The Mysore University (1916) was the first University to be started in Karnataka. (Also see Restoration of Jayalakshmi Vilas Mansion). This was followed by the Karnatak University (1949), the Bangalore University (1964), the Mangalore University (1980), the Gulbarga University (1980), and the Kuvempu University (1987). The two Universities of Agricultural Sciences - the one at Bangalore (1965) and the other at Dharwad (1986), cater to the needs of students aspiring for specialization in the different branches of agriculture. Recently in 1991 Kannada University at Hampi has also been started to promote the study of the Kannada language, art and culture.

Bangalore, Mysore and Gulbarga Universities have been awarded 5 star status by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC), an autonomous institution of the University Grants Commission.

The Karnataka Private Medical Colleges Association (K.P.M.C.A), Karnataka Dental Colleges Association (K.P.D.C.A) & Karnataka Un-aided Private Engineering Colleges Association have in their endeavor to offer a "Single Window" approach to students seeking admissions, have evolved a self-imposed discipline in implementing the verdict of the apex court and have embarked on an endeavor to develop an effective, credible and alternative seat selection process for admissions & have decided to form a "Consortium of Private Medical, Dental & Engineering Colleges" named as 'COMED-K'.