Sports National Institute of Physical Education Sciences (SNIPES) was established in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports as a Deemed University with a focus on physical education, sports science, and sports medicine. Along with LNIPE in Gwalior, SNIPES is one of the two central government sports universities in India. It offers programmes from BPEd and MPEd through to MPhil and PhD. Degrees from SNIPES carry high recognition in state and central government sports employment, and graduates are eligible for all jobs requiring physical education qualifications.

The SNIPES admission exam has 100 objective-type questions in 90 minutes covering Physical Education (theory, history, methodology, sports administration), Sports Science (physiology, biomechanics, nutrition, psychology at curriculum-appropriate level), and General Studies (current affairs, science, sports news, Indian sports policy). For MPEd and research programmes, the difficulty is higher and research methodology questions are included. A physical proficiency test covering standard athletic events and optional sport skill demonstration runs parallel to the written test.

SNIPES offers a comprehensive range of programmes including BPEd (Bachelor of Physical Education), MPEd (Master of Physical Education), BSc in Sports Science, MSc in Exercise Science, MSc in Sports Nutrition, MPhil in Physical Education, PhD in Sports Science and Physical Education, and short-term certificate programmes in Yoga, Fitness Instruction, and Sports Management. The university has state-of-the-art sports science laboratories, an indoor sports complex, swimming pool, and outdoor athletic facilities. Hostel accommodation is available for outstation students.

SNIPES graduates are recognised by SAI, state sports departments, national sports federations, and central government recruitment boards as having premier physical education qualifications. The degree is accepted for all positions requiring BPEd or MPEd qualifications. SNIPES has placement support and industry connections with SAI, sports NGOs, school chains, fitness industry companies, and sports media organisations. Alumni have secured positions as sports scientists, fitness specialists, coaches, PE teachers, and sports officials at national and international organisations.

The physical proficiency test at SNIPES includes general athletic events: 100m sprint, 800m run (male)/400m (female), standing broad jump, and shot put. Additionally, candidates demonstrate skill in an optional sport of their choice from the list provided by SNIPES, which includes Cricket, Football, Hockey, Athletics, Badminton, Volleyball, Basketball, Wrestling, and other disciplines. Physical test performance carries 30–40% of the total merit. Candidates must also clear a basic medical fitness assessment to be eligible for admission.