University of Delhi (DU) Overview 2025: Courses, Admissions, Rankings and Notable Alumni

Delhi University (DU), a top Indian university, offers diverse programs, vibrant campus life, and notable alumni, with admissions via CUET.

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University of Delhi (DU) Overview 2025: Courses, Admissions, Rankings and Notable Alumni
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The University of Delhi (DU), established in 1922, is a prestigious central university in New Delhi, India, known for its academic excellence, diverse programs, and vibrant student life. Starting with just three colleges, it has grown into a vast federal institution comprising over 80 colleges and 16 faculties across its North and South Campuses.

DU offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs in disciplines like Arts, Science, Commerce, Law, and Management, with admissions primarily through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET). It boasts a strong research focus, modern infrastructure, and a lively campus atmosphere enriched by extensive facilities and extracurricular opportunities.

With an impressive global and national ranking, the university has produced numerous distinguished alumni in politics, arts, academia, and business, including Manmohan Singh, Shah Rukh Khan, and Amartya Sen, cementing its role as a cornerstone of higher education in India.

CategoryDetails
NameUniversity of Delhi (DU)
Established1922
TypePublic Central University
LocationNew Delhi, India
CampusesNorth Campus, South Campus, Central & Off-Campus Colleges
No. of Colleges80+ Constituent and Affiliated Colleges
Faculties16 Faculties
Popular CollegesSt. Stephen’s, Hindu, Miranda House, SRCC, LSR, Hansraj, Ramjas, Gargi
Admission Basis (UG)Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG)
Admission Basis (PG)CUET-PG / Merit / Entrance
Academic ProgramsUG, PG, M.Phil., Ph.D. across Arts, Science, Commerce, Law, Management, etc.
Estimated UG Fees₹540 – ₹4.32 Lakhs (varies by program/college)
Estimated PG Fees₹360 – ₹3.54 Lakhs (varies by program/college)
NIRF 2024 Ranking6th Overall in India
QS World Ranking 2026=328 (Overall), #8 in Southern Asia, #51–100 by Subject
Research h-index164 (Scopus)
FacilitiesLibraries, Labs, ICT, Sports, Health Centre, Cafeterias, Hostels, etc.
Notable AlumniManmohan Singh, Shah Rukh Khan, Amartya Sen, Arvind Kejriwal, Aung San Suu Kyi
Student LifeActive societies, fests, seminars, vibrant campus culture
Official Websitewww.du.ac.in

The University of Delhi

The University of Delhi (DU), established in 1922 by an Act of the Central Legislative Assembly, stands as a premier public central university in New Delhi, India. Renowned for its academic excellence, diverse programs, and vibrant student life, DU attracts a vast number of students annually, making it one of the largest universities in the world.

History and Governance

Founded as a residential university with three constituent colleges (St. Stephen’s, Hindu, and Ramjas), DU has evolved into a sprawling institution with a federal structure, overseeing numerous colleges across the Delhi metropolitan area. The Vice President of India serves as the university’s Chancellor, while the President of India is the Visitor. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court holds the position of Pro Vice-Chancellor.

Campuses and Colleges

The University of Delhi boasts 16 faculties and over 80 colleges, primarily distributed across its North and South Campuses. While the North Campus, located in North Delhi, houses iconic institutions like the Delhi School of Economics, Hansraj College, and Miranda House, the South Campus comprises a cluster of colleges such as Lady Shri Ram College, Gargi College, and Sri Venkateswara College. Several colleges, like Zakir Husain Delhi College, are situated independently in Central Delhi.

Some of the notable constituent colleges include:

  • Acharya Narendra Dev College
  • Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College
  • Bhagini Nivedita College
  • Bharati College
  • College of Vocational Studies
  • Daulat Ram College
  • Delhi College of Arts & Commerce
  • Deshbandhu College
  • Dyal Singh College
  • Gargi College
  • Hans Raj College
  • Hindu College
  • Indraprastha College for Women
  • Jesus & Mary College
  • Kirori Mal College
  • Lady Shri Ram College for Women
  • Miranda House
  • Ramjas College
  • Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC)
  • St. Stephen’s College
  • Sri Venkateswara College

Academic Programs and Admission

DU offers a vast array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines, including Arts, Commerce, Science, Education, Law, Management, and Interdisciplinary & Applied Sciences.

Undergraduate Admissions (2025): Admissions to undergraduate courses are primarily based on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) scores.

  • Phase 1 (Completed): Submission of personal and academic details.
  • Phase 2 (Ongoing – commenced July 8, 2025): Course and college preference selection. This is a crucial, one-time opportunity for candidates to carefully select their preferred combinations based on CUET scores, past cut-offs, seat availability, and eligibility.
  • First Seat Allocation List: Expected to be released on July 15, 2025. Selected candidates must accept their allotted seat and complete document verification and fee payment within the stipulated time.
  • Subsequent Rounds: Additional allocation rounds will be conducted based on seat vacancies.

Postgraduate Admissions (2025-2026): Many postgraduate admissions are also linked to CUET-PG. Programs are offered on both merit and entrance-based criteria.

