Study in India
India presents an affordable option for students pursuing a high-quality education, with numerous government scholarships available to assist in financing their studies and a low cost of living.
India has one of the world's largest higher education systems, ranking third globally after China and the United States. It is also home to some of the oldest educational institutions worldwide, such as Nalanda University, founded in the fifth century and reopened in 2010.
The University Grants Commission (UGC) centrally regulates India's higher education system, providing diversity within the system. Universities and colleges offer various programs, curricula, and teaching methods, providing students with various options based on their interests and goals.
Studying in India offers a unique experience in a diverse and vibrant country. The warmth and hospitality of its people, coupled with diverse landscapes from the Himalayan mountains to bustling cities like Mumbai, New Delhi, and Bengaluru, create a welcoming atmosphere. Students can enjoy the local cuisine, enjoy Bollywood movies, or embark on treks through the desert.
Before deciding to study in India, you should review the latest foreign travel advice on GOV.UK and FQAs
Indian universities
India has one of the world's largest higher education systems, comprising 49,964 institutions categorised into five main types:
To explore the structure of India's higher education system, please take a look at the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) - University and Higher Education. The University Grants Commission - Central Universities also provides insights into the different university types.
Despite the vastness of India's higher education system, only 11 universities make it into the top 500 of the QS World University Rankings 2024, with 45 universities featured overall.
India has earned a reputation for excellence in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) subjects. However, it is also gaining recognition for offering quality programs in diverse fields such as business management, medicine, and the arts.
It's crucial to note that there are instances of fraudulent universities in India. To safeguard against potential scams, it is advisable to verify the accreditation of the university you are considering. The University Grants Commission - Fake Universities provides a resource for checking the authenticity of universities to ensure a legitimate and reputable educational experience.
Degree courses in India
The academic year in India is divided into two semesters, spanning from July to April/May. Bachelors programs in India share similarities with their counterparts in the UK in terms of structure and assessment. Typically lasting three years, certain programs, particularly in STEM and law, may extend to four or five years.
Popular courses include:
Masters degrees
Taught Masters programs in India typically span one or two years, while research-oriented programs last for three years. Courses in fields such as IT, medicine, and business are prevalent, with the Master of Business Administration (MBA) gaining popularity for its promising employment opportunities.
All Masters courses in India are conducted in English, one of the country's two official languages, and widely employed in the education system. The structure of Masters degrees in India closely mirrors those in the UK, featuring common assessment methods such as essays, exams, and a dissertation.
PhDs
Similar to the UK, Ph.D. programs in India typically last for three years. The assessment methods for Ph.D. candidates may include essays, exams, and the completion of a thesis.
Ph.D. programs are offered by only 3.6% of higher education institutions in India. To be eligible, candidates usually need a relevant Master's degree, although some institutions may consider applicants with a first-class undergraduate degree and substantial, pertinent professional experience.
Course fees
Tuition fees in India are more affordable compared to the UK and several other popular study abroad destinations. While Indian universities determine their own fees, they usually range from £2,500 to £6,000 (253,955 INR to 609,492 INR) per year for international students.
The cost of living in India is relatively low, making it an appealing destination for foreign students. You can comfortably cover living expenses with an annual budget of £2,600 (264,113 INR). It's crucial to note that international students are not allowed to work while studying.
The Indian government is dedicated to encouraging more international students, and various scholarships are accessible to support students financially.
UK nationals can explore scholarships from the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU).
International students may qualify for scholarships offered by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), including the widely popular General Scholarship Scheme (GSS).
For more details about the GSS and other available scholarships, you can visit Study In India.
The Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) also offers information on student funding on its Scholarships and Education Loan page.
Student visas
All international students planning to study in India must obtain a student visa (S visa). The S visa can be granted for the entire duration of your studies or a maximum period of five years, and it should be obtained from the Indian embassy or high commission in your home country.
To obtain an S visa, you need to provide an unconditional offer of a place in a full-time course at a recognized Indian university. You can find a list of approved institutions on the High Commission of India website.
Please make sure that you submit all supporting documentation, including a valid passport with at least six months' validity, along with your completed application form. The application form can be found on the Indian Visa Online website.
How to apply
Applying for courses in India generally involves submitting online applications directly to the university, well before the course commencement. However, students aspiring to pursue undergraduate degrees in engineering or architecture have the option to apply to central universities, such as the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), using the centralised Direct Admission of Students Abroad (DASA) admissions service. Similarly, postgraduate students intending to study engineering, architecture, or management are encouraged to utilise the DASA application process.
Language requirements
India recognises Hindi and English as its official languages, with a rich diversity of regional languages spoken throughout the country, varying by region (refer to Maps of India for language distribution).
Nevertheless, it's important to note that all university courses in India are conducted in English. If English is not your native language, some institutions may require you to demonstrate proficiency through an English language test, such as the IELTS.
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| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
| Part-time work allowance: | 20 hours/per week. |
| Intake: | January/Spring, May/Summer and September/Fall intake. |
| Work permit in post-study: | 12 - 24 months |
