Diyaa Baid 's Review On Ashoka University, Sonepat

I think Ashoka University is great for Liberal arts in India. In terms of Faculty and residence for living its great. So for a High school student looking for good education Ashoka is something that clicked my mind immidiately. I had applied to Flames, and Jindal as option B for liberal arts. Ashoka was on the top of my list. I got selected for all 3 but went with my first choice ,Ashoka. I think Ashoka's application process is very rigorous in the sense of the SOPs, entrance test and the interview rounds. Instead of the entrance exams students from all academic backgrounds had the option of submitting their SAT scores. The first round was submitting the CV which consisted of SOPs and your academic scores and co curricular achievments. This is to access you as a student. Then is the entrance exam which is an online exam consisting of basic math and english questions. The test is proctured and when you clear this round then the final round is an interview wherein they grill you and gauge your interests and family and academic background.

The student capacity depends on the classroom and professor and the course. For some courses it is 20 , for some it is 50 and it can even be 100 for some courses. The girls:boy ratio is 2:1 There are people from Rajasthan, from south India and from Kashmir. There are students even from ethiopia, Nigeria etc. The peer groups are great there is mutual understanding and support. Yes peer learning takes place in classrooms. Yes there is definately marks for participation in classroom. Yes students genuinely are interested in learning in the classroom.

Ashoka University does offer strong support for summer internships, but 100% placement is not guaranteed every year. Here's a breakdown of the internship scenario: Percentage of Unplaced Students: On average, around 85-90% of students secure internships through the university’s placement cell. For those who are unplaced, Ashoka University encourages students to apply independently or through alumni networks and online job portals like LinkedIn, Internshala, or AngelList. Self-Managed Internships: Students who don't find internships through campus placements often secure internships independently by leveraging personal contacts, online platforms, or faculty recommendations. Paid Internships Paid Internships: The majority of internships secured through campus placements are paid. Around 70-80% of internships offered are paid positions, while the rest may be unpaid, particularly in social impact sectors or research-based roles. Stipend Range Average Stipend: The average monthly stipend for internships ranges from ₹15,000 to ₹30,000. Highest Stipend: The highest monthly stipend can go up to ₹80,000 to ₹1,00,000, usually offered by top consulting firms, financial instituitions, or multinational corporations. Lowest Stipend: Some internships, particularly in the non-profit or education sector, may offer stipends as low as ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 or sometimes none at all for voluntary positions. Most Preferred Companies The preferred companies for internships depend on the course, but here are some common trends: Economics/Finance Students: Companies like Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan, and McKinsey & Company are highly sought after due to their reputation and high stipends (around ₹50,000 to ₹80,000 per month). Liberal Arts Students: Internships in media houses (The Indian Express, The Quint), consulting firms, and policy think tanks are common. Monthly stipends in this field range from ₹15,000 to ₹35,000. Bulk Hiring Companies Some companies hire students in bulk for internships. These typically include: Consulting Firms: McKinsey, BCG, and EY hire large numbers of interns across different roles. The average stipend is around ₹30,000 to ₹60,000 per month. Tech Firms: Companies like Microsoft, Google, and Tata Consultancy Services also hire in bulk for technical roles, with stipends averaging ₹40,000 to ₹80,000 per month. Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs) PPO Conversion Rate: Around 20-30% of students convert their internships into Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs). This percentage is higher in courses like Economics, Finance, and Computer Science, where companies seek long-term talent. Final Placements After PPO: If a student accepts a PPO, they are generally not allowed to sit for final placements, as the PPO is considered a final offer. However, exceptions might be made in case of exceptional circumstances, subject to approval by the placement cell. Internship Scenario Across Courses Economics/Finance/CS: The internship scenario is generally better for students in Economics, Finance, and Computer Science courses due to high demand in consulting, finance, and tech industries. Humanities & Social Sciences: Students in humanities fields may find fewer paid internships compared to those in economics or CS. However, opportunities in research, NGOs, and media still offer valuable experience, even if the stipends are lower. In summary, the overall internship experience at Ashoka is robust, with many students securing valuable and paid internships across different industries. While not every student secures an internship through the university’s placement process, ample opportunities exist both on and off-campus.

