Best Central Universities in Uttar Pradesh: A Complete Guide

List of Uttar Pradesh's central universities with important information.
UniList Desk

Updated Dec 25, 2025 | 07:41 PM IST

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Uttar Pradesh plays an important role in India’s higher education system. The state is home to several central universities established by Acts of Parliament. These universities offer recognised degrees, affordable fees and quality education, making them popular among students preparing for higher studies and competitive examinations.
This article provides an overview of the central universities in Uttar Pradesh in a simple and factual manner. The format and language are similar to those used in government exam preparation and general knowledge material.

What is a Central University?

A central university is established by an Act of Parliament and is funded and administered by the Central Government. These universities operate under the guidelines of the University Grants Commission.
Central universities offer undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes across various disciplines. They are known for qualified faculty, strong research facilities and degrees that are recognised across India.

Central Universities in Uttar Pradesh

There are six central universities located in Uttar Pradesh. Their details are given below:

1. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

Established: 1916
Location: Varanasi
Type: Central University
About:
Banaras Hindu University is one of the largest and oldest universities in India. It offers programmes in arts, science, commerce, engineering, medicine, law and management. BHU is known for academic excellence and its extensive campus and research facilities.

2. Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), Aligarh

Established: 1875
Location: Aligarh
Type: Central University
About:
Aligarh Muslim University is one of India’s oldest educational institutions. It offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes. The university attracts students from across the country and abroad.

3. University of Allahabad, Prayagraj

Established: 1887
Location: Prayagraj
Type: Central University
About:
The University of Allahabad is among the oldest universities in India. It offers courses in arts, science, commerce and law. The university is well regarded for its academic environment and preparation for competitive examinations.

4. Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (BBAU), Lucknow

Established: 1996
Location: Lucknow
Type: Central University
About:
Named after Dr B R Ambedkar, BBAU offers programmes in arts, science, commerce, law, management and technology. The university focuses on inclusive education and research, in line with Dr Ambedkar’s vision of social empowerment.

5. Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU), Amethi

Established: 2013
Location: Amethi
Type: Central University
About:
RGNAU is India’s first central university dedicated to aviation studies. It offers specialised programmes in aviation management, airport operations and related areas of the aviation sector.

6. Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi

Established: 2014
Location: Jhansi
Type: Central University
About:
This university focuses on agricultural education and research. It offers programmes in agriculture, horticulture and allied fields, with an emphasis on rural development and sustainable farming practices.

Why Choose Central Universities in Uttar Pradesh?

  • Funded by the Government of India
  • Affordable course fees
  • Nationally recognised degrees
  • Good academic and research facilities
  • Suitable for higher studies and preparation for government examinations

Final Words

Central universities in Uttar Pradesh play a significant role in India’s education system. They provide quality education across a wide range of disciplines at reasonable costs. Students should choose a university based on course availability, eligibility criteria and long-term career goals. It is advisable to check official university websites regularly for the latest admission updates and entrance examination details.

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