 Teaching and research are its primary functions as in other Central Universities.It has affiliated colleges located in 
Union Territory of Puducherry (Pondicherry, Karaikal, Mahé, Yanam) , Union Territory of Lakshadweep and the Union Territory of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.Pondicherry University reached the pinnacle of its growth during the XI plan when Prof J A K Tareen was the Vice Chancellor.It is India's fastest growing central university with effective and efficient all round growth and developement in Students, Faculty, Infrastructure, Teaching programmes, Research projects, and students seeking admissions.