Founded in 1999, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University is a non-profit public higher-education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Katra (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Jammu and Kashmir. Officially recognized by the University Grants Commission of India, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) is a very small coeducational Indian higher education institution. Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University (SMVDU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 23 years old Indian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. SMVDU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.