Mallik Sundharam Vice President for Enrollment Management and Student Affairs | Illinois Institute Of Technology
Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech) has announced plans to establish a new campus in Mumbai, India, marking the first time a U.S. university has been approved by the University Grants Commission to open an independent degree-granting campus in the country. The campus is scheduled to welcome students in fall 2026 and will offer programs in computer science, engineering, and business.
"I am honored to welcome Illinois Tech to Mumbai, India," said Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra. "The New Education Policy introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has opened doors for highly reputable foreign higher educational institutions to offer degree programs in India—an important step toward retaining talent and supporting the country’s rapidly growing economic development."
The initiative aligns with India's National Education Policy 2020, which emphasizes international collaboration and quality higher education. "By establishing a presence in Mumbai, Illinois Tech is embracing the opportunity to meet learners in their local contexts while maintaining the high standards that define our institution," stated Mallik Sundharam, vice president for enrollment management and student affairs at Illinois Tech.
Raj Echambadi, president of Illinois Institute of Technology, emphasized the importance of this expansion: "Our new campus in India represents a profound opportunity to continue that noble mission in service of the millions of talented young people across India."
The Mumbai campus will mirror the academic rigor found at Illinois Tech's Chicago campuses and include its renowned Elevate program. This program guarantees students access to real-world experiences such as internships and research opportunities.
"Having begun my educational journey in Chennai and later earning a Ph.D. in the United States, I’ve witnessed firsthand the unparalleled opportunities offered by both education systems," Echambadi added.
Illinois Tech aims to cater to Indian students who wish to gain a globally recognized education without relocating abroad. Courses will be delivered by internationally recruited faculty, including visiting professors from Illinois Tech’s U.S. campuses.
"This milestone not only reflects Illinois Tech’s pioneering spirit but also underscores Mumbai’s role as India’s financial and innovation capital," Fadnavis noted.
Shri Somnath Ghosh, Consul General of India in Chicago, remarked on the significance of this development: "Illinois Tech’s proposed Mumbai campus—India’s first-ever American university campus to run STEM courses—embodies the visionary aspirations of the National Education Policy 2020."
The move is expected to empower India's youth and foster innovation through access to cutting-edge STEM education. Jamshyd Godrej, Chairman and Managing Director of Godrej & Boyce Manufacturing Company Limited, highlighted his personal connection: "The profound impact I was able to create through the Godrej brand in India stands as a testament to the education and experience I gained at Illinois Tech."
Sundharam expressed gratitude towards Indian authorities: "We extend our sincere gratitude...for opening the door to expand one of the world’s most sought-after and valuable exports—education—into India."
This development continues Illinois Tech's mission of democratizing access to experiential learning worldwide.