Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Courses, Fees, Admission, Placements 2025

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (CIHTS) is a premier government-funded deemed university located in Sarnath, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. Established in 1967 under the Ministry of Culture, CIHTS is renowned for its specialized programs in Tibetan Buddhist Studies, Sanskrit, Tibetan medicine (Sowa Rigpa), and Indo-Tibetan arts. The institute received NAAC ‘A’ grade accreditation in 2022 and serves over 400+ students annually. CIHTS is recognized for its unique mission to educate Tibetan youth in exile and students from Himalayan border regions, while also preserving and translating ancient Buddhist texts.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Highlights

CIHTS Varanasi operates as an autonomous deemed university on a lush 29-acre campus in Sarnath. It is fully funded by the Government of India and offers residential facilities for students. The institute’s flagship programs include undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in Buddhist Studies, Tibetan Language, and Sowa Rigpa, with a strong emphasis on research and cultural preservation. Admissions are primarily through institute-level entrance exams, and the faculty includes distinguished scholars in Buddhist philosophy and Tibetan studies.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Rankings

CIHTS Varanasi is nationally recognized for its excellence in Buddhist and Tibetan studies. While not ranked in mainstream NIRF or QS lists due to its niche focus, the institute has received the Vaishak Prashasti Award (2018) from the Government of India for its contribution to Buddhist education and research.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Courses & Fees

CIHTS offers a diverse range of programs from undergraduate to doctoral levels, with a focus on Buddhist Studies, Tibetan Language, Sowa Rigpa (Tibetan medicine), and Fine Arts. Fees are highly subsidized, reflecting the institute’s public mission. Eligibility criteria vary by program, but most require a minimum of 10+2 for undergraduate and relevant master’s degrees for doctoral studies.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Admission Process

Admissions to CIHTS Varanasi are conducted annually, typically between May–July. Candidates must apply online and appear for the institute’s entrance test. Selection is based on entrance exam performance, followed by document verification and, for some programs, interviews. The process is transparent and merit-based, with reserved seats for Tibetan and Himalayan region students.

• Application Window: May–June (annual)

• Entrance Exams (if any): CIHTS Entrance Test

• Selection Stages (GD/PI/WAT/etc.): Written test, Interview (for select programs)

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Scholarships

CIHTS provides scholarships to meritorious and economically weaker students, especially those from Tibetan and Himalayan communities. Scholarships include government-funded stipends and internal merit awards, covering tuition fees and living expenses for eligible students.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Campus & Facilities

The CIHTS campus in Sarnath, Varanasi spans 29 acres and is equipped with modern and traditional facilities. The institute houses a comprehensive library, specialized research centers, and residential hostels. Facilities are designed to support both academic and cultural activities, with dedicated spaces for meditation, seminars, and sports.

• Library / Digital Resources: Extensive library with 60,000+ volumes, digital archives, Buddhist manuscripts

• Labs / Research Centres / Special Equipment: Sowa Rigpa labs, Buddhist philosophy research centre

• Classrooms / Seminar Halls / Auditoriums: Smart classrooms, 2 seminar halls, 1 main auditorium

• Hostel / Dining: Separate hostels for men and women, mess facilities, Tibetan cuisine

• Sports / Gym / Grounds: Indoor gym, outdoor sports ground, yoga/meditation hall

• Connectivity / Transport: Located 10 km from Varanasi city centre, accessible by road and rail

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Placements

CIHTS graduates pursue careers in academia, research, translation, and cultural preservation. Placement statistics vary by program, with a majority joining universities, research institutes, and NGOs. The highest packages are typically offered for roles in translation and research, while average packages reflect the public service and academic orientation of most graduates.

Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies Notable Alumni

CIHTS alumni include distinguished scholars, translators, and leaders in Buddhist studies and Tibetan culture. Many have contributed to international research, cultural preservation, and education.