This represents an increase of nearly 47% in foreign student enrolment over ten years and highlights the growing international appeal of Indian universities and colleges.

Affordable education, English-medium programmes, improving academic infrastructure, expanding research opportunities and government initiatives such as the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and Study in India programme are among the major factors contributing to this growth.

Foreign Student Enrolment in India Records Strong Growth

India’s higher education sector has witnessed considerable expansion in terms of international participation. The rise from 39,517 foreign students in 2013–14 to 58,134 in 2023–24 demonstrates growing confidence in the Indian education system.

The trend suggests that India is gradually attracting students beyond its traditional South Asian markets and developing a broader presence in the international education sector.

Karnataka Remains India’s Top Destination for Foreign Students

Karnataka continues to lead the country in international student enrolment. The state recorded 7,914 foreign students during the 2023–24 academic year.

Cities such as Bengaluru, Manipal and Mysuru have developed into major education centres, offering a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate and professional programmes.

Karnataka is particularly popular for courses in engineering, computer science, medicine, biotechnology, management, artificial intelligence, data science and design.

Bengaluru also provides a unique advantage for international students because of its position as India’s technology and startup hub. Students studying in the city can gain exposure to multinational companies, research centres, technology startups and internship opportunities.

The availability of English-medium programmes, strong transport connectivity, cosmopolitan culture and well-developed educational infrastructure further contribute to Karnataka’s popularity among international students.

Punjab Overtakes Tamil Nadu to Secure Second Position

Punjab has emerged as one of the biggest highlights of the latest AISHE data.

The state hosted 7,902 foreign students in 2023–24, placing it just behind Karnataka and ahead of Tamil Nadu.

Punjab’s rise reflects the growing international presence of universities and professional institutions in the state. Relatively affordable tuition fees, lower living expenses, expanding international collaborations and cultural connections with neighbouring countries have contributed to the increase.

The difference between Karnataka and Punjab is now extremely small, indicating increasingly strong competition among Indian states to attract international learners.

After Karnataka and Punjab, Maharashtra recorded 6,190 foreign students, followed by Uttar Pradesh with 5,953 and Tamil Nadu with 5,694.

Top Five Indian States for Foreign Student Enrolment

These states benefit from large university networks, professional courses, urban infrastructure and increasing international partnerships.

Nepal Continues to Be the Largest Source Country

Nepal remains the largest source of international students studying in India and accounts for nearly one-fourth of total foreign enrolment.

Geographical proximity is one of the biggest reasons behind this trend. Students from Nepal can travel easily to India and often find similarities in culture, language and lifestyle.

Indian institutions also provide relatively affordable degree programmes across areas such as engineering, medicine, management, science and humanities.

The recognition of Indian qualifications and long-established educational connections between the two countries make India a natural higher education destination for many Nepali students.

At the same time, the increase in the number of source countries from 158 to 173 shows that India is increasingly attracting learners from a more diverse global student community.

Why Are International Students Choosing India?

Several factors are helping India emerge as an attractive alternative to traditional higher education destinations such as the United States, United Kingdom, Canada and Australia.

Affordable Education

Tuition fees and living expenses in India can be considerably lower than those in many Western countries. This allows international students to access recognised degree programmes without facing extremely high education costs.

English-Medium Programmes

A large number of Indian universities deliver programmes in English, particularly in engineering, management, medicine, technology and science.

This makes it easier for international learners to study and communicate on campus.

Wide Range of Courses

Indian institutions offer programmes across traditional as well as emerging fields, including:

• Engineering and Technology
• Medicine and Healthcare
• Management
• Law
• Agriculture
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Biotechnology
• Computer Science
• Design

The increasing availability of programmes in emerging technologies is also making Indian institutions more relevant to global employment trends.

Cultural and Economic Exposure

International students studying in India gain exposure to one of the world’s largest and most diverse economies.

India’s multicultural environment, growing startup ecosystem, technology sector and expanding industries can provide students with valuable academic as well as professional experiences.

Undergraduate Programmes Dominate Foreign Enrolment

Undergraduate courses continue to attract the majority of foreign students in India.

According to AISHE 2023–24, undergraduate students represented approximately 73.6% of total foreign enrolments. Postgraduate students accounted for around 16.8%.

The figures indicate that India is particularly attractive to students looking to complete their first university degree abroad.

Professional undergraduate programmes in engineering, medicine, management and technology are among the areas contributing to international demand.

Role of NEP 2020 and Study in India Initiative

The Indian government has placed internationalisation at the centre of its higher education strategy.

The National Education Policy 2020 encourages Indian institutions to strengthen partnerships with international universities, improve research collaboration and increase student and faculty mobility.

The policy also aims to make Indian campuses more globally competitive and welcoming to students from other countries.

Similarly, the Study in India initiative seeks to promote Indian universities internationally and simplify access to educational opportunities for foreign students.

