The Indian government has approved 15 leading foreign universities to establish independent campuses in India, enabling students to earn globally recognised degrees without leaving the country. Admissions are expected to begin from August 2026, with each campus initially enrolling 200–250 students and annual intake projected to reach 1,000–1,200 students over the next five years.
List of Approved Universities
The approved institutions include: University of Southampton (UK), Deakin University (Australia), University of Wollongong (Australia), Queen’s University Belfast (UK), University of Liverpool (UK), University of York (UK), University of Bristol (UK), University of Aberdeen (UK), Illinois Institute of Technology (USA), Western Sydney University (Australia), Victoria University (Australia), Coventry University (UK), University of Surrey (UK), La Trobe University (Australia), and Lancaster University (UK).
Student Interest and Applications
Student interest has been substantial, with over 10,000 applications already received during the ongoing admission cycle, reflecting strong demand for international education within India.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility requirements vary by university, but broad criteria include a minimum of 75% marks in Class 12 for undergraduate programmes and 55–70% marks in graduation for postgraduate admissions. Students with 70–85% marks in English in board examinations may be exempt from IELTS submission, depending on university norms.
Courses Offered
Campuses will initially focus on high-demand programmes such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, STEM disciplines, and emerging technology courses. Degrees will be awarded under the academic standards of the parent university.
Global Exposure and Exchange Opportunities
Many universities plan international exchange programmes. For instance, the University of York will offer a 2+1 programme, allowing students to study two years in Mumbai and complete the final year in the UK. The University of Bristol will provide Indian students access to its advanced AI supercomputing infrastructure in the UK via cloud technology. Teaching will be delivered by Indian faculty alongside visiting professors from overseas.
Scholarships and Cost Savings
Universities have collectively earmarked nearly ₹1,000 crore for scholarships over the next five years, offering tuition fee waivers ranging from 10% to 100% based on merit and financial need. Experts estimate that studying at these campuses will cost 30–40% less than pursuing the same degree abroad, while still providing internationally recognised qualifications, world-class faculty, research opportunities, and global alumni networks.
Impact and Significance
The number of Indian students studying abroad has surged from 6.8 lakh in 2020 to 18 lakh in 2025. By bringing global universities to India, the government aims to reduce the financial burden on families and expand access to world-class education. According to a Deloitte–Knight Frank report, foreign university campuses in India could enrol over 5.6 lakh students by 2040, help retain nearly $113 billion (approximately ₹10.67 lakh crore) in foreign exchange, and create demand for 19 million square feet of educational infrastructure.
