UK–India Education Ties Enter New Phase as Nine British Universities Plan to Establish Campuses in India

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New Delhi: Nine British universities are preparing to establish campuses across India.

The move signals a new phase in bilateral engagement focused on higher education, talent development, and collaboration with fast-growing industries, especially in the creative sector.

Focus on Creative Industries and Talent Exchange

Alison Barett, a representative of the British Council, said the expansion has strong potential to transform cooperation in the creative economy. She explained that the new campuses will support a two-way flow of students, ideas, and expertise between the two countries. Barett noted that British students will be able to come to India for internships in creative industry sectors and learn from India’s ability to scale ideas and businesses, helping them become globally prepared graduates.

Academia- Industry Partnership

Barett said the presence of British universities in India goes beyond improving access to education. She described it as an effort to build integrated ecosystems where universities and industry partners work closely together. She pointed to creative fields such as podcasting, filmmaking, fashion, and design as key areas where collaboration can grow.

According to her, stronger links between universities in both countries over the next decade can help build a future-ready workforce.

Part of a Broader Education Strategy

The initiative supports India’s goal of internationalizing its higher education sector and positioning itself as a global center for innovation and creative talent. For the UK, the move helps expand its global education presence, attract diverse student groups, and stay competitive in an education market that values partnership over simple student recruitment.

Multiple Partnership Models Ahead

Barett said partnerships will include joint undergraduate and master’s programs, as well as structured internship pathways. She added that student mobility will be central, with learners moving between both countries and curricula designed around real industry needs. She also noted that with nine universities already planning campuses, more are expected as regulations stabilize and demand increases.