BSc Biotechnology stands at an intriguing junction between biology, chemistry, and contemporary technology—yet another major that is quietly becoming more and more popular in Nepal over the past decade. If you happen to enjoy laboratory work, are interested in genetics and microbiology, and want a career combining science with practical application, then BSc Biotechnology might turn out to be the perfect choice. However, just like any other major in science, the true difficulty lies not in choosing the program itself but in deciding on which college to enroll.You can compare colleges by fees, location, and facilities on MeroUni before deciding.

This guide helps you figure out the best BSc Biotechnology colleges in Nepal, their fees, entrance requirements, and the prospects of your career after graduation.

What Is BSc Biotechnology, and Why Study It in Nepal?

Biotechnology is an interdisciplinary scientific study concerned with the use of living organisms, cells, and biological systems in order to create various kinds of products or technologies, such as vaccines, genetically modified crops, biofuel, etc. Biotechnology is a fairly new but rapidly developing academic discipline in Nepal, which faces increasing demand in agriculture, the pharmaceutical industry, health care, and laboratories.

Studying biotechnology in Nepal, therefore, allows you to save on educational expenses while keeping open doors for further education and a career abroad.

BSc Biotechnology Colleges in Nepal

The following are some of the best colleges for BSc Biotechnology in Nepal:

1. Kathmandu University School of Science, Dhulikhel

Whenever one mentions biotechnology programs at Kathmandu University, this is what he or she refers to. Being the first university to offer a dedicated course in biotechnology, Kathmandu University's Department of Biotechnology is also the most developed department offering this course in Nepal. This course offered here is referred to as B.Tech in Biotechnology and not BSc. This is because of the fact that the course covers similar core subjects like microbiology, molecular biology, immunology, and biochemistry. The program has well-developed laboratory infrastructure and exposes students to lots of research. Those who wish to study this course with the highest academic rigor should consider this program.

2. NIST Higher Education, Lainchour, Kathmandu

Being affiliated with Tribhuvan University, NIST is considered among the best colleges for BSc Biotechnology in Nepal by those seeking an academically credible course and with affordable fees as opposed to new private colleges.

3. SANN International College, Naikap, Chandragiri

This is another college affiliated with Purbanchal University, Rajarshi Janak University, and the National Examinations Board. It is regarded among the best private BSc Biotechnology colleges in Nepal private due to its fairly modern laboratory facilities and academic credibility in the science stream.

4. Himalayan WhiteHouse International College, Putalisadak, Kathmandu

This is yet another college affiliated with Purbanchal University, which has developed a name in offering health and life science education.

5. Kantipur Valley College, Kumaripati, Lalitpur

Another option from Purbanchal University, which may be considered if you are from Lalitpur, is Kantipur Valley College—it is an inexpensive way of getting enrolled in a biotechnology program that does not suffer too much in terms of facilities.

6. Sunsari Technical College, Sunsari

Students from outside the Kathmandu Valley should consider Sunsari Technical College, affiliated with Tribhuvan University and CTEVT, as another regional option for biotechnology education.

7. Central Department of Biotechnology (CDBT), Tribhuvan University, Kirtipur

Among the pioneering institutions of biotechnology education at Tribhuvan University, the Central Department of Biotechnology, located at Kirtipur Campus, is based on merit in the entrance test and academic score. Therefore, it remains a viable choice for students who wish to get a biotechnology education at a public university with an established academic reputation.

8. Center for Biotechnology, Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU), Bharatpur, Chitwan

Should your interest lie in agricultural and applied biotechnology, it is possible to choose a specialization at the Center for Biotechnology of AFU situated in Bharatpur.

9. College of Applied Food and Dairy Technology (CAFODAT), Kumaripati, Lalitpur

CAFODAT is affiliated with Purbanchal University and CTEVT and offers biotechnology programs focused on food and dairy-related areas. It is a rather specialized but reputable option for students who are interested in a combination of biotechnology and food science and technology.

10. Kantipur College of Medical Science, Sitapaila, Kathmandu

Among options within Kathmandu Valley, it is necessary to mention Kantipur College of Medical Science, affiliated with Tribhuvan University and CTEVT.

Note: Since biotechnology programs and seat numbers can change slightly year to year, it's a good idea to confirm the current curriculum and affiliation status directly with the college before applying.

BSc Biotechnology in Nepal: Entrance Exam

There is almost no reputable university that does not demand you clear the entrance test for admission in them, and one of the most searched queries is "How is the BSc Biotechnology in Nepal entrance exam?"