Together, these initiatives are helping position India as a potential global education hub.

Challenges India Must Address

Despite the increase in international enrolment, India still has considerable room for growth.

Universities need to strengthen international student support systems, improve campus accommodation and create more multicultural environments.

Simplifying visa procedures and administrative processes could also make India more accessible to students considering overseas education.

Indian institutions may additionally benefit from expanding international faculty recruitment, semester exchange programmes, joint degrees, research partnerships and global university collaborations.

Greater visibility in international rankings and stronger global marketing could further improve India’s competitiveness.

India’s Potential as a Global Education Destination

The 47% rise in foreign student enrolment over the past decade is a positive indicator for India’s higher education system.

With 58,134 foreign students from 173 countries studying in India during 2023–24, the country is gradually expanding its influence in the international education market.

Karnataka remains the leading destination, while Punjab’s rise to second place shows how the international student landscape within India is evolving.

Continued investment in academic quality, student experience, research infrastructure, global partnerships and international outreach will be essential.

If these areas continue to improve, India could strengthen its position as one of the world’s significant destinations for affordable, diverse and globally connected higher education.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many foreign students are studying in India?

According to AISHE 2023–24, India hosted 58,134 foreign students from 173 countries. This is an increase from 39,517 international students recorded in 2013–14.

2. Which Indian state has the highest number of foreign students?

Karnataka has the highest foreign student enrolment in India, with 7,914 international students in 2023–24. Punjab follows closely with 7,902 students.

3. Which country sends the most students to India?

Nepal is the largest source country for foreign students studying in India, accounting for nearly one-fourth of total international enrolment.

4. Why do foreign students choose India for higher education?

International students choose India because of affordable tuition fees, comparatively lower living costs, English-medium programmes, diverse courses, recognised institutions and opportunities in fields such as engineering, medicine, management, AI and computer science.

5. What percentage of foreign students in India are undergraduates?

Undergraduate students account for approximately 73.6% of total foreign student enrolment in India, while postgraduate students represent around 16.8%, according to AISHE 2023–24.

For students looking for high-quality education, global exposure and significant financial support, the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship can be an excellent opportunity. The programme welcomes applicants from around the world and offers scholarships to some of the highest-ranked candidates admitted to participating master’s courses.

One important point applicants should understand is that there is no single Erasmus Mundus application portal or common deadline for all programmes. Students must first choose an eligible Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programme and then apply directly through the university consortium managing that programme.

Many programmes for the 2027 intake are expected to have application deadlines between December 2026 and January 2027, although dates can vary significantly. Applicants should always check the official website of their selected programme before applying.

A major feature of these programmes is student mobility. Instead of completing the entire master’s degree at one university, students normally study at two or more institutions in different countries during their programme.

Depending on the course, graduates may receive a joint degree awarded collectively by participating universities, a double degree from two universities or multiple degrees from different institutions.

Most Erasmus Mundus programmes run for 12, 18 or 24 months, with many popular courses following a two-year structure.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 Benefits

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is designed to reduce the financial burden of pursuing higher education abroad. Scholarship support may cover several major expenses associated with studying and living in Europe.

Key benefits may include:

• Full or substantial participation and tuition costs
• Monthly living and subsistence allowance
• Travel expenses
• Visa-related expenses
• Installation or relocation support
• Health and accident insurance, depending on the programme
• Travel between participating partner universities

The scholarship is intended to support eligible students throughout the duration of their Erasmus Mundus master’s programme.

Because participants often move between different countries during their studies, the financial support can be particularly valuable for international students who would otherwise find multi-country education expensive.

Study in Multiple European Countries

One of the biggest advantages of Erasmus Mundus is the opportunity to experience multiple universities and countries during a single master’s programme.

Depending on the selected programme, students may study in European destinations such as:

France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Portugal, Poland, Ireland and Austria, among others.

Some Erasmus Mundus programmes may also include universities or academic partners outside Europe.

Studying across multiple countries gives students exposure to different academic systems, teaching methods, cultures and professional environments. It can also help them build an international network of professors, researchers, industry professionals and fellow students.

Popular Erasmus Mundus Study Fields

Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s programmes are available across a wide variety of academic disciplines.

Students can explore programmes related to areas such as:

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Artificial Intelligence
• Data Science
• Cybersecurity
• Environmental Science
• Sustainable Development
• Business and Management
• Economics
• Law
• Political Science
• Public Health
• Biotechnology
• Agriculture
• Energy
• Mathematics
• Physics
• Social Sciences
• Humanities

With more than 160 programmes available across different academic areas, applicants can shortlist courses according to their educational background and future career objectives.

Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 Eligibility

Eligibility requirements may differ from one programme to another because individual Erasmus Mundus consortia manage their own admissions.

However, applicants generally need to have a bachelor’s degree or an equivalent undergraduate qualification.

Students who are currently in the final year of their bachelor’s programme may also be eligible to apply, provided they complete their undergraduate degree before the Erasmus Mundus master’s programme begins.

