This initiative aligns with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which aims to position the country as a global education hub by facilitating the entry of foreign higher education institutions. The policy envisions India as a knowledge-driven society by the centennial of its independence in 2047.
Illinois Tech’s move is part of a broader trend of foreign universities establishing campuses in India. The UGC has approved the establishment of campuses by five prestigious foreign universities, including:
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University of Liverpool (UK)
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Victoria University (Australia)
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Western Sydney University (Australia)
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Istituto Europeo di Design (Italy).
Additionally, the University of York (UK) plans to open a campus in Mumbai, offering courses in computer science, AI, cyber security, business, economics, and creative industries, starting in the 2026/27 academic year.
Imperial College London has also launched a science hub in Bengaluru to strengthen research and innovation collaborations with Indian institutions in areas like AI, telecommunications, semiconductors, health tech, and clean tech .
A new era for Indian students
These developments offer Indian students access to global educational standards without the need to study abroad. By bringing international curricula and teaching methodologies to India, these campuses aim to enhance the country’s academic landscape and provide students with expanded academic choices.
UGC’s guidelines for global universities include autonomy in curriculum design, freedom to set admission criteria and fee structures, and awarding internationally recognised degrees within the country.
