University of Madras (lang-ta???????? ?????????????) is one of the three oldest universities in India (along with the University of Calcutta and the University of Mumbai). The University of Madras, organized on the model of the University of London, was incorporated on 5 September 1857 by an Act of the Legislative Council of India. The university is situated in the southern city of Chennai (formerly known as Madras). It has four campuses in the city - Chepauk, Marina (Marina Beach), Guindy and Taramani. More than 50 Departments offer a range of specialisation subjects.

In 2004, all engineering courses of the University were shifted to Anna University. The University provides affiliation to several colleges for numerous courses. The various departments of the University also conduct research in addition to teaching. There are nearly 43 external research institutes in addition to centres of excellence within the University.

The National Assessment and Accreditation Council has conferred the "Five star Status" to the University of Madras. The University of Madras has been given the status of "University with Potential for Excellence" by the University Grants Commission (University Grants Commission (India)).