University · India
Banaras Hindu University
Overview
Banaras Hindu University (BHU), formerly Benares Hindu University, is a collegiate, central, and research university located in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India, and founded in 1916. It is ranked amongst the most prestigious universities of the country. The university incorporated the Central Hindu College, which had been founded by theosophist and future Indian Home Rule leader Annie Besant in 1898. By December 1911, Annie Besant and the Theosophists had relinquished day-to-day control of the Central Hindu College to Madan Mohan Malaviya and others, who emphasised a more orthodox Hindu education, preserving traditional practices such as the hereditary caste system, in contrast to Besant's Theosophical vision. Five years later Malaviya established the university with the support of the maharaja of Darbhanga Rameshwar Singh, the maharaja of Benares Prabhu Narayan Singh, and the lawyer Sunder Lal.
Where it stands
On IndiaScholar it is #27 of the ranked universities in India, placed by research impact. Its research has been cited 3,956,306 times (h-index 411), according to OpenAlex.
Ranked near it in India
Universities placed just above and below Banaras Hindu University on IndiaScholar:
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Tuition fees & costs
Indicative living cost
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Fees vary by programme and are indicative. Confirm exact fees with the university before applying.
Admission requirements
How to apply
- 1Check the entry requirements and intake dates for your chosen programme on the official university website.
- 2Confirm you meet the academic requirements (high-school certificate, bachelor’s degree or equivalent) for the programme.
- 3Apply directly through the university admission portal, or via its official application platform.
- 4Submit your transcripts and English-proficiency scores (IELTS / TOEFL / Duolingo English Test) and pay the application fee.
- 5On receiving your offer letter, accept it and begin your student-visa process for India.
Related universities
Last updated 10 Oct 2026. Information is provided for guidance — verify with official sources before applying.