Mumbai University approves PhD programmes for international students

The decision was taken by the Academic Council and comes following a request from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, which had urged universities to expand research opportunities for foreign students

Mumbai: The University of Mumbai has approved PhD programmes for international students, a move aimed at boosting global participation in higher education.

International students can now apply for PhD programmes across various postgraduate departments of Mumbai University (Hindustan Times)

The decision was taken by the Academic Council and comes following a request from the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, which had urged universities to expand research opportunities for foreign students.

With this, international students can apply for PhD programmes across various postgraduate departments of the university.

The move assumes significance as the number of international students at the university continues to rise. In the 2025–26 academic year, around 258 students from countries including Canada, the UK, South Africa, Yemen, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Qatar, Nepal and Sri Lanka secured admission to various courses at the university.

To streamline admissions, the university will implement a Single Window System, offering services such as online applications, document verification, eligibility checks and allotment to colleges or departments on a single platform. The system will also guide students on visa and FRRO procedures, officials said, adding that it will reduce delays and improve transparency.

As per eligibility criteria, candidates must have at least 55% marks or an equivalent grade in their postgraduate degree in the relevant subject, along with a minimum of 50% in the entrance or Research Aptitude Test. Final selection will be based on an online interview.

Vice-chancellor Ravindra Kulkarni said the university aims to position itself as a global research destination.

“The introduction of PhD programmes for international students is an important step. It will strengthen the university’s global standing and create opportunities for students from different countries to undertake quality research,” he said.

The university had earlier introduced the Single Window System for international students in undergraduate and postgraduate courses. With the inclusion of PhD programmes, officials said the system is expected to be further strengthened.