South Asian University (SAU) is now accepting applications for its undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD programs for the 2026 academic year. The deadline to submit applications is April 10, 2026 .
Application Process
Interested candidates can apply online through the official SAU website at sau.int. Applicants must meet specific academic criteria. For undergraduate and postgraduate programs, candidates require at least 50-55% marks in their previous qualifying examinations from recognized SAARC institutions. PhD applicants also need to meet the stated eligibility requirements.
Admission Criteria
Admission to SAU programs will be based on entrance examinations or direct admission through national-level test scores. These include CUET, JEE, CAT, and GATE. The university will also conduct its own SAU entrance examination on April 25 and 26, 2026 . Test centers will be located across all SAARC countries.
Key Dates and Deadlines
The application period closes on April 10, 2026 . SAU will release admit cards for its entrance exam on April 20, 2026 . The SAU entrance examination is scheduled for April 25 and 26, 2026 . The first merit list for undergraduate and postgraduate courses is expected on May 15, 2026 . For PhD candidates, interviews will take place from June 1 to 5, with results announced on June 11.
Application Fees
A non-refundable registration fee of Rs 1,740 is required to complete the SAU application form. Candidates can apply for multiple programs, provided they meet eligibility criteria and their exam schedules do not conflict. A separate application form is necessary for each program.
SAU Admission Schedule 2026
| Event | Entrance-Based Date (UG/PG) | Entrance-Based Date (PhD) | Direct Admission Date (UG/PG) | Direct Admission Date (PhD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Last Date | April 10, 2026 | April 10, 2026 | April 10, 2026 | April 10, 2026 |
| Admit Card | April 20 | April 20 | NA | NA |
| Entrance Exam | April 25 & 26 | April 25 & 26 | NA | NA |
| First Merit List | May 15 | NA | May 28 onwards | NA |
| PhD Interviews | NA | June 1-5 | NA | June 1-5 |
| PhD Result Declaration | NA | June 11 | NA | June 11 |