In a significant development, India is poised to host some of the world’s most prestigious universities, as the University Grants Commission (UGC) confirms that at least five renowned international institutions are in the advanced stages of establishing campuses across the country.

At present, three foreign universities have already established campuses in India — Deakin University and University of Wollongong from Australia at Gujarat’s GIFT City, and the University of Southampton from the UK in Gurgaon.

As India moves forward with its ambition to become a global hub for education, this initiative is in alignment with the goals outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

Leading universities from the USA, UK, Germany, Australia, and other nations are preparing to set up operations on Indian soil — a transformative step set to benefit a vast number of students across India and neighbouring regions.

According to the UGC, this initiative is expected to significantly reduce the financial and logistical hurdles commonly associated with studying abroad. Students from smaller South Asian countries and parts of Africa — who often face difficulties with visa processes and sustaining themselves in foreign countries — will now be able to access world-class education closer to home.

Top officials and vice-chancellors from these institutions have assured that the quality of education, faculty, and campus life provided in India will be on par with their home campuses. These commitments were reiterated during multiple academic summits and panel discussions over the past year.

Among them in the pipeline are:

1. Illinois Institute of Technology (USA)

Established: 1890
Campus Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra
Programs: Computer Science, Engineering, Business
A leading Chicago-based university known for innovation in science, technology, and research.
Offers rigorous academic programs with a strong focus on practical application.

2. University of Liverpool (UK)

Established: 1881
Campus Location: Bengaluru, Karnataka
Programs: Legal Studies, Healthcare, Management
A member of the prestigious Russell Group, with a legacy of academic excellence.
Recognized for research-led teaching and global industry partnerships.

3. Victoria University (Australia)

Established: 1916
Campus Location: To be announced
Programs: Commerce, IT, Hospitality
Based in Melbourne, VU is known for its applied learning and career-ready training.
Combines academic theory with strong industry engagement.

4. Western Sydney University (Australia)

Established: 1989
Campus Location: Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh
Programs: Sustainable Agriculture, Agritech, Business, Engineering, Computer Science.
A dynamic and growing institution with a focus on innovation and global engagement.
Offers contemporary programs aligned with regional and global development needs.

5. Istituto Europeo di Design (Italy)

Established: 1966
Campus Location: To be announced
Programs: Fashion, Visual Arts, Design Innovation
A premier design school known for excellence in fashion, arts, and creative disciplines.
Provides hands-on, project-based education rooted in European design culture.