Applicants must also satisfy the academic and subject-specific requirements established by their chosen programme.

For example, a master’s programme in artificial intelligence may require previous academic preparation in computer science, mathematics, engineering or a related discipline.

English Language Requirements

Language requirements are determined by individual Erasmus Mundus programmes.

Applicants may be required to submit recognised English-language test scores such as:

• IELTS
• TOEFL
• Other accepted English proficiency qualifications

Some programmes may accept alternative proof demonstrating that the applicant previously studied in English.

Students should carefully review the language requirements listed on the official webpage of their chosen Erasmus Mundus programme before scheduling a language test.

Is There an Age Limit?

There is generally no universal age restriction for Erasmus Mundus applicants.

Similarly, work experience is not compulsory across all Erasmus Mundus programmes.

However, certain specialised master’s courses may prefer or require applicants to have relevant professional, research or academic experience.

Students should therefore rely on the eligibility requirements published by the individual programme consortium rather than assuming that the same criteria apply to every Erasmus Mundus course.

Documents Required for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027

Applicants should begin preparing documents several months before the deadline.

Commonly requested documents include:

• Completed online application form
• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Academic transcripts
• Updated CV or résumé
• Statement of purpose or motivation letter
• Valid passport copy
• Letters of recommendation
• English-language proficiency certificate
• Additional academic certificates, if required

Depending on the programme, applicants may also need to submit a research proposal, portfolio, work-experience certificates or other supporting documents.

Since requirements differ between programmes, candidates should create a programme-specific checklist before submitting their application.

How to Apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027

The Erasmus Mundus application process is completed through individual programme consortia.

Applicants can broadly follow these steps:

Step 1: Search for Erasmus Mundus programmes

Explore the official Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s catalogue and identify programmes matching your academic background.

Step 2: Check eligibility requirements

Review academic qualifications, language requirements, required subjects and any programme-specific conditions.

Step 3: Check the scholarship deadline

Each programme has its own deadline. Applicants should verify dates directly through the programme’s official website.

Step 4: Prepare application documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, recommendation letters, CV, passport details and English-language documents.

Step 5: Write a strong motivation letter

Explain why you selected the programme, how your academic and professional background prepares you for it and how the degree supports your future goals.

Step 6: Submit the application

Complete the application through the platform specified by the individual Erasmus Mundus consortium.

Tips to Improve Your Erasmus Mundus Application

The Erasmus Mundus Scholarship is highly competitive, which means applicants should focus on creating a strong and coherent application.

A good application should demonstrate academic ability, relevant experience and a clear reason for choosing the programme.

Candidates should avoid using generic motivation letters for multiple courses. Instead, they should explain how the curriculum, universities, mobility opportunities and specialisations offered by a particular Erasmus Mundus programme align with their long-term career plans.

Recommendation letters should ideally come from professors, academic supervisors or professionals who can provide specific examples of the applicant’s abilities and achievements.

Applying early can also give candidates enough time to resolve technical issues, arrange missing documents and carefully review their application before submission.

Why Choose Erasmus Mundus in 2027?

For students who want more than a traditional overseas master’s degree, Erasmus Mundus offers an opportunity to combine academic study with international mobility.

Participants can study at prestigious institutions, experience different European cultures, work with students from around the world and develop an international professional network.

The financial support available through Erasmus Mundus scholarships can make European postgraduate education accessible to talented students from diverse economic and geographic backgrounds.

Students planning to apply for the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 should begin researching programmes early, shortlist suitable courses and prepare their academic documents and motivation letters well before application deadlines.

For ambitious graduates seeking international education, research exposure and global career opportunities, Erasmus Mundus remains one of Europe’s most attractive master’s scholarship programmes.

FAQs About Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027

1. Is the Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 fully funded?

Erasmus Mundus scholarships can provide substantial funding toward participation costs, living expenses, travel, visa-related expenses and installation costs. The exact scholarship structure should be checked on the official webpage of the selected master’s programme.

2. When will Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027 applications open?

Application dates vary by programme. Many programmes typically accept applications during the months preceding the academic intake, with several 2027 scholarship deadlines expected around December 2026 and January 2027. Students should confirm the exact dates with their selected consortium.

3. Can Indian students apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027?

Yes. Erasmus Mundus programmes welcome international applicants, including students from India, provided they meet the eligibility and admission requirements of the selected programme.

4. Is IELTS compulsory for Erasmus Mundus?

Not for every programme. Some Erasmus Mundus programmes require IELTS, TOEFL or another recognised English proficiency test, while others may accept alternative evidence of English proficiency. Requirements depend on the individual programme.

5. Can final-year students apply for Erasmus Mundus Scholarship 2027?

Final-year undergraduate students may apply to eligible programmes if they are able to complete their bachelor’s degree before the Erasmus Mundus master’s programme begins.