Academic Programs
Undergraduate
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| BA (Hons) Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE) | UG | 3 years |
| BA (Hons) Economics | UG | 3 years |
| BSc (Hons) Psychology | UG | 3 years |
| BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences | UG | 3 years |
| BSc (Hons) Cognitive Neuroscience | UG | 3 years |
Overview
SAI University is a private university in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, established in 2018 under Tamil Nadu Act No. 42 of 2018.[1] Founded by K.V. Ramani (Nasscom co-founder), it positions itself as one of the first Indian universities to adopt an international liberal education model, emphasising interdisciplinary learning across its School of Arts and Sciences, School of Computing, and School of Law. The 102-acre campus in Paiyanur currently enrolls approximately 237 students (2023-24) against a capacity of 800.[1]
The university is still young and does not yet have NAAC accreditation, this is expected for institutions under 6 years old, as NAAC typically requires a track record before assessment. A CARE Ratings report from 2024 provides some independent financial and operational assessment.[5]
SAI University’s School of Arts and Sciences offers undergraduate programs in PPE (Politics, Philosophy, and Economics), Economics, Psychology, Biology, and Neuroscience, with a major-minor system that allows students to take courses across schools.[2]
Academic Programs
School of Arts and Sciences programs:[2]
- BA (Hons) Politics, Philosophy, and Economics (PPE), one of the few dedicated PPE programs in India
- BA (Hons) Economics
- BSc (Hons) Psychology
- BSc (Hons) Biology
- BSc (Hons) Neuroscience
SAI University follows a major-minor structure. Students can take minors across different schools, including computing and law, which adds breadth uncommon at many Indian institutions.[2]
The PPE program is a distinctive offering, modelled on the Oxford PPE tradition, it combines three disciplines into a single degree rather than requiring students to choose one.
Campus and Location
SAI University’s campus is located in Paiyanur, on Old Mahabalipuram Road, Chennai along the East Coast Road.[1] The campus is residential, and the university expects most students to live on campus.
The location is relatively remote compared to central Chennai institutions. Students should factor in travel time to the city. However, the campus is purpose-built and designed as a self-contained residential learning environment.
Who Applies Here
SAI University attracts students interested in a liberal education model with small cohorts and an international academic approach. The acceptance of SAT/ACT scores alongside CUET makes it accessible to students who have prepared for international standardised tests.[3]
Given the university’s age, it lacks the alumni network and brand recognition of established institutions like Ashoka or FLAME. Community discussions suggest that prospective students weigh SAI University’s academic model against the risk of attending a relatively new, unaccredited institution. The fee range of INR 1.5–2.5 lakh per year makes it competitively priced for a private university.[4]
SAI University is worth considering for students who are drawn to a liberal arts model, want smaller class sizes, and are comfortable with a newer institution that is still building its reputation.
Things to Verify Before Applying
- Accreditation status: SAI University does not yet have NAAC accreditation. Verify current accreditation status and any UGC recognition details before applying.
- Batch size and faculty: As a new university, confirm current student-faculty ratios and batch sizes for your program.
- Placement support: SAI University’s first batches are recent. Ask about placement outcomes and career services infrastructure.
- Campus facilities: The Paiyanur campus is outside Chennai city. Visit the campus or speak with current students about daily life and connectivity.
- Fee confirmation: Verify the exact fee structure for 2026-27 on the application portal, as fees may change for newer cohorts.
Sources Used
Fees — 2025-26
Program Fees
| Program | Level | Annual Fee | Total Fee | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BA (Hons) PPE [aggregator estimate] | UG | INR 2,00,000 | — | unverified |
| BA (Hons) Economics [aggregator estimate] | UG | INR 2,00,000 | — | unverified |
| BSc (Hons) Psychology [aggregator estimate] | UG | INR 2,50,000 | — | unverified |
| BSc (Hons) Biological Sciences [aggregator estimate] | UG | INR 2,50,000 | — | unverified |
| BSc (Hons) Cognitive Neuroscience [aggregator estimate] | UG | INR 2,50,000 | — | unverified |
Hostel Fees
Annual Hostel Fee: INR 1,75,000
Scholarships
Amount: 25% to 100% tuition fee waiver
Amount: Variable - contact admissions office
Fee figures are indicative. Verify the complete fee structure on the institution's official website.
Admissions — 2025-26
Entrance Exams
Eligibility
Valid score in any accepted entrance exam
Valid score in any accepted entrance exam
Valid score in any accepted entrance exam
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | Rolling admissions - check portal |
Selection Process
- Apply online at apply.saiuniversity.edu.in
- Submit scores from any accepted entrance exam (SAT/ACT/CUET/Pearson UG/SAIU CAT)
- Personal interview or interaction (for shortlisted candidates)
- Admission offer based on comprehensive assessment
Placements — N/A
Placement data is sourced from institutional records. Verify current data on the institution's official website.