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India

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At a glance

Living index rating
Very affordable
Monthly rent
₹5,000 – ₹15,000 for a university hostel; shared flats in big cities ₹10,000 – ₹25,000
Monthly food
₹5,000 – ₹10,000 (hostel mess often cheaper)
Other monthly expenses
₹3,000 – ₹7,000 (transport, phone, internet, personal)
Visa processing time
e-Student visa usually a few days to 2 weeks; regular student visa 2 – 6 weeks
Family allowed for students
Yes

Visa requirements

  • Register on the 'Study in India' (SII) portal and get an SII ID, then apply online for an e-Student visa (or a regular student visa) at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  • Admission letter from an Indian institution
  • Passport, photo and proof of funds or scholarship
  • Register online with the FRRO (e-FRRO) within 14 days of arriving if your visa is valid for over 180 days
  • International students can't work; required internships need approval from your institution and the FRRO
  • OCI cardholders don't need a student visa

Work permit after studies

  • No post-study work visa
  • Foreign graduates need a job offer and an Employment (E) visa, usually with a minimum salary threshold

Citizenship route

  • India has no general permanent residence for foreign students (OCI status is for people of Indian origin)
  • Citizenship by naturalisation needs 12 years of residence (the last 12 months continuously) and giving up other citizenship

Family details

  • Spouses and children of e-Student visa holders can apply for an e-Student-X visa to accompany you
  • Dependants can't work in India

Universities in India

Top-ranked

All other universities and colleges (1442), A–Z

This guide is for general information. Visa and immigration rules change often, so always check the official government website before you apply. Last updated 6 October 2026.