Start of Final Placements: The final placement season typically begins in November or December for graduating students. Duration: The placement process usually lasts until March or April, depending on the number of companies participating. However, some students may continue securing placements through off-cycle opportunities into May or June. Placement Success Rate Does Everyone Get Placed?: While a significant number of students secure placements, 100% placement is not guaranteed. Typically, around 85-90% of students secure jobs through the university’s placement process. Unplaced Students: For students who remain unplaced, the university provides additional support: Personalized Career Counseling: Career services offer one-on-one guidance to help unplaced students improve their CVs, cover letters, and interview skills. Extended Placement Assistance: The placement cell continues to bring in companies even after the official season ends, and unplaced students are encouraged to leverage alumni networks and external platforms. CTC (Cost to Company) Overview Average CTC: The average CTC at Ashoka University ranges from ₹8 to ₹12 LPA (Lakhs per Annum) across different fields. Highest CTC: The highest CTC offered often comes from consulting and tech firms, with some offers going up to ₹40-45 LPA. Lowest CTC: The lowest CTC is generally in the range of ₹5-6 LPA, often from NGOs, education, or research roles. Preferred Companies (By Course) The preferred companies differ based on the course of study: Economics/Finance/CS Students: Companies like McKinsey, Goldman Sachs, BCG, and JP Morgan are highly preferred due to their prestigious profiles and competitive salaries. Average CTC: These firms offer CTCs in the range of ₹15-25 LPA. Humanities/Social Sciences: Students may opt for companies like The Indian Express, Kantar, Ernst & Young, or research think tanks. Average CTC: Typically in the range of ₹8-12 LPA. Bulk Hiring Companies Some companies hire students in larger numbers. These include: Consulting Firms: McKinsey, BCG, EY, and Deloitte hire across various roles, especially from economics and social sciences backgrounds. These firms usually offer an average CTC of ₹12-18 LPA. Tech Companies: Companies like Microsoft, TCS, and Accenture hire bulk candidates, offering average CTCs around ₹10-15 LPA. Role of the Placement Committee Responsibilities: The Placement Committee, comprising both students and faculty, coordinates with companies, schedules interviews, and helps prepare students for placements through mock interviews and CV reviews. They also serve as liaisons between the students and recruiters. Transparency: While most students find the process transparent, there can be occasional concerns about preferential treatment or discrepancies in communication. Some students might feel that high-profile companies prioritize certain candidates, but overall, the process is considered fair. The university maintains a structured system, but room for improvement, such as clearer communication and more personalized support, can always exist. In summary, while Ashoka University does well in securing placements for most students, additional support is provided for those who are unplaced. The placement committee plays an active role in ensuring a smooth and transparent process, though students may have varying experiences.

So at Ashoka the fee is around 6L for a semester which is inclusive of mess, transportation, hostel, laundry, tuition and other things. The total would be soemwhere around 12 L for the year. I think the fee is higher considering other colleges like Jindal and DU. Apart from the regular fees students spend on money from various food stalls apart from the mess and clothing, online shopping etc. The fee does not vary for any categories of student be it general or SC/ST. Ashoka offers half to full financial aids to people who cannot afford to pay the full amount.

