Pondicherry University, Puducherry was established in October 1985 by an Act of Parliament. Pondicherry University, Puducherry is a central university, located at Kalapet, 10 km away from the town of Puducherry. The Pondicherry University, Puducherry is spread over 800 acres adjoining the scenic Bay of Bengal. Pondicherry University has been ranked 58th by the National Institutional Ranking Framework in the university category 2020. The university is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and accredited by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). Pondicherry University has more than 90 colleges affiliated to it, with its jurisdiction spread over the Union Territory of Puducherry, Lakshadweep and Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and has main campuses at Karaikal and Port Blair. As per the NIRF ranking for two consecutive years 2021 and 2020, the varsity has been ranked 58 in the university category. In the NIRF rankings of 2021, the university has been ranked 87th in the overall category.

Pondicherry University, Puducherry main objective is to disseminate advanced knowledge by offering teaching and research facilities and to promote interdisciplinary studies and research. Pondicherry University motto is ‘Vers la lumière’ meaning towards the light. Pondicherry University, Puducherry mission is to be a globally competent resource in terms of people, infrastructure, and partners who will serve as agents in the development of society in various spheres of life. The vision of the university is to become an institution of global eminence.

The varsity offers 129 courses in the field of Management and Business Administration, Commerce, Hospitality and Tourism, Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Media, Mass Communication and Journalism, Sciences, Engineering and Architecture, law, Medicine and Allied Sciences, Animation and Design, and Pharmacy. Pondicherry University has collaborations with a good number of international institutions. The university offers all the necessary facilities to the students including a library, hostels, computer center, health center, sports complex, bank, canteen, and shopping complex.