India’s education landscape is transforming rapidly, with prestigious universities now offering world-class, globally recognized undergraduate programs in Economics and related fields. These 4-year programs combine rigorous academics with liberal arts education, critical thinking, and practical experience — preparing students for careers in economics, finance, policy, research, and business worldwide.
Whether you’re passionate about economic theory, data science, business economics, or policy analysis, these universities offer programs that rival international standards while providing the unique advantage of studying in India. Here are the top 8 universities you should consider:
1. Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM-B)
IIM Bangalore, one of India’s most prestigious business schools, offers a unique 4-year BSc Economics program that combines rigorous economics training with management education. This program is designed for students who want to understand economic theory deeply while developing business acumen and analytical skills valued globally.
Program: BSc Economics (4 years)
What Makes It Special
Offered by IIM Bangalore — India’s #1 business school with global recognition
Unique blend of economics and management education from a premier B-school
Direct admission through IIMB UG Test (no JEE required!)
Personal interview process ensures holistic student selection
Access to IIM-B’s world-class faculty, infrastructure, and alumni network
Strong placement support from IIM-B’s career services
Key Information
Entrance Test: IIMB UG Test (IIM Bangalore’s own aptitude test covering quantitative ability, logical reasoning, and data interpretation)
Requirements: Pass in Class XII from a recognized board; Mathematics in Class XII with minimum 60% marks; Online application; IIMB UG Test score; Personal interview (for shortlisted candidates)
2. Ashoka University, Sonipat
Ashoka University is India’s premier liberal arts university, offering a 3-4 year undergraduate program in Economics that emphasizes critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives. The flexible curriculum allows students to explore multiple disciplines while developing deep expertise in economics.
Program: Undergraduate in Economics (3-4 years)
What Makes It Special
India’s leading liberal arts university with globally recognized faculty
Interdisciplinary approach — combine economics with other subjects
World-class faculty including scholars from Harvard, Princeton, Yale
Holistic admissions process values essays, extracurriculars, and personal achievements
Strong emphasis on research, critical thinking, and writing skills
Excellent graduate school placement — many students go to top global universities
Key Information
Entrance Tests: Ashoka Aptitude Assessment (AAA) – tests critical thinking and analytical reasoning (Mandatory); On-the-Spot Essay during interview (Mandatory)
Requirements: Class XII pass; Online application; Academic scores (Classes X to XII); Personal essays; Non-academic engagement portfolio; Recommendation (optional); SAT/ACT scores (optional); Ashoka Aptitude Assessment; On-the-Spot Essay; Interview for shortlisted students
3. O.P. Jindal Global University (JGU), Sonipat
O.P. Jindal Global University offers a 4-year BSc/BA Economics (Honours) program through the Jindal School of Government and Public Policy. The program combines economic theory with policy analysis, preparing students for careers in government, international organizations, consulting, and research.
Program: BSc/BA Economics (Honours) – 4 years
What Makes It Special
Focus on economics and public policy — ideal for those interested in governance
Multiple entrance test options: JSAT, SAT, or ACT accepted
Strong international partnerships and exchange programs
Interdisciplinary curriculum combining economics, political science, and law
Located near Delhi with excellent internship opportunities in government and policy
Personal statement and interview allow you to showcase your unique perspective
Key Information
Entrance Tests: JSAT (Jindal Scholastic Aptitude Test) / SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) / ACT (American College Testing)
Requirements: Class XII pass; Online application; Entrance test score (JSAT score of 55% or equivalent SAT/ACT); Class 10 and 12 marks; Personal statement; Supplemental application; Interview for shortlisted candidates
4. Plaksha University, Mohali
Plaksha University offers a unique 4-year BTech in Data Science & Business Economics that combines technical skills with economic understanding. This cutting-edge program is perfect for students interested in the intersection of technology, data analytics, and economics in the modern business world.
