![Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu - [SKUAST-J]](https://img.collegedunia.com/public/college_data/images/logos/148791648044.jpg?h=71.7&w=71.7&mode=stretch)
Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Jammu (SKUAST-J) is a public agricultural sciences university established in 1999, formed through the bifurcation of the erstwhile SKUAST by the Jammu and Kashmir State Legislature. The university is governed as a State University under the SKUAST Act, 1982 (as amended), and is affiliated with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). SKUAST-J holds a NAAC Grade A accreditation.
As per NIRF 2025, SKUAST-J is ranked #23 in the Agriculture and Allied Sectors category and placed in the 151-200 band in the NIRF Overall ranking.
The university spans a total land holding of 1,223 acres across its main campus at Chatha, Jammu (578 acres), the R.S. Pura campus (84 acres), and multiple research stations and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) across the Jammu division.
- B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture — 4-year flagship UG programme, the largest intake across the university
- Other UG programmes — B.Sc (Hons.) Horticulture, B.Sc (Hons.) Life Science, B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering), B.Tech (Dairy Technology), B.Tech (Biotechnology), B.V.Sc and A.H. (5 years), Diploma in Agriculture, Diploma in Horticulture
- Postgraduate (M.Sc / M.Tech / MVSc / MBA / MFSc) — over 20 postgraduate specialisations spanning agronomy, plant pathology, soil science, horticulture, veterinary sciences, agri-business management, and fisheries
- Ph.D — research degrees across more than 25 agricultural and veterinary science disciplines
Total fees for B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture range from INR 38,149 to INR 1,31,550 depending on quota and category. B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering) and B.Tech (Dairy Technology) carry fees ranging from INR 38,149 to INR 1,36,550. The B.V.Sc and A.H. (5-year) carries fees ranging from INR 91,623 to INR 6,57,056 depending on quota. M.Sc programme fees range from INR 41,801 to INR 1,25,449.
Graduates join as agricultural extension officers, KVK scientists, state agricultural department officers, ICAR research scientists, and professionals in agri-input and food processing industries. GATE-qualified M.Tech students are eligible for ICAR-ASRB fellowships.
SKUAST-J Admission Dates 2026
SKUAST-J admissions for the 2026-27 session are anchored by ICAR AIEEA 2026 for the 15% AIQ seats and the SKUAST-J Combined Entrance Test (CET) 2026 for the 85% state domicile seats. B.V.Sc and A.H. admission is through NEET UG 2026.
| Event | Status / Timeline (2026) |
|---|---|
| ICAR AIEEA UG 2026 (AIQ seats) | June 2026 (completed) |
| SKUAST-J CET 2026 (state quota) | June 2026 (completed) |
| ICAR / SKUAST-J Counselling (UG) | July to September 2026 |
| NEET UG 2026 (B.V.Sc admission) | May 2026 (completed); VCI counselling July to September 2026 |
| ICAR AIEEA PG 2026 (M.Sc / MVSc) | June 2026 (completed); counselling July to August 2026 |
| SKUAST-J CET PG 2026 | June 2026; counselling July to September 2026 |
The course-wise entrance exam accepted at SKUAST-J for all major programmes is listed below.
| Course | Exam Accepted | Quota |
|---|---|---|
| B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture / Horticulture / Life Science / Forestry / Fisheries / Home Science | SKUAST-J CET (85%) + ICAR AIEEA UG (15%) | State Domicile + AIQ |
| B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering / Dairy Technology / Biotechnology) | SKUAST-J CET (85%) + ICAR AIEEA UG (15%) | State Domicile + AIQ |
| B.V.Sc and A.H. | NEET UG | VCI counselling |
| M.Sc / MVSc / M.Tech / MFSc | SKUAST-J CET PG (85%) + ICAR AIEEA PG (15%) | State Domicile + AIQ |
| MBA (Agri-Business) | SKUAST-J CET PG | State / Open |
| Ph.D | SKUAST-J Entrance Test | University quota |
SKUAST-J Courses and Fees
SKUAST-J offers a comprehensive range of UG, PG, and doctoral programmes spanning agriculture, horticulture, veterinary science, agricultural engineering, dairy technology, and agri-business. Fees listed below reflect the range across state domicile and open/management quotas for the full course duration.
