Best MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India 2026: Fees, Entrance Exams, Placements & ROI
India has more than 450 colleges that offer an MSc in Biotechnology. Some of the best and most trusted institutions include Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), IIT Bombay, and the University of Hyderabad.
The total course fees for two years can be as low as ₹6,000 in government universities and may go up to ₹4.2 lakh in private colleges.
Admission is mostly through national entrance exams like GAT-B and IIT JAM.
After completing the course, students usually get a starting salary of ₹4 to ₹7 lakh per year. Students from top colleges can even get packages of ₹9 lakh per year or more, which makes this course a good return on investment (ROI).
Best MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India: Quick List
Choosing the right college is very important. A good MSc Biotechnology college should have strong research facilities and good industry connections.
1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi
Very famous for research in molecular biology. It has very low fees and a strong academic reputation.
2. IIT Bombay – MSc in Biosciences & Bioengineering
Offers a challenging and high-quality course. Students get excellent placements in research, IT, and analytics fields.
3. University of Hyderabad (UoH)
Known for its experienced teachers, research centres, and affordable fees.
4. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi
A well-known central university that provides good labs, quality education, and low fees.
5. Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai
Famous for industrial biotech and bioprocess courses. Students get strong industry exposure.
6. Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore
A leading private university with modern labs, good campus facilities, and strong private sector placements.
7. Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi
A respected central university offering quality education at a low cost with good placement support
Best MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India – 2026
This list of top MSc Biotechnology colleges in India for 2026 is compiled based on key factors such as NIRF rankings, research quality, student performance, national-level entrance exams (GAT-B, IIT JAM), and verified placement records. These colleges are known for providing high-quality education, strong research opportunities, and good career prospects.
List of Best MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India (2026)
| College Name | Ownership | Total Fees (2 Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi | Government / Central University | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 |
| IIT Bombay (M.Sc. Bio-sciences & Bioengineering) | Government / Institute of National Importance | ₹1.5 Lakh – ₹2.5 Lakh |
| University of Hyderabad (UoH) | Government / Central University | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi | Government / Central University | ₹7,000 – ₹35,000 |
| Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi | Government / Central University | ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT), Mumbai | Government / State University | ₹1.5 Lakh – ₹2.2 Lakh |
| Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore | Private / Deemed University | ₹2.2 Lakh – ₹2.5 Lakh |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal | Private / Deemed University | ₹3.5 Lakh – ₹4.5 Lakh |
| Loyola College, Chennai | Private / Autonomous | ₹2.0 Lakh – ₹2.2 Lakh |
Top Government MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India
Government colleges and Central Universities are the best choice for high ROI because they offer very low fees, strong research facilities, and excellent academic reputation. Most of these colleges also accept national-level entrance exams.
Top Government MSc Biotechnology Colleges
| College Name | Total Fees (2 Years) | Exams Accepted |
|---|---|---|
| Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 | CUET PG, GAT-B |
| IIT Bombay | ₹1.5 Lakh – ₹2.5 Lakh | IIT JAM |
| University of Hyderabad (UoH) | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 | University Entrance Exam, GAT-B |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU) | ₹7,000 – ₹35,000 | CUET PG |
| Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi | ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 | CUET PG, University Entrance |
| Delhi Technological University (DTU) | ₹70,000 – ₹1 Lakh | GAT-B, DTU PG Entrance |
Top Private MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India
Private colleges offer modern laboratories, industry-focused teaching, and strong placement support. Fees are higher than government colleges, but students benefit from better infrastructure and corporate exposure.
Top Private MSc Biotechnology Colleges
| College Name | Total Fees (2 Years) | Exams Accepted |
|---|---|---|
| Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore | ₹2.2 Lakh – ₹2.5 Lakh | VITMEE / Merit |
| Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE), Manipal | ₹3.5 Lakh – ₹4.5 Lakh | MAHE Entrance Test / Merit |
| Amity University, Noida | ₹3.6 Lakh – ₹7.5 Lakh | Merit / Amity Entrance Exam |
| SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai | ₹2.7 Lakh – ₹3.0 Lakh | SRM Joint Entrance Exam |
| Christ University, Bangalore | ₹3.0 Lakh – ₹3.4 Lakh | Christ University Entrance |
| Lovely Professional University (LPU), Jalandhar | ₹3.8 Lakh – ₹4.2 Lakh | LPUNEST / Merit |
MSc Biotechnology Fees in India – College-Wise Breakdown
The fees for MSc Biotechnology vary a lot. Government colleges charge very low tuition, while private universities charge higher fees with better facilities and hostel options.
