Ashoka University Liberal Arts

Ashoka University offers a multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary undergraduate programme designed to expose students to a broad range of perspectives both within and beyond the classroom.

It's a four-year undergraduate B.A./B.Sc. Honours and Honours with Research degree programmes aim to develop critical intellectual skills and a deep understanding of various fields of study.

To graduate, students must successfully complete the required academic credits, which include coursework, co-curricular components, and internships—ensuring holistic development and career readiness.

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Admission Process Timeline

Ashoka University follows a structured and multi-stage undergraduate admissions process.

Each round follows a clear timeline, from application submission to final decision, ensuring transparency and ample time for preparation at every stage.

Components

Round 1

Round 2

Round 3

Application Forms Open

10 October 2024

Application Form Submission Deadline

27 November 2024

15 January 2025

25 April 2025

Assessments Date

8 December 2024

25 January 2025

4 May 2025

Final Selection Release

27 January 2025

9 April 2025

25 June 2025

Offer Confirmation Fee Deadline

7 March 2025

14 May 2025

31 July 2025

Last Date of Admission

4 August 2025

Commencement Date

18 August 2025


Fee Structure

Ashoka University follows a transparent and inclusive fee model. The following is the fee structure for the first year of the undergraduate programme (Applicable for Year 1 – August 2025 Intake):

Components

First Year – AY 25-26

(Cost in INR)

Tuition

10,22,700

Residence

2,00,550

Essential Services

(consisting of Medical Insurance and Laundry Services)

5,400

Total

12,28,650

*The annual fee is subject to revision.

Note:


Eligibility Criteria

Ashoka University welcomes applications from students across all educational boards in India and abroad.

Applicants are assessed holistically, with academic performance, critical thinking skills, and personal attributes taken into account.

For all IB students (IBDP, Certificate, IBCP) who wish to pursue a Major in one of these four disciplines (Mathematics, Economics, Computer Science and Physics) at Ashoka University, the applicant should have taken one of the following subjects at the level mentioned: (1) Applications and Interpretation (HL) (2) Analysis and Approaches (SL or HL)

5) Applicants may submit SAT or ACT scores, however, taking the Ashoka Aptitude Assessment is mandatory.If SAT/ACT performance is better than the Ashoka test, the higher score will be considered for evaluation.


Admission Process

Stage 1: Application

The first step in Ashoka University’s undergraduate admissions process is filling out the online application form. Applicants are required to provide the following details:

Ashoka offers three application rounds during the admissions cycle. An applicant can apply in any of the three rounds, but only once within the Admissions Cycle. Duplicate applications will not be accepted and may result in disqualification.

Once the application form is submitted, no changes can be made. Applicants are advised to review all details carefully before final submission.

Stage 2: Assessment

All applicants are required to appear for two key assessments as part of the admissions process:

It consists of 40 questions (covering both Critical Thinking and Problem Solving) in 90 minutes. All questions are Multiple Choice Questions (MCQ).

There is no negative marking for wrong answers.

Candidates will be provided with two topics and must choose one. No word limit, allowing applicants to express their thoughts freely

Stage 3: Shortlist for Interview

After reviewing each application and assessment holistically, the Admissions Committee shortlists select applicants for the interview stage. This evaluation is based on both academic and non-academic components of the application.

Stage 4: Final Selection

Based on the interview and overall application evaluation, candidates may receive one of the following outcomes:


Exam Pattern

Once an applicant submits their application form within the deadline of a given admissions round, they are mandatorily required to appear for the Assessments. The Assessments consist of an On-the-Spot Essay (OSE) and the Ashoka Aptitude Assessment (AAA).

On-the-Spot Essay(OSE)

Duration: 30 minutes | Mandatory

The On-the-Spot Essay assesses a candidate’s ability to think critically and articulate ideas clearly. The evaluation is based on the following criteria:

Candidates will be given two topics to choose from.The essay has no word limit.No external resources (books, internet, or notes) may be used.A 5-minute break will follow the completion of the essay.

2) Ashoka Aptitude Assessment(AAA)

Duration: 90 minutes | Mandatory

Conducted after the On-the-Spot Essay and the break, the Ashoka Aptitude Assessment is designed to evaluate a student’s thinking abilities, rather than rote knowledge.

