Is Ashoka University public or private?

It is private. The University Grants Commission lists Ashoka University, at Plot No. 2, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Kundli, Sonepat, among the private universities of Haryana. It admitted its first students in 2014 and now has more than 2,800 students on its residential campus.

What language is the programme taught in?

English. Ashoka's Centre for Writing and Communication describes English as the sole medium of instruction. It supports students through the Academic Bridge Programme, two four-credit writing courses and one-to-one sessions. Ashoka's international pages do not list a separate IELTS or TOEFL requirement, but essays and interviews are in English.

Can I apply straight after finishing school?

Yes. You apply to the undergraduate programme with Class X and Class XII, or equivalent, results. Final or predicted results are accepted. IB and Cambridge A Level applicants without final grades give self-predicted grades and their school counsellor's details. Ashoka does not give transfer credit at first-year entry, so previous university study does not shorten the degree.

What does the first year cost an international student?

For the August 2027 intake, first-year tuition is INR 10,74,000, residence INR 2,11,000 and essential services INR 5,400, a total of INR 12,90,400. Meals are extra, with a minimum of INR 20,000 a year plus about INR 315 a day beyond that. Ashoka's arrival guide suggests about INR 21,000 a month for other living costs. Refundable deposits of INR 1,35,000 in total are paid when you confirm your offer.

Do international students pay more than Indian students?

No. The fee on Ashoka's page for international undergraduates, INR 10,74,000 in tuition for the August 2027 intake, is the same as the figure for Indian applicants. All payments are made in rupees. Ashoka's dollar figures are approximate and depend on the exchange rate when you pay.

Apply online at application.ashoka.edu.in. The form asks for student and family details, Class X to XII scores, non-academic engagement and a personal essay. After you submit it, you must sit the On-the-Spot Essay and the Ashoka Aptitude Assessment. Shortlisted applicants are then interviewed by a panel. You can submit only one application in each admissions cycle.

Do I need the SAT or another entrance test?

No. SAT, ACT, CUET and JEE Main scores are optional. Every applicant must take Ashoka's own assessments: a 30-minute On-the-Spot Essay with a choice of two topics, and the 90-minute Ashoka Aptitude Assessment. The aptitude test has 40 multiple-choice questions on problem-solving and critical thinking, and there is no negative marking.

When is the intake and when should I apply?

There is one intake, in August. The 2026 cycle had four rounds, with deadlines on 26 November 2025, 21 January, 22 April and 31 May 2026, and classes began on 24 August 2026. Ashoka advises international students to apply in Round 1 or 2 to leave time for visas and travel. Dates for the 2027 cycle have not yet been published.

Are scholarships available to international students?

Yes. Ashoka states that its scholarship policies for international students are the same as for Indian students. Merit scholarships come with some offers for high-achieving applicants. Need-based scholarships are open to anyone with a firm offer, whatever their finances, through a detailed scholarship form with family financial documents. Applying for aid does not affect the admission decision.

Is Ashoka recognised?

The UGC lists Ashoka among Haryana's private universities, so it is a recognised degree-awarding university in India. In the Ministry of Education's NIRF India Rankings 2025, it is in the 101-150 band for universities and the 151-200 band overall. It does not appear on NAAC's list of institutions with valid accreditation as on 14 August 2025. Recognition abroad depends on your destination's credential evaluator.

What is the accommodation like, and what does it cost?

Ashoka has on-campus housing. For the August 2027 intake the residence charge is INR 2,11,000 for the first year. It covers the room, water, electricity with full power backup and air conditioning, a pantry and the gymnasium. Staying on campus during vacations needs special permission. Resident Assistants and AUISA buddies help new students settle in.

What happens after I arrive in India?

Ashoka offers an airport pick-up for international students. Within 14 days of arrival you must register on the e-FRRO portal using documents from the Assistant Registrar. With the FRRO certificate you can open an NRO bank account, which you need for visa renewals. You can also apply for a PAN card and an Aadhaar card, and AUISA helps with campus check-in.

How does Ashoka's programme differ from a single-subject degree?

You do not apply to one subject. Everyone completes nine Foundation Courses, including Introduction to Critical Thinking, and declares a major by the end of the third semester from 13 pure and 12 interdisciplinary options. Majors need at least 72 credits within a 160-credit degree, with room for a minor, co-curricular courses and internships.

Is Ashoka University public or private?

It is private. The University Grants Commission lists Ashoka University, at Plot No. 2, Rajiv Gandhi Education City, Kundli, Sonepat, among the private universities of Haryana. It admitted its first students in 2014 and now has more than 2,800 students on its residential campus.

What language is the programme taught in?

English. Ashoka's Centre for Writing and Communication describes English as the sole medium of instruction. It supports students through the Academic Bridge Programme, two four-credit writing courses and one-to-one sessions. Ashoka's international pages do not list a separate IELTS or TOEFL requirement, but essays and interviews are in English.

Can I apply straight after finishing school?

