Akal University Punjab: Value-Based Education, Research and Admissions 2025

Akal University, established in 2015 in Talwandi Sabo, Punjab, is a private institution rooted in the spiritual teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and driven by the Kalgidhar Trust’s vision to offer value-based, high-quality education. The university emphasizes holistic development, blending academic excellence with ethical, moral, and spiritual growth.

It offers a wide array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across disciplines like Arts, Science, Commerce, Management, Computer Applications, and Engineering, with admissions primarily merit-based and supported by scholarships. Akal University boasts modern infrastructure including advanced laboratories, smart classrooms, libraries, hostels, healthcare, sports facilities, and collaborations with global institutions like the University of North Carolina for enhanced research and academic exposure.

Committed to fostering a drug-free, disciplined, and inclusive environment, it also provides coaching for competitive exams and promotes seva (selfless service) as a core value. Recognized by UGC and ranked by IIRF, Akal University aspires to create responsible global citizens through its focus on innovation, research, and value-driven education.

Akal University: A Hub of Value-Based Education and Research in Punjab

Akal University, located in Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda, Punjab, stands as a prominent private university established in 2015. Rooted in the profound teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji and inspired by the vision of the Kalgidhar Trust, Baru Sahib, the university aims to provide high-quality, value-based education leading to the holistic development of individuals who contribute positively to society.

History and Founding Principles

The genesis of Akal University traces back to the prophecy of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who stayed in Talwandi Sabo and declared it “Guru Ki Kashi” – a great center of teaching and learning. This vision was first actualized with the establishment of Gurumat Vidalaya by Sant Atar Singh Ji Maharaj and culminated with Akal University under the leadership of Baba Iqbal Singh Ji Baru Sahib Wale.

The university’s core mission is to transcend mere literacy, focusing on spiritual rejuvenation and creating global citizens through value-based scientific education. Its guiding principles include a commitment to:

• Value-based, high-quality, and ethical education.
• Innovation and excellence.
• Meritocracy and integrity.
• Accountability and social responsibility.
• Equity and inclusiveness.

Akal University is dedicated to providing a drug-free environment and fostering a disciplined campus life, inculcating spiritual, moral, and ethical values in its students.

Academic Programs and Courses (2024-2025)

Akal University offers a diverse range of undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and doctoral (Ph.D.) programs across various disciplines. Admission to these programs is primarily merit-based, often followed by a university-level counseling process. For some PG and Ph.D. courses, entrance exams are also conducted.

Undergraduate Programs (UG): The university offers Bachelor’s degrees in various specializations, including:

• Arts (BA Hons.): English, Punjabi, Economics, Psychology, Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies (often a free course).
• Science (B.Sc Hons.): Botany, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Medical Sciences, Agriculture.
• Commerce (B.Com Hons.).
• Computer Applications: BCA (including specializations like Data Analytics).
• Engineering: B.Tech (Computer Science & Engineering, including Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning).
• Integrated Courses: B.Sc + B.Ed, BA + B.Ed.
• Other: Bachelor of Vocation (B.Voc), Bachelor of Physiotherapy (BPT).

Postgraduate Programs (PG): Akal University provides Master’s degrees in several fields:

• Arts (MA Hons.): English, Punjabi, Economics, Psychology.
• Science (M.Sc Hons.): Botany, Zoology, Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics.
• Commerce (M.Com Hons.).
• Computer Applications (MCA).
• Management: MBA (including Business Analytics).

Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.): The university also offers Ph.D. programs in various subjects, including Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Economics, English, Philosophy, and Computer Science & Engineering. Admission to Ph.D. programs often involves an entrance exam conducted by the university, or consideration of national/state-level tests like UGC-CSIR NET/GATE.