Ashoka University offers a wide range of sports facilities for both indoor and outdoor activities: Outdoor Sports Facilities: Cricket Ground: A full-sized cricket field is available. Football Field: The university has a well-maintained football field. Tennis Courts: Available for students to play both singles and doubles. Basketball Courts: Outdoor basketball courts are accessible to students. Volleyball Court: Students can play on the volleyball court. Indoor Sports Facilities: Badminton Courts: Indoor courts are available. Table Tennis: Multiple tables are set up for table tennis enthusiasts. Squash Courts: There are indoor squash courts for students. Fitness Center (Gym): The campus features a well-equipped gym with cardio machines, weight training equipment, and spaces for functional workouts. Yes, Ashoka University provides the necessary equipment for most of these sports, but students can also bring their personal equipment if they prefer. Gym Facilities Yes, Ashoka University has a gym that offers a wide range of facilities: Cardio Equipment: Treadmills, stationary bikes, and elliptical machines. Weight Training: Free weights, resistance machines, and kettlebells. Functional Training: Space for yoga, pilates, and other fitness programs. Swimming Pool As of the latest information, there is no swimming pool on the Ashoka University campus. Auditorium and Library Auditorium: The university's auditorium is spacious and modern, equipped with high-quality sound and visual equipment. It is used for cultural events, talks, and performances. Library: The Ashoka Library is well-stocked and provides access to a wide range of books, journals, and academic resources. Access to Books: Books are easily accessible, and students can use the digital catalog to find resources. Library Timings: The library is usually open from early morning until late evening, and during exam periods, the timings might extend. Third-party Database Access: Yes, Ashoka University provides access to several databases, including JSTOR, ProQuest, EBSCOhost, Springer, and more, which are vital for research and projects. Campus Size & Distance Campus Size: The Ashoka University campus is approximately 25 acres. Distance from Hostels to Academic Block: The hostels are located within walking distance of the academic block, usually around 5-10 minutes on foot. Mode of Transport: Most students walk or cycle between the hostels and academic buildings. Personal motorized vehicles are generally not allowed on campus. Personal Vehicles No, students are typically not allowed to keep personal bikes or cars on campus. However, exceptions might be made for special circumstances. Relatives' Stay on Campus Yes, relatives can visit, and the university provides guest accommodations for overnight stays, subject to prior arrangements and availability. Guests are usually required to inform the administration in advance. Food Joints Apart from the central canteen/cafeteria, there are other food outlets such as: Snack bars Coffee shops Small eateries providing diverse cuisines. Medical Center Yes, Ashoka University has a medical center that caters to the health needs of the students, staff, and faculty. The facility is adequately staffed with qualified doctors and nurses who are available round the clock. In case of emergencies, the medical center is equipped to handle basic health issues, and tie-ups with nearby hospitals ensure that serious cases are transferred quickly if needed.Campus life at Ashoka University is vibrant and intellectually stimulating. Students engage in a variety of academic, social, and extracurricular activities. The environment is diverse, with students from different backgrounds, which fosters rich discussions both inside and outside the classroom. Post-Class Activities: After classes, students often participate in clubs, attend workshops or guest lectures, work on group projects, or enjoy sports and fitness activities. The evenings are lively with social events, music jams, movie screenings, and debates. Nightlife at Ashoka University Nightlife: While Ashoka University is primarily academic-focused, it does have a decent nightlife for students. There are informal get-togethers, club meetings, and late-night study sessions. Students can often be found chatting or studying in common areas late into the night. Cafeterias: Yes, some cafeterias and snack bars remain open late, providing food options for students studying or socializing. Roaming at Night: It’s common to see students walking around the campus, especially near hostels or the central quadrangle, during late hours. The campus is well-lit and safe for night strolls. Off-Campus Hangouts & Safety Going Off-Campus: While students enjoy campus life, they do occasionally head out, mostly during weekends. Local Hangout Spots: Students often visit malls or cafes in Sonepat, nearby restaurants, or Delhi (which is around 1-2 hours away). Safety: The locality around the campus is considered safe, but students usually venture out in groups, especially at night. The university also provides security within the campus. Cultural Events and Fests Major Events & Fests: Banjaara: Ashoka’s annual cultural fest, which brings together music, dance, and theatrical performances. Ashoka Lit Fest: Focuses on literature, with discussions and readings from eminent authors. Model United Nations (MUN): One of the prominent events for students interested in diplomacy and public speaking. Celebrities: Recent fests have featured performances by famous artists such as Prateek Kuhad, The Local Train, and Ritviz. The campus vibe during these events is electric, with students actively participating and enjoying the celebrations. Clubs & Committees Ashoka University has a diverse range of student clubs and committees, covering various interests: Cultural Clubs: Music, Dance, Theatre, Photography. Academic Clubs: Debate Society, Economics Society, History Society. Sports Clubs: Football, Basketball, Tennis, Yoga. Social Impact: Enactus, NGOs, and sustainability clubs. Most Important Clubs for CV Building: Clubs like Debate Society, MUN, and Enactus are highly regarded in terms of value addition and building leadership, communication, and organizational skills that look great on a CV. Are You a Part of Any Clubs?: If you'd like to share which clubs interest you or you are a part of, I'd be happy to learn! International Immersion & Student Exchange Programs Yes, Ashoka University offers international immersion programs and student exchange opportunities with several top global universities. Partner Universities: Students often prefer instituitions like Sciences Po (France), King’s College London (UK), and Yale University (USA) for their exchanges. Popularity: A decent number of students opt for these programs to gain global exposure and academic credits. Fees: There might be additional costs depending on the exchange program, but the specifics vary based on the university and duration of the stay. These opportunities offer students exposure to different academic systems and enhance their CVs through international experience.

