London: British universities are opening campuses in India as they face financial strain and tighter immigration rules in the United Kingdom. The move marks a significant shift in how UK institutions approach international education and reflects growing academic ties between the two countries.
The University of Southampton has become the first British university to establish a campus in India. Its new centre has started admitting students and plans to expand steadily over the coming years. University officials say the campus will offer programmes similar to those in the UK, giving Indian students access to a British degree closer to home and at a lower overall cost.
This expansion follows India’s 2023 education reforms, which allow leading foreign universities to set up independent campuses in the country. The policy aims to meet rising demand for higher education as millions of young people seek university places in the coming decade.
Several other British institutions are preparing to follow. The University of Liverpool is among those planning a campus in India, while more universities are exploring opportunities in major cities such as Mumbai and Bengaluru.
At home, many UK universities are dealing with funding challenges and a slowdown in international student enrolment. Changes in visa rules have also affected student numbers, which had become an important source of income for the sector. By establishing campuses abroad, universities hope to diversify their revenue and reduce dependence on students travelling to Britain.
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer has expressed support for stronger education partnerships with India. He has described education as a key area for cooperation that can boost economic growth and strengthen long term ties between the two nations.
Education experts say the new campuses could deepen research collaboration and student exchange while making global education more accessible. For many Indian students, studying at a British university campus in their own country offers international exposure without the high costs of moving overseas.
The expansion signals a broader change in strategy for UK higher education as institutions look beyond their borders to secure their future.