Shiv Nadar University: Transforming India’s Higher Education Landscape
In an era of transformative educational reform, Shiv Nadar University, Delhi NCR, stands as a beacon of innovation and excellence. The youngest university to be recognized as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India in August 2022, the university is an exemplar par excellence of world-class education meticulously crafted for India’s aspirations as it moves towards 2047.
Shiv Nadar University was established in 2011 by Mr. Shiv Nadar, the visionary philanthropist, founder and chairman of HCL Technologies and the Shiv Nadar Foundation. Determined to break away from conventional models, Mr. Nadar envisioned a university that would not only impart knowledge but also cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and ethical leadership. This inspired the creation of
a multidisciplinary institution that encourages intellectual inquiry across diverse fields, fostering dialogue between the sciences, engineering, humanities, and management.
A Vision Rooted in Transformation
“At Shiv Nadar University, we believe that our mandate for worldclass higher education requires strong connections with multiple stakeholders, most importantly schools, parents, teachers, business, government and civil society”, says Professor Ananya Mukherjee, Vice-Chancellor. “We start engaging with the bright young minds as early as possible: through the Young Thinkers Forum, an awardwinning program for school students, regular visits of schools to our campus, and engagement with
teachers, principals, counsellors, we are continuously working on deep partnerships which are the pillars on which world-class education rests. As an IoE, we are also deeply engaged with international partners; its dual degree program with Arizona State University for example, is the first dual degree program of its kind in India”, Professor Mukherjee says.
With approximately 3,500 students and over 250 faculty members on a sprawling 286-acre campus in Delhi NCR, the university has created a vibrant ecosystem that blends cuttingedge research, industry collaboration, and early engagement with learners.
Our radically contemporary curriculum
We are launching a fully overhauled
curriculum in 2025. this will see a strengthening our superpower of multidisciplinary/interdisciplinarity education. Students enjoy immense flexibility, allowing combinations like Data science with Sociology or Physics with English, with 40+ programs across four schools—Engineering, Natural Sciences, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Management and Entrepreneurships. Many of our courses will be co-taught, either with faculty across different subjects or with industry. We are enhancing experiential learning through various novel initiatives
Announcing an exciting new venture: The RapidLab at Shiv Nadar Institution of Eminence (IoE)
a live concept lab where the university and industry partners come
together. The objective is to shape high-impact, real-world opportunities through co-innovation, consulting, and the co-creation of solutions that drive capability enhancement and capacity expansion, executed in agile 30-60-90 day sprints. More than a place, RapidLab is a mindset, where curiosity meets execution, and ideas scale faster through collaboration.
“RapidLab is a dynamic collaboration hub for co-creating solutions that accelerate innovation, enhance capabilities, and scale future-ready talent. From startups and MSMEs to large corporates, GCCs, and industry consortiums,
it drives transformation through proofs of concept (PoCs), proofs of technology (PoTs), MVPs, Living Labs, and Reverse Innovation Labs, delivering high-impact industry use cases science, engineering, and deep-tech innovation, while also shaping strategic frameworks for Responsible AI, Sustainability, and Human-Centered Innovation”, says Dr. Sibani Mohapatra, Professor of Practice and Director of Shiiv Nadar IoE RapidLabs.
Certifications to enhance your degree: Shiv Nadar University and the Global Risk Management Institute India have launched India’s first undergraduate certification in risk management. Through this program, students will gain a strong foundation in key areas such as Business Value Chain & Business Risks, Regulatory, Ethical & Compliance Risks, Enterprise Risk Management, and Financial Risk Management - equipping them with
the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in a world where managing risk is central to organizational success. The certification is open to all students interested in this growing area.
The program will feature an industry-specialized curriculum devised by leading practitioners, seamlessly integrating theoretical concepts with hands-on experiential learning to ensure graduates are fully industry-ready. Students will be benefit from regular interactions with seasoned professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and mentoring sessions which will bring real-world perspectives into the classroom. This collaboration marks yet another step in Shiv Nadar University’s mission to drive academic excellence while strengthening industry–academia synergy in higher education.
More such certifications are under development.
Faculty: Thought Leaders and Mentors
Shiv Nadar IoE’s faculty hail from top global institutions—IITs, IISc, Harvard, Oxford—and bring global knowledge to local challenges. They don’t just teach—they mentor. Students work closely with them on research, internships, and entrepreneurial ideas, ensuring holistic academic and professional development.
Engaging Young Minds: The school-to-campus journey
Shiv Nadar IoE’s commitment to shaping future leaders begins long before they enter the university. Programs like the Young Thinkers Forum and the Shiv Nadar Internship Program (SNIP) engage students from Classes 8–12. These initiatives expose young minds to emerging fields like AI, robotics, and sustainability. This school-tocampus approach gives students an early edge, entering higher education with curiosity, clarity, and creativity.
