The University of Western Australia (UWA), ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, is all set to launch its first-ever campus in India, with Mumbai chosen as the flagship location. This marks a historic moment as UWA becomes the first Group of Eight (Go8) Australian university—Australia’s equivalent to the Ivy League—to establish a physical presence in India.
The announcement was made at the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) held at the Jio World Centre, Mumbai. UWA Chancellor Diane Smith-Gander shared the vision following high-level discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
Why India, Why Now?
India is experiencing an unprecedented transformation in higher education. According to recent estimates, India’s education sector is projected to grow by 60% in the next 10 years, fueled by rising demand for international standards in teaching, research, and innovation.
As the world’s second-largest innovation ecosystem, India offers fertile ground for global academic partnerships. UWA’s expansion aligns with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes international collaboration and access to global learning.
Mumbai to Host World-Class Programs
UWA’s Mumbai campus will offer a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in STEM, Business, and the Creative Industries, including exclusive offerings from the renowned UWA Conservatorium of Music.
Subject to approvals from the University Grants Commission (UGC) and UWA’s Senate, the university is also exploring plans for additional campuses in Tamil Nadu.
Chief Minister Fadnavis welcomed the development, stating:
“Mumbai and Navi Mumbai are rapidly emerging as global education and innovation hubs. UWA’s presence will further strengthen Maharashtra’s position on the international academic map.”
What This Means for Indian Students
UWA is known for academic excellence, top-tier research, and strong global employability. Ranked 77th globally, the university is consistently placed in the top 1% of institutions worldwide. Its alumni network includes Prime Ministers, High Court Judges, Nobel Laureates, and Fields Medalist Akshay Venkatesh.
Indian students will benefit from:
- Dual-Campus Opportunities: Option to study in both India and UWA’s Perth campus.
- Global Curriculum: Delivered by international faculty and aligned with global industry needs.
- Strong Employability Outcomes: UWA holds the top rank in graduate employability in Western Australia.
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Long-Standing Ties, Stronger Future
UWA has been deeply engaged with India for years through joint research and academic partnerships in agriculture, plant sciences, and business. The India campus is an extension of this collaboration, focused on making world-class education accessible to more students in South Asia.
Chancellor Diane Smith-Gander added:
“India is not just a market for us—it is a partner in knowledge, innovation, and global impact. Through this campus, we reaffirm our commitment to building a shared academic future.”
UWA’s India campus is set to reshape the international education landscape for Indian students—delivering global degrees, right at home.
