Fees
Fees at Chandigarh University for the Bachelor of Engineering (BE) in Computer Science and Engineering program are structured on a semester basis. The tuition fee is Rs. 106,000 per semester, with an additional examination fee of Rs. 2,500 and a refundable security fee of Rs. 2,000, making the yearly cost approximately Rs. 216,000. The university implements a yearly fee hike, increasing tuition fees for subsequent batches, though fees remain constant for students once enrolled.
Chandigarh University offers multiple scholarship opportunities, including the CUCET, which can provide waivers from 10% to 100% depending on performance. Scholarships are also available based on 12th-grade marks and JEE Main scores, with a prerequisite to maintain a CGPA of 7.5 to ensure continued scholarship eligibility. Moreover, various financial assistance options, including student loans, are available to aid in managing tuition costs.
About Bachelor of Optometry [B.Optom] {Lateral}
The Bachelor of Optometry (Lateral Entry) at Chandigarh University is a full-time undergraduate program offered under the University Institute of Allied Health Sciences (UIAHS). This lateral entry program provides direct admission to the second year of the B.Optom program for students who have completed a Diploma in Optometry or Ophthalmic Assistant, effectively making it a 3-year program (6 semesters) for lateral entrants. The total tuition fee is Rs. 4,08,000 (Rs. 68,000 per semester across 6 semesters). The program prepares students for a profession dealing with examination, diagnosis, and management of diseases and disorders of the visual system. The Department of Optometry at CU is recognized by the All India Schools and Colleges of Optometry (ASCO) and is equipped with state-of-the-art optometry labs and clinical training facilities. The program is popular among diploma holders in optometry who wish to upgrade their qualification to a full degree.
Admissions for the 2026-27 session are currently open. CUCET 2026 Phase 1 registration is ongoing with the last date being 30th April 2026. Phase 2 registration is expected to open from May 2026 onwards. The batch is expected to commence in August 2026.
Key Points
- Lateral entry program providing direct admission to the 2nd year for Diploma in Optometry/Ophthalmic Assistant holders.
- Department recognized by ASCO (All India Schools and Colleges of Optometry) for top-notch infrastructure and state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Curriculum is designed in compliance with guidelines set by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
- Mandatory clinical training in hospitals and optical establishments is part of the program.
- Real-time exposure through visits to optometry clinics and industry expert mentorship.
- Specialization areas include pediatric eye care, geriatric eye care, low vision, contact lenses, vision rehabilitation, and ocular disease management.
- Strong industry connections provide excellent internship and placement opportunities in hospitals, optical chains, and eye care centers.
CU B.Optom Fees
Fee Structure
| Fee Component | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (per semester) | ₹68,000 |
| Tuition Fee (6 semesters - 3 years lateral) | ₹4,08,000 |
| Security Fee (one-time) | ₹2,000 |
| Total Fees (excluding hostel) | ₹4,10,000 |
Hostel Fees (Optional)
| Accommodation Type | Annual Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| 5 Seater Non-AC (Boys/Girls) | ₹1,20,000 |
| 4 Seater Non-AC (Boys/Girls) | ₹1,35,000 |
| 3 Seater Non-AC (Boys/Girls) | ₹1,50,000 |
| 5 Seater AC (Boys only) | ₹1,50,000 |
| 4 Seater AC (Girls only) | ₹1,65,000 |
| 3 Seater AC (Boys/Girls) | ₹1,80,000 |
| 2 Seater AC (Boys only) | ₹2,08,000 |
| 1 Seater AC (Boys only) | ₹2,20,000 |
- The Security Fee of Rs. 2,000 is a one-time refundable deposit, refunded at the time of leaving the university subject to no dues.
- The official page does not separately list an examination fee for this program; the total fees as per an external review site is Rs. 4.13 Lakhs including caution deposit.
- Hostel fee includes meals and is charged annually. It is optional and not included in the Total Fees above.
- Hostel fees increase by Rs. 2,000 per annum for domestic students on account of food inflation.
- Fee can be paid semester-wise. Education loan facility is available through tie-ups with leading banks.
CU B.Optom Admission 2026-27
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| CUCET 2026 Phase 1 Registration Start | October 2025 |
| CUCET 2026 Phase 1 Registration End | 30th April 2026 |
| CUCET 2026 Phase 2 Registration Start | May 2026 (tentative) |
| CUCET 2026 Phase 2 Registration End | Till end of admissions (tentative) |
| Document Verification (Diploma + Medical Fitness) | After application, as per university schedule |
| Admission Offer / Merit List | Rolling basis after CUCET and document verification |
| Within stipulated time after offer letter | |
| Batch Commencement | August 2026 (tentative) |
- CUCET is the mandatory entrance and scholarship test for B.Optom (Lateral Entry) admissions at CU.
- There are no national-level entrance exams specifically for this lateral entry program; admission is based on CUCET score and diploma qualification verification.
The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates must have passed a Diploma in Optometry or Ophthalmic Assistant from a recognized institution.
- A medical fitness certificate endorsed by a Government Medical Officer is mandatory.
- Candidates must be medically fit to practice optometry.
Admission Process
- Register on the CUCET portal at cucet.cuchd.in and create a candidate profile.
- Choose a convenient date and appear for the CUCET online entrance and scholarship test.
- Submit diploma certificates, medical fitness certificate (endorsed by Government Medical Officer), and other required documents.
- Receive CUCET result and scholarship offer based on score.