The Shiv Nadar Internship Program (SNIP), offered under the Young Thinkers Forum, is a distinctive gateway for school students (primarily Classes 11 & 12) into the world of hands-on research,
technology, and professional career exploration. SNIP gives participants the chance to work closely with Shiv Nadar University’s leading researchers, scientists, and business professionals across fields like Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Engineering, Management, and Sustainability.
The journey at Shiv Nadar IoE continues for many SNIP alumni who pursue higher studies at Shiv Nadar University. They become eligible for the university’s robust entrepreneurship ecosystem anchored by the Atal Incubation Centre (AICShiv Nadar IoE).
Research:
Since its very inception, the university has invested in research in a comprehensive manner. The flagship research program, Opportunities for Undergraduate Research (OUR), has resulted in undergraduate students publishing with faculty. Several research centers have been created, which are highly successful in bringing together resources and collaborators and supporting doctoral students. The Atal Incubation Centre helps convert academic research into real-world solutions. For example, Neha Gupta, a recent graduate, developed an air quality monitor now deployed in Delhi schools to combat urban pollution.
Major research centers
The AI Center of Excellence: The AI Center will have three areas
of focus. The first is Responsible AI - Few universities in the Global South are focused on this theme in a comprehensive way. We want to lead in this space. HCL, our sister entity, has embraced this as a major theme. We will leverage this through a good industry-academia partnership. The second area is Curriculum and Pedagogy for an AI world. We will build on our recognized strength of research-infused multidisciplinary curriculum, with a focus on preparing students for an AI world. The third area of focus is AI and Health. This is a huge need in India and huge supply of data which can be harnessed for gains in human health.
Center for Integrative & Translational Studies (CITRES): The goal of CITRES is to facilitate translational research in human health and various diseases (especially infectious and lifestyle disorders) using interdisciplinary approaches. It is poised to become a national leader with its 30,000 Sq ft facility and specialized laboratories for imaging, surgeries, microinjections, and behavior studies, one of the few in the country.
The Centre of Excellence for Himalayan Studies is a research centre focused on the economy, borders and identities, the environment and regional geopolitics of the wider Himalayan region including the Hindu Kush and the Karakoram. Bringing together scientists, engineers, social scientists and cultural studies scholars, the Center contributes to research, teaching and public policy on the region in unique and significant ways Center of Excellence in Epigenetics: The Center’s vision is to bring together a group of established as well as young investigators with expertise in diverse fields, including Molecular Genetics, Biochemistry, Molecular Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Neurobiology, Genomics, Proteomics, and Computational Biology, to formulate and test a set of novel and exciting hypotheses in the field of Epigenetics. In particular, the center is focused on epigenetic modifications underlying various biologically
essential phenomena and their role in gene expression, development, regeneration, diseases, evolution, and adaptation Center for Advanced Materials (CAM): The Center is committed to primary and translational research in next-generation materials for addressing critical societal issues and technological challenges. The center aims to decipher pressing global issues and find solutions through innovations and transformative research in material science and technology
Campus Life: Diverse, Dynamic, and Inclusive
Set on a green, self-sustained 286-acre campus, Shiv Nadar IoE hosts students from 28 states and over 15 countries. The campus offers world-class infrastructure: a 120,000 sq. ft. indoor sports complex with an international-standard gym, courts for badminton,
basketball, squash, a climbing wall, yoga studios and many more. Outdoor facilities include cricket and football grounds, tennis and volleyball courts, an equestrian setup, and a running track. Hostels have gyms, wellness centres, food courts, health clinics, ATMs, and shuttle services for seamless student life.
The campus hums with over 50 student-run clubs, from robotics to theatre. Its annual fest, Breeze, brings together hackathons, cultural events, and sustainability drives.
This rich social and cultural life complements academic rigor, helping students grow into well-rounded individuals.
Health and Mental Health Support for Students
Shiv Nadar University prioritises the mental and emotional well-being of all its students. The university offers accessible, confidential counselling services through partnerships with professional platforms like YourDOST, ensuring students have expert help whenever they face stress, anxiety, or personal challenges.
Peer mentoring programs create supportive communities, helping students adjust to campus life, manage academic challenges, and maintain motivation throughout their studies. Regular workshops on stress management, resilience, mindfulness, and leadership skills equip students with psychological tools to handle the rigours of academic and personal life effectively.
This holistic focus on health and well-being complements the university’s comprehensive educational experience by nurturing balanced individuals who can thrive both academically and socially.