Program: BTech Data Science & Business Economics (4 years)
What Makes It Special
Unique blend of data science, technology, and business economics
Perfect for students interested in tech + economics careers (fintech, data analytics, business intelligence)
Technical assessment evaluates problem-solving and analytical skills
Special consideration for AP Calculus BC/AP Physics or international olympiad participants
Multiple test score options: 12th Board/SAT/ACT/JEE accepted
Innovation-focused curriculum preparing students for industry 4.0
Key Information
Entrance Test: Technical Assessment (evaluates mathematical reasoning, problem-solving, and analytical skills)
Requirements: Class XII pass; Online application; At least one score from: 12th Board/SAT/ACT/JEE; Technical assessment for shortlisted candidates; Interview for shortlisted candidates; AP Calculus BC/AP Physics or international olympiad participation (preferred but not mandatory)
5. NMIMS University (Narsee Monjee Institute), Mumbai
NMIMS offers a comprehensive 4-year BSc Economics program that provides strong theoretical foundations combined with practical applications. With campuses across India and a well-established reputation, NMIMS prepares students for diverse career paths in economics and business.
Program: BSc Economics (4 years)
What Makes It Special
Part of NMIMS — one of India’s most recognized private university systems
Multiple entrance test options: NPAT/CET/SAT/ACT accepted
Mathematics or Statistics mandatory in Class XII — ensures strong quantitative foundation
Multiple campuses across India with excellent facilities
Strong industry connections and placement support
Well-established curriculum balancing theory and practice
Key Information
Entrance Tests: NPAT (NMIMS Programs After Twelfth) / CET (Common Entrance Test) / SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test) / ACT (American College Testing)
Requirements: Minimum 50% aggregate marks in Class XII; Mathematics OR Statistics subject mandatory in Class XII; Online application; Entrance test score (NPAT/CET/SAT/ACT)
6. FLAME University, Pune
FLAME University offers a 3-4 year liberal arts program with Economics major that emphasizes holistic development. The program combines rigorous academics with focus on extracurriculars, leadership, and personal growth in a residential campus environment.
Program: Economics Major (3-4 years)
What Makes It Special
Premier liberal education university with beautiful residential campus in Pune
Holistic admissions: values extracurriculars, professional achievements, and Statement of Purpose
FEAT (FLAME Entrance Aptitude Test) or SAT/ACT accepted
On-the-spot essay and interview ensure personality fit with liberal arts environment
Strong focus on leadership, entrepreneurship, and all-round development
Multiple application cycles provide flexibility
Key Information
Entrance Tests: FEAT (FLAME Entrance Aptitude Test – assesses verbal ability, quantitative reasoning, and analytical skills) OR SAT / ACT
Requirements: Class XII pass; Online application; Past academic record; Entrance test scores (FEAT/SAT/ACT); Extracurricular activities/professional achievements; Statement of Purpose (SOP); On-the-Spot Essay; Interview for shortlisted candidates
7. Krea University, Sri City
Krea University offers a 4-year Economics program through the School of Interwoven Arts and Sciences (SIAS). The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, research, and real-world problem-solving, preparing students to become thought leaders in economics.
Program: Economics (4 years)
What Makes It Special
Innovative interwoven curriculum combining arts, sciences, and economics
Krea Online Assessment (KAT) designed to evaluate critical thinking
SAT/ACT optional — holistic admissions process values diverse strengths
Personal story and co-curricular/extracurricular activities weighted heavily
50% minimum in Class X/XII — accessible to diverse academic backgrounds
Personal interaction for shortlisted students ensures right program fit
Key Information
Entrance Test: KAT (Krea Aptitude Test) – evaluates critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving abilities through online assessment
Requirements: Minimum 50% grades in Class X and XII; Online application; SAT/ACT scores (optional); Krea Aptitude Test (KAT); Personal story essay; Co-curricular and extracurricular portfolio; Personal interaction/interview for shortlisted students
8. Nayanta University, Pune
Nalanda University, reviving the legacy of the ancient seat of learning, offers a 4-year Economics program with focus on Asian perspectives and global economics. The program combines classical economic theory with contemporary policy challenges in an intellectually vibrant environment.
Program: Economics Major (4 years)
What Makes It Special
Historic institution with modern, global outlook
Unique focus on Asian economic development and regional perspectives
Aptitude test evaluates problem-solving and analytical capabilities
Essay and interview ensure students are passionate about economics
International faculty bringing diverse perspectives
Strong research culture and academic rigor
Key Information
Entrance Test: Nayanta Aptitude Test (evaluates logical reasoning, quantitative ability, and general awareness)
Requirements: Class XII pass; Online application; Essay; Nayanta Aptitude Test; Interview for shortlisted students
Your future in economics starts with the right education. Choose wisely, prepare diligently, and take the leap into one of these outstanding programs!
For personalized guidance on university selection and application strategy, contact Collegepond Counsellors
