Banaras Hindu University (BHU) has announced a new initiative to recognise outstanding students through the Academic Excellence Award for Students, starting from the 2025–26 academic session. The awards will cover all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across university departments, both regular and special courses, to encourage merit and academic growth.
BHU Academic Excellence Award 2025–26: Eligibility and Prize Details
According to the official press release, students with a minimum Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) of 8.5 will be eligible to compete for the award. The recognition will include both a cash prize and a certificate of excellence, symbolising achievement and dedication to studies.
The cash prizes have been fixed at three levels:
- Rs 25,000 for the first position
- Rs 20,000 for the second position
- Rs 15,000 for the third position
The number of awards per programme will vary depending on student strength:
- Programmes with over 100 students: Three awards
- Programmes with 50–100 students: Two awards
- Programmes with fewer than 50 students: One award
This flexible system ensures fair recognition across departments of different sizes within the university.
Academic Council Approval for BHU Student Awards
The Academic Council of BHU, chaired by Vice-Chancellor Ajit Kumar Chaturvedi, approved the award scheme in its first meeting since Chaturvedi assumed office. Presenting the proposal, Dean of Students Anupam Kumar Nema highlighted that the scheme is designed to promote academic performance and further strengthen BHU’s reputation in higher education.
Vice-Chancellor Chaturvedi emphasised that recognising academic merit is essential for motivating students and raising institutional standards. He said, “We at BHU must focus on, promote, and acknowledge merit, hard work, and excellence. We should be proactive and prompt in recognising those who make exceptional academic performance and bring laurels to the university. We want to inspire students to aim for academic excellence.”
Motivation for BHU Students
The BHU Academic Excellence Award for Students aims to serve as a motivational tool for students across disciplines. By setting a benchmark of CGPA 8.5, the award encourages consistent academic effort and fosters a culture of excellence.
The Vice-Chancellor further noted that the initiative would motivate students to maintain high standards, improve performance, and enhance the national visibility of BHU. The scheme is also expected to attract more talented students from across the country to pursue education at Banaras Hindu University.
The introduction of the BHU Academic Excellence Award for Students from the 2025–26 session marks a significant step toward recognising and rewarding merit in higher education. With structured cash prizes, certificates of excellence, and eligibility based on academic performance, the initiative underscores BHU’s commitment to nurturing excellence among its student community.
By acknowledging top-performing students every year, BHU not only celebrates achievement but also sets a precedent for other institutions to follow. The award scheme will motivate students to excel academically and bring prestige to one of India’s most respected universities.
