Kathmandu University (KU) is a leading autonomous, non-profit, public institution of higher learning in Nepal. Established in 1991, it has quickly risen to become one of the most prestigious and innovative universities in South Asia, offering high-quality education in science, technology, arts, management, and medicine.

Located in the tranquil town of Dhulikhel, about 30 kilometers east of Kathmandu, KU is known for its academic rigor, modern curriculum, and research-driven learning environment.

Quick Facts about Kathmandu University

History and Legacy

Kathmandu University was established in 1991 with the objective of:

• Promoting quality, science-based education

• Reducing dependency on foreign education

• Creating a knowledge-based economy for Nepal

Founded through an Act of Parliament, KU started with a Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical and Electronics. Today, it hosts over 8,000 students, offering programs in seven schools and maintaining international partnerships with leading global universities.

Academic Schools and Programs

Kathmandu University runs seven academic schools, each offering specialized and interdisciplinary degree programs.

Schools at KU:

1. School of Science

2. School of Engineering

3. School of Management

4. School of Medical Sciences

5. School of Arts

6. School of Law

7. School of Education

Top Academic Programs at Kathmandu University

Bachelor’s Degrees (Undergraduate):

• BE in Civil, Electrical, Computer, Chemical, Mechanical Engineering

• BSc in Environmental Science, Human Biology, Pharmacy

• BBIS, BBA, BDevS (Development Studies)

• MBBS, BDS, BPharm

• BA, BEd, BASW (Social Work)

Master’s Programs:

• MBA, Executive MBA, MBM

• MSc in Physics, Biotechnology, Environment, Computer Science

• ME in Structural, Power, Communications, Mechanical

• MPH (Public Health), MPharm

• MA in Education, Economics, English Literature

PhD and MPhil:

• Research degrees in Engineering, Natural Sciences, Management, Education, Public Health, and more.

Kathmandu University Admission Process

KU conducts independent entrance exams and interviews for most programs.

 Eligibility:

• 10+2 or A-Level with minimum GPA or percentage set per program

• Science stream for technical and medical programs

• Bachelor’s degree in relevant field for master’s programs

 Important Dates:

• Admissions Open: June–August

• Entrance Exams: July (UG), September (PG)

• Admission Info: admissions.ku.edu.np

Fee Structure and Scholarships

KU is a privately funded public university, so tuition is higher than in government colleges but justified by quality and facilities.

Average Fee Estimates (2025):

• BE/BSc/BBA: NPR 7 to 10 lakhs total

• MBBS: NPR 40 to 50 lakhs (full course)

• MBA: NPR 6 to 8 lakhs

• MSc/ME: NPR 3 to 5 lakhs

 Scholarships and Financial Aid:

• Merit-based scholarships

• Need-based aid

• Reserved quotas for marginalized and remote-region students

• KU–partner scholarships (DAAD, Erasmus+, etc.)

Campus Life at KU Dhulikhel

The Dhulikhel Campus offers a peaceful, student-friendly environment:

• State-of-the-art classrooms and lecture halls

• Research laboratories and computer labs

• KU Central Library and digital access

• Student hostels, cafeterias, and sports facilities

• Clean, green, and Wi-Fi-enabled campus

KU encourages a balance between academics, innovation, and holistic development through:

• Student clubs (debate, robotics, music)

• Conferences, hackathons, and Model UN

• Social engagement and volunteering projects

Global Partnerships and Recognition

Kathmandu University maintains MOUs with over 100 universities in 30+ countries, including:

• MIT, Purdue University, University of Tokyo

• IIT Madras, Nanyang Technological University, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU)

• Joint degrees, semester exchange, faculty development, and collaborative research

Research and Innovation

KU emphasizes research-led teaching through:

• Research Management Cell (RMC)

• Center for Energy Studies, High Altitude Research Lab

• KU journals and academic publishing platforms

• Undergraduate research grants and thesis-based programs

Major research areas:

• Renewable energy

• Biomedical engineering

• Water resources and climate change

• Artificial intelligence and data science

Alumni and Career Outcomes

Graduates from KU work in:

• National and multinational companies

• Nepal government (engineers, policy advisors, doctors)

• NGOs and INGOs (UNDP, WHO, Save the Children)

• Startups, hospitals, IT firms, and international universities

KU alumni are known for:

• Strong communication skills

• Technical competency

• Global employability

Interesting Facts About Kathmandu University

• KU was the first university in Nepal to introduce credit-based semester system.

• It runs Nepal’s first green and solar-powered buildings for energy research.

• KU’s MBBS program is affiliated with Dhulikhel Hospital, a model for community-based healthcare.

• Many KU programs rank among the top 3 in South Asia by collaboration and research productivity.

Why Choose Kathmandu University in 2025?

• Top-ranked in academic performance and faculty quality

• Strong international links and exchange programs

• Research-intensive environment with modern labs

•  High graduate employability across sectors

• Beautiful, eco-friendly, and well-managed campus

Conclusion

Kathmandu University is Nepal’s premier institution for students who seek quality, global-standard education in a local setting. With rigorous academics, forward-thinking leadership, and strong student support, KU shapes professionals ready for the challenges of the 21st century.

If you are preparing for KU admission or looking for the best university in Nepal for engineering, medicine, business, or development studies, Kathmandu University should be your first choice.