Table of Contents
Introduction
The Study in India (SII) Program is a transformative initiative with immense potential to change the landscape of international education for everyone, especially the countries of the Global South. Launched by the Ministry of Education in 2018, this flagship initiative has paved the way for India to offer its famed education system and infrastructure to the global community. Through this program, students from around the world are offered access to a diverse array of courses offered by India’s top-tier institutes. This journey transcends academic boundaries, offering students the chance to immerse themselves in India’s rich culture, cuisine, society, and celebrations. As we delve into the three pillars of the SII program – Learn, Thrive, and Explore – we witness the profound impact it has on the lives of these ambitious scholars. Through this write-up, we aim to shed light on the opportunities and experiences that await those who embark on this educational odyssey.
India offers a diverse array of courses ranging from modern and cutting-edge disciplines like Law, Management, and Humanities, to specialized fields like Buddhist Studies and Yoga. These opportunities are provided by some of the top institutes in the country. With exponential growth in sectors such as Pharmaceutical, Information Technology (IT), and Space, India stands as one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. The educational landscape of India mirrors the country’s dynamic geography and culture. Institutes affiliated with the program are strategically located across the nation, providing students the chance to immerse themselves in vibrant celebrations, cuisines, and the excitement of travel. As new horizons open up, the program is dedicated to nurturing and shaping the future workforce.
The Study in India: Three Pillars
Learn – The Study in India program encompasses a robust network of government-owned, private institutes, and institutes of national importance (INIs), ensuring the delivery of quality yet affordable education.
Thrive – India boasts a distinguished alumni base, including leaders of Fortune 500 companies like Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (CEO of Google), and Ajay Banga (President of World Bank). This illustrious roster instills trust in the minds of students and draws them to India.
Explore – One of the most alluring aspects of studying in India as an international student is the wealth of experiences to be had. Whether it’s the diversity, architecture, landscapes, numerous festivals, or cuisines, there is an abundance for international students to discover.
Medium of Instruction
English serves as the primary medium of instruction in all Study in India partner institutes. Enrollment eligibility is granted to those who have attained the required scores in English proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, or have achieved the necessary marks in the institute’s English aptitude test.
Bridge Course for Communication
Recognizing that international students come from diverse linguistic backgrounds, there is a pressing need for a common language of communication, especially for academic pursuits. To address this, the Study in India program intends to conduct a 3-month short-term Bridge Course designed to enhance students’ English proficiency in speaking, reading, listening, and writing. This equips them to communicate effectively within their study environments. Given that most Indian universities employ English as the primary language of instruction, this initiative is of paramount importance. In essence, the Study in India program has been launched to foster an inclusive environment that fosters the all-around academic and personal development of international students, affording them a comprehensive learning experience.
India: A Melting Pot of Cultures and a Hub for Innovation and Technology
India’s unique blend of distinct cultures and its status as a hub for innovation and technology render it an ideal study destination for students from around the globe. The presence of international students in India not only establishes the country as a preferred education destination but also serves to blur academic boundaries, preparing domestic students for a globalized workforce. This interconnectedness with the globalizing world is invaluable in shaping a prosperous future for all.
Eligibility for Partner Institutes (Study in India)
Partner institutes under the Study in India program must possess National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation of 3.26 and above, be ranked among the top 100 in any category (except medical) by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF), or hold the status of Institute of National Importance (INI) or Institute of Eminence (IOE).
The Study in India – Some critical details.
Annual Average Living Cost for an International Student in India: The average monthly living cost for an international student in India amounts to approximately $400. This cost excludes tuition fees, which may vary across courses and institutes.
SII Scholarship and Partner Institute Scholarship: Study in India offers scholarships up to USD 3200 to meritorious students through the PRAGATII Exam. In cases where the total fees exceed this amount, the remaining balance will need to be covered by the student. Additionally, Study in India partner institutes provide financial assistance in the form of Partner Institute Scholarships, with concessions on tuition fees available in categories of 100%, 50%, and 25%.
Number of Courses and Institutes Covered Under SII: SII has partnered with 160 top-ranked institutes, offering over 2600 courses across various disciplines. It’s worth noting that while medical courses are not covered under the Study in India program, SII-partner institutes do offer Allied Medical courses such as Anesthesia Technology, Nursing, and Medical Laboratory Technology.
Note: Foreign students will not be eligible for a work visa in India after graduation.
Study in India vs. Study in Australia
In recent years, Australia has become a preferred destination for Indian students seeking higher education and vocational skills. The availability of scholarships, research fellowships, and extended post-study work rights has contributed to Australia’s popularity among Indian students. Additionally, the mutual recognition of academic qualifications between India and Australia creates a mutually beneficial scenario, facilitating the two-way mobility of young individuals for education and employment purposes. Discussions are underway to encourage more Australian students to come to India for short and long-term study, internships, and research.
The Growth of the Study in India Program
Since its inception, the Study in India program has seen remarkable growth year after year. Starting from modest beginnings, it has expanded its reach to encompass over 136 countries. Thousands of students have embarked on this transformative journey, and these numbers continue to rise steadily. The key to this expansion lies in building connections and fostering collaboration. To this end, the program has successfully organized numerous educational fairs in various target countries, including Malaysia, Vietnam, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Tanzania, Uganda, Ethiopia, Dubai, USA, Indonesia, Kenya, Bhutan, and more. These educational fairs serve as a platform for engaging with students and various stakeholders at the grassroots level.
Afterwords
The Study in India (SII) Program represents a transformative journey for both international students and the Indian education landscape. With its robust pillars focusing on learning, thriving, and exploration, this initiative has not only opened doors to top-tier education but also offered a gateway to India’s rich social and cultural experience. Through diverse courses, strategic institute placements, and a commitment to English as a medium of instruction, SII stands as an inclusive platform welcoming students from around the world.
As this program continues to evolve and expand, it serves as a beacon of educational inclusivity and global collaboration. By nurturing talent, fostering connections, and promoting cultural understanding, SII paves the way for a future where boundaries in education fade, creating a truly interconnected world.
Rajan Kumar Tiwari is Assistant Professor, Jharkhand Rai University