Lancaster and Surrey to open first British campuses in India under £50 million Education expansion plan
London / New Delhi: In a landmark step to strengthen educational ties and expand global influence, the United Kingdom has announced firm timelines for launching its first fully approved university campuses in India. Following the UK Government’s October announcement, both Lancaster University and the University of Surrey are on track to welcome students as early as late 2026.
First UK campuses in India
The expansion forms part of a £50 million initiative announced by the UK Department for Education to boost Britain’s higher education exports while offering Indian students access to British quality education at home.
Under India’s Foreign Higher Education Institutions (FHEI) Regulations 2023, the two universities have received approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish campuses and deliver UK accredited degrees directly in India.
“This represents a milestone in UK – India cooperation,” said UK Education Secretary Gillian Keegan. “Our universities are among the best in the world, and their presence in India will open new doors for students, research, and innovation.”
Expected timeline and locations
According to government and university officials:
- Preparatory work including Infrastructure, Curriculum design and Staffing is already underway.
- First student intakes are expected by late 2026 or early 2027.
- Lancaster University is reportedly considering campuses in Ahmedabad or Pune, focusing on business and management studies.
- The University of Surrey is exploring Bangalore or Hyderabad for its proposed engineering and technology programs.
Education experts believe the expansion will significantly reduce the need for outbound mobility among Indian students, who currently contribute over £4 billion annually to the UK’s higher education economy.
Strengthening bilateral ties
The development follows Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s successful visit to India, which focused on Trade, Research collaboration and Youth engagement.
Officials described the education partnership as a “cornerstone of a modern, forward looking UK – India relationship.”
“India’s student population exceeds 40 million and its demand for quality higher education is growing rapidly,” noted a senior UGC official. “This collaboration ensures access to world class education without the barriers of cost and travel.”
Economic and academic benefits
The UK Government estimates that the move will:
- Generate £50 million in direct economic benefits for the UK through education exports.
- Strengthen Britain’s global reputation for academic excellence.
- Promote research partnerships in science, sustainability, and digital innovation.
- Support British jobs in Education, Administration and Consultancy.
More universities to follow
Encouraged by the success of the first approvals, other leading UK institutions including the University of Birmingham, University of Nottingham and University of Leeds are reportedly in advanced discussions with Indian authorities for similar projects.
Analysts predict that between Five to seven UK universities could be operating in India by 2028, making it Britain’s largest overseas higher education network.
In summary
The UK’s expansion into India’s higher education landscape marks a new era of academic diplomacy, economic cooperation and cultural exchange. As the first campuses prepare to open by 2026, the initiative underscores the shared vision of both nations building bridges through knowledge, innovation and opportunity.
