LPU MCA: Admission 2026, Eligibility, Fees, Application Process & How to Apply

LPU MCA is a 2-year postgraduate degree spanning four semesters, designed for graduates aiming to build expertise in computer applications. With a total fee of INR 4,00,000, including INR 1,00,000 per semester, the course includes a specialization in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning through an industry tie-up with IBM. LPU admission for 2026 opens now via LPUNEST. This setup equips students with skills in data science, machine learning, and software engineering, preparing them for roles in IT firms like Cognizant and Infosys.

LPU MCA Fees Structure 2026

MCA fee at Lovely Professional University totals INR 4,00,000 for the full program, broken down to INR 1,00,000 per semester. This covers tuition, with additional one-time charges like INR 4,000 for uniform and INR 5,000 per semester for examinations.

For offline payments, LPU accepts demand drafts or bank transfers directly at the admission office in Phagwara, Punjab. Online options include net banking and cards via the LPU portal.

LPU MCA Eligibility Criteria 2026

To qualify for LPU MCA, candidates need a graduation degree in any stream like BCA, B.Sc., B.Com., or B.A. with at least 55% aggregate marks, plus mathematics at 10+2 or graduation level. Without a mathematics background, a compulsory bridge course applies, and an extra one if computer science was not studied in graduation.

• Minimum 55% in qualifying graduation.
• Mathematics required at 10+2 or degree level.
• LPUNEST qualification mandatory unless 80%+ in graduation.
• Bridge courses for non-maths/computer students.

LPU MCA Admission Process 2026

LPU admission process for the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is fully online, transparent, and designed to evaluate academic merit, aptitude, and eligibility through a structured pathway. Follow the steps below to secure your seat.

1. Online Registration & Application
   
   • Visit the official LPU admission portal and create an account using your email and mobile number.
   • Fill in personal, academic, and contact details accurately in the online application form.
   • Upload scanned copies of required documents and a recent passport-sized photograph.
   • Pay the non-refundable application fee via net banking, card, or UPI.
2. Entrance Test – LPUNEST (if applicable)
   
   • Candidates with less than 80% in graduation must appear for LPUNEST (Lovely Professional University National Entrance and Scholarship Test).
   • Book your preferred exam slot (online, remotely proctored or at a designated test center).
   • The computer-based test assesses quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, English, and basic computer awareness.
   • Results are declared within 24 hours of the exam.

   Exemption: Candidates with 80% or above in graduation are exempt from LPUNEST.

3. Scholarship & Seat Allocation
   
   • Scholarships of up to 35% are awarded based on LPUNEST performance or graduation percentage.
   • Eligible candidates receive a personalized scholarship letter and seat allotment via email and dashboard.
4. Fee Payment & Document Verification
   
   • Pay the program fee (after scholarship deduction) to confirm your admission.
   • Submit original documents for physical verification at the university campus or designated center.
   • Complete medical fitness and anti-ragging affidavits as required.
5. Enrollment & Orientation
   
   • Receive your official enrollment number and student ID.
   • Attend the mandatory orientation program (online/in-person) to begin your academic journey.
   • Gain access to the LPU student portal, LMS, and IBM collaboration resources.

Track updates on the LPU admission details.

How to Apply for LPU MCA Admission 2026

Follow these steps to complete your application for the Master of Computer Applications (MCA) program at Lovely Professional University:

1. Visit the Official LPU Admission Portal: Go to www.lpu.in and navigate to the "Apply Now" section.
2. Register with Basic Details: Click on "New Registration" and enter your full name, valid email address, mobile number, and create a secure password.
3. Verify Your Email and Mobile: Check your email and SMS for the OTP sent by LPU. Enter the OTPs to verify your account.
4. Log In and Start the Application Form: Use your registered email/mobile and password to log in. Select "MCA" as the program and choose your preferred specialization (AI & ML).
5. Fill Personal and Academic Details: Enter your personal information (date of birth, category, address), academic qualifications (10th, 12th, and graduation marks), and work experience (if any).
6. Upload Required Documents: Upload scanned copies of all mandatory documents in the specified format (JPG/PDF, max 2MB each).
7. Pay the Application Fee: Pay LPU application fees using net banking, credit/debit card, UPI, or wallet through the secure payment gateway.
8. Book LPUNEST Slot (if applicable): If not exempt (i.e., less than 80% in graduation), book your LPUNEST exam slot (online remote proctored or test center).
9. Submit and Download Acknowledgment: Review all entries, submit the form, and download the acknowledgment slip for future reference.

Note: Keep your application number and password safe. You can log in later to check status, download admit card, or pay program fees after selection.

Documents Required for LPU MCA Admission 2026

Prepare the following documents in digital format (scanned copies) before starting the application. All files must be clear, legible, and in JPG or PDF format (max 2MB each).

