The Government of Tamil Nadu established Periyar University in Salem on 17th September 1997 as per the provisions of the Periyar University Act, 1997. The University covers the area comprising four districts namely Salem, Namakkal, Dharmapuri, and Krishnagiri. The University obtained 12(B) and 2(f) status from the University Grants Commission, New Delhi and it was reaccredited by the NAAC with “A++” Grade in 2021. The University secured 63rd rank among Indian Universities by MoE NIRF 2022.