Examples of Courses Offered:

Undergraduate (UG): B.A. (Hons) in subjects like Economics, English, Political Science, Psychology, Hindi, History, Sociology, Geography, Music, Sanskrit; B.Com (Hons); B.Sc (Hons) in Botany, Chemistry, Computer Science, Electronics, Mathematics, Physics, Statistics, Zoology, Biomedical Science, Food Technology, Microbiology, Anthropology; B.Tech programs.

Postgraduate (PG): M.A. in various disciplines (e.g., Arabic, Buddhist Studies, English, French, German, Hindi, History, Linguistics, Philosophy, Political Science, Psychology, Sanskrit, Sociology); M.Com; M.Sc in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Botany, Chemistry, Electronics, Environmental Studies, Geology, Physics, Zoology; M.Ed.; M.Phil./Ph.D. programs.

Fee Structure

The fee structure at Delhi University varies significantly across courses and colleges. Here’s a general range:

  • Undergraduate Courses:
    • B.A. programs: INR 540 – INR 1.55 Lakhs
    • B.Sc programs: INR 540 – INR 2.4 Lakhs
    • B.Com programs: INR 540 – INR 1.04 Lakhs
    • B.Tech programs: Approximately INR 4.32 Lakhs (total)
  • Postgraduate Courses:
    • M.A. programs: INR 360 – INR 55,000
    • M.Sc programs: INR 432 – INR 2.3 Lakhs
    • MBA/PGDM: INR 1.56 Lakhs – INR 3.54 Lakhs

Note: These are estimated total fees and may include components beyond tuition. Hostel fees are separate and also vary.

Rankings

The University of Delhi consistently ranks among the top universities in India and globally:

  • QS World University Rankings 2026: #=328
  • QS WUR Ranking By Subject: #51-100
  • QS Sustainability Ranking: #=299
  • Asian University Rankings – Southern Asia: #8
  • NIRF 2024: 6th (Overall)

Research and Innovation

DU has a strong focus on research, evident in its impressive h-index of 164 (Scopus database), one of the highest among Indian universities. The university encourages undergraduate research through grants and even publishes an online Journal of Undergraduate Research and Innovation.

Various departments are actively involved in research projects, book publications, and doctoral programs (PhD and M.Phil). Faculty members consistently receive prestigious awards for their research and academic contributions.

Facilities and Campus Life

The University of Delhi provides a comprehensive range of facilities to support its large student body:

Libraries: The Delhi University Library System (DULS) comprises 34 libraries, offering extensive physical and digital resources, including access to high-quality electronic databases. Major libraries include the Central Reference Library, Arts Library, Central Science Library, and Ratan Tata Library.

Laboratories: Well-equipped laboratories are available across various science, engineering, and arts departments, providing hands-on experience for students and researchers.

ICT Infrastructure: A robust IT infrastructure, including the Delhi University Computer Centre, offers internet services, computer labs, Browse centers, and e-learning facilities across North and South Campuses.

Sports Facilities: The university promotes sports with a well-maintained cricket ground, football ground, basketball, volleyball, and badminton courts. Indoor sports like carrom, chess, and table tennis are also available, along with gym and swimming pool facilities.

Medical Facilities: W.U.S. Health Centre provides medical services, pathology lab facilities, and has branches across various campuses.

Cafeterias: Numerous canteens and eateries offer hygienic food options for students and staff.

Guest House: Guest rooms are available for visiting faculty and guests.

Banking Services: Banks like ICICI Bank and SBI, along with ATM facilities, are present on campus for convenient banking.

Utility Centre: Offers amenities such as a Post Office, Railway Reservation Counter, and DTC Bus Pass Counter.

Student life at Delhi University is vibrant and diverse, offering a rich blend of academic rigor, cultural activities, and personal growth opportunities. Despite occasional challenges related to the centralized admission process (CUET) leading to calendar delays, students actively engage in seminars, conferences, cultural fests, and a multitude of societies and clubs. The North Campus, in particular, is known for its lively atmosphere, with popular hangouts like Kamla Nagar and Hudson Lane serving as hubs for student interaction and social events.

Notable Alumni

The University of Delhi has produced an impressive list of distinguished alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, arts, literature, science, and civil services. Some prominent names include:

  • Politics:
    • Manmohan Singh (Former Prime Minister of India)
    • Arun Jaitley (Former Finance Minister of India)
    • Arvind Kejriwal (Chief Minister of Delhi)
    • Kiran Bedi (First female IPS officer, former Lt. Governor of Puducherry)
    • Aung San Suu Kyi (Nobel laureate, Myanmar politician)
    • Shashi Tharoor (Member of Parliament, author)
    • Naveen Patnaik (Chief Minister of Odisha)
    • Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed (Former President of India)
    • Sucheta Kriplani (First woman Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh)
    • Sheila Dikshit (Former Chief Minister of Delhi)
    • Mohammad Zia-ul-Haq (Former President of Pakistan)
    • Harini Amarasuriya (Prime Minister of Sri Lanka)
  • Film & Arts:
    • Shah Rukh Khan (Actor and Producer)
    • Amitabh Bachchan (Actor)
    • Neha Dhupia (Actress)
    • Anurag Kashyap (Filmmaker)
    • Mallika Sherawat (Actress)
    • Konkona Sen Sharma (Actress)
    • Arjun Rampal (Actor)
    • Aditi Rao Hydari (Actress)
    • Huma Qureshi (Actress)
    • KK (Singer)
    • Sonam Bajwa (Actress)
    • Randeep Hooda (Actor)
    • Tanya Maniktala (Actress)
  • Literature & Academia:
    • Amartya Sen (Nobel laureate, economist)
    • Anita Desai (Author)
    • Amitav Ghosh (Author)
    • Ramachandra Guha (Historian)
  • Business & Other:
    • Ajay Banga (President of the World Bank Group)
    • Aman Gupta (Co-founder, boAt)
    • Vikas Divyakirti (Educator)
    • Vaibhav Taneja (CFO, Tesla)

