Cotton University, Guwahati is a public state university established in 1901 as Cotton College — one of the oldest educational institutions in Northeast India. It was conferred state university status by the Assam Legislative Assembly in 2017, becoming Cotton University under the Cotton University Act. The university is recognised by UGC and holds NAAC Grade A accreditation with a CGPA of 3.05, making it the first public university in Assam to receive the A grade in its first NAAC assessment cycle.
Cotton University does not currently appear in NIRF University rankings with a publicly available band in 2025. Its affiliated university predecessor (Cotton College) was listed at rank 165 in NIRF 2020 before the transition.
The campus spans 39.82 acres in Panbazar, Guwahati — in the heart of Assam’s largest city — and houses 33 academic departments and centres across 5 faculties.
- Arts and Humanities — BA (Hons.) in Assamese, English, Hindi, History, Political Science, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, Mass Communication, and 15+ other subjects
- Science — B.Sc (Hons.) in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology, Biotechnology, Geography, Geology, Statistics, Computer Science
- Computer Applications — BCA, BCA (Hons.), MCA
- Postgraduate — MA (20+ subjects), M.Sc (12+ disciplines), M.Com, LLM, M.Sc (Library and Information Science)
- Research — PhD across 27 disciplines spanning sciences, arts, and social sciences
- PG Diplomas — Bharatanatyam, Folk Dance, Gender Studies, Nepali
BA (Hons.) fees are approximately INR 40,500 for the full 3-year programme. B.Sc (Hons.) fees range from INR 40,500 to INR 1,79,750 depending on the discipline. MA and M.Sc fees are approximately INR 26,650 to 31,050 for the 2-year programme. Hostel fees are up to INR 7,000 per year.
Cotton University placements 2024 saw 208 students placed, with UG median package of INR 4.80 LPA and PG median package of INR 7.80 LPA.
- Cotton University Admission Dates 2027
- Cotton University Courses and Fees
- Cotton University Admission Process
- Cotton University Placements and Career Outcomes
- Cotton University Scholarships
- Cotton University Campus and Infrastructure
- Cotton University vs Gauhati University vs Dibrugarh University
- Cotton University FAQs
Cotton University Admission Dates 2027
Cotton University UG admissions are split across two routes: approximately 40% of seats are filled through CUET UG scores (NTA), and the balance through Assam state merit (AHSEC and CBSE Class 12 results). The 2026-27 batch admissions concluded after CUET UG 2026 counselling. The next cycle begins with CUET UG 2027.
| Event | 2026-27 Cycle (Concluded) |
|---|---|
| CUET UG 2026 Registration | March to April 2026 |
| CUET UG 2026 Exam | May 11 to May 31, 2026 |
| CUET UG 2026 Result | June 2026 |
| Cotton University Admission Portal Opens | June 2026 |
| Merit List and Allotment | June to July 2026 |
| Academic Session Begins | July to August 2026 |
The tentative schedule for the 2027-28 UG admission cycle is provided below, based on the established CUET UG and Assam admission pattern.
| Event | 2027-28 Cycle (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| CUET UG 2027 Registration | March 2027 |
| CUET UG 2027 Exam | May 2027 |
| Cotton University Admission Portal Opens | June 2027 |
| Merit List and Seat Allotment | June to July 2027 |
| Academic Session Begins | July to August 2027 |
PG admissions and PhD admissions follow a separate timeline. The table below lists the exam accepted for each programme family.
| Programme | Exam Accepted | Admission Route |
|---|---|---|
| BA / B.Sc (Hons.) / BCA | CUET UG (NTA) or Assam State Merit | Cotton University admission portal |
| MA / M.Sc / M.Com / MCA | CUET PG (NTA) or Cotton University Entrance Test | Cotton University counselling |
| LLM | Cotton University Law Entrance Test | Cotton University direct |
| PhD | Cotton University Research Entrance Test (RET) | Cotton University direct |
Cotton University Courses and Fees
Cotton University offers 86 programmes across 33 departments: 26 UG, 30 PG, 3 PG Diplomas, and 27 PhD programmes, spanning arts, science, social sciences, law, library science, and computer applications. The table below covers key programme fees for general category students.
