Madras University: Key Highlights, Admissions, Placements, Ranking, CutOffs

University of Madras or Madras University, established in 1857, is one of India’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, renowned for its academic excellence and historical legacy, offering diverse programs.

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Madras University Key Highlights

Did You Know?

Madras University boasts thousands of alumni who became Padma awardees, renowned scientists, and even ministers, influencing India’s academic and cultural landscape.

Madras University was founded and has a history of excellence spanning more than 165 years. The university received the highest A++ grade from NAAC in 2023, with a score of 3.59, demonstrating its commitment to innovation, research, and high academic standards for students.

The University of Madras offers a range of courses from undergraduate and postgraduate, M.Phil. and Ph.D. as well as diploma and certificate courses.

The students have the options of studying arts, science, commerce, management courses, social sciences, law, and other subjects. For admission, you will either need to take entrance tests such as the TANCET ( Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test) for the MBA and MCA courses, or get a merit admission based on their qualifying exams. In addition to regular courses, Madras University distance education service is offered for more flexible learning.

Key Highlights of Madras University

Admission Month

April-June

Established

5th September 1857

Top Programs

B.A., B.Com., B.Sc., B.B.A, BCA, BSW, M.A., M.Sc., M.Com., MBA, MCA, etc.


Accepted Exams

TANCET, NET/SET/JRF/GATE, University Entrance Test


Duration of Courses

UG: 3-4 Years

PG: 2 years

PhD: 3–5 years

NIRF 2025 Ranking

Overall: 68th

Universities Category: 38th

Students

50,000+

Madras University Courses & Fees

Madras University was established in the year 1857 and offers a wide range of academic programs with around 87 academic Departments under 18 schools. The University of Madras is recognized for its diverse offerings and affordable fees.

The Table below displays Courses and their Tuition Fee, for Indian and foreign nationals for the academic year 2025-2026 offered at Madras University.

Tuition Fee Structure for Academic Year 2025-2026

Courses Name

For Indian Students

For Foreign Nationals

I Year

II Year

I Year

II Year

Humanities, Social Sciences, Languages

₹5,531

₹4291

₹87500

₹58500

M.A. Ancient History and Archaeology

₹7,531

₹6,291

₹1,07,500

₹78,500

M.A. Bharathanatyam (Self Supportive)

₹27651

₹26336

₹187200

₹158200

Note: Data taken from the official website of Madras University

Fee Structure for Self-Supportive Courses

Courses Name

I Year

II Year

M.Com. (Business Data Science)

₹49006

₹46366

M.A. Yoga: Theory & Practice / LL.M International Law and Organization/ LL.M Constitutional Law and Legal Order

₹19231

₹17991

M.A. English / M.A. Human Resource Management (Self-Supportive)

₹25206

₹23891

M.A. Ancient History and Archaeology (Self-Supportive)

₹37206

₹35891

M.S.W. (Self-Supportive)

₹39206

₹37891

M.A. Defence and Strategic Studies (Self-Supportive)

₹23131

₹21891

M.Sc, M.Lib.I.Sc, (Regular Courses)

₹7,651

₹7,651

M.Sc. Anatomy Medical Microbiology/ Physiology (Three-year course)

9,496

8,106

M.Sc. Applied Geography, Geology, Applied Geology

₹9,651

₹8,336

M.Sc. Yoga

12151

10836

M.Tech. Geoinformatics

₹27281

₹25966

M.Sc. Counselling Psychology

34151

32836

M.Sc. Criminology

₹41151

₹39836

M.Sc. Actuarial Science

₹41151

₹39836

M.Sc. Mathematics

₹15401

₹14086

M.Sc. HRD Psychology

₹27651

₹26336

M.Sc. Biotechnology / Medical Biochemistry/ Material Science/ Medical Microbiology/ M.Sc., Nanoscience and Nanotechnology/ M.Sc. Biochemistry

₹37151

₹35836

M.Sc., Information Technology

₹27281

₹25966

M.Sc., Geology, M.Sc. Applied Geology

₹50,151

₹48,836

M.Sc. Neuroscience / Cyber Forensics and Information Security

₹54496

₹53106

Regular Courses

MCA

₹22,806

₹19,366

MBA

₹25,606

₹22,966

M.Ed

₹8,531

₹7,291

Fee Structure for Regular P.G. Diploma/ Diploma/ Certificate courses

Name

I Year

II Year

P.G. Diploma in Archaeology

₹11965

₹10775

Diploma in Internal Audit

₹19190

₹17950

P.G. Diploma in Christian Approaches to Family care & Counselling (SS)

