Cusat Bucks Statewide Trend with Impressive Enrollment Growth
In a remarkable development for Kerala's higher education landscape, Cochin University of Science and Technology (Cusat) has achieved a substantial 10% increase in student enrollment during the 2025-26 academic year. This positive growth stands in stark contrast to the broader decline observed across numerous higher education institutions throughout the state.
Record Admissions and Statistical Breakdown
University officials have confirmed that Cusat registered its highest enrollment figures in recent years, admitting a total of 9,872 students for the 2025-26 academic session. This represents a significant increase of 847 students compared to the previous academic year, marking a notable rebound in admissions following a period of decline.
The university had previously enrolled 9,250 students in 2021-22 but experienced a downturn over the subsequent two academic years before this recent recovery. Among the total admitted students, interstate students accounted for 6.65% of the enrollment, while international students constituted 0.66% of the student body.
Notably, while the number of interstate students saw a marginal increase from 572 to 600, the intake of international students declined significantly from 123 to 70 compared to previous years. University representatives emphasized that BTech programs continue to attract the highest number of students, maintaining their position as the most popular academic offerings.
University Leadership Attributes Growth to Improved Performance
Cusat Registrar Arun A U explained that the increase in admissions directly reflects the university's recent improvements in academic performance and institutional ranking. "We secured the first rank in the Kerala Institutional Ranking Framework and we are at the sixth position in the National Institutional Ranking Framework," said Arun. "Naturally, students consider such aspects while selecting their preferred institute, and our improved rankings have positively influenced enrollment decisions."
The registrar further noted that enrollment growth has not been limited to the main campus alone but has extended to the university's off-campus centers across Kerala as well. This expansion indicates broader institutional strength and appeal beyond the primary educational hub.
New Academic Programs and Future Admissions Outlook
Looking ahead to the upcoming academic year, Cusat has introduced several innovative courses designed to meet evolving educational demands and industry requirements. The new offerings include:
- BTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
- Five-year integrated MSc in Econometrics and Data Science
- Five-year integrated MA in Hindi Language and Literature
- MTech in Synthetic Biology and Biomanufacturing
- Bachelor of Vocation (Honours) in Data Science and Analytics, which replaces the earlier three-year BVoc program
Interest in future admissions remains exceptionally strong, with approximately 48,000 candidates registering for the Cusat Common Admission Test 2026. This entrance examination, which facilitates admissions to various undergraduate and postgraduate programs, is scheduled to be held on May 10 and 11, 2026.
The combination of improved institutional rankings, expanded academic offerings, and sustained student interest positions Cusat as a standout performer in Kerala's higher education sector, demonstrating resilience and growth potential despite broader challenges facing the state's educational institutions.
