Mumbai University (MU) has experienced a significant increase in international student enrollment, with a 128% rise over the past five years. From 113 international students in the 2021-22 academic year, the number surged to 258 in 2025-26.
This growth has also led to a broader international student base, with students now originating from 61 countries, a substantial increase from 29 countries five years ago. These students come from diverse nations including the UK, Canada, South Korea, Philippines, UAE, and Switzerland.
The majority of this year’s international students (over 60%) are self-funded, while the rest are on scholarships through Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the International Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). While many have enrolled in master’s programs like psychology, sociology, mass communication, and social work within the university’s departments, there’s also strong interest in undergraduate programs at affiliated colleges. Popular choices include BSc in IT, computer science, biotechnology, and BCom in accounting and finance, and financial markets.
Two students from Thailand, Natnapa Sukmee and Hongleart Kobponchareon, are pursuing an MA in Hindi at MU through an ICCR scholarship. Sukmee noted a high demand for Hindi teachers in Thailand due to a growing interest in Hindi and Indian culture. She expressed her intention to return to Thailand to teach the language after completing her studies, adding that her affinity for Indian culture and the hospitality of its people influenced her decision to study in India.
Aavishkar Avinesh Ratnam from the Fiji Islands, whose great-grandparents migrated from Tamil Nadu as indentured laborers, left a lucrative job to pursue higher education in India. He plans to pursue a PhD in physics after his master’s, viewing his studies as a way to connect with his Indian roots.
Mumbai University is actively cultivating a supportive environment for foreign students. This includes a single-window system and various student support schemes. The university conducts approximately 13 “Study in Mumbai University” awareness programs annually, participates in national campaigns, and engages in cross-border digital marketing. By offering courses at affordable fees, MU aims to attract more international students. The university is also working towards offering joint degree programs with international universities.
