Overview

St. Thomas College, Pala (also known as STCP) is a State Government Aided Arts and Science college established in 1950. Located in Pala, Kerala, it operates under the Syro-Malabar Catholic Diocese of Pala. The institution is affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala and is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC). St. Thomas College is accredited with an NAAC A++ Grade (Cycle 3, 2023), reflecting its commitment to excellence in education.

The college campus includes extensive academic buildings, research centers, hostel facilities, and sports grounds.

Official website: https://stcpala.ac.in

Quick Facts

• Founder: Mar Sebastian Vayalil
• Principal: Dr. Joseph Mathai K. (as of 2024)
• Student Strength: Approximately 4000+ students
• Departments: 20+ across Arts, Science, Commerce, and Management
• NAAC Grade: A++ (2023)
• NIRF Ranking: Not listed in recent NIRF rankings (2024)
• Contact: +91 482 2604546, principal@stcpala.ac.in

Courses & Programs

• Faculties: Arts, Science, Commerce, Management, Education
• Popular UG Programs: B.A. (Economics, English, Malayalam), B.Sc. (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Botany, Zoology), B.Com, BBA
• Popular PG Programs: M.A. (English, Economics, Malayalam), M.Sc. (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics), M.Com
• PhD Programs: Offered in selected Arts and Science subjects under Mahatma Gandhi University affiliation
• Duration: UG (3 years), PG (2 years), PhD (Varies)
• Mode: Regular (on-campus)
• Intake: Varies by course; refer to the official prospectus

Admissions

• Mode: Merit-based through qualifying exam marks and university entrance tests
• Accepted Exams: Kerala State Higher Secondary Examination scores primarily; no central entrance exams specifically required
• Typical Timeline: Applications open May-June; admissions June-July
• Admission Portal: https://stcpala.ac.in/admissions
• How to Apply:
  1. Fill application form online on the official website or obtain from college office.
  2. Submit required documents (HSC mark sheet, certificates).
  3. Pay application fee as applicable.
  4. Wait for merit list publication.
  5. Complete admission formalities upon selection.

Eligibility

• UG Courses: Passed +2 (10+2) or equivalent with minimum marks per university norms (usually 50% general, relaxations for reserved categories)
• PG Courses: Relevant UG degree with minimum marks (Generally 50% aggregate, some departments may have entrance tests)
• PhD: Master’s degree in relevant field with minimum required marks as per Mahatma Gandhi University guidelines
• Documents Needed: Mark sheets, Transfer/Conduct certificates, ID proof, passport size photos

Fee & Scholarships

• Indicative Tuition Fees: UG: ₹15,000–30,000/year; PG: ₹20,000–35,000/year (may vary by department)
• Hostel Fees: ₹10,000–15,000/year approx.
• Scholarships: Government scholarships for SC/ST/OBC/EWS via Kerala State Scholarship Portal,
  Merit-based scholarships offered by college and Diocese,
  Central schemes such as Post-Matric and Pre-Matric scholarships
  More info: Scholarships Page

Placements

• Placement Percentage: About 40%-50% of eligible students
• Average CTC: ₹2.5-3.5 LPA
• Top Recruiters: IT firms, banks, educational institutions, local businesses
• Placement Cell Contact: placement@stcpala.ac.in, +91 482 2604546 ext. 212
• Internships: Arranged via departments, focus on industry and research projects

Campus & Facilities

• Separate hostels for boys and girls with mess facilities
• Library with 50,000+ volumes and digital resources
• Modern laboratories for Science and Computer departments
• Sports facilities including football, cricket, badminton courts
• Healthcare unit and counseling cell
• Wi-Fi enabled campus with broadband internet
• Transport services covering Pala town and nearby areas
• Active clubs and annual cultural & sports fests

Faculty & Research

• Notable Faculty: Experienced professors with publications in national journals
• Research Centres: Centre for Advanced Research in Science and Humanities
• Grants & Patents: Projects funded by UGC, Kerala State Council for Science, and Technology
• MoUs: Collaborations with local industries, universities, and research bodies for student exchange and joint projects

Rankings

• NAAC A++ Grade in 2023 (NAAC Official)
• NIRF Ranking: Not listed (2024)
• India Today/Outlook: Not available on official sources as of 2024-06-01

Results, Cut-Offs & Seat Matrix

• Results and cut-offs: Published annually on official results page
• Seat Matrix: Available in prospectus and admission notifications
• Category-wise cut offs: Released post admission notification annually

How to Reach

• Nearest Airport: Cochin International Airport (approx. 70 km)
• Nearest Railway Station: Kottayam Railway Station (approx. 30 km)
• Local Transit: Frequent KSRTC and private buses connect Pala to neighboring towns and cities

FAQs

Q1: What is the admission procedure for UG courses?

A1: Admission is based on higher secondary exam marks via online or offline application through the college website.

Q2: Does the college offer distance education?

A2: No, all courses are regular full-time programs.

Q3: Are scholarships available for SC/ST students?

A3: Yes, various government and college scholarships are available for reserved category students.

Q4: What documents are required at admission?

A4: Mark sheets, transfer certificates, ID proof, photographs, and caste certificate (if applicable).

Q5: How is the college ranked by NAAC?

A5: The college holds an A++ grade as per NAAC's 2023 accreditation cycle.

Q6: What is the approximate fee for a B.Sc. course?

A6: Around ₹20,000–30,000 per year including tuition and other fees.

Q7: Does the college provide hostel facilities?

A7: Yes, separate hostels for boys and girls with mess facilities are available.

Q8: Which university awards degrees to St. Thomas College students?

A8: Degrees are awarded by Mahatma Gandhi University, Kerala.

Q9: Is there a placement cell at the college?

A9: Yes, the college has an active placement cell assisting students with job placements and internships.

Q10: How can I contact the college for admissions?

A10: Call +91 482 2604546 or email at admissions@stcpala.ac.in.