| Course | Duration | Eligibility | Total Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture | 4 years | 10+2 with PCB/PCM/Agriculture + SKUAST-J CET / ICAR AIEEA UG | INR 38,149 to INR 1,31,550 |
| B.Sc (Hons.) Horticulture | 4 years | 10+2 with PCB/PCM/Agriculture + SKUAST-J CET / ICAR AIEEA UG | INR 38,149 to INR 1,31,550 |
| B.Tech (Agricultural Engineering) | 4 years | 10+2 with PCM + SKUAST-J CET / ICAR AIEEA UG | INR 38,149 to INR 1,36,550 |
| B.Tech (Dairy Technology) | 4 years | 10+2 with PCM/PCB + SKUAST-J CET / ICAR AIEEA UG | INR 38,149 to INR 1,36,550 |
| B.Tech (Biotechnology) | 4 years | 10+2 with PCB + SKUAST-J CET | INR 93,149 to INR 1,27,113 |
| B.V.Sc and A.H. | 5 years | 10+2 with PCB + NEET UG | INR 91,623 to INR 6,57,056 |
| M.Sc / MVSc / M.Tech / MFSc | 2 years | Relevant UG degree + ICAR AIEEA PG / SKUAST-J CET PG | INR 41,801 to INR 1,25,449 |
| MBA (Agri-Business) | 2 years | Relevant UG degree + SKUAST-J CET PG | INR 42,288 to INR 1,25,449 |
| Diploma (Agriculture / Horticulture) | 1 year | 10+2 with relevant subjects | INR 4,500 to INR 13,200 |
Postgraduate specialisations span agronomy, genetics and plant breeding, plant pathology, soil science, floriculture, fruit science, vegetable science, post-harvest technology, sericulture, silviculture, agro-forestry, animal nutrition, veterinary microbiology, and more than 15 others, giving SKUAST-J one of the broadest postgraduate portfolios among state agricultural universities in north India.
SKUAST-J Admission Process
All SKUAST-J admissions for J&K domicile candidates are conducted through the SKUAST-J Combined Entrance Test (CET). National seats (15% AIQ) are filled through ICAR AIEEA and NEET UG. The university follows a centralised counselling system for both quotas.
B.Sc Agriculture, Horticulture, and Allied UG Programmes
Candidates must have cleared 10+2 with Agriculture, Biology, or relevant science subjects. J&K domicile candidates qualify through SKUAST-J CET (85% seats). Non-domicile candidates compete for 15% AIQ seats via ICAR AIEEA UG.
- SKUAST-J CET or ICAR AIEEA UG rank determines eligibility
- Document verification at the university or a designated help centre
- Choice filling and seat allotment through online counselling
- Reporting to campus for enrolment confirmation
B.V.Sc and A.H.
Admission to the 5-year BVSc programme requires a valid NEET UG score. Seat allotment follows the VCI-approved counselling process. Candidates must meet the Veterinary Council of India (VCI) eligibility norms, including a minimum 50% aggregate in 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology (45% for reserved categories).
Postgraduate and Doctoral Programmes
M.Sc, MVSc, M.Tech, MFSc, and MBA (Agri-Business) admission requires a relevant UG degree with a minimum 60% aggregate. Seats are filled through ICAR AIEEA PG (15% AIQ) and SKUAST-J CET PG (85% state quota). Ph.D admissions are conducted through the SKUAST-J entrance test; ICAR-JRF and SRF holders and GATE-qualified candidates may be considered for exemption as per university norms.
SKUAST-J Career Outcomes
SKUAST-J does not operate a conventional campus placement drive. Graduates enter careers through competitive government examinations, ICAR-ASRB recruitment, state agricultural services, and the private agri-input and food processing sector.
| Career Pathway | Typical Entry Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Agricultural Extension Officer / Field Officer | JKSSB / State Public Service Commission | Core pathway for B.Sc Agriculture graduates |
| KVK Scientist / Programme Coordinator | ICAR-ASRB ARS/SRF examination | PG qualification required for scientist grade |
| ICAR Research Associate / JRF | ICAR AIEEA PG / ASRB JRF NET | Fellowship INR 31,000 to INR 35,000 per month |
| Veterinary Officer (State Government) | J&K Animal and Sheep Husbandry dept / PSC | BVSc graduates; starting pay per 7th Pay Commission |
| Agri-Input and Seed Industry | Campus and off-campus drives | Companies include Mahindra Agri, Bayer, Syngenta, Coromandel, PI Industries |
| Dairy and Food Processing Sector | B.Tech Dairy Technology campus drives | J&K Milk Federation, NDDB, private dairies |
The university’s proximity to ICAR research institutes in the region, its NAAC A grade, and a strong record in ICAR-ASRB competitive examinations make SKUAST-J a significant feeder to central agricultural research services across north India.