Areas

Number of Questions

Topics Covered

Problem-solving skills

40

Includes numerical and spatial reasoning

Mathematical problems– spanning across topics such as Data Analysis, Arithmetic, Basic Algebra, Visual Reasoning, and General Problem Solving

Critical thinking skills

Includes understanding arguments and reasoning using everyday language


Courses Offered

Ashoka University’s undergraduate programme offers a rigorous and interdisciplinary education in the liberal arts and sciences. Designed to build strong foundations in academic reading, writing, and research, the programme encourages students to think across disciplines and engage deeply with diverse fields of knowledge.

Program

Major

Minor

Program Description

Biology (B.Sc. Hons.)

7 core courses, 4 lab courses,4 optional courses, 7 foundation courses(mandatory )

6 courses (4 core theory courses, no lab courses and 2 electives.)

Provides a strong foundation for research and careers in biological sciences, medicine, pharmaceuticals, the biotech industry, teaching, and other related fields.

Chemistry(B.Sc. Hons.)

20 courses(4 Mandatory Courses, 5 Core Courses, 4 Lab Courses,7 Electives)

6 courses (Any 3 core courses, 2 Lab courses,1 elective)

Takes a holistic approach by integrating concepts from Physics, Biology, Computer Science, and Environmental Science, fostering interdisciplinary understanding.

Computer Science (B.Sc. Hons./ Hons. with Research)

A minimum of 150 credits for completion of the programs- i) Foundation courses (36 credits)ii) Majors

a) 4-year BSc Hons degree: 80 credits( 68 credits of CS core courses, 12 credits in CS elective courses)

b) 4-year BSc Hons with Research degree: 92 credits(64 credits of CS core courses and a 12-credit capstone thesis,16 credits in CS elective courses)

c)3-year BSc Hons degree: A minimum of 60 credits(52 credits of CS core courses,8 credits in CS elective courses, remaining 12 academic credits by taking courses from any department within the university)

iii) Open Credits (28)

iv) Non-academic Credits (6)

a)

24 academic credits(equivalent to six courses)Mandatory Courses:

a) Introduction to Computer Science

b) Discrete Mathematics

c) Data Structures and Algorithms

d)Introduction to Computer Programming

Three more courses from the Computer Science department

Covers core areas of Computer Science such as systems, theory, and AI, while also exploring fields like human-centred computing, social and information networks, digital humanities, data-driven journalism, and cyber law.

Economics (B.A. Hons.)

Interdisciplinary majors:

i) 3-yr Economics BA (Hons.) : 15 courses( 9 Compulsory courses, 6 electives)Mandatory Courses:

- Introduction to Economics - Mathematics for Economists - Statistics, and Econometrics - Micro Theory I and II - Macro Theory I and II - Development Economicsii) 3-yr Econ-Fin BSc. (Hons): 15 courses(9 compulsory courses, Any 6 econ/fin electives. Of this 6, at least 3 fin electives )iii) 3-yr Econ-Pub BA (Hons) :15 courses(9 compulsory courses, Any 6 econ/pub electives. Of this 6, at least 3 public policy electives )iv) 4-yr Econ BA (Hons): 20 courses(9 compulsory courses,8 electives)

Mandatory Courses:

- Adv. Microeconomics

- Adv Macroeconomics

- Adv Econometrics v) 4-yr Econ-Fin BSc (Hons): 20 courses(12 compulsory courses, 8 econ/fin electives. Of this 8, at least 4 fin electives)vi) 4-yr Econ-Pub BA (Hons): 20 courses(12 compulsory courses, Any 8 econ/public policy electives. Of this 8, at least 4 public policy electives)

24 credits, irrespective of whether it is completed in 4-year or 3-yearMandatory Courses:

- 4 compulsory courses: Introduction to Economics,

Maths for Economists,

Micro Theory I,

Macro Theory I

- 2 Electives

While the primary focus is on Economics, the programme ensures broad exposure through Foundation Courses in disciplines like History, Sociology, Literature, and Politics, encouraging cross-disciplinary thinking.

English (B.A. Hons.)

12 courses(2 Gateways,4 Survey Courses, 6 Electives) or simply 100 credits.

Interdisciplinary majors:

i)English and Creative Writing:

11 English courses and 5 Creative Writing courses

ii) English and Media Studies: 10 English courses and 6 Media Studies courses.

iii)English and Performing Arts: 9 English courses, 5 stand-alone Performance Studies courses, and 2 cross-listed courses.

6 courses)2 Gateways, 2 of 4 Survey Courses, 2 Electives)

Engages students with literature and literary analysis across genres, cultures, and languages, offering both breadth and depth in literary studies.