₹9840

₹10600

P.G. Diploma in Divyaprabandam

₹9840

₹8600

Diploma in French/ German/ Italian/ Spanish

₹11840

Diploma in Bible and Christian Doctrines

₹10790

Certificate in Voice Training/ Karnatic Music

₹9140

Certificate in Christian Communication and Media Education (Self Supportive)

₹6440

Certificate in Christian Scriptures, Spiritual Practices and Ethics (Self supportive)

₹5440

Note: Data taken from the official website of Madras University

Madras University Placements

The Madras University Placement Cell provides internship opportunities, seminars, and guidance for placements, interviews, and group discussions. According to the NIRF Ranking 2025 statistics, almost all the students in both PG (2-year) and PG (3-year) programs graduated within the prescribed minimum time.

Program Type

Graduated

No. of Students Placed

Median Salary (in LPA)

No. Pursuing Higher Studies

PG [2-Year]

1298

483

₹ 4,20,000

310

PG [3-Year]

24

7

₹ 4,80,000

7

Madras University Placements: Year-On-Year Salary Trends

Over the past three years, the median salary for PG (2-year) programs at Madras University has increased steadily reflecting the stronger placement figures. The PG (3-year) programs have had some dips and changes in median salary, but 2023-24 marked its highest median annual salary to date.

Academic Year

PG 2-Year: Median Salary (in LPA)

PG 3-Year: Median Salary (in LPA)

2021-22

₹ 3.60

₹ 4.20

2022-23

₹ 3.73

₹ 3.89

2023-24

₹ 4.20

₹ 4.80

Top Recruiters:

  • Deloitte
  • EY
  • KPMG
  • PwC
  • Accenture
  • TCS
  • Infosys
  • HDFC Bank
  • Kotak Mahindra Bank
  • ICICI Prudential
  • HSBC
  • American Express
  • Barclays
  • Citi
  • JP Morgan Chase & Co.
  • Acuite
  • AB In Bev

For more detailed information on Placements. Check out upGrad’s Madras University Placements’ page.

Madras University Cutoffs

Madras University is a government-funded institution, and admissions are usually based on either state-level or national entrance exams, depending on the program. For many courses, students take TANCET or the university’s own entrance test, while others require national-level exams like NET, SET, JRF, or GATE. Once the tests are conducted, the university publishes the results and releases the names of candidates who are eligible for admission.

Madras University does not publish official cutoff data (opening and closing ranks/percentiles) for entrance exams. As per the university’s official website, the rank list is given in the format of application number and the name of the candidate for TANCET.

Now, let’s check out MBA cutoff via TANCET 2025.

Course Name

Community

TANCET Mark

MBA

OC (General)

99.976- 99.876

Note: The data provided has been taken from the official website of TANCET counseling.

Note: No official data or cutoffs for other courses are available on the official website of Madras University.

Madras University Admissions

The University of Madras offers a wide range of undergraduate programs, including B.A., B.Com., B.Sc., B.B.A. , BCA, and BSW, among others. Admission is merit-based on the marks obtained in the 12th standard examinations. For postgraduate programs, students are also selected based on merit, while professional courses such as MBA, MCA, M.Sc., and M.A. Journalism require candidates to clear the University of Madras Entrance Test before securing admission.

Academic Qualifications

The table displays the educational qualifications required for top UG programs at Madras University

Courses

Minimum Qualifications for Admission

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Passed 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent from recognized board.

Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)

10+2 with relevant Science subjects from recognized board with 50-60% in the relevant subject like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, etc.

Bachelor of Commerce

10+2 from a recognized board.

Bachelor of Social Work (BSW)

10+2 or equivalent, often with a minimum percentage (often ~45-50%) from a recognized board.

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

10+2 or equivalent from recognized board with 50%- 80%

B.Sc., Blended Science Program

Passed 10+2 (Intermediate) or equivalent from recognized board with 40% marks.

The table displays the educational qualifications required for the top Postgraduate programs at Madras University.

Program

Eligibility

M.Sc.

Bachelor’s degree like B.Sc./BE/B.Tech. with 55% percentage.

M.A.

Graduate in any degree with a minimum of 50% marks

M.Com.

Bachelor’s degree like B.Com. with 50% percentage.

M.S.W

Bachelor’s degree in any discipline with minimum 50% aggregate marks.

