Institute of Archaeology Courses, Fees, Admission, Placements 2025

The Institute of Archaeology in Delhi was established in 1985 by upgrading the School of Archaeology, which had been functioning since 1959. Operating under the Archaeological Survey of India and the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, this institute imparts advanced training in multidisciplinary fields including Archaeology, Epigraphy, Numismatics, Museology, Conservation, and Antiquarian law. The institute maintains a library with approximately 10,000 books and offers a total of 15 seats annually for its flagship Post Graduate Diploma in Archaeology (PGDA) program. Located in the heart of Delhi's heritage district, the institute is conveniently situated 1.6 km from Chandni Chowk Metro Station and 2 km from Old Delhi Railway Station, providing students direct access to some of India's most significant archaeological and historical sites.

Institute of Archaeology Highlights

As the academic wing of the Archaeological Survey of India, the Institute of Archaeology Delhi serves as a premier training center for archaeology professionals in India. The institute's strategic location in Delhi provides unparalleled access to heritage sites, monuments, and museums for hands-on learning experiences. With limited annual intake of 15 students, the institute maintains an intimate learning environment that facilitates personalized mentorship and intensive training. The curriculum emphasizes practical fieldwork, including all-India study tours for exploration and excavation experience. Students benefit from interaction with Archaeological Survey of India experts and gain exposure to ongoing research projects and heritage conservation initiatives across the country.

Institute of Archaeology Courses & Fees

The Institute of Archaeology Delhi offers a specialized two-year Post Graduate Diploma in Archaeology (PGDA) that provides comprehensive training across multiple archaeological disciplines. The program curriculum encompasses applications of science in archaeology, art and iconography, epigraphy, numismatics, and museology, ensuring students develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Beyond the core diploma program, the institute conducts professional workshops in Structural Conservation and Chemical Preservation, Heritage and Environment Management, Epigraphy and Numismatics, Excavation and Exploration, and Museology. The program includes mandatory field training through all-India study tours, enabling students to gain hands-on experience at excavation sites and heritage monuments. Admission is conducted on a merit basis without entrance examinations, making the selection process straightforward for eligible candidates.

Institute of Archaeology Admission Process

Admission to the Institute of Archaeology Delhi is conducted through a merit-based selection process without requiring entrance examinations. The institute evaluates candidates based on their academic performance in undergraduate studies, particularly emphasizing background in History, Archaeology, Anthropology, or related humanities subjects. With an annual intake limited to just 15 students, the admission process is highly competitive and selective. Prospective candidates are advised to contact the institute directly at 011-2327-7083 for specific admission guidelines and application procedures. The selection process prioritizes candidates demonstrating strong academic credentials and genuine interest in archaeological research and heritage conservation.

• Application Window: Typically opens in April-May for the academic session beginning in July-August

• Entrance Exams: No entrance exam required; merit-based admission only

• Selection Stages: Academic record evaluation and document verification; possible interview for shortlisted candidates

Institute of Archaeology Campus & Facilities

The Institute of Archaeology in Delhi benefits from its strategic location in the heritage-rich Chandni Chowk area, providing students immediate access to numerous historical monuments, museums, and archaeological sites. The institute's library houses approximately 10,000 books covering archaeology, ancient history, art history, conservation science, and related disciplines, along with periodicals, research journals, and archival materials. As the academic wing of the Archaeological Survey of India, students gain access to the organization's extensive research facilities, conservation laboratories, and ongoing excavation projects across India. The compact campus facilitates close interaction between faculty and students, creating an intensive learning environment ideal for specialized archaeological training.

• Library / Digital Resources: 10,000+ books, research journals, periodicals on archaeology, epigraphy, numismatics, and conservation; access to ASI archives and research materials

• Labs / Research Centres / Special Equipment: Conservation laboratories for structural and chemical preservation; access to ASI research facilities including epigraphy, numismatics, and archaeological science departments

• Classrooms / Seminar Halls / Auditoriums: Specialized classrooms for theoretical instruction and practical demonstrations; seminar halls for workshops and lectures by visiting experts

• Connectivity / Transport: Located 1.6 km from Chandni Chowk Metro Station (Yellow Line) and 2 km from Old Delhi Railway Station; well-connected by public transport including metro, buses, and auto-rickshaws