World-Class Degrees Now Closer to Home as Foreign Universities Enter India

Foreign Institutions Partner with Indian Industry to Bridge Education-Employment Gap

India has been actively encouraging foreign universities to establish campuses within its borders under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. So far, more than 50 foreign universities have expressed interest in opening campuses in India and are seeking approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC). This initiative aims to provide Indian students with access to international education without requiring them to study abroad.

Among the universities making this move, the University of York has announced plans to establish its first overseas campus in Mumbai, marking a major step in its global expansion strategy. Likewise, the University of Western Australia (UWA), a prestigious member of Australia’s Group of Eight, has revealed its intention to open its first offshore campus in the city. As one of the first international institutions to enter India's emerging transnational education sector under NEP 2020, UWA will offer a variety of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in STEM, Business, and the Creative Industries. Notably, the university will leverage the strengths of its Conservatorium of Music to further enrich its academic offerings.

Professor Charlie Jeffery emphasised Mumbai's rapidly improving infrastructure, including the expanding metro system and the development of a second major airport, as key reasons for selecting the location. Additionally, Maharashtra’s economic strengths, particularly in sectors aligned with York’s research interests, such as creative industries and agri-tech, contributed to the decision. As the university navigates regulatory processes, it is working to develop academic programs and strengthen ties with local industries and communities. Jeffery also noted that the Mumbai campus will closely mirror the academic and research goals of York's main campus in the UK.

The University of York's Mumbai campus will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in fields such as Computer Science—with a focus on Artificial Intelligence and Cybersecurity—alongside Business, Economics, and the Creative Industries. Programs in emerging areas like AI, cybersecurity, and creative industries will be designed with input from global industry experts to enhance job readiness and create strong career pathways for Indian students in high-demand sectors.

Professor Jeffery stated that the academic offerings at the new campus would initially reflect those in the UK while ensuring they align with local aspirations in India. He mentioned that, as is standard practice, the campus would launch with foundational courses in business and computer science, given their essential nature. The university plans to start with an initial cohort of approximately 200 students, aiming to grow enrollment to 3,000–4,000 over the next five years. Faculty support will initially come from existing York academics, with plans to recruit a diverse international teaching staff locally, including talent from India, the Gulf, and Southeast Asia, fostering a globally enriched learning environment.

Furthermore, the university has allocated scholarships for over 10% of its first batch of students and aims to expand financial aid through philanthropic partnerships with corporate sponsors and individual donors to enhance accessibility to education. Acknowledging India’s strong employer connections and early focus on entrepreneurship, Vice-Chancellor Jeffery affirmed York’s commitment to offering similar opportunities. The university has already signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Entrepreneurs Association of Mumbai, a group of young tech entrepreneurs eager for collaboration. With foreign universities increasingly looking to establish campuses in India, this shift signals a transformative phase in India's higher education landscape, promising greater accessibility and international exposure for students.

Editor’s Note:

India’s higher education system is rapidly evolving, with an increasing number of foreign universities looking to set up campuses in the country. With over 58,000 institutions and 43.3 million students enrolled in recent years, India has the world’s second-largest higher education system. Additionally, more than 47,000 international students from 170 countries are currently enrolled in Indian universities. These statistics reflect a growing demand for higher education, making India an attractive destination for foreign institutions seeking to expand globally. For years, Indian students have sought better educational and career opportunities abroad. However, studying overseas often involves high costs and personal challenges. The arrival of international universities in India removes these barriers, offering students the chance to earn a world-class degree without leaving home, making global education more accessible and affordable. These foreign campuses are expected to form strong partnerships with Indian industries, bridging the gap between education and employment. Programs in fields like Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Business, and the Creative Industries will provide students with skills that align with India’s growing economy.

As reported by Skoobuzz, the entry of international universities into India is more than just offering more choices. It’s about raising educational standards, encouraging innovation, and fostering global connections. If managed well, this shift could position India as a major hub for quality higher education and ensure its students are prepared for success in a global workforce.