The University of Delhi continues to be a cornerstone of higher education in India, shaping generations of leaders, thinkers, and professionals who contribute significantly to society.

FAQs about University of Delhi

What is the University of Delhi (DU)?
The University of Delhi is a premier public central university in New Delhi, India, established in 1922, known for its academic excellence and diverse programs.

How many colleges are affiliated with DU?
There are over 80 constituent and affiliated colleges under the University of Delhi.

Where are DU’s main campuses located?
DU has two main campuses: North Campus and South Campus, along with several off-campus colleges across Delhi.

What is the admission process for undergraduate courses at DU?
UG admissions are based on the Common University Entrance Test (CUET-UG), followed by a centralized seat allocation process.

What are the steps involved in DU’s undergraduate admission process?
Students must complete personal details (Phase 1), select course and college preferences (Phase 2), and go through seat allocation rounds.

When is the first seat allocation list for UG 2025 expected?
The first allocation list is expected to be released on July 15, 2025.

How are postgraduate admissions handled at DU?
Postgraduate admissions are through CUET-PG, merit, or entrance-based depending on the course.

What academic programs are offered at DU?
DU offers undergraduate, postgraduate, M.Phil., and Ph.D. programs in Arts, Science, Commerce, Law, Management, and Interdisciplinary fields.

What are some popular undergraduate courses at DU?
Popular UG courses include B.A. (Hons) in Economics, English, Political Science; B.Com (Hons); and B.Sc. (Hons) in Physics, Chemistry, and Computer Science.

What are the estimated fees for undergraduate courses at DU?
Fees range from ₹540 to ₹4.32 lakhs, depending on the program and college.

What is the fee range for postgraduate programs at DU?
Postgraduate fees vary from ₹360 to ₹3.54 lakhs, depending on the discipline and college.

Does DU have hostel facilities?
Yes, many colleges under DU provide hostel facilities, though availability varies and is often limited.

What are DU’s rankings nationally and globally?
DU ranks 6th overall in NIRF 2024, #=328 in QS World Rankings 2026, and 8th in Southern Asia.

What is DU’s research standing?
DU has a strong research profile with an h-index of 164 and supports both faculty and student-led research initiatives.

What kind of facilities are available at DU?
DU offers extensive libraries, labs, sports complexes, ICT infrastructure, medical centers, and cafeterias.

Does DU offer digital resources and e-learning?
Yes, the Delhi University Library System (DULS) provides digital databases and the university supports e-learning through online platforms.

What are the sports facilities like at DU?
DU has dedicated grounds for cricket, football, basketball, and indoor games like chess and table tennis, along with gym and swimming facilities.

Is DU suitable for international students?
Yes, DU accepts international students and offers a rich academic and cultural environment, though specific application procedures apply.

Who are some of the notable alumni of DU?
DU’s alumni include Manmohan Singh, Shah Rukh Khan, Amartya Sen, Arvind Kejriwal, Aung San Suu Kyi, and Amitabh Bachchan, among others.

Which are some of the top colleges under DU?
Top DU colleges include St. Stephen’s, Hindu College, Miranda House, SRCC, LSR, Hansraj College, and Ramjas College.

What is student life like at DU?
DU offers a vibrant campus experience with active student societies, fests, seminars, and popular hangouts like Kamla Nagar and Hudson Lane.

Are scholarships available at DU?
Yes, DU and its colleges offer various merit-based and need-based scholarships to eligible students.

Does DU offer distance learning or online degrees?
Yes, the School of Open Learning (SOL) under DU offers distance education in several UG and PG programs.

What is CUET and how does it relate to DU admissions?
CUET (Common University Entrance Test) is the standardized test used for undergraduate and many postgraduate admissions at DU.

Can I apply to multiple DU colleges through one CUET application?
Yes, students can select multiple course-college combinations during the preference selection phase based on their CUET scores.

Are there any reservations or quotas in DU admissions?
Yes, DU follows the Government of India’s reservation policies for SC, ST, OBC, EWS, PwD, and other categories.

Does DU offer interdisciplinary courses?
Yes, DU offers interdisciplinary programs, especially at postgraduate and research levels.

What is the medium of instruction at DU?
Courses are generally offered in English and Hindi, depending on the college and subject.

How can I track admission updates at DU?
All updates are available on the official DU admission portal: www.du.ac.in

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