University of Peradeniya
A well-established university providing quality higher education. Offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs with dedicated faculty and supportive learning environment.
- Acceptance Rate
- 75.4%
- SAT Range
- 950–1150
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.1
- Size
- Large (32,971 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:25
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 72.0%
- Retention Rate
- 74.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $2,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $10,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Student life at the University of Peradeniya unfolds across a campus that feels more like a small town set within a nature reserve than a typical academic institution. The residential system houses thousands of students in halls with names reflecting Sri Lankan history and culture, creating communities where lifelong friendships form over shared meals and late-night study sessions. Cultural societies representing different ethnic and religious groups organize festivals throughout the year, from Sinhala and Tamil New Year celebrations to Vesak and Christmas events that bring the campus together. Sports play a major role in university culture, with keen rivalries in cricket, rugby, and athletics between faculties and against other Sri Lankan universities. The university's location near Kandy means students can easily explore one of Sri Lanka's most historically significant cities, visiting the Temple of the Tooth, wandering through markets, or taking day trips to nearby tea plantations and national parks. Hiking trails surround the campus, and adventurous students organize trips to places like Horton Plains, Knuckles Mountain Range, and ancient cities scattered across the island. Student unions organize debates, drama productions, and guest lectures featuring prominent public figures. The campus comes alive in the evenings as students gather in common areas, play sports on open fields, or sit by the river discussing everything from philosophy to cricket scores. Academic pressure exists but so does a strong sense of community that supports students through challenging periods.
Location & Surroundings
The University of Peradeniya campus offers facilities spread across its extensive grounds, blending historic buildings from the colonial era with modern structures serving contemporary academic needs. The main library houses one of Sri Lanka's largest academic collections, with over a million books, journals, and manuscripts supporting research across all faculties. Faculty-specific libraries serve specialized needs in medicine, agriculture, engineering, and other fields where students need access to technical materials. Teaching hospitals attached to the medical and dental faculties provide real clinical environments where students observe and participate in patient care. Agricultural research stations support practical training and experiments that complement classroom learning about tropical farming systems. Engineering workshops and laboratories offer hands-on experience with machinery, computer systems, and technical equipment relevant to professional practice. Sports facilities include grounds for cricket, rugby, football, and athletics, plus courts for tennis, basketball, and badminton. The gymnasium and swimming facilities serve students seeking fitness activities alongside organized team sports. Student residence halls vary in age and amenities, with newer buildings offering more modern facilities while older halls carry historic character. Dining halls in each residential area provide affordable meals, while canteens scattered across campus offer quick options between classes. The campus health center handles minor medical issues and refers more serious cases to the teaching hospital. Internet connectivity has improved significantly in recent years, with computer laboratories available for students lacking personal devices.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Studying at the University of Peradeniya represents one of the most affordable higher education options in South Asia, particularly for Sri Lankan students who benefit from government subsidies. Local students pay minimal registration and examination fees amounting to just a few thousand rupees annually, with the government covering the majority of educational costs through public funding. International students pay higher fees that vary by faculty and program level but remain very competitive compared to universities in other countries offering similar quality education. Living expenses in Kandy cost significantly less than in Colombo or comparable cities in neighboring countries, with on-campus accommodation available at subsidized rates for students from outside the area. Monthly living costs including food, local transportation, books, and personal expenses typically range from LKR 25,000 to LKR 40,000 for students living on campus. Various scholarship programs support students with financial need, including government bursaries, faculty-specific awards, and assistance programs funded by alumni associations and private donors. International students can explore scholarships offered by their home governments or international development organizations with programs in Sri Lanka. Graduate research students sometimes receive stipends through externally funded research projects led by their supervisors. Part-time employment opportunities remain limited compared to universities in more developed economies, making financial planning before enrollment particularly important. The international office provides guidance on visa requirements and any financial documentation needed for immigration purposes.
Campus Location
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