SKUAST-J Rankings
SKUAST-J holds a strong position in NIRF Agriculture rankings and participates consistently in the Overall category as well.
| Ranking Body | Category | 2025 Rank |
|---|---|---|
| NIRF | Agriculture and Allied Sectors | 23 |
| NIRF | Overall | 151-200 band |
The university holds NAAC Grade A accreditation and is recognised by UGC. It is affiliated with ICAR, which also conducts periodic academic and research performance assessments of state agricultural universities.
SKUAST-J Scholarships
Students at SKUAST-J are eligible for multiple central and state government scholarship schemes as well as ICAR-funded research fellowships.
| Scheme | Eligibility | Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| ICAR Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) | ICAR AIEEA PG rank (AIQ seats) | INR 31,000 per month for 2 years (M.Sc) / INR 35,000 per month for 5 years (Ph.D) |
| National Scholarship Portal (NSP) Schemes | SC, ST, OBC, minority, and EWS students based on merit and income | Up to INR 82,000 per annum |
| J&K Post-Matric Scholarship | SC, ST, OBC students domiciled in J&K | Partial to full fee support |
| ICAR-ASRB SRF | Ph.D scholars qualifying ASRB NET | INR 35,000 per month stipend |
SKUAST-J Campus and Infrastructure
SKUAST-J’s main campus at Chatha, Jammu spans 578 acres with the R.S. Pura satellite campus adding a further 84 acres. The total university land holding, including research stations, experimental farms, and KVKs spread across Jammu division, is 1,223 acres.
The campus hosts a central library, well-equipped laboratories for agronomy, plant breeding, soil science, veterinary sciences, dairy technology, and biotechnology, along with experimental farms used directly in UG and PG curriculum. Both male and female hostels are available on the main campus. The KVK network at the university provides technology demonstration facilities linked to actual farming communities in the region.
SKUAST-J vs SKUAST-K vs CSKHPKV
Aspirants from Jammu and Kashmir and the broader north Indian hill region often compare SKUAST-J with its sister institution SKUAST-K (Srinagar) and CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya (CSKHPKV), Palampur, both of which are state agricultural universities in the Himalayan belt.
| Parameter | SKUAST-J, Jammu | SKUAST-K, Srinagar | CSKHPKV, Palampur |
|---|---|---|---|
| Established | 1999 (bifurcated from SKUAST) | 1982 (original SKUAST) | 1978 |
| NIRF Agriculture 2025 | #23 | #20 | Ranked |
| NAAC Grade | A | A+ | A |
| Total Land Holding | 1,223 acres | Extensive multi-campus | Multi-campus |
| Flagship UG | B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture | B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture | B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture |
| Unique Strength | Dairy Technology, Sericulture, KVK network | Temperate horticulture, saffron research | Hill agriculture, forestry, apiculture |
| Region Served | Jammu division | Kashmir valley | Himachal Pradesh |
SKUAST-K holds a slightly stronger NIRF Agriculture rank and an A+ NAAC grade. SKUAST-J’s strength lies in its dairy technology, sericulture, and agri-business programmes alongside the broader Jammu division agricultural ecosystem. CSKHPKV at Palampur serves the HP hill agriculture context with strong forestry and apiculture programmes. Aspirants from Jammu division seeking state domicile seats will find SKUAST-J most accessible, while those from Kashmir valley will prefer SKUAST-K.
SKUAST-J FAQs
Ques. What is the NIRF ranking of SKUAST-J?
Ans. SKUAST-J is ranked #23 in the NIRF Agriculture and Allied Sectors category as per the 2025 rankings. It is also placed in the 151-200 band in the NIRF Overall ranking 2025. The university holds NAAC Grade A accreditation.
Ques. What entrance exam is required for B.Sc Agriculture admission at SKUAST-J?
Ans. For J&K domicile candidates, 85% of B.Sc Agriculture seats are filled through the SKUAST-J Combined Entrance Test (CET). The remaining 15% AIQ seats are filled through ICAR AIEEA UG. Candidates must have 10+2 with agriculture, biology, or relevant science subjects.
Ques. What is the B.Sc Agriculture fee at SKUAST-J?
Ans. Total fees for B.Sc (Hons.) Agriculture at SKUAST-J range from INR 38,149 to INR 1,31,550 for the full four-year programme, varying by quota and category. State domicile students in the government quota pay at the lower end of this range. NSP and J&K government scholarship schemes further reduce the burden for eligible SC, ST, OBC, and EWS candidates.
Ques. Does SKUAST-J have ICAR JRF fellowship for postgraduate students?
