Study in India: the ultimate guide for a Short Course in 2024
India

The Ultimate Guide to Studying in India in 2024

Browse all short courses in India

  • Jul-May Academic Year
  • 4 Listed Institutes
  • 79 Ranked Universities
  • 49,000 Int. Students
  • 38,874,000 Students
  • 1,406,632,000 Population

Study in India

What’s it like studying in the country with the second-highest population, the country with the most populous democracy, and the country that has six total national religions? Probably unlike anything you’ve experienced before. Is it possible to get an overload of culture? Let’s hope not, because that’s precisely how it feels to pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s in India.

For decades, students from all over the world have imagined themselves swimming in this endless stream of diverse music, food, and art that exist together in India’s massive landscape. Such an environment also makes studying there both exciting and hugely enriching.

Why Study in India?

1. Studying and living in India is cheap

In India, there are over 800 universities, so it's not surprising that tuition fees vary significantly. Still, as a general rule, they are much more affordable when compared to fees at Western universities.

International students usually pay anywhere between 150 and 5,000 EUR per academic year. Living costs are also very low, usually between 150 and 300 EUR based on your lifestyle and habits.

2. Follow in the footsteps of Indian CEOs

Sundar Pichai (CEO of Google), Satya Nadella (CEO of Microsoft), Shantanu Narayen (CEO of Adobe) — these are only some of the successful Indians who, at the time of writing this, are in charge of some of the biggest tech companies in the world.

What else do they have in common? They first graduated with a degree from an Indian university. Now, we're not trying to say that by studying in India you'll one day be like them.

But maybe there's something in the Indian education system and culture, something that helps or motivates people to achieve success, especially in the field of Engineering and Technology — and maybe you can also benefit from that by studying at an Indian university.

3. India has one of the fastest growing economies

India is among the top 10 largest economies in the world based on the GDP (gross domestic product). Its economy has actually been growing at a rate of 7–8% in the last years.

Now, this doesn't mean all is fine and dandy. A large part of the population is still struggling with poverty and lack of education or proper healthcare, especially in rural areas.

What we're trying to say is that India has a lot of potential, both economically and socially. You can be one of the people who bring positive change by staying and working in India, at least for a while after graduation.

4. Explore the profoundly unique Indian culture

The Indian history and especially culture are very rich and colourful. India is often referred to as "The Land of a Thousand Gods", because in addition to big deity names like Brahma, Vishnu, or Shiva, there are literally hundreds of other gods and goddesses with different roles and importance in their culture.

It is often said that in every village they worship (or at least used to) a different god. That's because in the traditional Indian culture, gods were only seen as a stepping stone, a way to achieve something much more important: enlightenment or ultimate liberation.

Fun fact: there are over 2 million Hindu temples still standing nowadays!

5. Discover yoga where it all began

The Western world largely views yoga as a form of physical exercise.

However, in India, this ancient practice in considered a powerful system for general wellbeing and health on all levels: body, mind, emotions, and energy. Even modern-day science is slowly discovering more and more benefits to practising yoga regularly.

Unfortunately, there are many yoga variations out there that have been altered too much (e.g. we now have 'beer yoga') and have moved too far away from the initial purpose of the practice.

So if you want to learn real traditional yoga, the way it has been taught and preserved for thousands of years, finding an ashram (e.g. Isha Yoga Centre) or an Indian yoga master is your best bet.

What is it like to study in India?

Several students who have studied in India talk about the method of learning that they are not used to. In India, professors commonly apply what is called rote learning; it’s a method of memorising a series of facts, terms, and equations, word-for-word, by repetition. So, rather than asking students to offer their own explanation for something, testing is based on how well you took notes and remembered precisely what your professors taught you.

This could be a challenge to students who are used to a more discussion-based setting, or a setting where they are asked to understand more conceptual knowledge. So, be prepared to have a lot of definitions or terms thrown at you, that you will simply have to parrot back in precise form.

Universities in India also place a strong emphasis on leadership. That is, they’re interested in creating managers, CEOs, teachers, and mayors of the next generation. So, your classrooms will be largely devoted to giving you lessons on how to be an effective leader who knows how to take charge.

What to Study in India?

In India, students can find pretty much any subject they are interested in. There isn’t necessarily a rule for picking a discipline that you’re interested in; but we can share some of the options that are quite popular among international students.

