New Delhi, June 28: The Indian government has granted approval for 15 foreign universities to establish campuses in the country, eliminating the need for students to travel abroad for their degrees. These universities are set to commence their first batches in August, with an initial intake of 200 to 250 students per campus. Over the next five years, the aim is to increase this number to 1,000 to 1,200 students annually per campus.
Institutions such as the University of Aberdeen, Bristol, York, Illinois Tech, Liverpool, and Victoria University will be opening campuses in cities including Mumbai and Delhi. So far, more than 10,000 applications have been received for the current academic session.
The courses offered at these campuses will adhere to the global standards of their home institutions, with a focus on Artificial Intelligence (AI), Computer Science, and STEM subjects in the initial phase. Students will also have the opportunity to study abroad for one to two semesters, enhancing their job networks.
Admission requirements include a minimum of 75% in Class 12 and 55% to 70% in graduation. Students who score between 70% and 85% in English in their board exams will be exempt from the IELTS requirement.
The curriculum, examinations, and degrees will align with the standards of the home campuses. A mix of Indian and foreign faculty members will be involved in teaching, ensuring a diverse educational experience.
Scholarships will be available, with a fund of approximately ₹1,000 crores allocated for the next five years, offering up to 100% scholarships based on merit and need. The cost of studying in India will be 30-40% lower compared to studying abroad, providing students with a global degree, international faculty, and better opportunities.
According to projections, by 2040, more than 560,000 students could be studying at foreign university campuses in India, saving the country around $113 billion in foreign exchange.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of York, Prof. Charlie Jeffery, emphasized that India is a crucial education market, and they aim to provide students with the same opportunities as those in their home campuses.
Malik Sundaram, Vice President of Illinois Tech, stated that they are recruiting professors from the U.S. and other countries, as well as experienced Indian educators who have studied at American universities, to ensure a similar educational environment in India.