Ashoka University & Penn Engineering Launch 4+1 Fast-Track Master’s Program

Ashoka University partners with Penn Engineering to offer 4+1 pathway for students to earn Ivy League master’s degree faster.

Ashoka University in India has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn Engineering), USA. The goal of this MOU is to work together in science, technology, and education. Both universities will help students and teachers to study and do research in new fields.

Under this agreement, both universities will exchange teachers, researchers, and students for study and research. They will share knowledge and resources like books and data. They will conduct joint research programs in various areas. Under this MOU, Students will also be able to get short-term study or research visits in Penn Engineering, USA. Both universities also agreed to participate in Collaborative projects between teachers and researchers and organize conferences, workshops, and seminars on new research topics.It will make the relationship between Ashoka University and Penn Engineering even stronger.

Professor Vijay Kumar, Nemirovsky Family Dean of Penn Engineering, said, “We are delighted to strengthen our engagement with Ashoka University, whose interdisciplinary approach aligns with Penn Engineering’s commitment to integrating knowledge across fields. This partnership opens new avenues for collaborative research and creates pathways for outstanding students to join Penn Engineering’s graduate programs.”

Ashoka University Starts 4+1 Program with Penn Engineering

Ashoka University in India and Penn Engineering in the USA have started a new program called “Four Plus One” (4+1). What does this mean? Ashoka students can finish their undergraduate degree (4 years) and then do a master’s degree at Penn Engineering in 1 extra year. Students can transfer up to 3 approved courses from Ashoka to Penn University. This step will help them finish the master’s degree faster and add academic value.

Students can apply for the 4+1 programme after their 6th semester and before their last semester at Ashoka. One important thing is, they must be nominated by Ashoka University and meet all academic and test requirements set by Penn Engineering. Penn Engineering University will decide which of the students who have applied will get admission.

The selected students will go to Penn Engineering as full-time students. They will use world-class labs, research facilities, and learn in many fields. Penn Engineering stated that this program will also bring Ashoka’s talented students and teachers into Penn’s strong research environment. They are excited to welcome Ashoka students and work together on global scientific projects.
Professor Somak Raychaudhury, Vice-Chancellor of Ashoka University, said“The collaboration presents exciting opportunities for both Ashoka University and the University of Pennsylvania. Through student exchanges, joint classrooms, and collaborative research, scholars will have access to advanced laboratories and global expertise.” 
Pramath Raj Sinha, Founder and Chairperson of Ashoka University, said this partnership is a big step for Ashoka University. It will give students global opportunities. He explained that  Penn and Penn Engineering have worked with Ashoka since 2011 when Ashoka started the Young India Fellowship (YIF). Penn teachers have been teaching at YIF for 14 years.

Now, the partnership is moving to a new level, Ashoka students will get a top undergraduate degree in India and a master’s degree from an Ivy League university (Penn). This shows both universities want to improve research, teaching, and innovation. This collaboration will help both Ashoka students and improve higher education in India, and support nation-building.

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