India is rapidly emerging as a key destination for transnational education (TNE), attracting growing interest from leading universities around the world. Once primarily known as a key source for international students abroad, India is now witnessing a shift towards hosting international education within its own borders.  The nation’s higher education ecosystem is increasingly being viewed through a transnational lens, with foreign universities recognizing India as a strategic market for long-term academic engagement. 

The idea of foreign universities in India is not entirely new. Previously, overseas institutions were required to partner with Indian organizations, often limiting their academic autonomy and scope. However, as per the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations of 2023, select Foreign Universities ranked among the Global Top 500 can now establish fully independent campuses in India.