Illinois Institute of Technology, a technology-focused university based in Chicago, has received formal approval from India’s University Grants Commission to open a new campus in Mumbai. This makes it the first American university authorized to establish a degree-granting campus in India.
The Mumbai campus is scheduled to begin welcoming students in fall 2026 and will offer undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as computer science, engineering, and business. The expansion is the result of more than two years of planning and builds on the university’s longstanding relationship with India, where it has cultivated a strong presence and a reputation for developing leaders in technology and innovation.
In recent years, U.S. foreign direct investment in India has more than doubled, with thousands of American companies expanding their operations across the region. Reflecting this trend, Illinois Tech has seen a more than 73 percent increase in graduate students from India over the past five years. The new campus aims to meet this growing demand by offering U.S.-accredited degrees in a format that is both affordable and adapted to the local context.
Students at the Mumbai campus will experience the same industry-aligned curriculum offered in Chicago, including access to the university’s Elevate program. This initiative guarantees students opportunities for hands-on research, internships, and other experiences that support career advancement. Courses will be led by faculty recruited globally, including professors from the university’s home campus in Chicago.
Graduates of Illinois Tech are recognized for their high earning potential and upward mobility. The university ranks first in Illinois and among the top 20 nationally in these categories, according to a 2023 ranking tool developed by The New York Times. It is also one of only five technology-focused institutions nationwide designated as an “Opportunity College and University” by the American Council on Education and the Carnegie Foundation. Among institutions in Illinois, Illinois Tech holds the highest eight-year median earnings and earnings ratio.
The Mumbai campus will also offer cross-campus study opportunities, allowing students in both the U.S. and India to collaborate on research, build international networks, and gain exposure to global perspectives. This initiative reflects the university’s broader commitment to preparing students for success in an interconnected global economy.