MBA

Graduate in any degree with a minimum of 50% marks.

MCA

Graduate in any degree with a minimum of 50% marks or higher with Maths as a subject in 12th or graduation level.

Application Dates

The Table below displays the important Application dates for admission to various programs.

Program

Application Start

Application Deadline

Accepted Exam(s)

B.A./B.Com./B.Sc./B.B.A/BCA/BSW


~ February 2025 (may differ college wise)


May 2025



NA- Merit based

B.Sc., Blended Science Program

5th May 2025

20th June 2025

MU Entrance exam

PG Courses- M.A./ M.Sc./M.Com.

23rd April 2025

7th July 2025

Merit Based/ University EE

MBA/MCA

January 2025 (via TANCET)


February 2025


TANCET

P.G Diploma, Diploma & Certificate Courses

23rd April 2025


7th July 2025


Merit Based/ University EE


Ph.D.

1st June 2025

30th June 2025


University Entrance Test/ NET/SET/JRF/GATE

Visit upGrad’s Madras University Admissions’ page to Check Eligibility, Deadlines, & Application Process

Madras University Ranking

In the recently released NIRF 2025 Rankings, the University of Madras has once secured a place among the top institutions, continuing its strong performance over the past several years.

NIRF Ranking Madras University 2025

Category

Rank

Overall

68th

Universities (all universities, India)

38th

State Public Universities category

18th

Year-wise Ranking of Madras University in the Indian Universities Category By NIRF

Ranking Year

Rank

2025

38

2024

39

2023

50

2022

80

2021

30

Madras University Scholarships

1. Mother M.Celine Scholarship

  • Benefits: Scholarship of Rs. 1000/-
  • Eligibility: 1st year UG student in the affiliated Colleges of Madras University | Based on the 12th exam marks by securing highest marks in first attempt.

2. Sir Tanjore Madhava Rau Scholarship

  • Benefits: Scholarships to the value of Rs.1400/- per annum
  • Eligibility: Two 1st year UG Hindu students | Based on the 12th exam marks by securing highest marks in first attempt.

3. Madras Oriental Conference Scholarship

  • Benefits: One Scholarship to the value of Rs.1000/- (Rupees One thousand Only) per annum
  • Eligibility: UG student in the affiliated Colleges of Madras University | Based on the Higher Secondary Examinations securing highest marks in Sanskrit language in first attempt.

4. Madras University Free Education Scheme (MUFES)

  • Benefits: Complete fee waiver for that one student.
  • Eligibility: One most needy student in each PG program

Madras University Vs OU Vs JMI

Here’s a comparison of the top three higher education Institutes in India.

Parameters

Madras University

Osmania University (OU)

Jamia Milia Islamia (JMI)

Fees

PG: 4k-5k/year (for Indian Students)

PG: 50k-90k/ year (for Foreign Nationals)

UG: ₹9k- ₹30k/year

UG: ₹9k- ₹30k/year

PG: ₹20,000-₹40,000/ year

PG: ₹10k- ₹60k/year

Courses

UG:B.A./B.Com./B.Sc./B.B.A/BCA/BSW, etc


UG: BA, B.Tech, BDS, BBA, BSc, BCom, B.Arch, B.Lib.Sc, B.Ed, and many more

UG: BA, B.Tech, BDS, BBA, BSc, BCom, B.Arch, B.Lib.Sc, B.Ed and more

PG: M.A., M.Sc., M.Com, MBA, MCA, P.G Diploma, Diploma & Certificate Courses


PG: M.A., M.Sc., M.Com.,M.Lib.L.Sc./M.S.W, MBA, MCA and more

PG: MA, M.Tech, M.Des, MBA, LLM, M.Lib.Sc, MFA, Msc, M.Ed, MCA, and more

Placement Stats 2025

PG Median Package: ₹4.20LP

UG Median Package: ₹ 6.5LPA

PG Median Package: ₹8 LPA

Median Package: ₹ 13.78


Note: The Placement Session for 2025 is currently ongoing; the figures might change

Madras University Campus, Hostel & Student Life 

Location: Navalar Nagar, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Madras University has six main campuses -

  • Chepauk
  • Marina
  • Guindy
  • Taramani
  • Maduravoyal
  • Chetpet

The university is very much embedded in the city fabric buildings with colonial architecture, heritage sites, close to coastal areas like the Marina coast, and well connected to the rest of Chennai.

