Mumbai, Feb 25 : The University of Bristol today signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Maharashtra to introduce a fully funded scholarship programme for meritorious students at its upcoming Mumbai Enterprise Campus. The initiative aims to widen access to world-class international education for talented students across Maharashtra, particularly those facing significant personal or socio-economic challenges.
Under the programme, up to 10 students will receive a 100% tuition fee waiver for the full duration of their undergraduate studies, along with additional financial assistance. In a unique public-academic collaboration, selected scholars will also undertake internships at the Chief Minister’s Office, gaining direct exposure to public policy, governance and leadership. University of Bristol and the Chief Minister’s Office will jointly work with schools across the state to identify deserving candidates.
Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra, said:
“Education is the strongest foundation for inclusive growth and global competitiveness. This partnership with the University of Bristol creates transformational opportunities for meritorious students from Maharashtra to access world-leading education while remaining connected to public service and nation-building. We are delighted to partner with a globally respected institution to nurture talent that will contribute to Maharashtra’s and India’s future.”
Professor Evelyn Welch, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Bristol, said:
“The Mumbai Enterprise Campus will bring together world-class research, outstanding education and meaningful industry collaboration in one of the world’s most dynamic cities. We are honoured to work with the Government of Maharashtra to widen access to international education and create lasting impact for students in India.”
Scheduled to open in August 2026 at the Cignus Powai development near Powai Lake, the Mumbai Enterprise Campus will be located within one of Mumbai’s leading innovation and technology hubs. Situated across from IIT Bombay, the campus will benefit from a strategic partnership with this world-renowned partner, aligned with India’s National Education Policy (NEP) and focusing on translational research and innovative teaching.
In its first year, up to 250 students will enroll across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in data science, economics, finance and immersive arts, with student numbers projected to exceed 2,500 by year five.
The University of Bristol is a globally renowned research-intensive university, consistently ranked among the top universities in the world (51st in the QS World University Rankings 2026) and a member of the prestigious Russell Group in the UK. As part of its long-term commitment to India, the University’s Mumbai Enterprise Campus further strengthens academic collaboration, research partnerships, and access to world-class education within the region.
The Mumbai Enterprise Campus marks the University of Bristol’s first international campus and represents a significant milestone in its 150th anniversary year. By combining academic excellence, government partnership and industry collaboration, the initiative is set to create a globally connected education and research ecosystem in the heart of Mumbai.
Alison Barrett MBE, Country Director India at the British Council, said:
“My warmest congratulations to the University of Bristol and the Government of Maharashtra on their partnership to launch the Mumbai Enterprise Campus and a fully funded scholarship programme for meritorious students.
“This initiative reflects a shared commitment to widening access to world-class education, strengthening collaboration, and nurturing talent that will contribute to enabling a bright future for young people in India. It is a powerful example of how transnational education can deliver both excellence and equity, aligned with India’s National Education Policy 2020 and the ambitions of the UK–India Vision 2035.”
