Student visas for India
Student visas for India are issued either for the duration of your course of study or for a maximum period of five years. Student visas issued for less than five years can be extended with permission from the local FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) and similarly, the course of study and/or the educational institution may be changed if circumstances are deemed sufficient.
The essential requirements to get a student visa for India are as follows:
You first need an offer of admission to a recognized Indian educational institute. This may mean you first have to take an entrance exam.
Student visas only permit students to change either their course or institution with specific permission from the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).
As part of the application, the details of the course and the place of study must be included. In cases where a letter of admission is not available, a provisional student visa will be issued. However, admission must be confirmed within a period of three months, otherwise the candidate will not be allowed to remain in India.
Applicants must also submit supporting documentation including a current and valid passport, with a minimum of six months validity and at least two blank pages.
Applicants who will be enrolling on a medical course of study must obtain a letter of approval, or a no objection certificate from the Ministry of Health in India.
Applicants for courses in engineering or at technical institutions in India must obtain similar authorization from the Department of Education.
Student visas cannot be obtained by those already in the country on a tourist visa or any other visa type.
Student visas issued for a period of 180 days or more will require the applicant to register with the local FRRO within 14 days of arrival.
Fees for student visas for India are as follows:
US citizens - 1 year (12 months) - Multiple Entry Visa - US$102.70
UK citizens - 1 year (12 months) - Multiple Entry Visa - US$236.70 (£154.78)
Other nationals - 1 year (12 months) - Multiple Entry Visa - US$82.70
Government rules state that all international students entering India on student visas must undergo a medical examination and obtain a medical fitness certificate. Students will also need to be tested for HIV and admission will not be given if found to be positive. You will also be required to pay US$50, to cover medical fees which include insurance cover for the first year. If you hold an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card, you are able to study, work or conduct research in India without a student visa.
