The University of Kota, established in 2003 by the Government of Rajasthan through "The University of Kota Act, 2003," is a significant academic institution in the state. Initially notified in June 2003, the University officially came into existence through the Government of Rajasthan's order in September 2003. It is recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and included in the UGC's list of universities under the UGC Act of 1956.

Covering a territorial jurisdiction over six districts (Kota, Bundi, Jhalawar, Baran, Karauli, and Sawai Madhopur), the University currently serves around 173 affiliated colleges and approximately 225,000 students. The University offers a diverse range of academic programs across six faculties: Arts, Commerce and Management, Education, Law, Science, and Social Science. Among its many programs are postgraduate and doctoral degrees in fields like Business Administration, Science, Law, Social Sciences, and the Humanities, as well as specialized programs such as Remote Sensing & GIS, Library and Information Science, and Tourism.

Research is a central focus of the University, with ongoing collaborations with national and international organizations like Linkoping University in Sweden. It is recognized as an emerging research center by various government departments. The University also organizes workshops, seminars, and conferences and has numerous research projects funded by national and international agencies.

The University has ambitious plans for expansion, including proposals for new departments in Pure & Applied Biosciences, Mathematics, and Humanities, as well as development plans for a sports complex, a central library, and a variety of student facilities. Its motto, "Satyam, Shivam and Sundarum," reflects its commitment to the pursuit of truth, well-being, and excellence.