- Submit the admission application and pay the semester fee to confirm the seat.
CU B.Optom Scholarships 2026-27
Scholarship Details
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount / Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 90.01-100 in CUCET | 100% of semester fee (Rs. 68,000) |
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 80-90 in CUCET | 50% of semester fee (Rs. 34,000) |
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 70-79.99 in CUCET | 40% of semester fee (Rs. 27,200) |
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 60-69.99 in CUCET | 30% of semester fee (Rs. 20,400) |
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 50-59.99 in CUCET | 25% of semester fee (Rs. 17,000) |
| CUCET Scholarship (Phase 1) | Score 40-49.99 in CUCET | 15% of semester fee (Rs. 10,200) |
| Lateral Entry Scholarship (Diploma Marks) | 90% and above in Diploma | 50% of semester fee |
| Lateral Entry Scholarship (Diploma Marks) | 85% - 89.99% in Diploma | 20% of semester fee |
| Lateral Entry Scholarship (Diploma Marks) | 80% - 84.99% in Diploma | 10% of semester fee |
| Defence Personnel Ward (AFEWS) | Wards/spouse of defence personnel | 20% fee concession |
| Single Girl Child Concession | Single girl child | 20% concession on yearly fee |
| Sibling Concession | One sibling studying at CU | 10% concession on yearly fee |
| CGPA-Based Scholarship | 9.0 CGPA or above (not availing other scholarship) | 10% of fee |
- CUCET Phase 1 scholarships are higher than Phase 2; students are advised to register early.
- Scholarship renewal requires maintaining a minimum 7.5 CGPA each year with no E, F, or I grades.
- A student cannot avail multiple scholarships simultaneously.
- Scholarship is not applicable for migrating students.
CU B.Optom FAQs
Ques. What is the difference between the regular B.Optom and B.Optom (Lateral Entry) at Chandigarh University? Who should apply for the lateral entry program?
Ans. The regular B.Optom at CU is a 4-year program open to 10+2 pass students with Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. The B.Optom (Lateral Entry) is specifically designed for students who have already completed a Diploma in Optometry or Ophthalmic Assistant, allowing them to directly enter the second year of the B.Optom program. This effectively makes it a 3-year program for lateral entrants. The semester fee is the same at Rs. 68,000 for both programs. The lateral entry route is ideal for working optometry diploma holders who want to upgrade their qualification to a full degree without repeating the first year of study.
Ques. Is the B.Optom (Lateral Entry) degree from Chandigarh University recognized for practicing as an optometrist in India?
Ans. Yes, the B.Optom degree from Chandigarh University is recognized by UGC and the Department of Optometry is recognized by ASCO (All India Schools and Colleges of Optometry). The curriculum is designed in compliance with guidelines set by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. However, it is important to note that optometry regulation in India is still evolving, and registration requirements vary by state. Graduates should check the specific registration requirements of the state where they intend to practice. The degree is also recognized for pursuing M.Optom (Master of Optometry) programs for career advancement.
Ques. What clinical training opportunities are available for B.Optom (Lateral Entry) students at Chandigarh University?
Ans. CU's UIAHS department provides mandatory clinical training as part of the B.Optom curriculum. Students get real-time exposure through visits to optometry clinics, mandatory training in hospitals and optical establishments, and mentorship by industry experts. The department has state-of-the-art optometry labs equipped with advanced diagnostic equipment. CU's strong industry connections provide excellent internship opportunities in hospitals, optical chains like Lenskart and Vision Express, and eye care centers. The clinical training component is a critical part of the program and ensures that graduates are job-ready upon completion.
Ques. What are the career opportunities after completing B.Optom (Lateral Entry) from Chandigarh University?
Ans. After completing B.Optom, graduates can work as Optometrists in hospitals, eye clinics, and optical retail chains. Career options include Clinical Optometrist, Dispensing Optician, Contact Lens Specialist, Low Vision Specialist, Pediatric Optometrist, and Ophthalmic Technician. With the growing awareness of eye health and the increasing prevalence of vision problems in India, the demand for qualified optometrists is rising. Graduates can also pursue M.Optom for specialization and academic careers, or work in the optical industry in roles like product specialist or clinical educator for optical equipment companies.
Ques. Is a medical fitness certificate mandatory for B.Optom (Lateral Entry) admission at CU, and what does it entail?
Ans. Yes, a medical fitness certificate is mandatory for admission to the B.Optom (Lateral Entry) program at Chandigarh University. The certificate must be endorsed by a Government Medical Officer and confirms that the candidate is medically fit to practice optometry. This typically involves a general health examination and a vision assessment to ensure the candidate has adequate visual acuity for clinical practice. The certificate must be submitted at the time of document verification during the admission process. Candidates who do not submit a valid medical fitness certificate will not be eligible for admission.
Ques. Can a B.Optom (Lateral Entry) graduate from CU pursue M.Optom at Chandigarh University itself, and what are the fees for M.Optom?
Ans. Yes, CU offers M.Optom (Master of Optometry) as a postgraduate program, and B.Optom graduates are eligible to apply. The M.Optom program at CU has a semester fee of Rs. 49,000 (as per the official fee list). The M.Optom program provides specialization in areas like contact lenses, low vision, pediatric optometry, and ocular disease management. Admission to M.Optom is through CUCET and is subject to availability of seats. Pursuing M.Optom significantly enhances career prospects, particularly for roles in academic institutions, research, and specialized clinical practice.