South Asian University (SAU), established in 2010 by SAARC member nations, is a premier institution offering a diverse range of programs and scholarships. Located in Delhi, India, SAU provides higher education opportunities for students across South Asia, including Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, India, Maldives, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, and Pakistan.

For the 2025 academic year, SAU has expanded its offerings to include undergraduate, master’s, PhD, and virtual programs. Additionally, multiple scholarships and freeships are available to support students financially.

Scholarships and Financial Support at SAU

SAU provides several scholarship options to assist students with tuition fees and living expenses. Here are some key opportunities:

1. SAU President Scholarship

Awarded to the highest-ranking student from both Indian and non-Indian categories in each master’s program. Benefits include:

• Full tuition and hostel fee waiver
• Monthly stipend of INR 7,000
• Startup and pack-up allowances

2. SAARC-India Silver Jubilee Scholarship (SJS)

This scholarship supports 75 students from SAARC countries, with 50% of awards reserved for female candidates. Coverage includes:

• Tuition and hostel fees
• Monthly stipend of INR 7,000
• Startup and pack-up allowances

3. SAU Merit Scholarship

Given to top-performing students who do not receive the President or SJS scholarships. Benefits include:

• Tuition and hostel fee waiver
• Monthly stipend of INR 5,000

4. SAU Freeship and Stipend

Available for students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, offering:

• Full tuition and hostel fee waiver
• Monthly stipend of INR 5,000

Programs Offered in 2025

Undergraduate Programs

SAU has introduced several new bachelor’s degrees, including:

• BTech in Computer Science & Engineering (CSE) (with AI, Data Science, Cybersecurity specializations)
• Integrated BS-MS (Interdisciplinary Sciences)
• Dual Degree BTech + MTech CSE

Master’s Programs

• MSc in Biotechnology, Mathematics, and Computer Science
• MA in Economics, International Relations, and Sociology
• LLM in Legal Studies
• MBA and MCA programs

PhD Programs

Doctoral studies are available in:

• Biotechnology, Computer Science, Economics
• International Relations, Sociology, Mathematics
• Legal Studies, Media, Arts & Design

Virtual Learning (Online Courses)

SAU also offers online degrees in Data Science, AI, Business Administration, and short-term certificate courses in Vocal Music, Fashion Design, and Communication Design.

Admission Process and Key Dates

• Application Deadline: April 4, 2025 (11:59 PM IST)
• Entrance Test Dates: April 26–27, 2025
• Entrance Exam Fee: $10 (INR 830)
• Exam Mode: Online

Test Schedule by Program

April 26, 2025

• Morning Session: MA Economics, PhD Physics, Integrated BBA-MBA
• Afternoon Session: MA International Relations, PhD Computer Science
• Evening Session: MSc Computer Science, MTech Computer Science, PhD Legal Studies

April 27, 2025

• Morning Session: MSc Biotechnology, PhD International Relations, MA Sociology
• Afternoon Session: MSc Mathematics, PhD Sociology, LLM
• Evening Session: PhD Economics, PhD Media Arts & Design, PhD Mathematics, MBA

Eligibility Requirements

To apply, students must meet the following criteria:

Undergraduate Programs (BTech, BS-MS, etc.)

• Completion of Class 12 with Mathematics and Physics/Chemistry
• Minimum 75% in Mathematics

Master’s Programs

• A recognized bachelor’s degree (10+2+3 or 4-year program)
• Minimum 50% for arts and social sciences, 55% for science programs

PhD Programs

• A relevant master’s degree with a minimum of 50-55% marks
• Government-recognized degrees only

Facilities and Student Life at SAU

Hostel Accommodation
SAU offers on-campus housing with study rooms and common areas. Hostel fees for SAARC students are $60 per semester, with additional monthly mess charges.

Medical Facilities
Students benefit from medical insurance worth INR 1,50,000, covering medical expenses and doctor consultations.

Campus Environment
With a diverse student body from SAARC nations, SAU provides a multicultural academic experience, fostering regional cooperation and knowledge exchange.

How to Apply to South Asian University?

Applicants who wish to apply to the South Asian University should submit their admission application online by entering the link below:

Apply Now

Download the Exam questions samples from HERE

Modes of Admission to the University

Admissions for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD programs are available through Entrance Test Mode or Direct Mode. The entrance test is conducted online, either center-based (India) or proctored (SAARC countries). Direct admission is based on national test scores, such as JEE Mains, CUET UG/PG, GATE, GMAT, CAT, XAT, or NET, for various programs in India. Candidates from other SAARC countries and non-SAARC applicants can also qualify through their respective national tests or academic performance from approved institutions.

Admission to executive PhD and Executive MBA programs is based on professional experience and an interview. Applicants in Direct Mode must pay separate fees for each program, while those in Entrance Mode pay a single fee for programs with a shared test.