From Hindustan Times, 10/07/06
Q:Who are foreign education providers (FEPs)?
Foreign universities or education institutions that are recognised and accredited by their governments are called FEPs in India. There are two regulatory agencies for FEPs in India, the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) and the University Grants Commission (UGC). Depending the course offered by them, FEPs need to register with the AICTE or UGC. Before allowing admission, the regulatory agencies need to approve the course.
Q:What is the market size of Indian students opting for foreign courses?
Indian students constitute a big market for foreign education providers. For example, over 14 per cent of the total foreign students in the US are from India and their percentage is growing every year. In Britain, Indian students constitute about 20 per of its total foreign student intake. Indian students are also looking for new options in Australia, Canada and some European countries.
Q:Where can I get information regarding the recognition of various foreign universities in India?
Check out the Universities Handbook (30th Edi tion). You can also get information from the Student Information Services (SIS) Division of Association of Indian Universities (AIU) through e-mail or phone. E-mail: aiusis@yahoo.co.in. Alternatively, contact the embassy of the parent country or the Indian Embassy/High Commission there for information. You can also approach Indian Council for Cultural Relations (http://www.iccr.tripod.com).
Q:How can I determine the accreditation status of foreign universities?
Names of accredited foreign universities are listed in the following publications: Commonwealth Universities Yearbook - (ACU Publication), International Handbook of Universities and World List of Universities and Accredited Institutions of Post Secondary Education in USA. You can also obtain information from the AIU library (http://www.aiuweb.org), British Council Library, (http://www1.britishcouncil.org) and the American Center (http://www.americanlibrary.in.library.net)
Q:What is the future of foreign universities in India?
According to the United States Education Foundation in India, foreign universities are facing stiff competition from private universities in India with regard to infrastructure and quality of education. Many students willing to go to foreign countries are opting for private Indian universities instead. USEFI believes this could result in a slump in the number of students going to the US in future.