Admission Process and Eligibility Criteria

The application process for Akal University is primarily online. Key aspects include:

• Application: Candidates can apply online through the official admission portal.
• Eligibility: Generally, for UG courses, a minimum of 60% in Class 12 from a recognized board is required. For PG courses, a Bachelor’s degree in the relevant discipline with at least 60% marks is usually mandated (55% for some Ph.D. programs). SC/ST/PwD candidates typically receive a 5% relaxation in aggregate marks.
• Selection: Admissions are largely merit-based, determined by marks in the qualifying examination. For MBA, GMAT or AMT (Akal Management Test) followed by a personal interview is considered. Ph.D. admissions may involve an entrance test.
• Documents: Required documents usually include passport-size photographs, date of birth certificate, Class 10th and 12th mark sheets and passing certificates, category certificate (if applicable), and candidate’s signature.

Fee Structure and Scholarships

The fee structure at Akal University varies by course and duration.

• UG Fees: Generally range from approximately INR 28,100 to INR 4.63 Lakhs for the entire duration.
• PG Fees: Typically range from around INR 77,700 to INR 1.93 Lakhs.
• Ph.D. Fees: Can be around INR 1.78 Lakhs for the entire duration.
• Hostel Fees: Approximately INR 50,000 per year.

The university also offers various scholarships and provides a free course for BA in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies, subject to seat availability.

Infrastructure and Facilities

Akal University boasts a modern and well-equipped campus designed to foster a conducive learning environment. Key facilities include:

• Library: A well-stocked Library & Learning Centre with over 7850 books, 42 print journals, 19 print magazines, and an Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) facility.
• Laboratories: Modern labs for various disciplines, including Chemistry, Computer, Language, and Physics labs. Departments like Mathematics and Physics also have advanced computing consoles for research.
• Computing Facilities: Well-furnished computer labs with internet access, and subscriptions to leading online resources for advanced research.
• Hostels: Separate, fully furnished hostels for boys and girls, providing a safe, homely, and drug-free environment with nutritious vegetarian food.
• Health Centre: Provision for emergency healthcare with a staff nurse and ambulance services on campus. Counselors are also available for student support.
• Sports Complex and Gym: Facilities for sports and physical fitness.
• Cafeteria and Shuttle Service.
• Auditorium: For events and gatherings.
• Wi-Fi Campus: Ensuring seamless connectivity for students and faculty.
• Smart Classrooms: Internet-linked smart classrooms equipped with modern technology.
• Security: CCTV cameras for enhanced security, especially for female students.

Research and Collaborations

Akal University emphasizes research as a fundamental pillar of higher education. The university offers Ph.D. programs across various subjects and promotes interdisciplinary research addressing societal and global challenges. It supports research through modern labs, a well-equipped library, and access to scholarly databases.

Notably, Akal University has a significant collaboration with Brayn School of Business and Economics, Department of Information System and Supply Chain Management, and the University of North Carolina, USA. This collaboration allows students of Akal Business School to complete the second year of their MBA program at the University of North Carolina, USA, offering valuable international exposure.

Rankings and Accreditation

Akal University is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the Punjab Government. According to the IIRF (Indian Institutional Ranking Framework) 2024, Akal University, Bathinda was ranked #155 out of 160 overall colleges in India. It has consistently been ranked in the range of #155-165 by IIRF over the past few years. AD Scientific Index also provides various global and national rankings based on scientific output and the presence of scientists in different fields.

Notable Mentions and Initiatives

• The university focuses on providing special coaching for competitive exams like UGC-NET, IAS, Bank PO, SSC, and UPSC.
• An English Language Lab has been established to enhance students’ communication skills.
• The university actively promotes a culture of “Seva” (selfless service) and value-based education.
• Recent news includes events like the 38th Foundation Day celebration, alumni engagement programs, and student achievements in national-level competitions. The university also highlights success stories of its alumni securing placements in reputable companies like Oracle India.

Akal University strives to be a “Centre of Excellence” that not only imparts knowledge but also cultivates ethical values and critical thinking, preparing students to be responsible and contributing members of the global community.

FAQs about Akal University

What is Akal University known for?
Akal University is known for its value-based education, emphasis on ethics, spirituality, and holistic development, along with strong academic and research programs.

Where is Akal University located?
Akal University is located in Talwandi Sabo, Bathinda district, Punjab, India.