| Programme | Duration | Total Fees (General) |
|---|---|---|
| BA (Hons.) — most subjects | 3 years | INR 40,500 |
| BA (Hons.) — Mass Communication | 3 years | INR 1,22,950 |
| B.Sc (Hons.) — PCM / Life Sciences | 3 years | INR 40,500 to 47,900 |
| B.Sc (Hons.) — Biotechnology | 3 years | INR 1,79,750 |
| BCA | 3 years | INR 94,750 |
| BCA (Hons.) | 3 years | INR 1,23,750 |
| MA / M.Sc — most subjects | 2 years | INR 26,650 to 31,050 |
| MA (Mass Communication and Journalism) | 2 years | INR 71,150 |
| M.Sc (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology) | 2 years | INR 59,050 |
| LLM | 2 years | INR 70,800 |
| MCA | 2 years | INR 30,050 |
| PhD | 3 years (minimum) | INR 40,900 to 45,900 |
Hostel accommodation is available for both boys and girls at up to INR 7,000 per year — among the most affordable residential options for a university in Assam. Specialty science disciplines such as Biotechnology carry higher lab fees, reflected in the fee differential across B.Sc streams.
Cotton University Admission Process
UG Admissions
UG admissions at Cotton University use a dual-route system. Approximately 40% of seats are filled on the basis of CUET UG scores (conducted by NTA), and the remaining seats are filled through Assam state merit based on AHSEC or CBSE Class 12 results. Candidates from outside Assam must apply through the CUET UG route.
Eligibility for BA (Hons.) requires 10+2 in Arts or any stream with minimum marks as prescribed per subject. B.Sc (Hons.) requires 10+2 with Science subjects. Each programme has subject-specific eligibility and cutoff based on Class 12 marks and CUET UG scores. Admission is through the Cotton University online portal (admissions.cottonuniversity.ac.in).
PG Admissions
PG admissions (MA, M.Sc, MCA, M.Com) use CUET PG scores or Cotton University’s own entrance test, followed by counselling. Eligibility requires graduation in the relevant subject with minimum 45% to 50% aggregate, depending on the programme. The LLM and M.Sc (Library and Information Science) programmes have separate entrance tests conducted by the university.
PhD Admissions
PhD admissions are through Cotton University’s Research Entrance Test (RET), conducted annually. Candidates holding UGC-NET JRF fellowships are typically exempt from the entrance test. Eligibility requires a master’s degree with minimum 55% aggregate (50% for SC/ST). Research areas span all 27 PhD-offering departments, with strong research activity in natural sciences and social sciences.
Cotton University Placements and Career Outcomes
Cotton University’s placement activity is modest, reflecting its primary character as a liberal arts, science, and social science university. As per NIRF 2025 placement data, 208 students were placed in 2024 — comprising 54 UG graduates and 154 PG graduates. The UG median package was INR 4.80 LPA and the PG median package was INR 7.80 LPA.
Placement activity is strongest in computer-related programmes (BCA, MCA, M.Sc Computer Science), Mass Communication, and Biotechnology. Government sector employment through APSC (Assam Public Service Commission), UPSC, and other state examinations accounts for a significant share of graduate employment.
| Placement Metric | 2024 Data (NIRF 2025) |
|---|---|
| UG Students Placed | 54 |
| PG Students Placed | 154 |
| Total Placed | 208 |
| UG Median Package | INR 4.80 LPA |
| PG Median Package | INR 7.80 LPA |
A large proportion of graduates from humanities and social science disciplines pursue higher education (CUET PG or competitive MA/M.Sc admissions), UGC-NET for lectureship eligibility, civil services preparation, or school teaching through APTET and CTET. The Mass Communication programme feeds graduates into print, digital, and broadcast media in Assam and Northeast India.