Global Reach, Indian Roots
Shiv Nadar University (Shiv Nadar IoE) embodies the vision of “Global Reach, Indian Roots” through partnerships with over 25 international universities, including Arizona State University (ASU), UC Berkeley, and SOAS University of London.
Key international initiatives include:
• Dual-Degree Programs: Students can earn joint degrees, such as the BS in Computer Science and Business Data Analytics with ASU, combining study years in India and abroad.
• Student and Faculty Exchange: Semester exchanges and research collaborations enhance cross-cultural learning and global exposure.
• Collaborative Research: Shiv Nadar IoE engages in joint global research projects, expanding innovation and academic impact.
• Global Alliances: Membership in alliances like ASU-Cintana connects Shiv Nadar IoE to worldwide networks, fostering collaborative education.
NEP 2020 emphasises internationalisation in higher education. Shiv Nadar IoE implements this by integrating global curricula, facilitating international exposure, and maintaining multidisciplinary training that balances global outlooks with Indian values.
This strategy strengthens academic quality, research excellence, and employability, preparing students to lead both globally and within India’s development context.
Campus to Global Careers
Alumni in top companies
Apple Accenture Adobe Amazon American Express
ABB
Bank of America Cisco
CITI Bank Daimler Dassault DE Shaw Facebook
Goldman Sachs Google
HCL
Hewlett-Packard Infosys Microsoft
Morgan Stanley NatWest Verizon and many more
Alumni in government
Indian Army
Central Bureau of Investigation
Airport Authority of India Indian Railways
Indian Naval Academy
Life Insurance Corporation of India
Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
National Thermal Power Corporation NITI Aayog
State Bank of India and many more Alumni in top universities
Arizona State Berkeley Columbia
Cornell Dartmouth Imperial College
Johns Hopkins Kings College
London School of Economics & Political Science Max Plank Institute
NUS NYU
Northwestern Oxford
Yale
and many more
The highest package in the 2024–25 placement season reached ₹50.79 LPA, while the highest offer in 2022–23 was also ₹50.79 LPA. The average package stands around ₹9.8 LPA, with the top 50% of students earning an average of ₹13.7 LPA—evidence of Shiv Nadar IoE’s growing industry alignment and rising demand for its graduates.
Alumni: Leaders and Mentors
Shiv Nadar IoE has a global alumni community of over 5,000 graduates excelling in technology, academia, policy, and entrepreneurship. The university actively engages them through reunions, communications, and events, keeping them connected to the university.
The Alumni Mentorship Program connects experienced graduates with current students, guiding them in academics, internships, and careers. Alumni also contribute
through workshops, career fairs, and personalised mentoring, helping students prepare for professional challenges.
Alumni achievements are highlighted to inspire students, and their ongoing involvement provides valuable industry insights, internship opportunities, and networking support. This vibrant alumni network strengthens Shiv Nadar IoE’s mission by fostering leadership, innovation, and community.
Entrepreneurship Culture at Shiv Nadar University
At Shiv Nadar IoE, entrepreneurship is nurtured as an integral part of the student experience, designed to equip innovators with practical skills and strategic support from day one. Beyond formal structures, the campus buzzes with creativity fostered through multidisciplinary collaboration and a problem-solving mindset.
Central to this culture is a mentorship network pairing budding entrepreneurs with seasoned industry professionals, alumni, and faculty who provide guidance tailored to early-stage ventures. This support helps students navigate challenges from business ideation to market entry.
The university organises immersive bootcamps, hackathons, and innovation sprints that encourage students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems,
fostering rapid prototyping and agile development. Access to specialised maker spaces and advanced technology labs enables teams to experiment and develop products across domains.
The Atal Incubation Centre (AIC) at Shiv Nadar IoE is a 10,000sq. ft, state-of-the-art facility offering access to over 150 labs and advanced prototyping resources. The incubator welcomes startups from across the country, encouraging deep-tech innovation in fields like Industry 4.0, health tech, agritech, and cleantech.
Shiv Nadar IoE High Five:
• Inspire Early: Through programs like the Young Thinkers Forum and Shiv Nadar Internship Program (SNIP) for school students
• Deliver Flexibility:
• Foster Innovation: Through research and incubation
• Build Global Networks: While staying rooted
• Prioritize Sustainability: Through real action, not just talk
The Vice-Chancellor’s message to students
“At Shiv Nadar University, our commitment is first and foremost to you. As a graduate of this university you will be equipped to flourish in a world that is changing rapidly. New opportunities are opening up every day. We will prepare you to grab such opportunities. Whichever program you choose, you will learn to use AI responsibly, you will become a master communicator and will develop a deep understanding of the major trends in your field. You will learn inside and outside the classroom – through engagement with industry, live projects, international exchanges, immersions, internships and much more. You will be poised to pursue a wide range of careers – in the private sector, the government, international organizations, or start-ups. You will also be uniquely positioned for higher education in top institutions – many of our alumni will meet you there. If entrepreneurship is your calling, our curriculum and the on-campus incubation center will
train you for that. Most importantly, you will spend four important years of your life with talented peers and world-class faculty, on a 300-acre green campus where we nurture a magical combination of creativity, joy, ethics and resilience.
