Britain has unveiled plans to establish campuses for 24 prestigious universities, including Oxford and Cambridge, in tier-2 cities across India. This ambitious project aims to give Indian students access to world-class education at a fraction of the cost of studying abroad.
By bringing renowned British universities to Indian soil, this initiative bridges the gap between international quality education and accessibility, offering new opportunities to students across the country.
As per Free Press Journal reports, the University of Southampton has become the first UK university to receive a license from the Indian government to open a comprehensive campus in India. With annual fees ranging from ₹10-15 lakh, Indian students can now earn British university degrees at nearly half the cost of studying in the UK. This price point places British education in India on par with several private universities, making it a more attainable option for many students seeking top-tier education without leaving home.
The University of Southampton’s campus will be located in Guwahati and is set to begin operations in the next academic session. Initially, two undergraduate courses will be launched, targeting around 1,000 Indian students. Over time, British universities will expand their offerings, with more courses and academic options becoming available in subsequent sessions. This initial wave of educational expansion signals a promising future for students pursuing British degrees within India.
In addition to offering degree programs, prominent British universities like Oxford, Cambridge, and Manchester will partner with India’s leading Institutes of Technology (IITs) on joint research projects. These collaborations will focus on emerging fields such as semiconductor technology and nanotechnology, fostering innovation and knowledge exchange between British and Indian institutions. This international partnership promises to advance research in critical areas and contribute to technological advancements that benefit both nations.
With 15,000 Indian students already enrolled in online courses offered by British universities, establishing physical campuses is expected to increase this number significantly. Britain’s educational initiative marks a new era of international collaboration in education, offering students a global perspective, exposure to world-class faculty, and the opportunity to participate in cultural exchange programs. These benefits will help shape the next generation of leaders and innovators in India.
The British universities will establish campuses in several tier-2 cities, including Jaipur, Bhopal, Patna, Kanpur, and Indore. These cities are set to become hubs of academic excellence, providing students with the resources and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving educational landscape.
Britain’s bold educational initiative is poised to have a transformative impact on India’s education system. The project will strengthen ties between the UK and India by empowering students with affordable access to high-quality education and fostering collaborative research. As this initiative unfolds, it will equip Indian students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an increasingly globalised world.