The University of Surrey is set to open a world-class International Branch Campus at Gujarat International Finance Tec (GIFT) City in western India, to be delivered in collaboration with transnational education group GUS Global Services (GGS).
Professor GQ Max Lu, President and Vice-Chancellor at the university, and Dr Sharad Mehra, CEO of Global University Systems (GUS) Asia Pacific, announced the collaborative project on the sidelines of the QS India Summit 2025 in Goa this week.
Professor Max Lu said: “The University of Surrey campus at GIFT City will be a shining example of British education excellence and impact, contributing to transnational education in a more globalised world. We are proud and excited to be part of the GIFT City story, where we’ll combine India’s strengths in the global financial sector with the University of Surrey’s academic and teaching competencies in business, finance and computer science.
“Students can look forward to a world-class education delivered at the heart of a thriving new international finance and technology powerhouse for the region. Together we’ll be contributing to the skills and growth agendas of both our countries.”
The project, which is at an advanced stage of pre-delivery, is contingent on regulatory approval from Gujarat’s International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) under the International Branch Campus Regulations – in place to position GIFT City as an Indian hub for international higher education providers. Professor Lu and representatives from GGS will also be meeting with IFSCA in GIFT City to progress discussions.
Dr Mehra said: “This initiative seeks to expand world-class academic standards and global learning experiences available in India. It will offer Indian students the opportunity to access transformative education without leaving the country.
“The collaboration aligns with India's higher education goals, such as improving global competitiveness, offering world-class education locally, and contributing to the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020’s emphasis on internationalisation.”
MORE LIKE THIS…
Delivery of the new India campus will be a partnership combining the University of Surrey’s teaching and research excellence in business, international finance, computer science, cyber-security and other areas aligned with the strategic vision of GIFT City with GGS India’s proven capabilities as a strategic partner for higher education providers. All teaching and academic assurance will be delivered and led by University of Surrey staff. Ancillary services, such as strategic advice on India entry, student enrolment, campus establishment and operations management, will be provided by GGS, ensuring a seamless setup and operational excellence.
Aaron Etingen, Chief Executive Officer of Global University Systems (GUS), said: "This strategic partnership between the University of Surrey and Global University Systems in GIFT City, Gujarat, India presents a significant milestone. We are proud to take part in supporting India’s most talented young people to secure access to a truly world class educational experience.
“University of Surrey with its unique and proven educational model is constantly highly ranked in all major global rankings. Students choose University of Surrey for its quality and all-round excellence, forging our students into world class professionals highly sought after by quality international employers. GUS is uniquely positioned with many years of experience educating 140,000 students a year and operating universities in UK, India, Germany and Canada."
MORE LIKE THIS…
The University of Surrey and GGS said they are working closely with officials from the British High Commission and the British Council in India on the project, which will help cement ties between the two countries in close alignment with the government of India priorities to expand education and become a global knowledge superpower. The UK government has also expressed an appetite for collaboration across a range of scientific priorities and opportunities to drive greater growth for both countries.