculty
16:1
Jawaharlal Nehru University Admissions: Merit-Based Entrance Exams and Eligibility
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) admissions are conducted on a merit-based system with entrance examinations playing a key role in the selection process. The university offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs across various disciplines including humanities, social sciences, sciences, and engineering. Eligibility criteria vary depending on the program level and course specialization, with basic requirements typically including a qualifying degree from a recognized institution and meeting the minimum percentage or grade criteria set by the university.
The Jawaharlal Nehru University Entrance Examination (JNUEE) is the primary mode of admission for most postgraduate programs at JNU. Additionally, the university participates in the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for certain undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. The entrance examination assesses candidates' academic knowledge, analytical abilities, and subject-specific understanding. The selection process is highly competitive, with cutoff scores determined based on the total applicant pool, available seats, and overall candidate performance in the entrance examination.
Prospective candidates must monitor JNU's official website and admission portal for announcements regarding application dates, examination schedules, counseling sessions, and merit list declarations. The admission process typically involves completing the online application form, submitting required documents, sitting for the entrance examination, and participating in counseling and seat allotment. Given JNU's status as a premier central university, aspirants are encouraged to thoroughly prepare for entrance examinations and ensure they satisfy all specified eligibility requirements and application deadlines.
Eligibility Criteria
For undergraduate programmes (BA), candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized board. Specific BA programmes may have subject-specific eligibility requirements. Candidates should check the detailed eligibility criteria for each programme on the JNU website.
For postgraduate programmes (MA, M.Sc), candidates must hold a relevant bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a minimum of 45-55% marks (or equivalent CGPA), depending on the specific course. SC/ST candidates are eligible with relaxed criteria as per government norms. Most MA and M.Sc programmes require qualifying entrance examinations conducted by JNU.
For BA LLB (5-year integrated), candidates require 10+2 or equivalent qualification. For LLM, candidates must possess an LLB degree from any recognized university. Additional eligibility criteria and age requirements as per JNU's admission regulations apply across all programmes.
Application Process
Check the official JNU website for admission notification and eligible programmes
Complete and submit the online application form before the deadline
Appear for the entrance examination (mandatory for most postgraduate programmes)
Participate in merit-based selection and shortlisting process
Attend counselling and interview rounds conducted by the university
Upon final selection, complete admission formalities and pay fees
Register and enroll in your chosen programme
Important Admission Dates 2026
| Event | Programme | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Admission Notification Released | All Programmes | April 2026 |
| Online Application Submission Opens | All Programmes | May 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | All Programmes | June 2026 |
| Entrance Examination | MA, M.Sc, BA LLB | July 2026 |
| Merit List Announcement (BA) | BA | July 2026 |
| Entrance Exam Results Declared | MA, M.Sc, BA LLB | August 2026 |
| Counselling and Interview Rounds | All Programmes | August-September 2026 |
| Final Selection List Released | All Programmes | September 2026 |
| Admission Registration Deadline | All Programmes | September-October 2026 |
Seat Matrix
| Course | Total Seats | Duration | Admission Mode |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.Sc | 400 | 2 Years | Entrance Exam |
| BA | 500 | 3 Years | Entrance Exam |
| MA | 1000 | 2 Years | Entrance Exam |
Latest Cutoff Summary
| Exam | Course | Category | Closing Rank |
|---|---|---|---|
| JEE Main | - | General | 24500 |
| JEE Main | - | OBC-NCL | 38000 |
| JEE Main | - | SC | 68000 |
| GATE | - | General | - |
| GATE | - | OBC-NCL | - |