As the world becomes more interconnected, the internationalization of higher education is reshaping how and where students learn. Indian universities, long regarded for their academic excellence, are now actively expanding their global footprint. While much of this growth has been centered in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia-Pacific, the next frontier appears to be North America — a region with immense opportunity and a strong Indian diaspora.

At ABKI Solutions, we’re closely tracking this exciting shift as part of our commitment to connect students and institutions with the most forward-looking educational trends worldwide.

🌍 Current Global Presence of Indian Institutions

Over the past decade, top Indian universities and private institutions have established a growing presence beyond India’s borders. Here are some notable milestones:

IIT Zanzibar

In 2023, IIT Madras made history by launching its first international campus in Zanzibar, Tanzania, offering cutting-edge programs in Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. This marks a bold step in taking India’s world-class technical education to Africa.

IIM Dubai

IIM Ahmedabad has expanded into the Middle East through executive education programs in Dubai, aimed at serving working professionals and business leaders in the region.

🌏 S P Jain School of Global Management

Since 2004, S P Jain has operated globally with campuses in Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney, offering undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs that emphasize global business perspectives.

Amity University, New York

Amity University took a significant step into the U.S. market by acquiring a 170-acre campus in Oakdale, New York. Through a strategic partnership with Adelphi University, it now offers global MBA and graduate programs tailored for international students.

Prospects in North America: A Market Ripe for Opportunity

Despite these achievements, Indian universities have yet to establish a strong physical presence in North America — particularly in the U.S. and Canada. But the potential is clear:

• Large and growing Indian diaspora seeking culturally resonant and globally relevant education

• High demand for alternative and innovative education models in fields like technology, business, and healthcare

• Opportunities for partnerships with American and Canadian institutions for dual-degree programs, joint research, and faculty exchange

North America represents a high-potential market not just for attracting Indian students, but for branding Indian higher education as a global force.

⚠️ Challenges and Strategic Considerations

While the opportunity is great, so are the challenges. Indian universities looking to expand into North America must consider:

• Complex regulatory and accreditation systems in both the U.S. and Canada

• Substantial investment requirements for infrastructure, staffing, and compliance

• Strong local competition from well-established institutions

• Cultural and academic alignment to meet the expectations of diverse student populations

These factors make expansion into North America a long-term strategic endeavor rather than a quick move.

🔭 Looking Ahead: The Future of Indian Universities in the West

The globalization of education is no longer just a trend — it’s the new norm. While Indian institutions have made significant inroads in the Middle East and Asia-Pacific, North America could be the next big leap.

Such an expansion would not only meet the academic needs of the Indian diaspora but also foster cross-cultural academic collaboration, enhance India’s global educational reputation, and create new pathways for innovation and research.

Though no official announcements have been made yet, the groundwork is being laid. With India’s focus on internationalization through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a North American presence seems increasingly within reach.

✨ Conclusion: Global Ambitions, Local Impact

As Indian higher education continues its outward journey, North America stands as a promising — though complex — destination. The move would signal a new chapter in the global recognition of Indian academic excellence.

At ABKI Solutions, we’re here to support students, institutions, and partners in navigating this evolving global landscape — from international admissions to cross-border collaborations.

Stay tuned with ABKI Solutions for the latest insights, expert guidance, and strategic support on global education trends.