In July 2020, India adopted a bold and transformative National Education Policy (NEP). In response, the University Grants Commission (UGC) introduced two landmark regulations: 

  • Joint, Dual, and Twinning Qualifications: Permitting foreign universities, including those in the UK, to collaborate with Indian institutions.
  • International Branch Campuses (IBCs): Enabling the establishment of international campuses in India, subject to regulatory compliance.

To encourage foreign participation, a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) with a dedicated regulator was established in Gujarat, offering concessional terms for international universities.

This policy liberalisation has sparked significant interest among UK universities, with 10–15 institutions currently exploring or planning International Branch Campuses in India. Others are expanding through joint or dual degrees, twinning arrangements, and research collaborations.

To support UK universities in maximising their investment in India, the British Council, in collaboration with UK Government departments, Universities UK International (UUKi), and Indian stakeholders, has launched the UK Higher Education Collaboration Hub in Delhi. The Hub will leverage expertise from the British Council, British High Commission offices, Department of Business and Trade, and the Science Technology Network to provide comprehensive support.

Purpose of the Hub:

  1. Facilitate bilateral education activities aligned with the UK-India Vision 2035 strategic partnership.
  2. Serve as a one-stop-shop for UK universities navigating new opportunities in India’s liberalised Transnational Education (TNE) landscape.

Central to this initiative is the formation of the UK Universities in India Alliance—a collaborative network to strengthen UK-India higher education partnerships.

UK Universities in India Alliance: Overview and objectives

 The alliance aims to:

  • Provide unbiased advice and support to UK universities planning or operating international branch campuses in India.
  • Assist universities in identifying Indian partners and navigating regulatory frameworks for collaborative ventures.
  • Elevate the collective profile and reputation of UK universities within the Indian higher education ecosystem.
  • Maximize value in student recruitment, stakeholder engagement, and networking through coordinated events, fairs, and initiatives.
  • Foster a community of knowledge-sharing to address common challenges and jointly develop solutions.
  • Promote TNE partnerships encouraging more Indian students to earn UK qualifications locally while strengthening alumni networks. 

Next Steps :

Please fill out the form here if you are interested to be a part of the UK Universities in India Alliance. Once we receive the completed form we will send you the details for making payment. 

Who can Join ?

  • UK universities with existing or planned International Branch Campuses in India.
  • UK universities engaged in or interested in joint, dual, or twinning degree partnerships with Indian institutions.

  • Basic Membership: £5,000 per year (minimum two-year commitment).
  • Enhanced Membership: £8,000 per year, offering extended consultation and support—ideal for universities establishing branch campuses.

Membership is rolling and valid for two years upon fee payment.

Based in the British Council’s Delhi building, the Alliance benefits from:

  • A dedicated physical space co-located with the UK Higher Education Collaboration Hub.
  • Access to advanced video conferencing facilities, auditoriums, libraries, and event spaces in Delhi, Chennai, and Kolkata.
  • Support for hosting university events, meetings, and outreach activities.

  • The British Council will convene founding members to establish the Alliance’s charter and agenda.
  • Regular meetings will be co-chaired by the British Council Director of the Hub and a rotating university representative.
  • The Alliance will operate collaboratively, with members shaping priorities, activities, and focus areas.
  • Transparent financial management and reporting will be overseen by the British Council.

  • Development of a distinct brand identity and dedicated web portal.
  • Biannual face-to-face and virtual meetings to strategize, share insights, and address challenges.
  • Knowledge workshops and masterclasses involving UK and Indian higher education leaders.
  • Formation of special interest groups (e.g., marketing, student experience, recruitment) for targeted collaboration.
  • Engagement with Indian higher education bodies, industry forums, and international counterparts for broader networking.

Alliance members enjoy:

  • Complimentary access to British Council venues for key events (e.g., alumni gatherings, admissions counselling).
  • Advisory support from British Council higher education specialists on partnerships, stakeholder relations, and outreach.
  • Enhanced membership offers personalised support during branch campus setup, including engagement with government stakeholders.

Membership plans at a glance

Plan Fee (2 years) Meetings & Events Advisory Support Venue Access
Basic £10,000 2 face-to-face + 2 virtual meetings; 2 networking events 3 hours Theatre (1 day/year), Meeting rooms (8 hours/year)
Enhanced £16,000 All Basic + meetings with authorities 6 hours Theatre (2 days/year), Meeting rooms (10 hours/year)

Additional costs (catering, branding, extra tech) billed separately. 

Legal Disclaimer: 

The British Council provides advisory support only. Universities are strongly advised to consult professional legal, tax, or regulatory advisors before entering any formal agreements in India.

The Alliance is not a substitute for commercial consultancy services. The British Council will maintain transparency in working with external service providers to support member institutions.
Share this