The Kathmandu University conducts its own entrance test called the KU Entrance Exam, which includes subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and English (+2) and also a basic aptitude test.
The Tribhuvan University (IOST) affiliated colleges take the IOST entrance test, which again is a similar kind of science-based syllabus.
The Purbanchal University-affiliated colleges take their own entrance test, but then again it is similar—science subjects (+2).

The entrance test for biotechnology in Nepal, however, is less competitive or prestigious than the medical entrance exam, MECEE. So, if you prepare yourself sufficiently in biology and chemistry, things should be relatively easier for you.

Eligibility Criteria (General)

+2 Science (Biology) or equivalent (A-Levels, IB), with an aggregate minimum as per university norms
GPA/marks requirements that vary a bit based on college and affiliating university norms
Some colleges might also conduct an interview following the entrance exam

BSc Biotechnology in Nepal: Fee Structure

Of course, cost is bound to be one of the most crucial aspects, and here are some of the details that prospective students seek:

BSc Biotechnology in Nepal fee structure: As is obvious, this largely depends on the university and type of institution:

Kathmandu University (B.Tech in Biotechnology): As one of the most well-known programs, the fee structure of KU's B.Tech in Biotechnology is bound to be relatively high, with fees usually lying anywhere between NPR 6-9 lakh for the entire course duration depending on the fee revision cycle.
Purbanchal-affiliated private colleges: Being relatively cheaper options, the tuition fees may be lower than KU's, yet vary from college to college depending on facilities available.
Scholarships: Most of the universities offer scholarship schemes and reserved quota seats.

Due to regular revisions in fee structures, the above figures should just be taken as an indication.

Scholarships for BSc Biotechnology in Nepal

On the bright side, there are various kinds of scholarship programs available to the aspiring Nepalese biotechnology students, which might help reduce the overall cost of the course:

Kathmandu University: Provides need-based and merit-based scholarships, as well as UGC Formula Funding Scholarships and loan-based scholarship schemes for the biotechnology students at the bachelor's level.
Purbanchal University-affiliated colleges: Some of these colleges keep aside some seats for merit as well as marginalized community scholarships; some also provide partial to full scholarship schemes for the best performing students every semester.
Tribhuvan University (Central Department of Biotechnology): Provides a limited number of full and partial scholarships to students having exceptionally good academic records every semester. The full scholarship covers the total amount of semester fee, whereas the partial covers only half of the total.
Also, there are small need-based scholarships available for students from the rural or financially disadvantaged sections of society.
Specific college scholarships: Colleges like SANN International and NIST run their individual scholarship categories, which are generally merit-based, quota-based, or for the marginalized community students. It will be wise to inquire about these scholarships directly from the college authorities.

Career Scope and BSc Biotechnology Salary in Nepal

The first question that comes to mind among students before making any commitment towards this degree is that of return on investment—particularly the BSc biotechnology salary in Nepal upon graduating from this program.

Salary ranges in entry-level jobs in Nepal (like lab technician, research assistant, and quality control associate in pharmaceutical and food industries) are relatively low, which is quite typical for most science-based programs in Nepal immediately after a bachelor's degree. The salary is expected to improve considerably with years of experience, a postgraduate degree (MSc/MTech in Biotechnology), or professional certification. Graduates joining research organizations, international NGOs, and even further studies abroad will have much better financial prospects down the road.

Career options after a BSc in Biotechnology include:

Research and Development – jobs in research institutes/organizations
Pharmaceutical/Biotech Companies – Quality control, formulation, and production-related jobs
Biotechnology in Agriculture—improving yield and resistance of crops through applied research
Diagnostics and Biomedical Industries – working with diagnostic labs and biomedical industries
Academia – teaching and further education like MSc, M.Tech, and PhD in Biotechnology

Explore More Colleges and Courses on MeroUni

Choosing the right college for BSc Biotechnology is a big decision — and you don't have to figure it out alone. On MeroUni, you can compare colleges, check course details, explore entrance exam guides, and access study materials across a wide range of programs beyond biotechnology.

Final Thoughts

Choosing among the best colleges for BSc Biotechnology in Nepal is based primarily on three things: the level of academic intensity you prefer (since KU stands out here), financial considerations, and your willingness to study away from home to gain access to better facilities. Although KU continues to stand as the gold standard of biotechnology education in Nepal, there are private colleges that are equally good and even more affordable and cannot be overlooked; such institutions include NIST, SANN International, and Kantipur Valley College.

Regardless of which college you choose, do keep in mind that in this industry the degree itself means very little compared to practical training and further learning.