Kotelawala Defence University

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University (KDU)

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, located in Ratmalana, Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s premier higher education institutions. Established in 1980, KDU is dedicated to nurturing excellence in education, fostering research and innovation, and producing competent graduates capable of contributing to national development and global challenges.

• Established: 1980
• Location: Ratmalana, Sri Lanka

KDU offers a unique blend of military and civilian education, promoting discipline, leadership, and academic rigor. With state-of-the-art facilities and a focus on sustainability, KDU continues to attract students from diverse backgrounds, establishing itself as a center for intellectual and cultural exchange.

Programs Offered

Undergraduate Programs

Engineering & Technology

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Electrical and Electronic Engineering
• Information Technology

Health Sciences

• Medicine
• Nursing
• Physiotherapy

Business and Management

• Business Management
• Logistics Management

Humanities and Social Sciences

• Law
• Strategic Studies
• Languages (English, Sinhala, Tamil)

Postgraduate Programs

Engineering & Technology

• MSc in Civil Engineering
• MSc in Electronics and Telecommunication Engineering

Health Sciences

• MSc in Public Health
• MSc in Health Administration

Business and Management

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• MSc in Supply Chain Management

Humanities and Social Sciences

• MSc in Conflict Management and Peace Studies
• MSc in International Relations

Tuition Fees

Program Type	Fee Range (per year)
Undergraduate Programs	$2,000 – $4,000 USD
Postgraduate Programs	$3,000 – $6,000 USD
Foundation Programs	$1,500 – $2,500 USD

Living Costs

Main Expenses	Cost Range (per month)	Annual Estimate (12 months)
Accommodation (Dormitory)	$80 – $150 USD	$960 – $1,800 USD
Private Accommodation	$300 – $450 USD	$3,600 – $5,400 USD
Food	$70 – $120 USD	$840 – $1,440 USD
Transportation	$15 – $40 USD	$180 – $480 USD
Utilities & Miscellaneous	$50 – $100 USD	$600 – $1,200 USD

Total Estimated Monthly Cost: $215 – $510 USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost: $2,580 – $6,120 USD

Accommodation Options

University-Managed Dormitories

• Affordable on-campus or near-campus housing options.
• Shared facilities, including internet and essential utilities.
• Cost: $80 – $150 USD/month.

Private Accommodation

• Independent apartments or houses for rent.
• Utilities generally not included in rent.
• Cost: $300 – $450 USD/month.

Food and Dining

On-Campus Cafeterias

• Budget-friendly meals with options for local and international cuisines.
• Typical meal prices: $1.50 – $3 USD per serving.

Local Restaurants

• Affordable eateries in Ratmalana and surrounding areas.
• Meal prices: $2 – $5 USD.

Markets & Stores

• Fresh produce and groceries available for self-cooking.

Visa Requirements

Eligibility

• Acceptance letter from KDU.
• Proof of financial solvency and valid medical insurance.

Processing Time

• Approximately 4-8 weeks. Applicants are encouraged to apply early.

Visa Fee

• $25 – $75 USD depending on nationality and duration.

Transportation Costs

Local Travel

• Well-connected transport options like public buses, taxis, and ride-sharing.
• Monthly Transport Pass: $15 – $30 USD.

International Travel

• Closest airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo), 1 hour from campus.
• Flight Costs: $300 – $900 USD depending on destination and season.

General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University combines academic rigor with character building, offering students a platform for holistic growth and leadership development. Its reputation as a distinguished educational institution makes it a top choice for students seeking a unique and disciplined learning experience in Sri Lanka.