When was Akal University established?
It was established in the year 2015.

Who founded Akal University?
It was founded under the vision of the Kalgidhar Trust, Baru Sahib.

Is Akal University recognized by UGC?
Yes, Akal University is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and approved by the Punjab Government.

What programs does Akal University offer?
Akal University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. programs across disciplines like Arts, Science, Commerce, Management, Computer Applications, and Engineering.

What are the popular undergraduate courses at Akal University?
Popular UG courses include BA (Hons.), B.Sc (Hons.), B.Com (Hons.), BCA, B.Tech (CSE with AI/ML), BPT, and integrated B.Ed programs.

What postgraduate programs are available at Akal University?
The university offers MA, M.Sc, M.Com, MBA, and MCA in various specializations.

Does Akal University offer Ph.D. programs?
Yes, Ph.D. programs are available in Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Economics, English, Philosophy, and Computer Science & Engineering.

What is the admission process at Akal University?
Admissions are largely merit-based, with entrance exams required for some PG and Ph.D. courses. MBA admissions may require AMT or GMAT and an interview.

What is the eligibility for UG courses at Akal University?
Generally, a minimum of 60% in Class 12 is required from a recognized board. SC/ST/PwD candidates receive 5% relaxation.

What is the eligibility for PG courses at Akal University?
A Bachelor’s degree in the relevant field with at least 60% marks is usually required; SC/ST/PwD candidates receive 5% relaxation.

How can I apply for admission to Akal University?
Applications can be submitted online through the official Akal University admission portal.

Are scholarships available at Akal University?
Yes, various scholarships are available, including a free BA in Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies for eligible candidates.

What is the fee structure at Akal University?
UG fees range from INR 28,100 to INR 4.63 Lakhs, PG fees from INR 77,700 to INR 1.93 Lakhs, and Ph.D. fees around INR 1.78 Lakhs.

What are the hostel facilities like at Akal University?
The university offers separate, fully furnished hostels for boys and girls with a disciplined, drug-free environment and vegetarian meals.

Does Akal University have international collaborations?
Yes, it has collaborations including with the University of North Carolina, USA, for MBA students’ exchange programs.

What facilities are available on campus at Akal University?
Facilities include modern labs, smart classrooms, a library, hostels, health center, gym, sports complex, cafeteria, Wi-Fi, and shuttle service.

Does Akal University provide coaching for competitive exams?
Yes, coaching is available for exams like UGC-NET, IAS, SSC, Bank PO, and UPSC.

Does Akal University have good infrastructure?
Yes, the campus includes modern infrastructure such as a well-equipped library, laboratories, computer centers, sports complex, and healthcare facilities.

What kind of campus environment does Akal University offer?
Akal University promotes a disciplined, drug-free, value-based, and spiritually inclined campus environment.

Does Akal University promote research activities?
Yes, the university emphasizes interdisciplinary research and provides well-equipped facilities to support it.

How is the placement at Akal University?
Students have secured placements in reputed companies like Oracle India, with ongoing efforts to strengthen placement support.

What is the ranking of Akal University?
According to IIRF 2024, Akal University is ranked #155 in India.

Does Akal University offer English language support?
Yes, an English Language Lab is available to improve students’ communication skills.

Is Akal University suitable for international students?
While primarily focused on Indian students, its global collaborations and English-medium instruction make it suitable for international applicants.

Does Akal University focus on cultural or spiritual education?
Yes, the university integrates spiritual values through courses like Sri Guru Granth Sahib Studies and emphasizes seva (selfless service).

What makes Akal University unique compared to other private universities?
Its blend of modern education with spiritual and ethical grounding, disciplined environment, and focus on creating responsible global citizens sets it apart.

What are the highlights of recent university events?
Recent highlights include the 38th Foundation Day, alumni engagement programs, student success in national competitions, and international collaborations.

What kind of students should consider Akal University?
Students seeking a combination of academic excellence, ethical education, spiritual grounding, and global exposure will find Akal University suitable.