Academics FAQs

When does the academic year begin at Kautilya

Generally, the academic year begins by the end of July or Early August. The academic year follows a Trimester system. Each trimester is 12-14 weeks. Each enrolled student will receive official communication on their registered email address a few weeks before the batch commencement date.

What are the accreditations and recognitions obtained by the Kautilya School of Public Policy?

Kautilya School of Public Policy is one of the premier schools of GITAM (Deemed To Be University), and GITAM is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) u/s 3 of the UGC act, 1956, and the Telangana state government. The executive committee of the National Assessment & Accreditation Council (NAAC) has accredited GITAM an A++.

Link: Certificate of Accreditation

What are the dates of commencement and completion of the Master of Public Policy Course?

The Kautilya School of Public Policy follows a strict Academic Calendar and runs on a trimester basis. Tentatively, the first term of study starts in July each year, and the program culminates once all the six terms are completed in 2 years.

Link: Academic Calendar

What is the medium of instruction?

English will be the medium of instruction for all courses for the Master’s Program in Public Policy (MPP).

How is the academic year structured at Kautilya?

Each academic year consists of a trimester system beginning in August. The academic year begins at the end of July or Early August. It is a fully residential two-year program. There are 6 trimesters in total. At the end of the first academic year, the students are mandated to do an internship of 6-8 weeks. The preparation of the Capstone Project (an academic document based on a public policy issue) begins in the Fifth Trimester. In the final trimester (Sixth Trimester), the students are required to submit their capstone project which is evaluated by their supervisor (internal faculty) and an external faculty after the conduct of a viva on the Capstone project.

When does the document verification process take place?

The document verification process requires the verification of educational certificates as outlined in the checklist during the admission process. This is a mandatory requirement. You must carry the original documents of your educational qualifications.

How is the academic orientation program structured at Kautilya?

The academic orientation program is scheduled for the first trimester week (Aug). The orientation programme orients the students regarding the Public Policy Curriculum and different aspects of campus life, such as the presence of student clubs. There are also sessions to expose students to the Eminent Visiting Faculty at Kautilya. The Orientation Programme also provides students with all necessary information regarding the essential procedures and processes that are in place in Kautilya. Students are also introduced to the Professors to get an idea of the academic rigour required for the programme.

How will the students be assessed and evaluated at Kautilya?

There will be midterm exams and end-term exams for assessment but there will also be many other forms of evaluations too. Academic progress may also be gauged through tasks, projects, class participation, attendance, conversations, observations, and much else.

Who will I meet at the campus?

The two-year MPP program is a fully residential program. You will meet and interact with your peers, professors, the academic team at Kautilya, and other staff. You will be exposed to a dynamic environment where you will interact with student clubs, eminent faculty, public policy practitioners, and academicians.

What will my program look like at the Kautilya?

Each program is curated by leading professionals from academia and industry. The Board of Studies (BOS) approved the curriculum structure. All programs are taught in the English language in classroom settings and will include hands-on, case studies, simulations, and field study components.

What are the opportunities available on campus

Students will be exposed to a dynamic environment. The campus life is delightful filled with a number of diverse student clubs – ranging from culture to sports. Students will be exposed to different aspects of public policy. Students may also choose to explore Hyderabad- the city of pearls in their free time.

Will I receive transcripts and credits of my study at the Kautilya?

Each student who has cleared all assessments will receive official transcripts and academic credits. The Kautilya School of Public Policy follows a CGPA grading pattern.

What kind of career planning assistance is available at Kautilya School of Public Policy?

Students are mandated to do a compulsory internship for 6-8 weeks after the first year of their study. Training sessions and workshops are conducted by the Office of Career Fulfillment for the purpose of preparing students for their professional lives.

How important is class attendance?

Minimum of 60% attendance is compulsory in each term. Students are expected to attend all classes, seminars, workshops, etc. All absences (beyond unexpected illness or emergency) must have advance permission from the faculty. Short attendance may prevent students from receiving credit for the course.

Can I withdraw from a program?

Yes, you may withdraw anytime by submitting the withdrawal application to the Dean’s office. Your withdrawal will be considered approved after receiving all No-DUES from each relevant department.

Can I take an incomplete grade?

A student must complete all coursework within a given term to receive credit for the course.