Fees Comparison of Popular Colleges
| College | Annual Fees | Total Fees (2 Years) | Hostel Fees (Per Year) |
|---|---|---|---|
| JNU, New Delhi | ₹3,000 – ₹5,000 | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 | ₹1,500 – ₹2,500 |
| University of Hyderabad | ₹15,000 – ₹25,000 | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 |
| Fergusson College, Pune | ₹40,000 – ₹45,000 | ₹80,000 – ₹90,000 | ₹40,000 – ₹60,000 |
| VIT, Vellore | ₹1.1 Lakh – ₹1.25 Lakh | ₹2.2 Lakh – ₹2.5 Lakh | ₹80,000 – ₹1.2 Lakh |
| Amity University, Noida | ₹1.8 Lakh – ₹3.75 Lakh | ₹3.6 Lakh – ₹7.5 Lakh | ₹90,000 – ₹1.5 Lakh |
MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India with Low Fees
Students who want to study MSc Biotechnology at a low cost mostly prefer Government and Central Universities. These colleges offer high-quality education at very low fees, making them the best option for high Return on Investment (ROI). They also provide good research facilities and strong academic value.
Top Low-Fee MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India
| College Name | Total Fees (2 Years) | Ownership |
|---|---|---|
| Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi | ₹6,000 – ₹10,000 | Central University |
| Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi | ₹7,000 – ₹35,000 | Central University |
| University of Hyderabad (UoH) | ₹30,000 – ₹50,000 | Central University |
| Jamia Millia Islamia (JMI), New Delhi | ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 | Central University |
| University of Calcutta, Kolkata | ₹10,000 – ₹20,000 (2 Years) | State University |
Eligibility for MSc Biotechnology in India
To get admission into MSc Biotechnology, students must meet some basic eligibility rules. These rules are almost the same for most top colleges in India and focus on having a science background at the graduation level.
Basic Eligibility Criteria
-
Educational Qualification:
You must have a Bachelor’s degree, such as B.Sc., B.Tech, MBBS, BDS, or B.Pharm in subjects like:-
Biotechnology
-
Microbiology
-
Biochemistry
-
Botany
-
Zoology
-
Life Sciences or other related subjects
The degree must be from a recognised university.
-
-
Minimum Marks Required:
Most colleges require 50% to 55% marks in graduation.
Reserved category students (SC/ST/OBC) get relaxation as per government rules. -
Entrance Exam Requirement:
Admission is mostly based on entrance exams for:-
Central Universities
-
IITs
-
Most private universities
-
-
Age Limit:
There is usually no upper age limit, but some entrance exams may have specific age rules. -
Subject Background:
Students should have studied core Biology subjects and basic Chemistry during their graduation.
Admission Process for MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India
Admission to top MSc Biotechnology colleges is mainly based on entrance exam performance. Only a few private colleges give admission purely on a merit basis.
Step-by-Step Admission Process (Entrance Exam-Based)
-
Check Eligibility & Required Exam
First, check the college eligibility and find out which entrance exam is required, such as:-
GAT-B
-
IIT JAM
-
CUET PG
-
-
Apply & Appear for the Exam
Fill the exam form and appear for the entrance test. -
Result & Rank Declaration
After the exam, your scorecard, rank, or result is released. -
Apply for Counselling / College Admission
Apply to colleges that accept your score.-
Central Universities usually take part in CUET PG counselling or GAT-B counselling.
-
-
Interview / Group Discussion (If Required)
Some top colleges like IITs may conduct an interview round for final selection. -
Document Verification & Fee Payment
If selected, you must submit your original documents, verify details, and pay the course fees to confirm your seat.
Entrance Exams for MSc Biotechnology in India
To get admission into top Government and Central Universities, students must clear an entrance exam. These exams are highly competitive and are the main selection method for most reputed colleges.
