While the entry of foreign universities into India has sparked enthusiasm, a closer examination of their global rankings reveals a more measured picture. Most of the institutions planning campuses in India fall within the QS global ranking range of 100–300, rather than being from the elite top-20 tier like Ivy League schools or Oxford and Cambridge.
Experts explain that top-ranked universities typically avoid setting up foreign campuses, preferring to consolidate resources at a central location to attract top talent. In contrast, universities ranked below the top 50 are more open to expanding globally.
Foreign Universities Expand Footprint in India with New Campuses and Strategic Centres
Among those making a move, Australian universities have taken the lead. Deakin University (QS rank 197) became the first to set up a campus in Gujarat’s GIFT City, offering Master’s programs in Business Analytics and Cyber Security since July 2024. The University of Wollongong (QS rank 167) followed, offering five tech-focused programs from November 2024. The University of Melbourne, ranked 13th globally, has opened a non-teaching Global Centre in New Delhi to facilitate partnerships rather than academic programs.
Other notable entrants include the University of Southampton (QS rank 80), which will be the first foreign university to operate under India’s UGC guidelines. It begins operations in Gurugram in August 2025. The University of Liverpool (QS rank 165) plans to open a campus in Bengaluru by 2026, offering a mix of business, tech, and biomedical courses.
New Wave of Global Universities Set to Broaden India’s Higher Education Landscape
Illinois Institute of Technology (QS rank 601–610), based in the U.S., will be the first American university approved to grant degrees independently in India, with its Mumbai campus opening in fall 2026. Western Sydney University is set to become the first foreign institution in Uttar Pradesh, pending approvals, while Queen’s University Belfast will be the first Russell Group university in GIFT City, starting with five postgraduate programs in 2026.
The University of Surrey and University of York also have ambitious plans. Surrey is preparing for a research and teaching-focused campus in GIFT City, while York will launch its Mumbai campus by 2026–27, offering programs in AI, business, and biotechnology.
Foreign Universities Poised to Elevate Quality and Global Outlook of Indian Education
Despite not representing the world’s absolute top institutions, these foreign universities are generally ranked higher than most Indian ones, and their presence is expected to improve the overall quality and international exposure of Indian higher education.
Summary:
Foreign universities ranked between 100–300 globally are establishing campuses in India, led by Australian and UK institutions. While not from the elite top 20, they surpass most Indian universities in rankings. Their entry is expected to enhance educational quality, offer global exposure, and expand academic opportunities across diverse disciplines.