Hostels at Madras University

  • Madras University has hostels across the campuses: women’s hostels like the PG Hostel for Women (Chepauk Campus), Mother Teresa Hostel
  • There are men’s hostels such as Thiruvalluvar Hostel (Marina Campus), Bharathiar Hostel (Guindy Campus)
  • There are Hostel Wardens in both male and female hostels who are on duty 24/7.

Student Life & Fests

  • USAB (University Students Activities Board) is a body which conducts UNIFEST, an annual inter-department cultural program.
  • The University organizes assorted events like Onam Celebrations, Chithirai festival, etc.

FAQs for Madras University

1Where is Madras University located?

The University of Madras is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with its main campus at Chepauk. In addition, it has several other campuses, each dedicated to different streams of study. Being in the heart of the city gives students easy access to cultural, academic, and professional opportunities. 

2Is Madras University a government or private university?

Madras University is a public state university established in 1857 through an Act of the Legislative Council of India. It is fully funded and managed by the Government of Tamil Nadu. Being a government institution, it follows regulated academic standards and fee structures.

3What Courses does Madras University offer?

The university offers a wide spectrum of programs, including undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil., Ph.D., diploma, and certificate courses. These span disciplines such as arts, science, commerce, management, social sciences, law, and humanities. Both regular and distance education options are available through the Institute of Distance Education (IDE).  

4How can I get admission into Madras University?

Admissions are based on either merit or entrance exams, depending on the course. Some programs require TANCET, University Entrance Tests, or national exams like NET/JRF/GATE. The university releases detailed eligibility criteria and application procedures on its official admissions portal.  

5How can I join PG in Madras University?

To join postgraduate programs, candidates must meet the eligibility criteria for the chosen course. Programs like MBA, MCA, M.Sc., and M.A. Journalism require clearing the University of Madras Entrance Test. Merit-based programs consider previous academic performance for selection.  

6What is the NIRF ranking of Madras University?

In NIRF 2025, Madras University ranked 30th among universities and 53rd overall in India. It has been consistently listed among the top higher education institutions in India.The University earned high scores in teaching, learning, and research metrics. 

7How many hostels does Madras University have?

Madras University provides hostel facilities for both men and women, though the exact number of hostels varies across campuses. Hostels cater to undergraduate, postgraduate, and research students. They are equipped with basic amenities such as furnished rooms, mess facilities, and recreational spaces.  

8What is the hostel fee in Madras University?

For example, the women’s postgraduate hostel charges approximately ₹3,000 per annum for room rent, with an additional caution deposit of ₹5,500. Fees may vary depending on the type of accommodation and campus.   

9What is the fee structure at Madras University?

The fee structure varies depending on the program and level of study. Undergraduate, postgraduate, and professional courses have different tuition and examination fees, as detailed in official university documents. Scholarships and fee concessions are available for eligible students from reserved categories. 

10What accreditations or rankings does Madras University have?

The University of Madras has been awarded an A++ grade by NAAC and holds Category-1 status from the UGC. It has consistently ranked among the top universities in NIRF evaluations. These accreditations reflect the university’s excellence in academics, research, and governance. 

11Does Madras University accept CUET scores?

Madras University’s admission procedures are detailed on the official admissions page, and certain programs may accept CUET scores. Eligibility depends on the course and category of the applicant. Students should refer to the latest admissions circular for confirmation.

12How can I get admission in Madras University?

If you want to get University of Madras course admission, you need to apply on their official portal and clear the eligibility requirements and get the required marks. The admission is also done via entrance exam required for some UG, PG and PhD programs. 

13Is University of IDE Madras University good?

Yes, The Institute of Distance Education (IDE), University of Madras is UGC-recognized, affordable, and flexible, making it a good choice for working professionals or those who can’t attend regular classes. 

14Is there any entrance exam for the University of Madras course admission?

Yes, University of Madras conducts entrance examinations for admission to some programs. For many PG regular courses, the university conducts its own entrance exam. For MBA/MCA, candidates must clear TANCET (Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test).  

15What is the last date to apply for Madras University in 2025?

The last date for University of Madras course admissions in UG varies according to the affiliated colleges. For the PG courses last date to apply is usually around July 2025, and the last date to fill the form for PhD admission is 30th June 2025

16How to get admission in MBA in University of Madras?

Admission to the MBA at University of Madras requires a bachelor’s degree with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved category).  Candidates must apply online through the official portal and appear for appear for the TANCET exam.  

17How to get admission in University of Madras for MCA?

