UK Universities to Open Campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City by 2026
UK Universities to Open Campuses in Gujarat’s GIFT City by 2026
PC: Baim Hanif/ Unsplash
In a major boost to India’s higher education sector, two prominent UK universities such as Coventry University and the University of Surrey have announced plans to establish independent campuses in Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City). This move aligns with India’s New Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which enables top foreign institutions to operate independently within the country.
Coventry University: First UK Institution with In-Principle Approval
Coventry University is set to become the first English university to receive official approval to launch a branch campus in GIFT City. Backed by the International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA), the campus is scheduled to welcome its first batch of students by 2026.
The initial academic offerings will include:
BSc (Hons) in International Business Management
BSc (Hons) in Business and Finance
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Coventry’s India campus will mirror the UK curriculum and emphasize industry-aligned education, work-integrated learning, and research in fintech, AI, and sustainable business practices. The initiative is expected to provide Indian students with global-level education at a lower cost, while creating new avenues for internships and collaboration within GIFT City’s financial and tech ecosystem.
This development was officially announced at the 13th UK-India Economic and Financial Dialogue held on 9 April 2025 at the London Stock Exchange, attended by top dignitaries including UK Chancellor Rachel Reeves and India’s Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
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University of Surrey to Launch AI and Cybersecurity Programs
The University of Surrey, ranked among the world’s top 300 universities, has also confirmed its plans to open a campus in GIFT City by 2026- 27. The campus will initially offer programs in:
Artificial Intelligence
Finance
Cybersecurity
According to Vice Chancellor Gaoqing Max Lu, Surrey is ranked number one in the UK for AI programs. The new campus will focus on meeting India’s local industry needs while also offering semester exchange opportunities with the UK campus. Faculty will be drawn from both India and the UK to ensure academic excellence and global exposure.
Significance for Indian Students and NEP 2020
These developments signal a transformative shift in India’s global education landscape. Indian students will soon gain access to world-class degrees without needing to go abroad, saving significantly on travel and living costs. It also reduces the country’s reliance on outbound student migration while elevating India’s profile as an international education hub.
The entry of Coventry and Surrey into GIFT City follows similar moves by Deakin University and reflects the growing global interest in India’s education reforms. Both universities are expected to attract a diverse pool of Indian and international students, offering globally relevant skills in finance, business, and emerging technologies.