History (B.A. Hons.)

12 courses in History.

Interdisciplinary major: 16 or 17 courses, depending on the interdisciplinary major.

i) History and International Relations

ii) History and Economics

6 total courses

Explores forgotten cities, folklores, speeches, letters, architecture, clothing, cuisine, cinema, paintings, and more—blending historical insight with cultural exploration.

International Relations (B.A. Hons.)

Major in International Relations, a student must complete a minimum of 13 courses.

a)3 year BA Honours: 52 credits.

b) 4 year BA Honours: 72 credits.

c) 4 year BA Honours with Research: 72 + 12 credits.

Interdisciplinary Major:

i) History and International Relations(3 Core Courses, 5/7 electives depending on the nature of the program)

a) 3-year interdisciplinary programme: 68 credits

b) 4-year interdisciplinary programme: 80 credits

c)4 -year interdisciplinary programme with research: 92 credits

Students may also opt to pursue a Minor in IR.

For the Minor, students must complete 6 courses.

Offers comprehensive undergraduate training in International Relations, introducing major subfields such as International History, Security Studies, and Foreign Policy Analysis.

Philosophy (B.A. Hons.)

i) 3 Year Philosophy Major: 12 courses (48 credits) in Philosophy and another course in any area

ii) 4 Year Philosophy Major: 12 courses (48 credits) in Philosophy and another six courses in any area.

iii) 4 Year Philosophy Major with Research: at least 12 courses (48 credits) in Philosophy and another six courses in any area.

Interdisciplinary Major:

a) Philosophy and Computer Science (PHICS): 17 courses

b) Psychology and Philosophy (PSYPHI) 16 courses

c) Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE)

Students must complete at least 6 courses (24 credits) in Philosophy.

Prepares students for advanced studies in Philosophy or careers in media, law, business, and consulting, by developing analytical thinking and ethical reasoning.

Political Science (B.A. Hons.)

For completing a major in Political Science one must take 12 courses (4 required courses +8 electives).

Minimum credit requirement is 100 credits

Interdisciplinary Major:

Politics, Philosophy and Economics: 16 courses or 116 credits

For completing a minor in Political Science one must take 6 courses (3 required courses +3 electives).

Minimum credit requirement is 24 credits

Curriculum is organized around the four conventional pillars of the discipline: Political Theory, Comparative Politics, Indian Politics and Research Methods.

Sociology and Anthropology (B.A. Hons.)

12 courses( 6 compulsory courses, 6 electives)

6 courses(3 required courses and 3 electives)

Emphasizes the study of India and South Asia, weaving critical themes like caste, hierarchy, and social stratification throughout an interdisciplinary curriculum.

Psychology (B.Sc. Hons.)

i) 4 year program B.Sc (Hons) in Psychology: 160 credits

ii) 4 year program B.Sc (Hons) in Psychology with Research: 160 credits

iii) 3 year program B.Sc in Psychology: 120 credits

6 courses

Introduces core areas of Psychology, including Neuroscience, Social Influence, Psychotherapy, and Psychopathology, laying a strong academic and practical foundation.

Mathematics (B.Sc. Hons.)

i) 3 year hons. Degree: 15 Mathematics courses( 12 Required courses, 3 electives)

ii) 4 year hons. degree : 20 Mathematics courses( 12 Required courses,8 electives)

Interdisciplinary Major:

Mathematics and Computer Sciences: 9 Mathematics courses and 9 Computer Science Course

6 courses.

Exposure to the primary areas and the central ideas of contemporary Mathematics

Physics(B.Sc. Hons.)

Students are expected to take the introductory course in calculus (Calculus I) offered by the Mathematics Department.

i) 4-year B.Sc. Honours program: 160 credits (may include 12 research credits if the degree is B.Sc. Hons with Research)

ii) 3-year B.Sc. Honours program: 108 credits

Students are expected to take the introductory course in calculus (Calculus I) offered by the Mathematics Department.

6 courses (24 credits).

The Department of Physics also offers a Minor in Astronomy, the requirement for which is six courses (24 credit

Invites students to explore real-world and fundamental physics, cultivating a deep conceptual understanding of the natural world.


Curriculum

Ashoka University's undergraduate programme features a well-structured curriculum comprising four essential categories—Foundation Courses, Major Courses (Interdisciplinary Majors), Co-Curricular Courses, and Internship.

