International Students in India: What You Need to Know Before Coming

When you think of international students, students from outside India who come to pursue higher education in Indian institutions. Also known as overseas learners, they bring diverse perspectives to classrooms across Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune—turning Indian universities into global hubs. More than 500,000 international students chose India in 2024, not just for low costs, but because of strong programs in engineering, medicine, business, and even yoga and Ayurveda.

India’s student visa, a long-term entry permit for foreign nationals enrolled in recognized Indian educational institutions is easier to get than many think. Unlike the U.S. or U.K., you don’t need proof of huge bank balances—just an admission letter and basic financial proof. But here’s the catch: many students overlook the Indian universities, government-approved institutions offering degrees recognized globally, from IITs to private B.Ed colleges that actually welcome foreigners. Not every college does. You need to pick one on the official list from the Ministry of Education.

Most international students come for engineering, management, or medicine—but don’t ignore the rising options in digital marketing, data science, and even AI. Top schools like IIMs and IITs have English-taught programs with global faculty. And if you’re coming for a B.Ed program, a teacher training degree offered by institutions like SJVPM that’s increasingly popular among foreign educators, you’ll find it’s one of the most affordable paths to become a certified teacher worldwide.

Living costs? A student can live on ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 a month in most cities—cheaper than Thailand or Malaysia. But food, transport, and rent vary wildly. Delhi and Mumbai are pricier. Jaipur and Indore are easier on the wallet. You’ll also need to learn how to handle the heat, the crowds, and the paperwork—like registering with the local police station within 14 days of arrival. It’s not complicated, but no one tells you about it until you’re here.

And yes, there are challenges. Language isn’t always a barrier—most courses are in English—but cultural differences can trip you up. Group work is common, but asking questions in class? That’s not always encouraged. Professors expect you to do your own research. And while Indian hospitality is real, don’t expect everything to run on time. Flexibility isn’t optional—it’s survival.

What you’ll find in the posts below are real stories and facts from students who’ve been there. From how much money you actually need to survive, to which universities accept the most foreigners, to what you can do after graduation. No fluff. No hype. Just what works—and what doesn’t—for people like you.