The Bachelor of Science in Zoology at St. Xavier's College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai is a 3-year full-time undergraduate programme affiliated to Manonmaniam Sundaranar University, Tirunelveli. The course provides a strong foundation in the fundamental concepts of Zoology including Invertebrata, Chordata, Biochemistry, Biostatistics, Physiology, Ecology, Genetics, Aquaculture, Molecular Biology, Immunology and Microbiology, Evolution, Bioinformatics, Environmental Science, Developmental Biology, and Insect Diversity and Pest Management. The programme is offered under Shift 1 (Aided), making it government-supported with highly affordable fees, and admits students based on 12th standard merit. The Department of Zoology, established in 1927, is a DST-FIST sponsored department and is recognised under the Star College Scheme by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India, making it one of the most research-active and prestigious Zoology departments in South Tamil Nadu. The college holds NAAC A++ accreditation and NIRF Rank 36 (2024).
Admission Status (2026-27): The UG Online Registration for the 2026-27 academic year has commenced from April 20, 2026, at the official portal stxavierstn.edu.in. Applications must be submitted within 10 working days after the publication of Tamil Nadu State Board 12th results (expected May-June 2026). The new batch is expected to commence in June 2026.
Key Points
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per semester) | ₹7,500 (approx.) |
| Special Fee / Lab Fee (per semester) | ₹1,200 (approx.) |
| Examination Fee (per semester) | ₹920 |
| Miscellaneous / Other Charges (per semester) | ₹317 (approx.) |
| Total per Semester | ₹9,937 |
| Total for 6 Semesters (3 Years) | ₹59,622 |
| Hostel Fee (per semester) | ₹15,000 (optional) |
| Total Fees (without Hostel) | ₹59,622 |
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| UG Online Registration Commencement | April 20, 2026 |
| Tamil Nadu State Board 12th Results (Expected) | May 2026 |
| Last Date to Submit Application | Within 10 working days after 12th results |
| Expected Batch Commencement | June 2026 |
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Amount / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu Government Post-Matric Scholarship (BC/MBC/DNC) | Students belonging to BC, MBC, and DNC categories | Full or partial tuition fee reimbursement as per government norms |
| Tamil Nadu Government Post-Matric Scholarship (SC/ST) | Students belonging to SC and ST categories | Full tuition fee reimbursement + maintenance allowance |
| Jesuit Education Support (JES) | Economically weaker students admitted to SXC | Financial support towards fees and living expenses |
| PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) Scholarship | Deserving students based on merit and need | Varies; awarded annually |
| Merit Scholarship (College) | Students with high academic performance in 12th | Partial fee concession / cash award |
| Minority Scholarship | Students from minority communities | As per government scheme norms |
Ques. What makes the Zoology Department at SXC Palayamkottai stand out compared to other colleges?
Ans. The Zoology Department at SXC Palayamkottai is one of the most distinguished in South India. It is a DST-FIST sponsored department and is recognised under the Star College Scheme by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India. The department has six active research units covering Aquaculture, Entomology, Crop Protection, and Medical Entomology. Faculty members have secured nearly INR 10 crores in research grants from agencies like UGC, CSIR, DST, DBT, ICAR, ICMR, and international bodies. The department has produced over 145 Ph.D. scholars and published more than 1,000 research papers, making it a research powerhouse at the undergraduate level.
Ques. What are the career options after completing B.Sc Zoology from SXC Palayamkottai?
Ans. After completing B.Sc Zoology from SXC Palayamkottai, students can pursue M.Sc Zoology (available at SXC itself under Shift 1 - Aided), appear for CSIR-NET/JRF for research fellowships, or prepare for competitive exams like TNPSC, SSC, and defence services. Career options include roles in fisheries, wildlife management, environmental consultancy, pharmaceutical research, and teaching. Students can also pursue B.Ed for a teaching career or opt for government jobs in forest and wildlife departments. The department's strong research culture also opens doors to Ph.D. programmes at reputed institutions.
Ques. Does SXC Palayamkottai offer any certificate courses along with B.Sc Zoology?
Ans. Yes, the Zoology Department offers Certificate Courses in Sericulture and Aquaculture in collaboration with the Chemistry Department. These vocational certificate courses add practical skills and enhance employability for students interested in agriculture-allied sectors. Aquaculture is particularly relevant given the department's Centre for Aquaculture Research and Extension (CARE), which is one of the leading research centres in the field. These certificate courses are offered alongside the regular B.Sc curriculum and do not require additional fees.
Ques. Is B.Sc Zoology at SXC Palayamkottai offered in Shift 1 or Shift 2?
Ans. B.Sc Zoology at St. Xavier's College Palayamkottai is offered under Shift 1, which is the Aided (government-supported) programme. The M.Sc Zoology is also offered under Shift 1 (Aided). This means the fees are heavily subsidised by the government, making the total course fee approximately INR 59,622 for the entire 3-year programme (around INR 9,937 per semester). Students benefit from the same quality of education and research infrastructure as any self-financed programme, but at a fraction of the cost.
Ques. How competitive is admission to B.Sc Zoology (Shift 1) at SXC Palayamkottai?
Ans. Admission to B.Sc Zoology under Shift 1 (Aided) is competitive as the seats are limited and the college is one of the most prestigious in South Tamil Nadu. Selection is purely merit-based on 12th standard marks in Biology, Physics, and Chemistry. The college follows Tamil Nadu government reservation norms. Students with high scores in the science stream stand a better chance of securing admission. It is advisable to apply as soon as the 12th results are declared to avoid missing the 10-working-day deadline for application submission.
Ques. What research opportunities are available for B.Sc Zoology students at SXC Palayamkottai?
Ans. B.Sc Zoology students at SXC Palayamkottai have access to six active research units within the department, including the Entomology Research Unit, Centre for Aquaculture Research and Extension, Crop Protection Research Centre, Aquatic Biodiversity Centre, Centre for Aquafeed and Nutrition, and Fish Immunology Lab. Students can participate in ongoing research projects under faculty guidance, which is a rare opportunity at the undergraduate level. The department's recognition under the Star College Scheme by DBT also means students have access to better laboratory infrastructure and research funding. Meritorious students can also apply for summer research fellowships at national institutions.
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