Major Entrance Exams for MSc Biotechnology
| Exam Name | Conducting Body | Accepted By / Importance |
|---|---|---|
| GAT-B (Graduate Aptitude Test – Biotechnology) | NTA (for DBT, Ministry of Science & Technology) | Required for admission into DBT-supported MSc Biotechnology courses in more than 60 Government and State Universities. This is the main exam for low-fee Government colleges. |
| IIT JAM (Joint Admission Test for M.Sc.) | One of the IITs (rotational) | Used for admission to MSc Biotechnology / Biosciences in IIT Bombay, IIT Roorkee, IISc Bangalore, and other IITs. |
| CUET PG (Common University Entrance Test – PG) | NTA | Used for MSc Biotechnology admission in Central Universities like BHU, JMI, JNU (some courses), and DU. |
| AIIMS MSc Entrance Exam | AIIMS, New Delhi | For admission to the MSc Biotechnology at AIIMS campuses. |
| TANCET / Other State-Level Exams | State Examination Authorities | Used for State Universities such as Anna University, University of Madras, and others. |
MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India Without Entrance Exam
While most top Government and big private universities require entrance exams, some colleges offer direct admission based on graduation marks (merit-based). These are good options for students who do not want to appear for multiple entrance tests.
Colleges Offering Merit-Based Admission
| College Name | Admission Mode | Total Fees (2 Years) |
|---|---|---|
| Loyola College, Chennai | Merit-Based (B.Sc. Marks) | ₹2.0 Lakh – ₹2.2 Lakh |
| St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai | Merit-Based (B.Sc. Marks) | ₹1.8 Lakh – ₹2.0 Lakh |
| Fergusson College, Pune | Merit-Based (B.Sc. Marks) | ₹80,000 – ₹90,000 |
| Some Private Universities | Merit + Personal Interview | ₹3.5 Lakh – ₹4.5 Lakh |
Placements for MSc Biotechnology Colleges in India
After completing MSc Biotechnology, students usually get jobs in research, quality control, clinical research, pharma companies, and biotech industries.
Students from top colleges like IIT Bombay, JNU, and University of Hyderabad get better placement packages because of their strong research background and industry connections.
Placement Comparison of Top MSc Biotechnology Colleges
| College | Average Package | Highest Package | Top Recruiters |
|---|---|---|---|
| IIT Bombay | ₹17.92 LPA (Combined M.Tech/M.Sc.) | ₹1 Crore+ | Microsoft, TCS, Cipla, Serum Institute, Biocon |
| Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) | ₹9.5 LPA | ₹15 LPA+ | TCS, Biocon, Ranbaxy, Dr. Reddy’s, Govt Research Labs |
| University of Hyderabad (UoH) | ₹4.5 LPA | ₹8 LPA | Aurobindo Pharma, Wipro, TCS, Syngene, GVK Bio |
| VIT, Vellore | ₹6.5 LPA | ₹10 LPA | Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, HCL, Reliance Life Sciences |
| Amity University, Noida | ₹5.5 LPA | ₹12 LPA | Amazon, Cipla, Dr. Lal Path Labs, Lenskart |
Top Recruiters for MSc Biotechnology Graduates in India
MSc Biotechnology graduates get hired across four major sectors:
1. Pharmaceutical & Biopharma Companies
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Biocon
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Cipla
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Dr. Reddy’s Laboratories
-
Serum Institute of India
-
Bharat Biotech
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GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)
2. Research & Government Organisations
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CSIR
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ICMR
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NIPER
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DBT
-
DRDO
3. Clinical Research Organisations (CROs)
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Syngene International
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IQVIA
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TCS – Life Sciences
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Wipro
4. Food, Agriculture & Environmental Sector
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Monsanto
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BASF
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Nestlé (QC/QA roles)
How to Choose the Best MSc Biotechnology College in India
Choosing the right college is very important for a successful career in research or the biotech industry. Students should carefully check the following points:
1. Research Focus & Faculty
-
Check faculty publications on Google Scholar
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Look for specialisations like Bioinformatics, Genomics, and Molecular Biology
-
Colleges with strong research give better PhD and job opportunities
2. Entrance Exam Accepted
Always prefer colleges that accept national-level exams such as:
-
GAT-B
-
IIT JAM
-
CUET PG
These exams act as a quality filter for top institutions.