Students begin by engaging in nine mandatory Foundation Courses that build core academic abilities, including Critical Thinking. By the third semester, they choose a Major from 13 pure and 12 interdisciplinary options. In addition, students have the flexibility to pursue Minors or Concentrations—available in all pure majors as well as 10 other fields

Foundation Courses

All undergraduate students are required to complete nine Foundation Courses, designed to develop essential academic skills such as critical thinking, analytical writing, and interdisciplinary inquiry.

These courses span a wide range of disciplines and serve as the intellectual bedrock of Ashoka’s liberal education model.

Ashoka University requires each student to take 9 Foundation Courses. Each of these courses is mandatory.

Foundation Courses are offered across following disciplines:

Economy, Politics and Society

Environmental Studies

Great Books

Indian Civilizations

Literature and the World

Mind and Behaviour

Principles of Science

Quantitative Reasoning and Mathematical Thinking

Majors

A Major represents a student’s primary academic focus and leads to a B.A. (Honours) or B.Sc. (Honours) degree. Students may begin exploring their chosen area of interest from the second semester, but are only required to declare their Major formally by the end of the third semester.

Biology (B.Sc. Hons.)

Chemistry (B.Sc. Hons.)

Computer Science (B.Sc. Hons.)

Economics (B.A. Hons.)

English (B.A. Hons.)

History (B.A. Hons.)

International Relations (B.A. Hons.)

Mathematics (B.Sc. Hons.)

Philosophy (B.A. Hons.)

Physics (B.Sc. Hons.)

Political Science (B.A. Hons.)

Psychology (B.Sc. Hons.)

Sociology/Anthropology (B.A. Hons.)

Minors and Concentrations

In addition to their Major, students can pursue a Minor or Concentration in a wide variety of fields. Minors are available in all pure majors, along with 10 additional fields, offering further academic flexibility and interdisciplinary learning.

Astronomy

Biology

Chemistry

Environmental Science

Physics

Mathematics

Computer Science

Economics

Political Science

Psychology

Sociology & Anthropology

International Relations

English

History

Philosophy

Sanskrit Studies

China Studies

Visual Arts

Creative Writing

Performing Arts

Media Studies

Entrepreneurship

Co-Curricular Courses

Ashoka’s Co-Curricular Courses are designed to complement academic learning with hands-on, creative, and cultural engagement.

The courses combine practical training—such as dance, theatre, music, painting, ceramics, or language study (e.g., French, Latin, Urdu)—with critical analysis of their historical, political, and cultural contexts.

To fulfill graduation requirements, students must complete at least 2 Co-Curricular Courses, and may take a maximum of one per semester


Placements

Ashoka University is a preferred destination for several leading recruiters across Ashoka University is a sought-after talent pool for leading organisations across industries such as consulting, corporate, BFSI, IT, and the development sector. Prestigious recruiters include McKinsey & Company, BCG, Bain & Company, Hindustan Unilever, ITC, Deutsche Bank, Kotak, HSBC, Gartner, Fractal Analytics, InfoEdge, Tata Group, J-PAL, London Stock Exchange, Dr. Reddy’s Foundation, and several high-impact organisations such as Samagra Governance, Teach for India, The Convergence Foundation, CSEP, Reliance Foundation, Dalberg Group, Pratham Education Foundation, TechnoServe, and Akanksha Foundation, among others.

Total Recruiters: 250+
Number of Students Placed: 61
Highest CTC Offered: ₹23 LPA

A Few Key Roles Offered by prominent recruiters for on-campus recruitment at Ashoka University:

BFSI

Consulting

Media/Advertising/Publishing

Ed Tech/ Education

IT/ IT Tech

Research Analytics

Development

Analyst

Corporate Credit Risk Analyst

Account Executive

Communications & Strategy

Capabilities and Insights Analyst

Behavioural Architect

Planning support

Business Development

Graduate Analyst

Brand Marketing

Consultant

Content Lead

Data Scientist

Program Associate

Credit Risk Analyst

Junior Data Scientist

Content and Social Media

Data & Strategy

Content Writer

Strategy & Management Delivery AssocBusiness iate

Project Manager

Finance Rotation Program

Management Consultant

Cultural Anthropologist

Editorial Associate

Market Analyst

Imagineer

Research Analyst

Financial Research

Risk Analyst

Employer Branding

Executive Assistant

Onboarding Manager

Research Associate

Social Media manager

Management Trainee

Strategy and Business design analyst

Journalist

Teacher

Software Engineer

Sector Analyst

Strategy & Transactions