• Recent Passport-Sized Photograph
• Signature
• Class 10th Mark Sheet & Certificate
• Class 12th Mark Sheet & Certificate
• Graduation Mark Sheets (All Semesters/Years)
• Graduation Degree Certificate
• Aadhaar Card / Govt. ID Proof
• Category Certificate (if applicable)
• Income Certificate (for scholarship)
• Disability Certificate (if applicable)
• Transfer Certificate (TC) / Migration Certificate
• Character Certificate

Important: Original documents must be produced during physical verification at the time of final admission. Mismatched or forged documents will lead to the cancellation of admission.

LPU MCA Entrance Exam 2026

LPUNEST 2026, Lovely Professional University's National Entrance and Scholarship Test, is the gateway for MCA admissions, assessing quantitative aptitude, logical reasoning, English, and computer basics via a 2-hour online exam (100 MCQs, 400 marks, no negative marking). Eligibility requires a bachelor's degree with 55% marks and maths background; exemptions apply for 80%+ scorers. It also offers scholarships up to 35% on fees. Registration is ongoing at nest.lpu.in, with results in 24 hours. Prepare using official syllabus and mocks for success in AI/ML-focused MCA.

• Computer-based test (CBT) available in remote proctored or test center modes.
• Exemption available for candidates with 80%+ aggregate in graduation.
• Results declared within 24 hours, enabling quick admission decisions.
• Leads to MCA with honors in AI and Machine Learning (IBM collaboration).

LPU Online MCA Program 2026

Lovely Professional University's (LPU) Online Master of Computer Applications (MCA) is a fully online postgraduate degree designed for working professionals and fresh graduates aiming to build expertise in IT fields like software development, data science, and cloud computing. It's delivered through LPU's advanced Learning Management System (LMS), with a focus on industry-relevant skills and flexibility. The program spans 2 years, divided into 4 semesters. It requires a commitment of about 8-10 hours per week.

For international applicants from other countries, fees are in USD: Actual $1,350 per semester; with a grant $1,100; lump sum total $4,000. Batches start every 6 months

LPU Online MCA Admission Process 2026

1. Registration: Sign up on the LPU Online portal and pay the INR 600 (or $10 for international) non-refundable fee.
2. Application: Fill out the online form, pay the program fee, and upload documents (e.g., academic certificates, ID proof).
3. Verification: University reviews documents and confirms admission.
4. Activation: Receive LMS credentials via email to start learning.

Admissions are ongoing, with new batches every 6 months.

LPU MCA Specializations 2026

LPU MCA focuses on Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning as the honors specialization, developed with IBM to align with industry needs in predictive analytics and automation. This track covers core AI concepts, machine learning algorithms, and real-world applications in sectors like healthcare and finance.

• AI and ML modules on neural networks and data visualization.
• IBM collaboration for hands-on tools like Watson.
• Electives in algorithm design and software testing.

Explore broader LPU courses for comparisons.

LPU MCA Syllabus 2026

The LPU MCA syllabus blends core computer science with AI/ML focus, including courses like Advanced Database Techniques and Machine Learning in the first year, followed by electives in Algorithm Design in the second year. Industry elements feature IBM certifications, hackathons, and live projects.

• First Year Autumn: Data Communication and Networking, Introduction to Data Science.
• First Year Spring: Business Intelligence, Programming in Java.
• Second Year: Advanced Analytical Skills, Software Testing.
• Electives: Corporate Jobs pathway, Service Management.

LPU MCA Placements

In 2025, LPU MCA graduates achieved the highest package of INR 30 Lakh, with the top 10% averaging INR 9.37 Lakh. Over 500 recruiters, including Cognizant and Capgemini, made 550+ super dream and dream offers to the batch.

Review full LPU placements records.

LPU MCA Scholarships 2026

LPU provides scholarships up to 35% on MCA tuition based on LPUNEST scores or graduation marks, reducing the per-semester fee from INR 1,00,000. Category A (85+ marks) offers INR 42,000 off, applicable for 2026 admissions.

Check eligibility for the LPU scholarships.

LPU Rankings 2026

Lovely Professional University ranks 31st in the NIRF 2025 University category and 48th in Engineering, supporting strong MCA outcomes. Globally, it places 501–600 in Times Higher Education 2026 World University Rankings and 5th in India.

Why Choose LPU MCA

LPU MCA stands out with its IBM-backed AI/ML track, 99% placement rate in 2025, and access to 200+ Scopus publications for research. Students gain from 100+ patents and events like VMware Odyssey, where LPU teams secured top spots.

• Tie-up with IBM for practical AI training.
• 550+ placement offers in 2025.
• Research output: 200+ publications, 100+ patents.
• Student wins: 1st in Bill Gates Joy of Debugging.

View campus facilities via LPU Jalandhar overview.