Ans. Yes. Postgraduate students admitted through ICAR AIEEA PG (AIQ seats) are eligible for ICAR Junior Research Fellowship at INR 31,000 per month for M.Sc and INR 35,000 per month for Ph.D research scholars. ASRB SRF-qualified scholars receive INR 35,000 per month.
Ques. Is hostel available at SKUAST-J?
Ans. Yes, SKUAST-J has on-campus hostels for male and female students at the main Chatha campus. The 578-acre main campus provides a self-contained residential environment with library and laboratory facilities.
Ques. What career options are available after B.Sc Agriculture from SKUAST-J?
Ans. Graduates can pursue careers as agricultural extension officers through JKSSB or state PSC exams, apply for ICAR-ASRB scientist/JRF positions, join the agri-input industry (seed companies, agrochemicals, farm equipment), or pursue M.Sc / Ph.D for research and teaching careers. B.Tech Dairy Technology graduates find placements in dairy processing companies, including J&K Milk Federation and NDDB-affiliated units.
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Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Science and Technology of Jammu was established in 1999. Under the UG domain, the university offers B.Sc (Hons), B.V.Sc & A.H., and B.Tech programs. Under the PG Domain, M.Sc, M.V.Sc, M.F.Sc, M.Tech, and HBM programs are offered. SKUAST also offers Ph.D. courses under various specializations.
Candidate should have passed 10+2 or equivalent examination from a recognized statutory Board/University with not less than 50% marks in aggregate for General Category and 40% for Reserved category in the following subjects: Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) and English. The admission is based on SKUAST-J scores.
You can visit the official website of the college. You can follow these steps to apply for the admission:
The fee structure for the BVSc course is tabulated below:
Under the UG domain, the university offers B.Sc (Hons), B.V.Sc & A.H., and B.Tech programs. Under the PG Domain, M.Sc, M.V.Sc, M.F.Sc, M.Tech, and HBM programs are offered. SKUAST also offers Ph.D. courses under various specializations.
SKUAST Kashmir has been recognised at 1st position by NIRF in Jammu and Kashmir and 312th position in India in 2023. While SKUAST Jammu has not received such rankings. The average package in SKUAST Kashmir is INR 4 LPA which is better than SKUAST Jammu. So, it can not be said that SKUAST Jammu is better than SKUAST Kashmir.
SKUAST offers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and certificate courses in agriculture. Here are the courses and the eligibility:
BSc (Hons) Agriculture: Passed a 10+2 examination (PCB/PCBM/PCM/Agriculture with Science subjects) with 50% marks in aggregate (40% for reserved category)
M.Sc. (Ag.) & Allied Sciences—Bachelor's degree in respective/related subjects.
MBA (Agri-Business) graduation from a recognized University with 50% marks
Ph.D (Agriculture) in Allied Sciences – Master’s degree in respective/related subjects.
Agriculture remains the main segment of the economy that contributes the largest share of the nation's GDP (20%). Check here for the Diploma in Agriculture Syllabus, Colleges, Distance Education, Admission, Subjects, Jobs, Salary 2024
To get admission at SKUAST Jammu, you need to have passed 12th with 50% in PCM/PCMB and then appear for SKUAST-J CET exam to get admission.
SKUAST has already started counselling process for various UG courses. Registartion for Diploma course has started on the official website of the college. Candidates can apply by visiting the official website of the college.
The selection criteria for M.Sc at SKUAST Jammu is based on the entrance test conducted by the college or ICAR. The minimum age criteria for the course is 19 as of dec 31. For more info, Check out: SKUAST Jammu Admissions
The hostel fee ranges between INR ?24.95 k - ? 42.75 k. Check here for SKUAST Hostels Details.
The seats for the Ph.D. agriculture extension course are not disclosed, you can register and download the brochure for the detailed information. Check here for Ph.D. Agri Ext from SKUAST.
You can contact SKUAST Jammu at: 0191 226 2133 to get further info on your application update.
If you have completed graduation you can apply for PG at SKUAST Jammu. Check here for the fee and admission details about PG.
No, admission to SKUAST Jammu is based on CET exam and the same has already been over by February 2023.
No, SKUAST Jammu doesn’t offer B.Pharma course to the students.
The 2023 admission schedule has not been released by SKUAST Jammu. You can expect the admission schedule to be released soon on its official website.
Dera candidate, you can contact SKUAST Jammu at: 0191 226 2133.
SKUAST Jammu PhD's eligibility criteria is to complete a master’s degree in the relevant specialisation and from a recognised university. The eligibility required percentage is at least 65%. Final admission is merit based.