Banaras Hindu University

Previously referred to as Central Hindu College, Banaras Hindu University (commonly known as BHU Varanasi) is a central university recognized by the UGC and holds an ‘A' Grade accreditation from the NAAC. It is also a member of the AIU. BHU is ranked 4th and 5th in the ‘Agriculture and Allied Sectors’ and ‘Universities’ categories according to the NIRF Rankings 2024. Additionally, the university is placed in the 1001-1200 range in the 'University' categories by the QS World University Ranking 2025. Banaras Hindu University has established MoUs with over 40 national and international universities to enhance exposure for students and faculty members.

BHU University provides a variety of courses at the undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. The courses offered by Banaras Hindu University include BSc, BTech, BA, MA, MSc, MTech, and PhD, among others, across various fields such as Arts, Technology, Management, and Science. Admissions to Banaras Hindu University are based on merit in CUET-UG and CUET-PG, which are conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for entry into all undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

The University also supports financially and categorically disadvantaged students through various scholarships aimed at promoting equal opportunities. BHU University Placements are managed by the BHU Placement Cell. The highest and average packages offered during the BHU School of Management and Engineering placements for 2024 were INR 23.5 LPA and INR 11.1 LPA, respectively. Some key highlights regarding Banaras Hindu University are outlined in the table below:

History of Banaras Hindu University (BHU):

• BHU has been known by various names throughout its history and in the present. Some of the English names include Banaras University, Benares Hindu University, and Hindu University.
• Banaras Hindu University was established by Indian Home Rule-leaguer and Theosophist, Annie Besant in 1898.
• Following Besant, the university was founded by Madan Mohan Malaviya, with over 30,000 students, 18,000 of whom reside on campus.
• To facilitate the university's growth, Malaviya invited notable guest speakers such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jagadish Chandra Bose, C V Raman, and Besant to give a series of lectures from February 5-8, 1916.
• Kashi Naresh provided approximately 1,300 acres of land for BHU.
• The university's anthem, known as Kulgeet, was composed by university professor and distinguished scientist Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar.

Banaras Hindu University offers more than 608 courses across various disciplines. These programs are available at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels in areas such as Engineering, Medicine & Health Sciences, and Business & Management Studies, among others. Additionally, certain courses at Banaras Hindu University provide options for further specialisations. Prospective students looking to enroll in courses at Banaras Hindu University can consult the table below for details on eligibility and fees for each course: