The Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) has achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first US university to receive approval from India’s University Grants Commission (UGC) to set up an independent degree-granting campus in India.
Set to open in Mumbai by 2026, the Illinois Tech campus will offer undergraduate and postgraduate programs in computer science, engineering, and business, giving students access to globally recognised education within India.
Unlike previous collaborations or niche finance campuses like those at Gujarat’s GIFT City, Illinois Tech’s Mumbai campus will provide students with full-fledged degrees directly from the university, without the need to relocate abroad.
Students will benefit from Illinois Tech’s signature Elevate program, which combines academic learning with practical experience, including internships, research projects, and industry exposure. The curriculum aligns with the Chicago campus, ensuring students receive the same industry-focused education at local affordability.
This UGC-approved initiative is expected to pave the way for more international universities to establish degree-granting campuses in India, supporting India’s National Education Policy 2020 and its vision of becoming a global education hub by 2047.
Mallik Sundharam, Illinois Tech’s Vice President for Enrollment Management, expressed optimism about the project, stating, “The growing demand for globally recognised education in India is remarkable. Our Mumbai campus brings Illinois Tech’s excellence to Indian students in an accessible and affordable way.”
With Indian authorities endorsing the move, Illinois Tech’s Mumbai campus is expected to attract students seeking international degrees without leaving home.
Illinois Tech’s Mumbai campus is just the beginning of a larger trend—global universities investing in India’s education sector. As the first fully accredited US university with independent degree-granting power in the country, Illinois Tech sets a precedent for others looking to expand their reach into India’s thriving academic landscape.
