India is not only known as the land of diverse culture, long history, and great spiritual heritage, but also as a rising hub of higher education. With more than 58,000 higher education institutions across the country, India is currently among the largest education systems in the world.

In recent years, the quality of Indian universities has improved significantly, with many institutions entering the QS and Times Higher Education rankings. Particularly, thanks to English-medium teaching, affordable tuition fees, and strong research strengths, Indian universities have gradually become attractive destinations for international students, including many young learners from Vietnam.

Let’s take a look at some of the most notable undergraduate institutions, recognized both nationally and internationally.

Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)

• Location: Mumbai, Maharashtra

• Ranking: 118th worldwide (QS 2025) – the highest among Indian institutions

• Strengths: Engineering, Technology, Computer Science, Mechanical, Electrical

IIT Bombay is considered the “beacon” of Indian technical education. With advanced laboratories, a highly reputed faculty, and a strong global alumni network, it stands at the forefront of innovation.

All programs are taught in English, making it particularly suitable for international students. Strong ties with major tech corporations and a vibrant research culture make IIT Bombay the top choice for STEM enthusiasts.

Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi)

• Location: New Delhi – the capital of India

• Ranking: 150th worldwide (QS 2025)

• Strengths: Information Technology, Computer Engineering, Chemical Engineering

Located in the heart of the capital, IIT Delhi embodies the dynamism of a major metropolitan hub. The institute is renowned for creative research, strong international collaborations, and close industry connections.

International students here not only receive a high-quality technical education but also gain access to a truly global academic environment.

Indian Institute of Science Bangalore (IISc Bangalore)

• Location: Bangalore, Karnataka

• Ranking: 211th worldwide (QS 2025), 201–250 group in THE 2025

• Strengths: Natural Sciences, Engineering, Interdisciplinary Research

Dubbed the “heart of research” in India, IISc is globally respected. While best known for postgraduate programs, its Bachelor of Science (BS) degree is one of the most prestigious choices for top-tier undergraduates.

Those passionate about physics, biology, aerospace, or interdisciplinary sciences will find IISc to be an ideal, open, and challenging academic environment.

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)

• Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu

• Ranking: 227th worldwide (QS 2025), ranked #1 in India by NIRF for several years

• Strengths: Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Mechanical, Aerospace

IIT Madras is the cradle of innovation and tech entrepreneurship. Its lush campus, modern infrastructure, and collaborations with leading universities in Germany, USA, and Japan give students access to globally connected education.

Not only does IIT Madras produce excellent engineers, but it also nurtures impactful tech start-ups shaping India’s future.

University of Delhi

• Location: New Delhi

• Ranking: 328th worldwide (QS 2025)

• Strengths: Social Sciences, Humanities, Economics, Commerce

As India’s leading comprehensive university, Delhi University hosts more than 26,000 students, including hundreds of internationals from over 70 countries.

Its prestigious colleges like St. Stephen’s, Hindu College, and SRCC have produced generations of leaders in politics, economics, and social sciences. Notably, DU ranks 44th globally in graduate employability, a key concern for international students.

All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS New Delhi)

• Location: New Delhi

• Ranking: 145 worldwide in Medicine (QS by Subject 2025)

• Strengths: Medicine, Dentistry, Nursing, Pharmacy

AIIMS is India’s pride in medical education. It is the country’s most prestigious medical school, with its own teaching hospital and Asia-leading medical research facilities.

The MBBS program is extremely competitive but serves as a launching pad for many renowned doctors. Its long-standing reputation attracts international students, especially from Asia and Africa.

Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

• Location: Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh

• Ranking: 801–1000 worldwide (QS 2020), recognized as an “Institute of Excellence”

• Strengths: Multidisciplinary – from Science, Engineering to Humanities and Religion

BHU is one of the oldest universities in India, rich in history and culture. Its prominent faculties include Physics, Chemistry, Philosophy, History, along with IIT-BHU and the Institute of Medical Sciences.

Beyond academics, BHU offers international students deep cultural immersion, especially in Indian Studies, Philosophy, and Arts.

Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani (BITS Pilani)

• Locations: Pilani (Rajasthan), Goa, Hyderabad, and an international campus in Dubai

• Ranking: 801–850 worldwide (QS 2025)

• Strengths: Engineering, Computer Science, Industrial Management

As India’s top private university, BITS Pilani offers American-style education emphasizing practice and industry integration.

With a branch in Dubai, BITS extends beyond India, attracting students from the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and beyond.

Other Notable Choices

Apart from these, India has many other prestigious universities such as:

• Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU): leading in Social Sciences and Languages.

• University of Hyderabad: strong in postgraduate research.

• Anna University, Chennai: famous for Engineering.

• Ashoka University and Symbiosis International University: private, liberal-arts oriented, internationally focused.

Although only a few Indian institutions rank in the world’s top 200, the country’s higher education is continuously evolving, making it an exciting and promising destination for international students.

Conclusion

Pursuing an undergraduate degree in India offers international exposure at affordable costs, English-medium instruction, and the chance to experience a unique culture. From world-class IITs in engineering to DU’s multidisciplinary environment or AIIMS in medical excellence, students will find diverse options aligned with their career goals.

If you are planning to study, research, or explore India, applying for an e-visa is the first and most crucial step. Learn more about the student e-visa process. Let us accompany you to make it simple and safe.

👉 Apply for your India e-visa today at India-immi.org and start your colorful journey of learning and discovery in South Asia.