To get admission into the MCA program at University of Madras, you must appear for the entrance exam like Tamil Nadu Common Entrance Test. After results, apply online and participate in centralized counselling. 

18What is the ranking of University of Madras?

In the 2025 National Institutional Ranking Framework, University of Madras was ranked 38th among the universities in India. In QS World Rankings 2024, it is placed around 526 globally. According to CWUR 2024, it ranks in 58th position in India. 

19Does University of Madras offer B.Tech?

No, University of Madras does not offer a full-fledged B.Tech. program on its main campus. The University of Madras mainly offers Arts, Science, Commerce, Management, and Research programs. 

20Is University of Madras government or private?

The University of Madras is a government university. It was established in 1857 by an Act of the Legislative Council of India, making it one of the oldest state universities in India and is funded and managed by the Government of Tamil Nadu. 

21What are the documents required during the University of Madras Course Admissions?

For University of Madras Admission, the commonly required documents are Class 10, 12, graduation, postgraduation marksheets, valid entrance exam scorecards, Identity proof, Migration and Character Certificates, along with Category certificate if applicable. 

22How does Madras University support students in building industry connections?

Madras University regularly organizes seminars, workshops, and industry talks to connect students with corporate leaders. These interactions help students understand current market trends, gain insights into employer expectations, and improve their networking opportunities. The university’s emphasis on industry engagement enhances student readiness for placements and internships.

23What soft skills training does Madras University provide for placements?

Alongside academic knowledge, Madras University focuses on grooming students with essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and leadership. Dedicated training sessions and mock interviews are conducted to improve students’ confidence and professional behavior, making them more adaptable to corporate environments and increasing their employability across diverse industries.

24Are internships mandatory for students at Madras University?

Internships are highly encouraged at Madras University to ensure students gain real-world exposure before final placements. Many departments make internships a part of the curriculum. This experience provides practical skills, enhances resumes, and often leads to pre-placement offers, strengthening the students’ career prospects after completing their programs. 

25 How does Madras University prepare students for competitive job markets

The university prepares students for competitive job markets through a combination of academic rigor, skill-based courses, and placement cell support. By offering industry-relevant training, aptitude tests, and career counseling sessions, students are well-equipped to handle placement drives and excel in interviews with top recruiters across various sectors.

26Do students from all courses get equal placement opportunities?

Madras University provides placement assistance across a wide range of disciplines. While some professional courses like economics, commerce, and management attract higher recruiter interest, students from arts, sciences, and research backgrounds also benefit. The placement cell works to ensure fair opportunities for all eligible candidates irrespective of their field.

27 What role does alumni support play in Madras University placements?

Alumni of Madras University often return as recruiters, mentors, or guest speakers. Their guidance helps current students understand industry expectations and career growth strategies. Alumni connections also open referral opportunities, strengthening placement prospects. This strong alumni network adds significant value to the university’s overall placement ecosystem.

28 How does the placement cell handle multiple job offers?

When students receive multiple job offers, the placement cell facilitates communication between recruiters and candidates, ensuring fairness and transparency. Students are guided to choose roles aligned with their career goals. The cell also coordinates with companies to manage timelines and avoid conflicts during the placement process.

29Are international placement opportunities available at Madras University?

Yes, some departments at Madras University collaborate with multinational companies and global research institutions, offering students the chance to secure international internships or placements. While such opportunities are selective, they provide valuable exposure to global work cultures and open doors for careers beyond the domestic job market.

30 How does Madras University balance placements and higher education aspirations?

The university recognizes that many students pursue higher studies after completing their programs. Placement data reflects this balance by showing both placement and higher education numbers. The placement cell supports students equally—whether preparing them for job interviews or guiding them toward postgraduate studies, research, or global opportunities.

31Does Madras University provide placement training for government jobs?

Yes, students aspiring for public sector or government careers can access training sessions focused on competitive exams, aptitude development, and interview preparation. While private placements are prominent, the university also supports those who wish to build careers in administration, research institutes, and public sector undertakings.

32Is Madras University placement assistance available for all campuses?

Yes, the placement assistance extends across different campuses and affiliated institutions under Madras University. The central placement cell coordinates activities, while departments also manage their own recruitment drives. This ensures that students, irrespective of their campus, get equal access to career opportunities and recruiter interactions.

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Indian Nationals

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Disclaimer

  1. The above statistics depend on various factors and individual results may vary. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.

  2. The student assumes full responsibility for all expenses associated with visas, travel, & related costs. upGrad does not .