Where to study in India?

India is quite a massive, diverse country, with a lot of regional differences, traditions, and customs. There are some big cities and some smaller villages. But, major cities that come to mind are:

  • Bombay
  • Kolkata
  • Delhi
  • Hyderabad

Which universities to attend in India?

Universities in India have quite a long history, and many of them follow the old British models. There are several dozen options to pick from. But here is a list of some universities we like:

How to apply

When you’ve selected the programme that you want to study, you merely have to use the official website from the university of your choice, and submit your materials there.

Be sure to prepare the following materials ready for your application:

  • A scan of your degree(s)/diploma(s)
  • Your CV
  • The transcripts or records the courses you have taken
  • A scanned copy of your diploma (high school or Bachelor’s)
  • A scan of your passport
  • Testing scores
  • A motivation letter and/or personal statement
  • An indication of your financial situation and ability to support your studies

Helpful ways to make sure you qualify for an Indian university

Take Preparation Courses

These kinds of courses enable degree-seeking students to get an extra educational boost just before they start their Master’s degree or other post-graduate degree programmes.

Try a pre-M.B.A., pre-Law, or pre-Medicine programme, as well as any other foundation or preparation courses that will allow you to study in the degree programme of your choice.

Improve your English through an English-language prep course

If you’re attending a degree programme in India, you will need to prove that your language skills are good enough to participate in the classes and understand the lectures. These courses will also prepare you for any of the English-language tests that universities require.

English-language tests

To apply to study in India, you’ll need to provide proof you have a diploma for your English proficiency.

The certificates generally accepted by the universities in India are:

Still, you should always check on your university’s website, just to be sure what the exact requirements are.

Living in India

Let's take a closer look at tuition and living expenses in India:

University tuition fees

India has one of the largest higher education systems in the world, with over 800 universities and 39,000 colleges. Given the vast number of institutions (both public and private), it's not surprising that tuition fees vary significantly.

Still, Indian universities are quite affordable when compared to similar institutions from other popular study destinations. On average, students usually pay:

  • between 150 and 5,000 EUR/year at public universities
  • up to (and sometimes over) 10,000 EUR/year at private universities

Even at public universities, some programmes in Engineering or Medicine can cost 6,000–7,000 EUR/year.

Cost of Living in India

India is amazingly cheap to live in, even if you find yourself in one of the big cities like Mumbai or New Delhi.

Here is a breakdown of prices you’ll find in India:

  • Accommodation (international or combined hostels): usually provided by the university; if all places are taken, the institution will help you find an affordable alternative
  • Accommodation (rent flat): 85–330 EUR/month
  • Utilities: 30–45 EUR/month
  • Monthly transport pass: 8 EUR
  • Three-course meal for 2 people at a mid-range restaurant: 9 EUR
  • Milk: 0.57 EUR
  • Loaf of bread: 0.40 EUR

About India

The Republic of India is a country in South Asia. The name 'India' is derived from the River Indus, the valleys around which were the home of the early settlers. One of the earliest civilizations, the Indus Valley civilization flourished on the Indian subcontinent from c. 2600 B.C. to c. 2000 B.C.

Interesting Facts about India
  • Every few years the Kumbh Mela – a massive Hindu pilgrimage -  is held on the Ganges river bank. It is the world’s largest gathering of humans (bringing in a whopping 200 million people), and is visible from outer space.
  • The world’s biggest family lives in India; a man with 39 wives and 94 children. And you thought your holidays were hectic.
  • India has the lowest meat consumption per person.
  • The discovery of water on the moon was actually discovered in 2009 by India’s ISRO Chandrayaan- 1 using its Moon Mineralogy Mapper.
  • Around 100 Million years ago, India was actually an island.

Universities, colleges and schools in India

Bengalore

Gurgaon

Hariana

Hyderabad

Jaipur

Mumbai

New Delhi

Noida

How to Apply to a Master's in India

If you've decided to study a Master's degree at a university in India, you will have to gather the right documents to prove that you fit the university requirements. Provide complete personal information, previous qualifications, financial information, and a personal statement.

What documents do I need to provide to apply in India?

