Illinois Tech Gets UGC Nod for Mumbai Campus Launch

The University Grants Commission issued the Letter of Approval to Illinois Institute of Technology, clearing the way for the Chicago-based institution to establish a campus in Mumbai. The approval was confirmed by the institute on Tuesday, following an application process that began in 2023.

The Mumbai campus will initially offer graduate programs in computer science, artificial intelligence, and data science, with plans to expand to undergraduate and doctoral programs in subsequent years. Classes are scheduled to begin in August 2025, with admissions opening later this year.

Illinois Tech president Raj Echambadi said in a statement that the approval marks a significant milestone for the university's global strategy. He added that the Mumbai campus will allow Indian students to access an American-style education without leaving the country, at a lower cost than studying in the United States.

The University Grants Commission's decision follows India's 2020 National Education Policy, which encourages foreign universities to set up campuses in the country. Illinois Tech is among several international institutions that have expressed interest, but it is the first American university to receive the necessary approval.

The Mumbai campus will be located in the Bandra-Kurla Complex, a business district in the city. The university has partnered with local real estate developer Hiranandani Group to build the facility, which is expected to accommodate up to 5,000 students.