Cotton University Scholarships
Cotton University students are eligible for central and state government scholarship schemes, primarily through the National Scholarship Portal (scholarships.gov.in) and the Assam government’s scholarship portals. UGC-NET JRF fellowship is available for eligible PhD scholars.
| Scholarship / Fellowship | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| Central Sector Scholarship (MHRD) | Top 20 percentile in Class 12, family income below INR 4.5 Lakhs | INR 10,000 per year (Years 1 to 3), INR 20,000 in final year |
| Post Matric Scholarship (SC/ST — Central) | SC and ST students, income within prescribed limit | Tuition fee and maintenance allowance |
| Assam State Scholarship (SC/ST/OBC) | Assam domicile students of reserved categories | As per Assam state scholarship norms |
| Minority Scholarship (Central) | Minority community students, 50%+ in last exam, income below INR 2 Lakhs | Tuition fee and maintenance |
| UGC-NET JRF (PhD) | PhD scholars qualifying UGC-NET JRF | INR 37,000 per month (Year 1 to 2), INR 42,000 (Year 3 onward) |
Given the low fee structure at Cotton University (MA fees as low as INR 26,650 for 2 years), scholarship benefits go a long way in reducing the effective cost of education for eligible students.
Cotton University Campus and Infrastructure
Cotton University’s 39.82-acre campus is situated in Panbazar, central Guwahati — within walking distance of Guwahati railway station and the Brahmaputra riverfront. The compact urban campus has been in use since the college’s founding in 1901 and contains a mix of heritage architecture and modern academic buildings.
The campus houses 33 departments and centres across the five faculties: Physical, Chemical and Mathematical Sciences; Life Sciences; Earth Sciences; Languages, Literature and Linguistics; and Human and Social Sciences. A central library holds an extensive collection built over more than a century, with access to national and international journals and digital resources.
Hostel accommodation is available for both boys and girls at an annual fee of up to INR 7,000 — one of the most affordable residential options in Assam’s university sector. The campus also has a seminar hall, sports facilities, a health unit, and a well-maintained auditorium that hosts academic and cultural events for the Guwahati student community.
Cotton University vs Gauhati University vs Dibrugarh University
Students from Assam and Northeast India choosing between public universities for arts, science, and social science programmes frequently compare Cotton University, Gauhati University (Jalukbari, Guwahati), and Dibrugarh University. All three are state-funded UGC-recognised universities in Assam with low fees.
| Parameter | Cotton University | Gauhati University | Dibrugarh University |
|---|---|---|---|
| Established | 1901 (as Cotton College); University: 2017 | 1948 | 1965 |
| Location | Panbazar, Guwahati | Jalukbari, Guwahati | Dibrugarh, Assam |
| NAAC Grade | A (CGPA 3.05) | A (CGPA 3.17) | B++ (CGPA 2.88) |
| Campus Area | 39.82 acres (urban) | Approx. 412 acres | Approx. 330 acres |
| MA / M.Sc Fees | INR 26,650 to 31,050 (2 years) | Comparable (state-funded) | Comparable (state-funded) |
| Key Distinction | Urban Guwahati campus, NAAC 1st cycle A in Assam, Mass Communication and Biotechnology focus | Larger campus, broader programme range, NIRF ranked | Oil-industry proximity, strong Science and Petroleum Technology programmes |
Cotton University holds an advantage on NAAC grade and Guwahati city-centre location, which aids student access to internships, government offices, and media companies. Gauhati University offers a larger campus with a wider range of affiliated colleges. Dibrugarh University’s proximity to the oil and energy sector gives it an edge for energy-related disciplines. Subject availability and location are the key differentiators for aspirants choosing among these three.
Cotton University FAQs
Ques. Is Cotton University a government university?
Ans. Yes. Cotton University is a state government university established under the Cotton University Act, 2017 by the Government of Assam. It was originally founded in 1901 as Cotton College and became a full-fledged state university in 2017. It is UGC-recognised and holds NAAC Grade A accreditation with CGPA 3.05.
Ques. What is the admission process for Cotton University Guwahati?
Ans. UG admissions at Cotton University use two routes: approximately 40% of seats are filled through CUET UG scores (NTA), and the rest through Assam state merit based on Class 12 results. Candidates apply through the Cotton University admission portal at admissions.cottonuniversity.ac.in. PG admissions use CUET PG or a university entrance test. CUET UG 2027 is expected in May 2027 for the 2027-28 batch.
Ques. What is the BA Hons fee at Cotton University?
Ans. The total 3-year fee for BA (Hons.) at Cotton University is approximately INR 40,500 for most subjects (about INR 13,500 per year). Hostel accommodation is available at up to INR 7,000 per year. BA (Hons.) Mass Communication carries a higher fee of INR 1,22,950 for 3 years.
