Deakin University has established a campus in India's GIFT City to provide international degrees and educational pathways on Indian soil [1, 2].

This expansion represents a significant shift in global education, allowing Indian students to access world-class curricula without the financial and logistical burdens of traveling abroad. By integrating international standards into the local landscape, the move aims to increase global exposure, and create industry-linked pathways for students [1, 2].

The university is leading a broader wave of foreign campuses opening across the country [1, 2]. This strategic presence in Gujarat allows the institution to offer courses that are typically reserved for students in Australia, making high-tier education more affordable for the local population [1, 2].

According to reports, the first cohort of students at the GIFT City campus is graduating this week [3]. This milestone marks the culmination of a process that began with a mobility deal proposal three years ago [3]. The university has also received recognition as India's best foreign university for sports and physical education, according to a press release dated Jan. 19, 2026 [4].

Deakin University is positioning itself as a primary gateway for students seeking a blend of Indian residency and Australian academic credentials [1, 3]. The initiative focuses on bridging the gap between local talent and international industry requirements through a physical presence in one of India's most modern financial hubs [2, 3].

“The first cohort of students at the GIFT City campus is graduating this week.”

The establishment of the Deakin campus in GIFT City signals a transition from the traditional 'study abroad' model to a 'campus abroad' model. By decentralizing international education, universities can tap into the massive Indian student market while reducing the barriers to entry for students who cannot afford the high cost of living in Australia. This trend likely encourages other global institutions to establish physical footprints in India to remain competitive.