The University Grants Commission (UGC) has issued regulations for foreign universities seeking to establish and operate campuses in India. The purpose of these regulations is to align with the recommendations of the National Education Policy (NEP) and enhance the international dimension of higher education in India. UGC Chairman M Jagadesh Kumar stated that the regulations aim to ensure that the quality of education provided at these campuses is on par with the main campuses in the country of origin, and that their operations comply with applicable laws and regulations.
According to the regulations, foreign institutions intending to set up campuses in India must be ranked within the top 500 in the global rankings, either overall or in a specific subject category, as determined by the commission. Additionally, they should possess exceptional expertise in a particular area. If a foreign higher educational institution wishes to receive or utilize foreign contributions, it must obtain registration or prior permission under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010, and comply with the legal requirements of the act.
Foreign universities will be permitted to offer study programs leading to certificates, diplomas, degrees, and research programs at the undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and post-doctoral levels in their Indian campuses. However, they are prohibited from opening learning centers, study centers, or franchises that act as representative offices of the parent entity for promotional activities outside of India. Prior approval from the commission is required before initiating any new program in their Indian campuses.
The regulations also allow for collaboration between two or more universities to establish campuses in India, as long as each institution individually meets the eligibility criteria. Each foreign university can establish multiple campuses in India, but a separate application must be submitted for each proposed campus. Foreign institutions are not required to pay annual fees to the UGC, apart from a one-time application fee. They are expected to utilize their own infrastructure, land, physical resources, and human resources for setting up their campuses.
Foreign universities may offer scholarships and fee concessions to Indian students based on merit or need. However, they can only admit students and collect fees after receiving a notification from the UGC permitting them to commence campus operations in India under these regulations. The campuses of foreign universities in India will have autonomy in recruiting faculty and staff in accordance with their own norms. Before introducing new courses, foreign universities must seek prior approval from the UGC.
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