India's higher education landscape is undergoing a transformative shift as global universities establish full-fledged campuses on Indian soil. What began as a policy dream under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 has become reality, with several top-ranked institutions from Australia, the UK, and the US receiving approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to operate. These foreign higher educational institutions (FHEIs) promise world-class degrees without the hassles of visas, exorbitant living costs abroad, or cultural adjustments. Yet, as enrollment picks up and the first graduates enter the job market, questions about quality, affordability, and true value are coming to the forefront.
The allure is undeniable. With over 1.3 million Indian students studying abroad annually, spending upwards of $50 billion in foreign exchange, bringing education home could save billions while boosting local skilling. Deakin University's GIFT City campus in Gujarat marked a milestone in March 2026 by graduating its first cohort of 46 students in business analytics and cyber security. Similar developments at the University of Wollongong in GIFT City, University of Southampton in Gurugram, and Illinois Institute of Technology's upcoming Mumbai campus signal a new era.
Policy Foundations: UGC's Framework for Foreign Campuses
The UGC's (Establishment and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023, lay the groundwork. Only universities ranked in the top 500 globally by QS, Times Higher Education, or Academic Ranking of World Universities qualify. They must secure a Letter of Intent (LoI) followed by formal permission, invest substantial capital (at least INR 5,000 crore for deemed status or significant for others), and adhere to Indian laws on reservations, fees, and curriculum where applicable.
These FHEIs enjoy significant autonomy: they set their own admission criteria, fees, and course structures, mirroring their parent campuses. Degrees awarded are at par with those from the home country, treated equivalently for higher education admissions and employment in India. However, annual performance audits by UGC ensure compliance; failure can lead to program curtailment or campus closure.
- Top 500 global ranking mandatory
- No franchises or off-campus centers allowed
- Full-time faculty recruitment with parent campus standards
- Refund policies and grievance redressal mandatory
Pioneering Campuses: Spotlight on Early Entrants
Deakin University led the charge at Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). Its 18-month master's programs in business analytics and cyber security cost around AUD 39,600 (approximately INR 21 lakhs total), a fraction of the INR 50-80 lakhs for studying in Australia including living expenses. The campus emphasizes industry-aligned skills, with strong ties to fintech and IT sectors in GIFT City.
The University of Wollongong (UOW) followed suit in the same hub, focusing on AI, cybersecurity, and business. Inaugurated in late 2024, it aims to expand rapidly, leveraging Australia's reputation in tech education. In Gurugram's International Tech Park, the University of Southampton offers engineering, business, and sciences, with options for students to transfer to UK campuses for a semester or year. Illinois Tech's Mumbai campus, set for fall 2026 in Vikhroli's Godrej Business District, targets STEM fields like computer science and data science.
By mid-2026, at least 15 such campuses are operational or launching, from York University to University of Western Australia, clustered in hubs like GIFT City, Mumbai, Gurugram, and Bengaluru.
The Great Deal: Cost Savings and Accessibility
Studying abroad often totals INR 1 crore or more, factoring visas, flights, and accommodation. Foreign campuses slash this by 60-80%. For instance, Southampton's Gurugram programs are priced competitively against Indian privates but carry global branding. No visa queues, family proximity, and cultural familiarity add appeal.
These degrees open doors to international networks. Deakin graduates receive the same alumni perks as Australian peers, including career services and global job portals. Early data shows strong placement interest from Indian multinationals and fintech firms.
Photo by Pratik Mohapatra on Unsplash
| Campus | Total Program Cost (INR approx) | Abroad Equivalent (INR) | Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deakin GIFT City (Masters) | 21 lakhs | 60-80 lakhs | 65% |
| UOW GIFT City | 25 lakhs | 70 lakhs | 64% |
| Southampton Gurugram | 30 lakhs | 90 lakhs | 67% |
Under the Microscope: UGC Scrutiny and Quality Controls
UGC's oversight is rigorous. Campuses submit annual reports on enrollment, finances, faculty, and outcomes. The 2025 Recognition and Grant of Equivalence Regulations streamline certification via an online portal, with decisions in 15-30 days. For FHEI campuses, equivalence is automatic if compliant, but students must apply for certificates for govt jobs or further studies.UGC's detailed regulations ensure transparency.
Yet, enrollment remains modest—hundreds, not thousands—due to brand-building needs. UGC monitors to prevent 'two-tier' systems, urging scholarships for diversity.
The Fine Print: Hidden Challenges Revealed
Beneath the glamour lie caveats. Fees, while lower than abroad, rival top Indian privates (INR 20-40 lakhs total), pricing out middle-class aspirants and sparking elitism debates. Faculty mix: Mostly local hires initially, raising quality flags versus parent campuses' international staff.
Recognition isn't blanket. While UGC deems them equivalent, professional fields like medicine/law fall under councils. Govt jobs often demand AIU/UGC certificates; delays reported. Job market skepticism persists—does a 'Made in India' global degree carry the same prestige? Early Deakin reviews praise curriculum but note nascent alumni networks and campus facilities.Economic Times on cost benefits and scrutiny.
Regulatory risks: Non-compliance could shutter operations, stranding students. Cultural mismatches in teaching styles challenge Indian students accustomed to rote learning.
Student Perspectives: Real Voices from the Ground
First Deakin GIFT graduates report solid skills but limited campus life. 'Great for working professionals, but misses Australia's vibe,' one shared. Southampton Gurugram students appreciate tech park location for internships. Reddit threads highlight ROI doubts: 'Fancy degree, but Indian firms prioritize IITs/IIMs.'
- Pros: Industry relevance, no relocation stress
- Cons: High costs, unproven placements
Expert Opinions: Balanced Views on Impacts
Higher Education Secretary Vineet Joshi hails 60% cost cuts. Experts like those at THE warn of bureaucracy stifling growth. Solutions: Mandatory scholarships (20-30% seats), faculty exchanges, research mandates tied to Indian needs.
Photo by Shashank Raghuvanshi on Unsplash
Future Outlook: Growth Amid Guardrails
Projections: 30+ campuses by 2030, millions saved in forex. But success hinges on equity, quality assurance. UGC's equity regulations 2026 push reservations, anti-discrimination.
Actionable insights: Verify UGC approval, check equivalence process, compare ROI via placements data, seek scholarships. Explore higher ed jobs for career alignment.