To apply to a university in India you will likely be asked to provide some of the following documents:

  • birth certificate;
  • recent photos;
  • your passport or national identity card;
  • one or more reference letters from past employers or teachers;
  • copies of past diplomas or certificates, including your graduated Bachelor's degree;
  • academic transcripts;
  • letter of intent;
  • Curriculum Vitae;
  • Some form of proof that you can support your stay in the country during your studies.

Depending on the subject or specialization of your chosen Master's, you might also be asked to provide scores for additional tests like the GRE, GMAT or LSAT. Check if your programme requires any of these, or others.

The list of documents depends on the specific requirements of universities in India so you might be asked to include additional documents. It’s also likely you’ll have to provide official English translations of your documents, or translations in the local language.

Prove your English skills

Because you’ll study an international degree in English, you'll have to present a language certificate. Some popular options for international students are IELTS, TOEFL or C1 Advanced language certificates. You’ll have to meet a minimum language score set by the university, and your test scores shouldn’t be older than 1-2 years. If you don’t meet the minimum language requirements, you will have to improve your skills and scores by taking an English preparation course.

Application deadlines for India

The deadlines for applying to a Master's in India are usually during summer (June-July), or in winter (January-February). Keep in mind that some universities don’t have application deadlines, which means you can apply whenever you are ready.

To avoid delays or missed deadlines send your required documents with plenty of time in advance.

Interesting programmes for you

Find Short Courses in India

What subject to study in India?

Numerous education initiatives in the world were formed to promote international cooperation and academic exchange between universities as well as attract students and staff worldwide. This focus on international student education provides high quality programmes in various fields of study and prepares students for future careers anywhere in the world.

Studying, for instance, in Australia, Asia, Europe or America represents a wide range of opportunities to see the world and interact with other students from different countries. Different study options allow students to hold a job during their study years in order to pay for their education, if they wish to do so. Online programmes help you get an international education without having to leave home.

The number of English-taught short courses in Asia, Australia, Europe and The United States are continuously rising in popularity in the last few years. Many countries offer English-taught study programmes, including: Australia, China, Denmark, Finland, Belgium, Italy, Switzerland, France, Spain, Sweden, Germany, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, the United States and more. Other English short courses may be found in the rest of the European countries as well.

Short courses / Summer Courses

Short courses offer a great variety of subjects for a short and fixed period. This period can vary between a week to six weeks, depending on country, institution and course. This is an excellent opportunity to gain academic, cultural and social experience if you are not able to access long-term study opportunities. A wide variety of countries and institutions offer summer and short courses in all kinds of subject areas. It is a great opportunity to get some background information for your own research, to learn a language or to gain knowledge on a related topic.

Sometimes summer and short courses provide students with short-term housing. Therefore, it is useful to find out if housing is included in the fee of the summer or short course you wish to apply for.

