University of Bristol to open first international campus in Mumbai

The University of Bristol is set to open its first ever international campus, having been granted approval by the Indian government to create a new campus in Mumbai.

Due to open in summer 2026, the Mumbai Enterprise Campus will aim to bring together industry, academics, students and local community partners.

Initial subjects taught at undergraduate and postgraduate level will focus on areas of global distinction for Bristol such as data science, economics, finance and investment, immersive arts and financial technology, expanding to computer science and AI, business and management.

The university is also planning to offer scholarships at the campus as part of its Think Big programme.

The university worked closely with partners and the Indian government to identify Mumbai as an “optimal location” due to the city’s strong reputation for technology, innovation and the arts.

It said that graduates from the Mumbai campus will “benefit from global-standard curricula and strong industry linkages, creating seamless pathways to international careers while strengthening India’s skilled workforce”.

Approval was officially granted in New Delhi at an event celebrating the fifth anniversary of India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, a framework aimed at modernising India’s education system.

Professor Evelyn Welch, vice chancellor and president of the University of Bristol, was formally presented with a letter of intent from Vineet Joshi, the honourable secretary higher education and acting chairman of the University Grants committee.

Professor Welch said: “We are absolutely delighted to announce our intention to create a new campus in Mumbai which marks a pivotal transformation in our 150-year history and a powerful, globally inclusive future we’re proud to build in partnership. Developing an in-country base has long been part of our international strategy and supports our ambition to be a top 50 global university.

“Less than two weeks ago, we launched the UK’s most powerful supercomputer in Bristol, and next year we will be opening the doors to our new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus. At such an important time for the University, we are pleased to develop partnerships across the globe which will have meaningful impact.”

Professor Michele Acuto, pro vice-chancellor for Global Engagement at the University of Bristol, added: “This is far more than a new location; it’s a purposeful extension of our vision to meet our learners and communities where they are, and to do so with respect, integrity, and deep local engagement that sets us apart as a global civic institution.

“We will do so from day one together with our local partners, to co-create a campus that stands as a global gateway connecting with the vibrant energy and innovation of Mumbai where business, technology and arts converge – reflecting and amplifying the international vision, interdisciplinary strengths and outward-facing spirit of our home institution. We look forward to sharing more detail on these exciting plans over the coming months as they develop.”