Yes. You apply to the undergraduate programme with Class X and Class XII, or equivalent, results. Final or predicted results are accepted. IB and Cambridge A Level applicants without final grades give self-predicted grades and their school counsellor's details. Ashoka does not give transfer credit at first-year entry, so previous university study does not shorten the degree.

What does the first year cost an international student?

For the August 2027 intake, first-year tuition is INR 10,74,000, residence INR 2,11,000 and essential services INR 5,400, a total of INR 12,90,400. Meals are extra, with a minimum of INR 20,000 a year plus about INR 315 a day beyond that. Ashoka's arrival guide suggests about INR 21,000 a month for other living costs. Refundable deposits of INR 1,35,000 in total are paid when you confirm your offer.

Do international students pay more than Indian students?

No. The fee on Ashoka's page for international undergraduates, INR 10,74,000 in tuition for the August 2027 intake, is the same as the figure for Indian applicants. All payments are made in rupees. Ashoka's dollar figures are approximate and depend on the exchange rate when you pay.

Apply online at application.ashoka.edu.in. The form asks for student and family details, Class X to XII scores, non-academic engagement and a personal essay. After you submit it, you must sit the On-the-Spot Essay and the Ashoka Aptitude Assessment. Shortlisted applicants are then interviewed by a panel. You can submit only one application in each admissions cycle.

Do I need the SAT or another entrance test?

No. SAT, ACT, CUET and JEE Main scores are optional. Every applicant must take Ashoka's own assessments: a 30-minute On-the-Spot Essay with a choice of two topics, and the 90-minute Ashoka Aptitude Assessment. The aptitude test has 40 multiple-choice questions on problem-solving and critical thinking, and there is no negative marking.

When is the intake and when should I apply?

There is one intake, in August. The 2026 cycle had four rounds, with deadlines on 26 November 2025, 21 January, 22 April and 31 May 2026, and classes began on 24 August 2026. Ashoka advises international students to apply in Round 1 or 2 to leave time for visas and travel. Dates for the 2027 cycle have not yet been published.

Are scholarships available to international students?

Yes. Ashoka states that its scholarship policies for international students are the same as for Indian students. Merit scholarships come with some offers for high-achieving applicants. Need-based scholarships are open to anyone with a firm offer, whatever their finances, through a detailed scholarship form with family financial documents. Applying for aid does not affect the admission decision.

Is Ashoka recognised?

The UGC lists Ashoka among Haryana's private universities, so it is a recognised degree-awarding university in India. In the Ministry of Education's NIRF India Rankings 2025, it is in the 101-150 band for universities and the 151-200 band overall. It does not appear on NAAC's list of institutions with valid accreditation as on 14 August 2025. Recognition abroad depends on your destination's credential evaluator.

What is the accommodation like, and what does it cost?

Ashoka has on-campus housing. For the August 2027 intake the residence charge is INR 2,11,000 for the first year. It covers the room, water, electricity with full power backup and air conditioning, a pantry and the gymnasium. Staying on campus during vacations needs special permission. Resident Assistants and AUISA buddies help new students settle in.

What happens after I arrive in India?

Ashoka offers an airport pick-up for international students. Within 14 days of arrival you must register on the e-FRRO portal using documents from the Assistant Registrar. With the FRRO certificate you can open an NRO bank account, which you need for visa renewals. You can also apply for a PAN card and an Aadhaar card, and AUISA helps with campus check-in.

How does Ashoka's programme differ from a single-subject degree?

You do not apply to one subject. Everyone completes nine Foundation Courses, including Introduction to Critical Thinking, and declares a major by the end of the third semester from 13 pure and 12 interdisciplinary options. Majors need at least 72 credits within a 160-credit degree, with room for a minor, co-curricular courses and internships.

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Liberal Arts at Ashoka University: Recognition & Accreditation

Recognition and accreditation status of Liberal Arts at Ashoka University — badges and official verification links.

Written by Students Traffic Research Team·Updated On: 12 Jul 2026

Ashoka UniversitySonipat, IndiaLiberal Arts · Private$11,202/yr

Academics eligibility admissions fees

Recognition & accreditation

Is Ashoka University recognised for Indian students?

Recognition is the key check for any international student considering Liberal Arts abroad. A degree from an unaccredited institution may not be recognised by employers, government bodies, or for further study in your home country. It affects your ability to pursue postgraduate study, professional registration where applicable, and visa credibility.

There are two things international students should verify: the India-specific accreditation body that governs the degree's validity in the country of study, and any professional or industry body relevant to your field. Students Traffic cross-checks both before shortlisting any university.

Accreditation status can change over time. Always verify current status on official sources before paying any fees. Students Traffic confirms current recognition before any application is submitted.

Accreditations & listings

Bodies that have formally recognised or listed Ashoka University

University Grants Commission — listed among the private universities of Haryana

Applying to Ashoka University?

Students Traffic verifies seat availability, checks current recognition status, and prepares your complete application for Ashoka University. The consultation is free.

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