Discover other countries

Netherlands
Netherlands
The Netherlands is a very popular study destination. Internationals choose this beautiful country because Dutch universities are some of the best in Europe, the living standards are high, foreigners are always welcome, and you get to live in one of the happiest and safest countries in the world. The Netherlands is also renowned for innovative technologies and engineering solutions, which is reflected in the wide range of Engineering degrees offered by universities. English is spoken by around 90% of Dutch citizens, so forget about language barriers. Also, bike lanes and the “cycling culture” will help you to stay fit and healthy, and there are diverse job opportunities and internships for international students.
Finland
Finland
Finland is an excellent choice for all internationals and especially for EU/EEA students who can study at local public universities for free. The beautiful Nordic country has one of the best education systems in the world and ranks among the safest and happiest nations in the world. You can also choose from over 400 English-taught programmes. In your spare time, you can explore the breathtaking Finnish nature and landscapes, as well as the numerous lakes that give the country the nickname ‘The Land of a Thousand Lakes.’ From here, you can easily travel to neighbouring countries like Norway, Denmark, Sweden, Russia, or Estonia.
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is among the top countries in the world in terms of quality of life, peace, safety, and development. It represents an appealing blend of beautiful landscapes, English-speaking environments, and a strong, welcoming, and rich culture — of which the Irish people are very proud. International students also enjoy the full support of Irish universities, which hire and train staff that are able to help with accommodation, studies, visa details, or any other challenge.
Norway
Norway
Norway is a paradise for anyone who wants to study abroad for free. Public universities don’t charge any tuition fees. This policy applies to all international students, regardless of their nationality. The academic standard is very high, and professors are easy to approach, always willing to go the extra mile for their students. Additionally, classes are organised in small groups, which further improves learning and cooperation. You can choose from a wide range of English-taught programmes, and you don’t need to worry about language barriers outside of classes either, because most Norwegians speak English as a second language. Internationals should find it easy to adapt to Norway’s society, which is based on equality and fair opportunities — reflected both in the legal system and in people’s behaviour.
Greece
Greece
Greece is the cradle of European civilization and the birthplace of philosophy. Greek universities and colleges have a long history in academics, attracting international students from all over the world. Classes are not typically formal, so you can expect open discussions between students and professors, in line with the classical philosophical debate tradition. EU/EEA students don’t pay any tuition at public universities, while non-EU/EEA citizens pay low fees. In Greece, you’ll also enjoy the well-known local hospitality and the wonderful Mediterranean climate. There are many landmarks and monuments waiting to be explored, including the Acropolis, Delphi, the Parthenon, and many others.
Sweden
Sweden
Sweden is a very ambitious, eco-friendly, and visionary country. For example, by 2040, it aims to produce all its energy from renewable sources. Universities play an important role in achieving development goals, thanks to their world-class research facilities. If you’re from the EU/EEA, you can study at public universities for free. As a student, you will discover and easily adopt the three main values of Swedish society: freedom, equality, and sustainability. These values are reflected in every aspect of the local society, and you’ll quickly learn to appreciate them. Language barriers are also almost non-existent since around 80% of Swedes speak English.
Switzerland
Switzerland
Switzerland has one of the most advanced free-market economies, which is reflected in the high living standards and the satisfaction of people living here. In terms of higher education, Swiss universities are constantly ranked among the best in Europe, and they shine in areas like Business, Tourism, Culinary Arts, and Engineering. When compared to Western universities, tuition fees in Switzerland are affordable, and all studies — especially PhD programmes — are world-class. You’ll have the opportunity to develop in a multilingual environment and try learning international languages like German, French, or Italian. If you settle down here, the unemployment rates are low, and salaries are well above the European average.
United Kingdom
United Kingdom
Universities in the UK are some of the most highly regarded in the world, and for good reasons. Some of the world's most highly regarded research takes place in British universities, which are regularly featured in international rankings. While studying in the UK, you will be able to develop in a highly multicultural environment with high chances of pursuing lucrative careers after graduation. The teaching in the UK is designed to encourage new idea generation, encouraging individual research and group cooperation, through class discussions and creative assignments.
Canada
Canada
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations in the world due to its high focus on the quality of its universities and its emphasis on attracting international students who can later immigrate. Canadians are very welcoming to international students and they invest a lot into making sure students are safe, treated fairly, and enjoy their stay in the country. Study in one of the strongest economies in the world while enjoying a high living standard and a flexible study environment. Classes have smaller student groups ensuring everyone gets the attention they need, and encouraging group assignments and debates.
United States
United States
The United States is home to some of the most prestigious universities and colleges in the world. With over 150 universities featured in international rankings, the U.S. has some of the best business schools, medical schools, and engineering schools. Universities and colleges in the U.S. are well known for academic flexibility and ways to customize your study experience with optional studies and extracurricular activities. Depending on where you will be studying, you will be able to visit iconic places like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Goldengate Bridge, The Grand Canyon, Mount Rushmore, Disney's Magic Kingdom Park, and much more.
Israel
Israel
Israel attracts international students through high standards of education and a wide range of English-taught degrees. Local universities shine in areas like Technology, Sciences, Business, and Entrepreneurship. In fact, Israel is a renowned land of innovation, having earned itself the nickname ‘Start-Up Nation’. While living and studying here, you will discover a wonderful culture developed throughout 4,000 years of history; different cultural influences are noticeable everywhere, especially in Israeli food, art, and history. In major cities, English is widely spoken, so communication shouldn’t be a problem. In your spare time, you can visit one of the over 400 nature reserves and 80 national parks.
Australia
Australia
By studying in Australia you will take advantage of the great student environment both inside and outside classrooms. In addition to some of the best business and engineering schools in the world, you will be able to explore a greatly developed country that still retains its wild side with its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and the Great Outback, with over 500 national parks. Many Australian universities provide internships and work placements, preparing students early on for the job market.
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