UK’s Birkbeck University enters India with first global campus in Bengaluru

Birkbeck, University of London, has announced plans to establish its first overseas campus in Bengaluru, marking its entry into India with a focus on expanding access to international education at lower cost.

The campus will offer University of London degrees while maintaining the same academic standards, research-driven teaching, and industry-aligned curriculum as its London base.

Fees are expected to be nearly 60% lower than those in the UK, making global education more accessible to students in India.

Vineet Joshi, Chairperson, UGC, said, “The students will now be able to access world-class international education at significantly lower costs, nearly 60% less compared to studying abroad. This is critical to ensuring equity and expanding opportunities.”

The move aligns with the National Education Policy 2020, which aims to raise the Gross Enrollment Ratio in higher education to 50% by 2030 and position India as a global education hub.

The university is also planning to introduce merit-based scholarships to support students who may face financial constraints. Vice Chancellor Sally Wheeler said details are still being worked out, including coverage and conditions, while emphasizing that strict academic requirements should not create unnecessary pressure on students.

Artificial intelligence will be integrated into both teaching and assessment. Wheeler said the university has revised its AI policy multiple times to keep pace with rapid technological changes.

She explained that the institution is embedding AI into the curriculum to build confidence among students and staff, while also redesigning assessments to ensure authenticity.

Students will be encouraged to reflect on their use of AI tools and maintain originality in their work. “Saying we're not going to use it, it's like saying there's no internet, there's no calculator, so let's talk,” she said.

Founded in 1823, Birkbeck is known for its flexible and career-focused education model. The Bengaluru campus will be its first international location, reflecting India’s growing importance in global higher education.

Joshi said, “The handing over of the Letter of Intent marks a gateway to global learning for Indian students. It reflects the confidence that leading international institutions have in India’s rapidly evolving higher education ecosystem.”

The campus is expected to strengthen India-UK academic collaboration and offer students access to international degrees, industry-linked learning, and global opportunities within the country.