National Rail and Transportation Institute (NRTI) was established in 2018 in Vadodara, Gujarat, as India’s first university focused exclusively on railways and transportation studies. The institute was set up by the Ministry of Railways, Government of India, with the objective of creating a specialized talent pool for the rapidly evolving transportation and mobility sectors.
In 2022, NRTI was upgraded and renamed Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya (GSV) and granted the status of a Central University through an Act of Parliament. While the academic mandate expanded under the new name, the core focus on railways, transportation, logistics, and mobility systems continues as the institution’s foundation.
Located within the National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR) campus in Vadodara, the university benefits from direct access to railway infrastructure, training facilities, and industry expertise. The academic environment is designed to integrate engineering, management, policy, and applied research related to transportation systems.
- University status: Central University (formerly NRTI)
- Established: 2018 (Central University status in 2022)
- Academic focus: Railways, transportation systems, logistics, and mobility
- Programs offered: UG, PG, and executive programs
Important Admission Dates (Tentative)
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Event
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Dates
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CUET-UG Application
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February – March 2026
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CUET-UG Examination
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May 2026
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CUET-PG Application
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March – April 2026
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CUET-PG Examination
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June 2026
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Counseling & Admission Process
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July – August 2026
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Academic Session Begins
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August – September 2026
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NRTI / Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya Admissions 2026–27
Admissions are conducted as per Central University norms, primarily through the Common University Entrance Test (CUET) for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Admission Process:
- Online application through CUET portal
- Appear for CUET-UG or CUET-PG (as applicable)
- University-level counseling and merit-based seat allotment
- Document verification and admission confirmation
Eligibility criteria vary by program and follow UGC and university regulations.
Courses Offered (Transportation-Focused Programs)
Undergraduate Programs:
- Tech in Transportation Engineering
- BBA in Transportation Management (program offerings subject to university notifications)
Postgraduate Programs:
Programs are designed to combine engineering fundamentals, management principles, data analysis, and sector-specific applications in railways and transportation.
Fees Structure
As a Central University, the institution follows a regulated and affordable fee structure.
Approximate Annual Fees:
- Undergraduate Programs: INR 1.0 – 1.5 lakh
- Postgraduate Programs: INR 1.0 – 2.0 lakh
Exact fees are notified each year through official admission announcements.
Faculty and Academic Environment
The university is supported by faculty members with backgrounds in engineering, management, economics, and public policy, along with experts drawn from Indian Railways and transportation organizations. Teaching methods include classroom instruction, case studies, laboratory work, field exposure, internships, and industry-linked projects.
The proximity to NAIR enables practical exposure to real railway systems, operational practices, and infrastructure planning.
Career Pathways and Opportunities
Graduates are trained for roles across public and private transportation sectors.
Career Options:
- Indian Railways and allied organizations
- Transportation and logistics companies
- Infrastructure planning and mobility consulting
- Operations and systems management
- Policy, research, and higher education
Career outcomes depend on specialization, internships, and sectoral demand.
Why Choose National Rail and Transportation Institute / GSV?
The institution is uniquely suited for students interested in transportation-focused education, particularly railways and integrated mobility systems. Its status as a Central University, direct linkage with Indian Railways, and sector-specific curriculum make it distinct from conventional engineering and management universities.
NRTI / Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya – FAQs
Q1. Is NRTI now a Central University?
Ans. Yes. NRTI was upgraded and renamed Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya and declared a Central University in 2022.
Q2. What is the university best known for?
Ans. It is best known for specialized education in railways, transportation, logistics, and mobility systems.
Q3. Which entrance exam is required for admission?
Ans. Admissions are primarily through CUET-UG and CUET-PG.
Q4. Is the university affiliated with Indian Railways?
Ans. Yes. It was established by the Ministry of Railways and continues to work closely with Indian Railways.
Q5. Is the campus residential?
Ans. Yes. Residential facilities are available on campus, subject to university allotment norms.