3. Laboratory & Research Facilities
Good colleges must have:
-
Genomics sequencing labs
-
Confocal microscopes
-
Animal & cell culture labs
These are essential for biotech research training.
4. Fees vs Return on Investment (ROI)
Compare:
-
Total course fees
-
Average placement salary
-
Cost of living in the city (Delhi, Bangalore, Manipal, etc.)
5. DBT & DST Funding
Colleges funded by:
-
Department of Biotechnology (DBT)
-
Department of Science & Technology (DST)
usually have: -
Better labs
-
More research projects
-
Higher student stipends
6. Alumni Network
A strong alumni network in:
-
CSIR
-
Foreign universities
-
Pharma & biotech companies
helps in career guidance, referrals, and higher studies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Which is the No. 1 MSc Biotechnology college in India?
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, is widely ranked as the top choice due to low fees, top-level research, and high competition.
IIT Bombay is also among the best for its interdisciplinary exposure and high packages.
2. What are the major entrance exams for MSc Biotechnology?
The main entrance exams are:
-
GAT-B
-
IIT JAM
-
CUET PG
3. What is the total fee range for MSc Biotechnology in India?
-
Government/Central Universities: ₹6,000 to ₹50,000 (2 years)
-
Top Private Universities: ₹3 Lakh to ₹4.2 Lakh
4. What is the eligibility for MSc Biotechnology?
You must have a Bachelor’s degree (B.Sc./B.Tech./MBBS/B.Pharm) in:
-
Biotechnology
-
Life Sciences
-
Microbiology
-
Biochemistry
-
Botany / Zoology
with 50%–55% marks.
5. What is the average salary after an MSc Biotechnology in India?
Most students get a starting salary of ₹4 LPA to ₹7 LPA.
Students from IITs and top Central Universities can earn ₹9.5 LPA or more.
6. Are there low-fee MSc Biotechnology colleges in India?
Yes. Top Central Universities like:
-
JNU
-
BHU
-
JMI
-
University of Hyderabad
offer the full course for under ₹50,000.
7. Which is better – MSc Biotechnology or M.Tech Biotechnology?
-
MSc Biotechnology: Best for research, PhD, academics
-
M.Tech Biotechnology: Best for industry, manufacturing, and process roles
8. Is GAT-B mandatory for MSc Biotechnology?
Yes. GAT-B is compulsory for all MSc Biotechnology courses, which are:
-
Funded by DBT
-
Offered in 60+ Government institutions
Showing 138 Colleges
The Oxford College of Science is very popular for MSc Biotech in Bangalore, Karnataka.
Gujarat University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
DDU GKP is very popular for MSc Biotech in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh.
Panjab University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Chandigarh, Punjab.
CUSAT is very popular for MSc Biotech in Kochi, Kerala.
Galgotias University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh.
Ponnaiyah Ramajayam Institute of Science and Technology University, West Campus, [PRIST University] Thanjavur is very popular for MSc Biotech in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu.
MAKAUT is very popular for MSc Biotech in Kolkata, West Bengal.
OUAT - Orissa University of Agriculture and Technology is very popular for MSc Biotech in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.
Andhra University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Kalyani University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Kalyani, West Bengal.
MSU Baroda is very popular for MSc Biotech in Vadodara, Gujarat.
University of Hyderabad (UOH) is very popular for MSc Biotech in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) is very popular for MSc Biotech in Hyderabad, Telangana.
Acharya Nagarjuna University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh.
JNTUH is very popular for MSc Biotech in Hyderabad, Telangana.
University of Agricultural Sciences, [UAS] Bangalore is very popular for MSc Biotech in Bangalore, Karnataka.
Mysore University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Mysore, Karnataka.
Courses Offered
20 Courses
Exam Accepted
-/-
Tuition Fees Range
₹3 K-1.82 L
Accreditation
NAAC-A , NIRF
NITTE University is very popular for MSc Biotech in Mangalore, Karnataka.
MPKV - Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth is very popular for MSc Biotech in Pune, Maharashtra.
