Foreign Universities Can Now Set Up Campuses in India, UGC Issues Final Guidelines

In a groundbreaking move, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has officially endorsed regulations permitting foreign universities to establish campuses in India. These regulations, titled "UGC (Setting up and Operation of Campuses of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions in India) Regulations, 2023," align with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, envisioning an international dimension to higher education in India.

Key Highlights of UGC Regulations:

1. Complete Autonomy for Foreign Universities:

• Foreign Higher Educational Institutions (FHEIs) are granted complete autonomy in determining admission processes, fee structures, faculty recruitment, and staff appointments. The regulations emphasize transparency and reasonability in fee structures.

2. Adherence to NEP 2020:

• The regulations are in line with NEP 2020, which aims to facilitate top-ranked global universities' operations in India, fostering internationalization and providing diverse opportunities for Indian students.

3. Eligibility Criteria for FHEIs:

• FHEIs seeking to establish campuses in India must secure a position within the top five hundred in both overall and subject-wise global rankings, as decided by the UGC. Approval from the commission is mandatory.

4. Admission of International Faculty:

• FHEIs are required to ensure that international faculty appointed to teach in Indian campuses stay in India for at least one semester, promoting cultural exchange and enriching the academic environment.

5. Scholarships and Tuition Fee Concessions:

• FHEIs may offer full or partial merit-based or need-based scholarships using various funding sources. Additionally, tuition fee concessions may be extended to Indian citizen students.

Application Process and Approval:

1. Online Application:

• FHEIs will submit their applications online through the UGC portal, providing necessary information.

2. Standing Committee Evaluation:

• A Standing Committee will assess applications, considering the credibility of institutions, offered programs, potential to enhance educational opportunities, and proposed academic infrastructure.

3. Approval Period and Compliance:

• The UGC will set up campuses within two years of approval. While the regulations do not specify the initial permission period, compliance with quality assurance audits and reporting to the UGC is mandatory for extensions.

Quality Assurance and Oversight:

1. Infrastructure and Quality Audit:

• FHEIs must arrange adequate physical infrastructure for academic programs and undergo quality assurance audits. The UGC retains the right to visit campuses for examinations.

2. Penalties for Violations:

• In case of violations, the UGC holds the authority to impose penalties, suspend, or withdraw approval at any time, ensuring adherence to established norms.

3. Annual Reporting:

• FHEIs are obligated to submit annual reports detailing programs offered, student enrollment, and qualifications awarded to the UGC. Closing courses or campuses requires prior UGC approval.