Foreign University Campuses in India

How new rules from 2023 allow foreign universities to open campuses in India, which universities have come, and whether this can reduce the flow of students abroad.

For decades, India didn’t allow foreign universities to set up full campuses. NEP 2020 called for opening up, and new rules followed.

The rules

In 2023, the UGC issued regulations allowing top-ranked foreign universities to set up campuses in India, with freedom to set fees and repatriate funds, subject to conditions.
Separately, GIFT City in Gujarat allowed foreign universities to open campuses under its own rules.

Who came

Deakin University and the University of Wollongong, both Australian, opened campuses in GIFT City.
The University of Southampton opened a campus in Gurugram in 2024, the first under the UGC rules.
Several other UK and Australian universities announced plans.

Why universities come

India is one of the largest sources of international students.
Offering degrees in India at lower cost can attract students who would otherwise go abroad or couldn’t afford it.

Why it matters for India

Could reduce foreign exchange outflows from students studying abroad.
More choice and competition for Indian institutions.
Research collaborations.

Challenges

Fees may still be high for most students.
Faculty: attracting quality teachers.
Post-study work: a key attraction of studying abroad, not available in the same way in India.

The local foreign degree

A student who wanted a UK degree but couldn't afford living costs in Britain enrols at a UK university's campus in Gurugram. She earns the same degree at a fraction of the total cost, staying close to home.

Thinking foreign campuses will stop students going abroad

Many students go abroad for work opportunities and experience, which campuses in India can't fully replicate.

Key takeaways

UGC rules from 2023 allow top foreign universities to open Indian campuses.
Deakin and Wollongong opened in GIFT City; Southampton in Gurugram in 2024.
Campuses offer foreign degrees at lower cost.
Fees, faculty and post-study work limit their impact.