Study In India
Education in India is provided by the public sector as well as the private sector, with control and funding coming from three levels: central, state, and local. Taxila was the earliest recorded centre of higher learning in India from at least 5th century BCE and it is debatable whether it could be regarded a university or not. The Nalanda University was the oldest university-system of education in the world in the modern sense of university. As of 2009, India has 20 central universities, 215 state universities, 100 deemed universities, 5 institutions established and functioning under the State Act, and 33 institutes which are of national importance. Other institutions include 16000 colleges, including 1800 exclusive women’s colleges, functioning under these universities and institutions. The emphasis in the tertiary level of education lies on science and technology. Indian educational institutions by 2004 consisted of a large number of technology institutes. Distance learning is also a feature of the Indian higher education system As of 2011; there are 1522 degree-granting engineering colleges in India with an annual student intake of 582,000, plus 1,244 polytechnics with an annual intake of 265,000. However, these institutions face shortage of faculty and concerns have been raised over the quality of education.
FAQ for Study in India.
Why Study in India?
India has the second largest Higher Education System in the world offering the widest spectrum of courses. The quality of education offered by Indian Institutions is globally recognized. Cultural and Religious diversity on Indian campuses contributes towards the all round development. Besides a safe learning environment, the cost of education is very reasonable.
Tell me about Higher Education in India.
The Higher Education System of India comprises of more than 310 Universities and 15500 colleges of higher learning, which offers a wide variety of courses to suit the needs of international students. The academic programs are offered at Diploma, Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Doctoral levels.
Are the Programs offered by Indian Institutions Recognized?
The Universities / Institutions offering professional and technical courses in India need recognition by the national level statutory bodies established for the maintenance of quality standards in higher education system. Indian Degrees are recognized worldwide. Over 400 of the Fortune 500 companies recruit from Indian campuses regularly.
How do I choose a course?
Choosing a course is a matter of research and analysis. Many universities may offer a course in your chosen subject. You have to chart you geographical, climatic and locational preference, and analyze, apart from other things, the duration of the course, the fees, the living costs in that city, the faculty, the facilities, and the content of the course. Our professional counselors help to you in this matter.
What is the duration of the course?
Courses vary in their time schedules. Diploma courses are shorter that degree programs. Masters usually are about two years in duration and Bachelors for 3 or 4 years. Doctorate programs require longer time inputs. Similarly short-term certificate courses can be from a few weeks to a couple of months. Please consult individual program brochures for more details on the duration of a specific course.
What is the approximate cost of study?
The tuition fee depends upon the duration and type of course. Please refer to specific program brochures of the universities to get an idea of the exact cost.
What conditions do I have to meet if I want to study in India?
You must possess Senior Secondary / GCE `A’ level / any other examination equivalent to 12 years of schooling in India, with sufficient knowledge of English, for admission to undergraduate programs. However for entry into Diploma programs, the qualification required is 10 years of schooling. Admission to postgraduate courses requires an undergraduate degree in appropriate discipline.
Do I need to give GRE, GMAT, TOEFL, IELTS or any other test?
No. Indian Universities do not insist for the above scores. However, since the academic programs are taught in English, proficiency in English is a must. You should have studied for qualifying examination in English or English should have been one of the subjects.
When does the Indian Academic Year Start?
The academic year in India usually starts in the month of July. However, some institutions have the academic year beginning in August/September. You should contact KK Consultant for admission at least two months in advance of the commencement of the academic year.
Who will I turn to for advice when I am in India?
KK Consultant and most of the institutions have foreign student advisers.
What options of accommodation can I have during my Study?
Most institutions will provide hostel accommodation for the International students in the institute hostels. However, students who wish to stay outside can do so by finding an apartment, private hostels, share apartment etc.
Where do I stay and what kind of food can I expect to get?
Every university, which is part of the International students program, has prior arrangements to host you. This may either be in an existing hostel, or off campus in residential accommodation hired for this purpose. Whatever is the case, you will be explained about the facilities and the procedures involved in getting accommodation before leaving your country. India offers a wide variety of Indian, western and oriental cuisine. Most international students find it easy to adjust to food conditions here, and enjoy the flavors, aromas and the tastes that India offers.
Is there any health care facility for overseas students?
Most of the Indian Institutions have their own health centers where the students are treated for minor ailments. However, for specialized/major treatments, the students have to contact hospitals outside the campus. If students require, the institute will help the students to get a medical insurance cover. It is always advisable to get a medical insurance cover.
What is the Cost of Living in India?
The cost of food and accommodation varies marginally from city to city and again the university, which you intend to select for your study, is in the best position to offer you correct advice on this matter. Living expenses are minimal in India. You can live comfortably within US$ 100–200 approximately a month to cover food and other expenses.
Will I be able to get a Grant/Scholarship?
Indian Universities/Institutions do not provide grants for study. However, some institutions do offer fee concessions for Nationals from SAARC countries. Government of India offers scholarships for students from some of the developing countries. For details, please contact the Indian Diplomatic Mission in your country.
What is the procedure involved in coming to India for higher education?
For coming to India for higher education, you would require a student Visa. You need to produce confirmed letter of admission from University/Institution in India at the Indian diplomatic mission in your country for obtaining the student visa.
Who should I contact for further details on Study in India?
For all enquiries related to admissions contact our authorized representative in your country or contact KK Consultant directly on info@kkconsultant.com or visit us on www.kkconsultant.com
Do foreign students need to undergo any medical tests before coming to India?
All foreign students coming to India need to undergo a medical test for AIDS. The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) requires this test as a pre-requisite for obtaining the Residence Permit Form.
Is registration with FRRO office mandatory?
All PIO students staying in India longer than 6 months are required to register with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO). The following documents are required for registration:
• Photocopy of the passport and initial visa
• Four photographs of the applicant
• Details of residents in India
• HIV test report from one of the WHO recognized institutions for people in the age group of 15 to 60
• Bonafide certificate from the university/college/institution
• Proof of Bank Account/sufficient funds for non-scholarship students
Can foreign students with Indian Student Visa visit the restricted/prohibited areas?
Yes, foreign students can visit the restricted and prohibited areas in India after getting a valid Resident Permit, as visa alone is not sufficient to visit such places.
Will I be allowed to travel to other parts of the country?
There are no restrictions on students traveling around the country. Provided the course offers you the spare time, you can visit places of your choice and enjoy the experience of different people, cultures and lands.
Are there any students from my country studying in India?
At any given time, thousands of students from all over the world are studying in India. It is quite possible that there are students from your country as well. However, since India is very big geographically and universities are spread far and wide, you may not find someone from your country in your chosen university or chosen city.
I do not understand good English. How do I overcome this problem?
English is widely spoken in India. More people speak English here than the USA and the UK put together. You should be able to become more fluent in the use of the language while living here. However, should you feel you want to improve faster; you can join any number of English speaking courses that are available.
