The University Grants Commission (UGC) has announced new regulations requiring all foreign nationals studying at Indian Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to register on the Study in India (SII) portal starting from the 2025–26 academic year. This initiative aims to centralize foreign student data and link study visas to the SII portal, enhancing monitoring, safety, and compliance.
Background
Until now, foreign students typically applied directly to individual institutions, which also assisted with their visa processes. However, the absence of a centralized database made it difficult to track student movements and address security and visa overstay concerns.
To address these issues, the Ministry of Education has directed the UGC to enforce mandatory registration of foreign students on the SII portal.
Objectives of SII Portal Registration
The SII portal aims to:
- Establish a unified system for managing data on foreign students.
- Link study visas to student records for real-time tracking.
- Streamline the admission and visa processes for both students and institutions.
- Enhance student safety and campus security through improved oversight.
Role of Higher Education Institutions (HEIs)
All HEIs admitting foreign students must:
- Register on the SII portal.
- Appoint a Compliance Officer to oversee the implementation of SII guidelines.
- Ensure proper accommodation, security, and support systems for foreign students.
- Facilitate smooth coordination of admissions and visa procedures.
Impact on Foreign Student Influx
States like Karnataka anticipate a rise in foreign student enrollment, especially in Bengaluru, which is attracting international institutions like:
- Imperial College London
- University of Liverpool
- University of Wolverhampton (planning a local campus)
The SII portal will assist these institutions in efficiently managing the growing foreign student population.
Benefits of Centralized Foreign Student Data
- Improved tracking of foreign students throughout their academic stay.
- Reduced visa overstays and mitigation of associated legal issues.
- Enhanced ability for institutions to plan accommodations and student welfare.
- Promotes transparency and accountability in foreign admissions.
Conclusion:
The UGC’s move to centralize foreign student registration through the SII portal marks a significant step toward strengthening India’s higher education ecosystem. By improving oversight and streamlining processes, it promises to make India a more secure and attractive destination for international students.