Ques. What is Cotton University’s NAAC grade?
Ans. Cotton University holds NAAC Grade A with a CGPA of 3.05 on a 7-point scale. It is the first public university in Assam to receive the A grade in its first cycle of NAAC assessment.
Ques. Does Cotton University have hostel facilities?
Ans. Yes. Cotton University has separate hostels for boys and girls on its 39.82-acre campus in Panbazar, Guwahati. Hostel fees are up to INR 7,000 per year, making it one of the most affordable residential options for students in Assam.
Ques. What are the placement outcomes at Cotton University?
Ans. As per NIRF 2025 data, Cotton University placed 208 students in 2024 — 54 UG graduates and 154 PG graduates. The UG median package was INR 4.80 LPA and PG median was INR 7.80 LPA. Many graduates from arts and social science disciplines also pursue government services, UGC-NET, civil services examinations, and teaching careers.
Ques. Is Cotton University better than Gauhati University?
Ans. Both are state government universities in Guwahati. Gauhati University (established 1948) has a larger campus (412 acres) and a wider programme range. Cotton University (established as university in 2017) has an urban city-centre campus and was the first public university in Assam to receive NAAC A grade in its first assessment cycle. For students preferring a central Guwahati location with a focus on arts, sciences, Mass Communication, and Biotechnology, Cotton University is a strong choice.
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Cotton University in Guwahati offers strong department facilities including well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and research spaces for subjects like Physics, Botany, Zoology and more. It also has a rich central library, Wi-Fi, sports grounds, hostels, auditorium and student support services, helping academic growth and campus life.
Cotton University, Guwahati, does not offer a B.Tech in Computer Engineering. It provides a 3-year B.Sc. (Hons.) in Computer Science and Information Technology through its Department of Computer Science & IT.
At Cotton University, hostel fees are approximately INR 5,000–INR 10,000 per year, excluding mess, while the total with mess may reach around INR 30,000–INR 36,000 annually. The university does not offer an integrated B.Sc. B.Ed. course. Hostel facilities include Wi-Fi, security, water and electricity, medical assistance, and shared rooms.
Cotton University has not officially announced the application dates for B.Sc. (Mathematics) admissions for the 2025-26 academic session. However, based on previous admission timelines, the university commences the application process in May, with deadlines around late June.
Cotton University in Guwahati offers a three-year BCA program; however, direct admission into the third semester is not available as the admissions are for entry into the first semester only. Cotton University does not have lateral entry provisions for ongoing BCA semesters.
Yes, Cotton University, Guwahati does offer admissions under a sports quota. This is part of their "Extra Curricular and Differently Abled (EC & DA) quota" admissions. The sports quota is available across various programs, and applicants need to go through performance tests and interviews as part of the selection process.
The first year fee of MA Psychology in Cotton University, Guwahati is INR 4,850. The second year fee is INR 4,350.
You cannot apply for BCA/MCA course at Cotton University Guwahati if you have not passed 12th with 50% in PCM to be eligible. Thus, with arts stream you cannot apply.
No, you need to have passed 12th to be eligible for admission to the college.
Is there any Entrance Exam for admission in Cotton university Guwahati?
Admission to the undergraduate courses is based on merit scores. For admission to postgraduate courses, there is a CPGE examination conducted by the university.
Cotton University does not offer BA Honors to the students. The university offers BA in general mode. The total fee of the course is INR 11,150.
Cotton University does not require CUET UG or PG examinations for admission to its UG and PG courses. The admissions to the UG courses are merit-based whereas the admissions to the PG courses are based on CPGE Examination.
Can I get admission for MCA after B.com ?
No, you can not apply for admission to MCA after B.Com. In order to take admission to MCA, you must have completed BCA from a recognised university.
Yes, you can apply with Information Practice in 12th but you must have also studied English as a subject in your 10+2 for being eligible for admission to BCA.
Applicants will be able to fill out the application form for UG will be from the 1st week of April 2023. The application form will be released online.
You only need to register on the official website of the college in order to apply for the course.
Public Administration is not available in Cotton University, Assam at any level of education.
Cotton University offers the Masters of Science (M.Sc) in Geography on a full-time basis. The registration process for the course has not yet started for the 2022 – 2024 academic session but is expected to start soon for this session.