Pokhara University (PU), Nepal – A Modern Hub for Higher Education
Pokhara University (PU) is one of Nepal’s leading public universities, known for its modern academic structure, industry-aligned programs, and student-centered approach. Established in 1997 under the Pokhara University Act 1995, PU was founded with a vision to decentralize higher education and make it more practical, research-oriented, and globally competitive.
Situated in the scenic city of Pokhara, with its serene Fewa Lake and Himalayan backdrop, PU offers students a balanced academic environment—one that blends technology, innovation, and quality education with natural beauty.
Quick Facts About Pokhara University
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Pokhara University (पोखरा विश्वविद्यालय) |
| Established | 1997 (2054 B.S.) |
| Type | Public, Government-Funded University |
| Main Campus | Lekhnath, Kaski District, Pokhara |
| Chancellor | Prime Minister of Nepal (Ex-officio) |
| Vice-Chancellor | Appointed by the Government |
| Official Website | pu.edu.np |
| Motto | “Production of Skilled Human Resource for National Development” |
Academic Faculties and Schools
Pokhara University has four core faculties that operate its academic programs. These faculties run constituent campuses and oversee more than 60 affiliated colleges across Nepal.
Faculties:
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Faculty of Science and Technology
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Faculty of Management Studies
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Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences
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Faculty of Health Sciences
Programs Offered at Pokhara University (2025)
PU offers programs from the undergraduate to doctoral levels, designed to prepare students for both domestic and international careers.
Undergraduate Programs
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BBA, BBIS, BCA
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BE in Civil, Software, Computer, Electrical & Electronics
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BPharm, BSc Nursing, BPH
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BASW, BA in Development Studies
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BSc Environmental Management
Postgraduate Programs
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MBA, MBA Executive, MBM
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MSc in Computer Science, ME Civil/Software
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MPH, MPharm, MEd, MA in English
Research Degrees
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MPhil in Management, Social Sciences
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PhD in select disciplines with focus on applied and action research
PU Admission Process and Entrance Exam
Pokhara University conducts competitive entrance exams for most major programs. Admissions typically open once a year, usually around July–September.
Requirements:
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+2 Science or Management with minimum GPA (varies by program)
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Entrance test is mandatory for:
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Engineering (BE)
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MBA/MBM
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Health Sciences (Nursing, BPharm, MPH)
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BCA and BBIS
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Admission Timeline (2025):
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Application Period: July–August
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Entrance Exams: August–September
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Classes Begin: October
Official notices and forms are available at: admission.pu.edu.np
PU Constituent and Affiliated Campuses
Constituent Campuses:
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School of Engineering, Lekhnath
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School of Health and Allied Sciences, Lekhnath
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School of Development and Social Engineering
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School of Business, Pokhara
Popular Affiliated Colleges:
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Ace Institute of Management, Kathmandu
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Pokhara Engineering College, Pokhara
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National Academy for Medical Sciences
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Nepal College of Information Technology (NCIT)
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Oxford College of Engineering and Management, Gaindakot
These colleges offer diverse programs in management, IT, health sciences, and engineering, under PU’s academic supervision.
Fee Structure and Scholarships
PU’s tuition fees are lower in constituent campuses and slightly higher in affiliated private colleges, depending on the program and location.
Average Fees (2025 estimates):
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BBA/BCA: NPR 4–6 lakhs total
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BE: NPR 6–8 lakhs
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MBA: NPR 6–9 lakhs
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MBBS/BPharm: NPR 35–50 lakhs
Scholarship Programs:
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Merit-based scholarships for top entrance scorers
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Quota-based scholarships for marginalized and remote groups
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Need-based support from individual colleges
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Reserved seats for female, Dalit, Janajati, and differently-abled students
International Collaboration
PU maintains partnerships with academic institutions in:
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India, China, Germany, USA, Japan, and South Korea
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Exchange programs and faculty development
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Research cooperation and international conferences
Students from PU regularly pursue higher studies or internships abroad, making PU degrees increasingly globally recognized.
Research and Innovation Focus
PU encourages practical research, community involvement, and innovation through:
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Final-year projects and internships
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Incubation centers and research labs
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Grants for thesis and field research
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Focus areas: Renewable Energy, Public Health, IT, Agriculture
Campus Life and Facilities at PU
Pokhara University’s main campus at Lekhnath includes:
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Digitized classrooms and lecture halls
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Research laboratories and computer centers
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Library with online databases
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Hostel and sports facilities
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Peaceful, eco-friendly surroundings with Himalayan views
PU also hosts:
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Student clubs for debate, coding, music, and sports
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Annual events like Tech Fest, Business Week, and Medical Expo
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Volunteering programs and community outreach projects
PU Alumni and Career Success
PU graduates are highly employable in:
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Banks, IT companies, multinational corporations
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Hospitals and pharmaceutical firms
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Government agencies and INGOs
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Startups and entrepreneurial ventures
Top recruiters include:
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Nepal Telecom, WorldLink, Ncell
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Nabil Bank, NIC Asia, Standard Chartered
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WHO, Save the Children, UNDP
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Leapfrog, Deerwalk, Fusemachines
Interesting Facts About Pokhara University
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PU was the first Nepali university to implement the semester and credit system nationwide.
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PU’s School of Engineering is one of the most competitive in Western Nepal.
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The MBA program at PU is known for its case-based learning model and international exposure.
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PU-affiliated students regularly rank top in national licensure exams (especially in pharmacy and nursing).
Why Choose Pokhara University in 2025?
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Modern curriculum with industry-ready skills
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Strong international networks and mobility options
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Emphasis on research and entrepreneurship
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Excellent placement records in multiple sectors
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Study in the naturally beautiful city of Pokhara
Conclusion
Pokhara University offers a dynamic and progressive academic environment where students gain the knowledge, skills, and confidence to excel in a globalized world. With its emphasis on quality, innovation, and inclusivity, PU stands out as a premier destination for higher education in Nepal—especially in engineering, health sciences, business, and IT.