Aberdeen University to Open First Scottish Campus in Mumbai

Building on decades-long partnerships with over 200 Indian universities and research centers, including IITs, AIIMS, Manipal Academy, ICAR, and Delhi University, the proposed campus will serve as a hub for academic excellence and global problem-solving.

The University of Aberdeen has become the first Scottish university to receive approval from India’s University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish a branch campus in Mumbai, with a planned launch in September 2026. This milestone makes Aberdeen the first of the UK’s ancient universities to expand into India. The proposal now awaits final approval from the University’s governing body, the Court, next month.

The approval follows ongoing discussions with the UGC and Aberdeen’s Transnational Education partners in India. A Letter of Intent was presented to the University at a special ceremony hosted by the Indian Government in Mumbai on June 14. This initiative underscores Aberdeen’s commitment to India, aiming to deliver world-class education, cutting-edge research, and transformative innovation in collaboration with Indian institutions.

Building on decades-long partnerships with over 200 Indian universities and research centers, including IITs, AIIMS, Manipal Academy, ICAR, and Delhi University, the proposed campus will serve as a hub for academic excellence and global problem-solving. Aligned with India’s National Education Policy 2020, the campus will initially offer programs in Computing and Data Science, Business Management, Economics, Artificial Intelligence, and an MBA. Future expansions are planned in Mathematics, International Business Management, Public Health, Film Studies, and Psychology—fields where Aberdeen and India share strategic priorities.

A second phase will see the establishment of a research and innovation office on the campus to deepen collaborations in AI, Energy, and Life Sciences. Professor Siladitya Bhattacharya, Vice-Principal Global Engagement, said, “India, with its 1.4 billion population and 50% under 25, is a priority for our global strategy. This campus will empower students, accelerate joint research, and contribute to India’s knowledge economy while strengthening Scotland-India ties.”

Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India at the British Council, described the development as a significant step in UK-India educational collaboration. “As the first Scottish university to establish a campus in India, Aberdeen is fostering cultural exchange and global opportunities, aligning with India’s vision for internationalized higher education,” she said.

The campus aims to enhance student and faculty exchanges, industry-led innovation, and historic educational ties between the UK and India.

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