The University Grants Commission has granted approval for five foreign universities to establish campuses in the country. The UGC handed over letters of intent to these institutions from the UK, US, Australia and Italy on Saturday, marking a crucial step in the implementation of the National Education Policy 2020 and its vision of global academic integration. Among them is the University of Western Australia (UWA), ranked among the world’s top 100 and a proud member of Australia’s Group of Eight.
UWA has announced plans to open two campuses in India–in Chennai and Mumbai, its first international branch campuses.
Speaking to indianexpress.com on the sidelines of an event in Mumbai, Professor Peter Grace, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Education and Student Experience) at UWA, explains why the university chose India, what students can expect, and how the institution aims to contribute to India’s educational and entrepreneurial ecosystems.
Why has UWA decided to open campuses in India?
The University of Western Australia’s decision to establish campuses in India stems from a combination of strategic, academic, and diplomatic motivations. The Indian government has actively encouraged reputed foreign universities to enter the domestic higher education space, and UWA sees this as an opportunity to expand access to quality global education.
UWA already has long-standing academic, research, and consultancy collaborations in India. Geographically located on the Indian Ocean Rim, the university has long focused on engaging with countries in the region. Establishing a physical presence in India is therefore a logical and timely extension of UWA’s vision.
Is this UWA’s first overseas campus?
Yes, this will be the first overseas campus for the University of Western Australia. While several Australian universities operate international branch campuses, UWA has until now remained focused on strengthening partnerships without establishing a physical base abroad. With India’s regulatory environment becoming increasingly conducive, the university felt this was the right time to initiate operations on Indian soil.
Why choose Mumbai and Chennai for the campuses?
UWA has identified Mumbai and Chennai as strategic locations due to their economic potential, talent pool, and synergies with Perth, the university’s home city. Both cities are recognised hubs for education, entrepreneurship, and industry.
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They offer access to vibrant student communities and align well with UWA’s focus on innovation and skills development.
Does this move respond to tighter immigration norms abroad?
While changes in immigration policies in countries like Australia, Canada, the UK, and the US may influence student choices, UWA’s initiative is primarily about offering high-quality education locally.
The Indian campuses provide an alternative for students who want a world-class education without relocating abroad. Students may also choose to complete part of their education in Australia through future mobility options.
When will the campuses begin operations?
According to UGC guidelines, foreign universities are given an 18-month window to commence academic operations after receiving approval. UWA is currently working within this timeline and intends to begin functioning within this period, although specific dates are yet to be finalised.
What academic programmes will be offered initially?
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In the initial phase, UWA’s India campuses will focus on business and STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) disciplines. The choice reflects both local demand and the university’s academic strengths. Programmes will be available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and UWA is also exploring ways to integrate its research expertise into the academic offerings in India.
Will the Indian campuses offer the same degrees as in Perth?
Yes. The degrees offered in India will be identical in content and academic standards to those taught at the Perth campus. While minor adaptations may be made to reflect cultural or regional contexts, the core curriculum and quality benchmarks will remain consistent.
Will the curriculum be tailored for the Indian context?
While the core degree programmes will mirror those offered in Australia, UWA is considering opportunities to develop localised short-term courses in collaboration with Indian industry and academia. These will initially focus on business and STEM areas and be designed to meet specific local and regional demands.
How will faculty recruitment be handled?
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UWA plans to implement a blended faculty model. Teaching will be delivered by a mix of faculty from the home campus in Perth and qualified academics recruited locally in India. The aim is to bring together the best of both worlds, global academic perspectives and local expertise, thereby enriching the learning experience for students.
What is the WACE curriculum and how does it relate to UWA’s presence in India?
The West Australian Certificate of Education (WACE) is a senior secondary qualification that provides direct university entry pathways. It has recently gained recognition in parts of India, creating an end-to-end academic route for Indian students aspiring to study at UWA.
Additionally, students following the WACE curriculum may be eligible for specific scholarships when they plan to pursue a degree at UWA.
Will there be student exchange and mobility programmes?
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Yes. UWA intends to facilitate both short-term study tours and long-term exchange programmes between its Indian campuses and its main campus in Perth. The goal is to enhance student mobility, allowing Indian students to experience international education in both domestic and global contexts.
Will the course fees in India be the same as those in Australia?
UWA is currently assessing its fee structures. While the courses in India will match the quality and curriculum of those in Perth, the fees are expected to be more affordable for Indian students. The university aims to strike a balance between quality and accessibility.
With multiple foreign universities establishing campuses in India, how does UWA’s offering stand out?
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UWA brings over a century of academic excellence as part of Australia’s Group of Eight. It is consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities. While other approved institutions offer a variety of disciplines and formats, UWA aims to stand out through its research intensity, international reputation, and strong academic-industry linkages.
What is UWA’s long-term vision for its India campuses?
In the next decade, UWA envisions becoming deeply embedded in India’s educational and innovation ecosystem.
Beyond academics, the university aims to support local industries, foster entrepreneurship, and serve as a platform for collaboration between Indian and Australian institutions.
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What kind of placement and entrepreneurship support will be offered?
UWA has established a partnership with HCL to create innovation hubs across India. These hubs will serve as incubators for entrepreneurial thinking and industry engagement. The initiative aims to enrich the curriculum with real-world relevance and prepare students for dynamic, future-ready careers.