Professor Ananya Mukherjee, Vice Chancellor, Shiv Nadar University Institute of Eminence, Delhi NCR
Why Shiv Nadar IoE Could Be Your Future University
If you’re curious, love asking questions, and want to blend science, creativity, and purpose, Shiv Nadar University might be your future home. Whether it’s building
robots, solving climate problems, or launching your own startup, Shiv Nadar IoE helps you start early and aim big.
What makes Shiv Nadar IoE different?
• Flexibility: Choose from 40+ undergraduate programs. Mix data science with philosophy, or entrepreneurship with physics.
• Start research in Year 1: Work in labs with PhD scholars on AI, nanotech, and climate science.
• Experience the world: Dualdegree programs and exchange tie-ups with ASU, UC Berkeley, SOAS, and more.
• Thrive in the career of your choice:
• Vibrant campus life: 50+ clubs, top-class sports, theatre, music, and tech events make learning fun and engaging.
How to Join: Admission Pathways & Scholarships
Admission Routes:
1. SNUSAT + APT – Online entrance test with logic, English, essay, and subject knowledge.
2. JEE Main (90–98 percentile) –Direct entry for top scorers.
3. SAT / ACT / CUET / NEET –Accepted for specific programs.
4. Board performance – Exceptional 12th marks also considered.
Scholarships:
School Topper scholarships
50% fee off for board toppers (≥95–98%)
Merit-based scholarships 25–100% off for high scorers in JEE/boards/ SAT
Need-based scholarships Full fee and hostel aid for income under ₹3–12 LPA
Sports Scholarships Full scholarships for top national athletes
College Board SAT-based aid for low-income students
How to prepare:
• Build a strong academic base.
• Work on reasoning, essays, and time-bound problem solving.
• Keep track of deadlines—apply early to maximise options.
• Get involved in school activities. Shiv Nadar IoE values holistic profiles.
What’s Life Like at Shiv Nadar University?
Wake up in your hostel. Join a morning lecture on philosophy and AI. Have lunch at the student-run café. Head to your lab or theatre practice. End the day with friends under starry skies or open-mic nights.
That’s campus life.
You live and learn with students from all over the world. You’re encouraged to explore, fail, try again, and find your own path. And along the way, you’ll build lasting friendships, lifelong networks, and a strong sense of self.
Expanding Global Horizons: Strategic International Partnerships
Shiv Nadar University (Shiv Nadar IoE) is committed to providing transformative global learning experiences through collaborations with leading institutions worldwide. Two recent landmark
partnerships, with Arizona State University (ASU), USA, and Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, UK, are shaping exceptional international opportunities for students.
Dual Degree with Arizona State University
In 2024, Shiv Nadar IoE launched India’s first dual degree program of its kind in partnership with Arizona State University, ranked No. 1 in the U.S. for innovation, sustainability, and global impact. This unique initiative allows students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Business Data Analytics or Computer Science, or enrol in
an Accelerated Master’s Program. Students spend their first two years at Shiv Nadar IoE in India before transitioning to ASU in the U.S. for the remaining duration, earning two globally recognized degrees.
ASU’s scale and reputation are unmatched, with over 800 degree programs, 17 colleges, and faculty drawn from 130+ countries. It has been ranked the No. 1 public university chosen by international students (Institute of International Education, 2021–24).
Summer Programmes at the University of Oxford
Shiv Nadar IoE has become the first collaborator for two summer programmes to be launched in 2025 by Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, one in Sustainability & Climate Change and the other in Entrepreneurship & Innovation. These one-week programmes will immerse undergraduate students in world-class academic environments, offering interactive workshops, cuttingedge lectures, and collaborative projects.
The Sustainability programme will focus on renewable energy, circular economies, and sustainable leadership, while the Entrepreneurship programme will guide students from ideation to execution, fostering business innovation with global impact.
According to Professor Ananya Mukherjee, Vice-Chancellor of Shiv Nadar IoE, this partnership “exemplifies our mission to foster innovation, sustainability, and leadership, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society.”
Global Learning, Local Relevance
Through these alliances, Shiv Nadar IoE is integrating global curricula, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, and enhancing collaborative research, ensuring that graduates are equipped to lead in a rapidly evolving, interconnected world.