UNSW Sydney gets UGC approval to launch Bengaluru campus, admissions to begin in August 2026

University of New South Wales (UNSW) Sydney has received the letter of approval from the University Grants Commission (UGC) to establish its first international campus in India, paving the way for the Australian university to begin operations in Bengaluru from August 2026. The move marks a significant step in the expanding education partnership between India and Australia and comes at a time when more global universities are exploring opportunities in the country under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The UGC's letter of approval confirms that the proposed Bengaluru campus meets the regulatory and academic standards required for foreign universities operating in India. The approval is expected to provide confidence to prospective students and parents regarding the quality of education and overall learning experience at the new campus.

The campus will initially offer undergraduate programmes in business, computer science and data science, along with a master's degree in cyber security. Additional programmes are expected to be introduced in the coming years.

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The approval marks an important milestone for the university's plans in India. Students enrolling at the Bengaluru campus will receive an education aligned with the academic standards followed at UNSW Sydney.

UNSW Sydney bets on Bengaluru

Bengaluru's reputation as a technology and innovation hub played a key role in the decision to establish the campus there. The city offers strong links with industry and is expected to provide students with valuable exposure beyond the classroom.

The campus is situated within Embassy Manyata Business Park, home to several multinational and fortune 500 companies, including IBM, Nokia, ANZ, Cognizant and Rolls-Royce. This proximity is expected to create opportunities for internships, industry projects, networking and hands-on learning experiences.

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Beyond academics, the university says it aims to create a campus environment that encourages collaboration, innovation and personal development. Students will have access to learning experiences designed to combine theoretical knowledge with practical application.

Strengthens bilateral ties

The approval has also been welcomed as a positive development for the broader India-Australia education relationship, which has seen growing cooperation in recent years.

The launch of the Bengaluru campus adds to the growing presence of international universities in India and reflects increasing interest among foreign institutions in establishing a long-term footprint in the country under the UGC's framework for overseas universities.