The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced a new directive requiring all international students pursuing education in India’s higher education institutions (HEIs) to register on the new Study In India (SII) portal. This mandate, which also applies to HEIs admitting foreign nationals, will take effect from the academic year 2025-26.
Under this updated framework, study visas for international students will be linked directly to the SII portal, departing from the previous system where individual HEIs assisted with visa procurement. The UGC’s action, directed by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, also instructs HEIs to designate a Compliance Officer. This officer will be responsible for ensuring adherence to SII program guidelines, facilitating the admission and visa processes for international students, and overseeing their welfare and appropriate stay on campus. The initiative aims to centralize information for better accommodation, protection, and monitoring of international students.
Source: www.thehindu.com