University Of Aberdeen Mumbai Campus: The University of Aberdeen, one of the UK’s oldest and most respected institutions, is expanding globally by establishing its first overseas campus in Mumbai, India, by September 2026. This marks a historic moment as it becomes the first Scottish and ancient British university to receive permission from the Indian government to operate a branch campus in the country.
The decision comes after extensive collaboration and discussions with the University Grants Commission (UGC) and Indian education partners. The Indian government has already issued a Letter of Intent, and the university's proposal is now under final review by its governing body in Scotland.
The Mumbai campus will offer industry-relevant courses aligned with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. Initial academic programs will include Computing and Data Science, Business Management, Economics, Artificial Intelligence, and MBA courses. Plans are underway to expand further with disciplines such as Mathematics, Film Studies, Public Health, and Psychology.
In addition to academic programs, the university aims to open a research and innovation office at the Mumbai campus. This facility will promote collaborative research and industrial partnerships, especially in areas like Artificial Intelligence, Energy, and Life Sciences, enhancing Aberdeen's global impact in solving real-world challenges.
Professor Siladitya Bhattacharya, Vice-Principal for Global Engagement, emphasized India’s importance in the university’s international strategy, noting its youthful population and strong academic networks. Aberdeen has collaborated with over 200 Indian institutions, including IITs and AIIMS, and the Mumbai campus will further strengthen these bonds.
Alison Barrett MBE from the British Council in India hailed the move as a milestone in UK-India education ties. She highlighted that this venture reflects how international education fosters cultural exchange, global opportunities, and deeper partnerships between nations, making quality global education more accessible to Indian students.