August 22 2025
Top 5 UK Universities Opening Campuses in India
The UK has emerged as the first nation to capitalise on India’s NEP 2020 reforms, with five top ranked universities preparing to open campuses across the country under the updated UGC foreign university guidelines. This allows Indian students to secure globally recognised degrees without leaving home country.
1. University of Southampton – Gurugram
Marking a milestone under the UGC’s new regulations 2023, the University of Southampton launched on 16 July 2025 at Gurugram’s International Tech Park.
- Offers BSc in Computer Science, Business Management, Economics, Accounting & Finance; MSc in International Management and Finance.
- First intake of 200 students from 800+ applicants; aims to scale to thousands.
- Fees roughly half of UK tuition (₹12 lakh vs £24 k).
2. University of Liverpool – Bengaluru
Second Russell Group university have campus in India.
- Will offer programmes in Business Management, Accounting & Finance, Computer Science, Biomedical Sciences and Game Design, innovative in Indian context.
- UGC-approved; admissions expected in academic year 2026-27.
3. University of York – Mumbai (LoI issued; Discussion Stage)
- Received Letter of Intent from UGC in June 2025.
- Proposed campus in Mumbai; programs likely in Computer Science (AI, Cybersecurity), Business, Economics and Creative Industries.
4. University of Aberdeen – Navi Mumbai (LoI awarded)
- UGC issued LoI mid-2025.
- Planned campus in EduCity, Navi Mumbai, near the international airport.
- Among five global universities targeting this education hub; expected launch within 18 months.
5. University of Bristol – Mumbai (Enterprise Campus Planned)
- Approved to establish an “Enterprise Campus” in Mumbai, focus on data science, economics, finance, immersive arts, fintech.
- Expansion planned to include AI, business, computer science.
Why This Matters Right Now
This marks the first time Indian students will have direct access to leading global universities. Through NEP 2020 reforms and the UGC’s 2023 regulations, India has opened the door for foreign institutions to operate independently. These campuses offer international curriculum, affordable tuition fees, global faculty and industry tie-ups, without leaving home country. Locations such as Gurugram, Bengaluru, Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are fast emerging as premier education hubs with enhanced academic quality.
