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Study in India

Explore subjects, study options, costs, intakes, scholarships and student visa information.

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About studying in India

Higher education in India, in South Asia, gives international students a chance to study in a new academic and cultural setting. Universities and other institutions offer programmes at different levels, from first degrees to postgraduate study, across subjects such as business, engineering, health, science and the humanities.

The economy has strengths in digital technology, infrastructure and healthcare, which is reflected in many study options. English is widely used in teaching, which many international students find helpful. Start with the subjects available here, then compare institutions, costs and application steps.

Why study in India?

There is no single reason to study in India. For some students it is the programme itself; for others it is the setting in South Asia, the language or links to a particular industry. It is worth being clear about what matters most to you before comparing options.

  • Academic choice: institutions offer programmes in areas such as Computing & Information Technology, Engineering and Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies, with options differing between universities.
  • Industry context: Digital technology, infrastructure and healthcare matter locally, which can make related courses and projects especially relevant.
  • Cities and campus life: New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru each offer a different student experience, from larger cities to smaller campus towns.
  • Culture and language: living in India means everyday contact with Hindi and English, among many languages and local traditions, which many students find valuable in itself.

Indian higher education ranges from central and state universities to specialised national institutes such as the Indian Institutes of Technology and the Indian Institutes of Management.

Talking to current students and reading official course pages will give you a realistic picture of what studying here is like, beyond what any general guide can say.

Top subjects to study in India

These subject areas are a useful starting point for students looking at India. They are editorial suggestions based on the country’s wider economy and institutions, not a ranking.

Courses connected to digital technology, infrastructure and healthcare can be a good fit for students who want their studies to relate closely to the local economy. Each subject has its own page for India on this site, with its specializations.

When choosing between these areas, think about what you enjoy studying, the entry requirements for each course and the kind of work you would like to do afterwards. A specialization can matter as much as the broad subject.

Subjects to study in India

Explore subject areas available for students planning to study in India.

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Universities in India

Explore universities in India and discover study options for international students.

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Scholarships to Study in India

Some international students in India receive scholarships or grants, but availability depends on where you come from and what you plan to study.

  • government programmes, including schemes run by your own country or by India
  • universities and colleges, through institutional awards or fee reductions
  • foundations, charities and international organisations
  • research funding or assistantships for postgraduate and doctoral students

Eligibility, the amount of support and deadlines vary, and competition can be strong. Apply to several suitable options and confirm what each award covers. Official scholarship providers and university funding pages are the most reliable sources.

Applications often ask for a personal statement, references and academic transcripts, so prepare these early and tailor them to each award.

Intakes to study in India

Many programmes in India start around July or August, which is the main entry point for most new students. Exact dates vary by institution and programme.

Application deadlines can fall many months before the course begins, especially for competitive programmes and for students who need a visa. Start by checking the deadline for your specific course, then work backwards to leave time for documents, language tests, applications for funding and the visa process.

Postgraduate research programmes may have more flexible start dates, agreed with a supervisor.

A simple planning checklist:

  • shortlist courses and note each start date and deadline
  • prepare transcripts, references and any language test results
  • apply for scholarships alongside your course applications
  • allow time for the visa and for arranging accommodation

Intake dates and deadlines vary by university and course. Always check them with the university.

Cost of studying in India

The cost of studying in India depends on the institution, the programme, the level of study and, sometimes, your nationality.

When you compare options, look beyond the tuition fee:

  • application and registration fees
  • course materials, equipment or laboratory costs for some subjects
  • health insurance and any visa or permit costs
  • accommodation, travel and living expenses for the whole programme

Longer programmes, foundation years and placements all affect the total you will need, so build your budget from the institution’s current published fees.

It is also worth asking how and when fees are paid, whether a deposit is required to secure your place, and how exchange rates could affect the amount you pay from home.

Fees change and differ by university, course and level. Check current fees with each university.

Student visa requirements to study in India

Your offer letter is usually only the first step: most students from abroad also need the right permission to enter and stay in India for their studies.

Requirements can differ by nationality, programme and length of stay. Depending on the rules, you may be asked for:

  • an offer or confirmation of enrolment from a recognised institution
  • a valid passport and passport photos
  • evidence that you can cover tuition and living costs
  • health insurance and, in some cases, medical checks
  • proof of language ability or previous qualifications

Visa rules and fees change, so always check the current requirements with official government sources before you apply. Official information: Indian Visa Online (Government of India) (official government website).

Visa rules change. Always check the official government immigration website before you apply.

Cost of living in India

Living costs in India depend a great deal on where you live and how you live. Costs in New Delhi can differ noticeably from those in Mumbai or Bengaluru and smaller towns.

The main costs to plan for are:

  • Accommodation: university housing, shared flats or private rentals, plus deposits
  • Food: groceries, cooking at home and eating out
  • Transport: local travel and occasional trips home
  • Utilities and phone: energy, internet and mobile data
  • Insurance and health: any required health cover
  • Personal spending: study materials, clothing and social life

Ask your institution for its estimate of student living costs and plan for some extra money for arrival and emergencies.

Living costs depend on the city and your lifestyle, and they change over time.

FAQs about studying in India

Why should I study in India?

It depends on your goals. India offers programmes across many subjects, a location in South Asia and study in Hindi and English, among many languages. Students interested in digital technology, infrastructure and healthcare may find the local context especially relevant.

What subjects can I study in India?

Institutions offer a wide range of subjects, including Computing & Information Technology, Engineering, Health, Medicine & Veterinary Studies and Business & Management. The subjects page for India lists every subject available here with its specializations.

When should I apply to universities in India?

Many programmes start around July or August. Apply well ahead of the start date, especially if you need a visa, and check the deadline for each course on the institution’s website.

How much does it cost to study in India?

Costs depend on the institution, programme, level of study and sometimes your nationality. Budget for tuition as well as application fees, insurance, accommodation and living costs, and use the current fees published by each institution.

Do international students need a visa to study in India?

Most international students need a student visa or residence permit. Requirements depend on your nationality and programme, so check the current rules with official government sources, such as Indian Visa Online (Government of India).

Are scholarships available for international students in India?

Some funding is available from governments, universities and other organisations, but awards are competitive and eligibility varies. Check official provider websites and apply early.

Where do international students live in India?

New Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru are among the places students often consider. Living costs, housing and the student experience can differ between cities, so compare them alongside your course options.

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