The hostels are seperate for boys and girls. There is an option for selecting a non access floor for girls wherein boys are not allowed apart from that boys and girls are allowed to visit each others 's hostels till 12am. I think the hostel fee is around 1L for a double occupancy. There is no single or triple occupancy. There are no hostel timings. Yes students are allowed to leave the campus by signing out using their IDs. The food menu changes every week and the quality is good. No each hostel does not have a seperate canteen there is only one mess for the whole college. Yes the hostels are guarded. There are no security threats per se.There is only double occupancy rooms. The washrooms are shared with all the members of the floor. There is AC, Fan almirah and table chair and a softboard for each of the students.

The admission process is in 3 rounds people can apply in any round depending on when they feel confident or any other reasons. The admission consists of essays, academic marks for 11,12th classes and co-curricular activities. Then there is the entrance exam which consists of maths and english questions similiar to SATs which can also be chosen by students in place of the entrance test. Then when this round gets cleared there is the final round which is the interview round. Students usually prefer to give the entrance exam of Ashoka since they don't have the time to prep for SATs but it depends from student to student.There is no other way of getting admission other than the original procedure. There is no management quota, or donation.

Course curriculum is medium. Yes students fail in exams. Good Aspects of a B.Com Course * Diverse Career Opportunities: A B.Com degree opens doors to various career paths, including accounting, finance, marketing, management, and human resources. * Solid Foundation: The course provides a strong foundation in business fundamentals, equipping graduates with essential knowledge and skills for professional roles. * Flexibility: B.Com offers specialization options in different areas, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. * Good Earning Potential: Graduates with a B.Com degree often have good earning potential, especially in fields like finance and accounting. * Further Education: A B.Com can serve as a stepping stone for higher education, such as an MBA or specialized professional courses like CA, CMA, or CFA. Bad Aspects of a B.Com Course * Limited Practical Exposure: While B.Com courses provide theoretical knowledge, they may lack sufficient practical exposure, which can be crucial for success in the corporate world. * High Competition: The job market for B.Com graduates can be competitive, especially in certain regions or industries. * Limited Specialization: Some B.Com programs may not offer in-depth specialization, limiting graduates' options in certain fields. * Potential for Over-Saturation: Due to the popularity of the B.Com degree, there may be an over-saturation of graduates in some areas, making it challenging to find suitable employment. Exams happens 4 times a Year. There are 7-8 classes a day and students get 1 or 2 free. Timings of Classes of 1 hour duration. Teaching Methodology * Lecture-based: The most traditional method, where the faculty delivers a lecture while students take notes. * Discussion-based: The faculty facilitates discussions among students, encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. * Project-based: Students work on individual or group projects to apply their knowledge and skills. Admirable Faculties * Subject expertise: In-depth knowledge and understanding of their field. * Engagement: Ability to make the subject interesting and relevant. * Support: Willingness to help students outside of class hours. * Encouragement: Positive reinforcement and motivation. * Fairness: Consistent evaluation and grading practices. Not-So-Admirable Faculties * Unhelpful: Unwillingness to answer questions or provide assistance. * Unfairness: Inconsistent grading or favoritism. Yes, 75% attendence are compulsory, if not fullfilling the attendence rule there is 500rs fine will be taken for each 5% lack in 75%.