India 10 States Report

UTTAR PRADESH

Overview

Uttar Pradesh (UP), India’s most populous state and second-largest economy, is emerging as a key destination for higher education opportunities. Contributing 9.2% to the national GDP and home to over 82 universities and 8,375 colleges, UP offers a diverse and vast addressable market for student recruitment, partnerships, and campus establishment.

The state boasts prestigious institutions such as IIT Kanpur, Banaras Hindu University (BHU), and IIM Lucknow, alongside emerging educational hubs in cities like Noida, Lucknow, and Varanasi. With increasing private school enrolments and over 40 international schools, there is a growing demand for global education pathways and collaborations.

Uttar Pradesh’s government is actively fostering education through progressive policies, including the Higher Education Incentive Policy 2024 and full implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourage skill development, entrepreneurship, and flexible learning models. Infrastructure advancements, such as the Jewar International Airport and the Delhi–Meerut Rapid Transit System, further enhance accessibility and connectivity across the state.

For international higher education providers, UP represents a unique opportunity to engage with a motivated student base, forge academic partnerships, and expand into one of India’s most dynamic educational landscapes.

Addressable Market

• Literacy rate: 67.70%

• Performance Grading Index Ranking (PGI) score 501.9/1000

• Gross Enrollment ratio (GER): 24.1 < all India GER

• Export Preparedness Index 2021-Rank 7

• GDP growth rate: 19% (2023-24 est.)

• GDP per capita: USD 1,315 (2023-24 est.)

Established industries:

• IT and ITeS Food processing

Emerging industries:

• Textile

• Tourism

• Renewable energy

Globalisation: Collaboration of Government Institutions

• The ecosystem fosters international research and development

Situated in the heart of India, Uttar Pradesh is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The state is home to two historic universities, Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), as well as two Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) in BHU and Kanpur, establishing it as a hub for quality technical education. In addition, the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow and several other prestigious institutions contribute to the state’s reputation for academic excellence. As one of India’s largest and most populous states, Uttar Pradesh attracts global attention and has signed numerous Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with renowned foreign universities,

Addressable Market

College Density

30 colleges

In Uttar Pradesh, 36.4% students attend private school with 7th highest private school enrollment amongst all states and UTs. As per UDISE+ 2024, Uttar Pradesh witnessed a 5% surge in primary school enrollments and a 12% drop in dropout rates among SC/ST and minority students. These trends highlight increased parental trust in public education and the growing pool of students progressing toward higher secondary and tertiary education.

Uttar

Emerging Educational Hubs in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, boasts several key cities that are emerging as educational hubs. These regions not only offer rich cultural and academic heritage but also present strategic opportunities for international student recruitment and potential campus development. Below is an overview of these cities, highlighting their unique attributes and potential for higher education institutions:

Lucknow

Known as the "City of Nawabs," Lucknow is famed for its cultural richness, historical significanc ing reputation as an educational hub.

Significance: The city is home to several reputed universities, colleges, and research institutions, making it a fertile ground for academic collaboration and talent acquisition.

Allahabad (Prayagraj)

This city boasts a long-standing academic heritage, playing a key role in India's intellectual history.

Significance: Known for institutions such as Allahabad University, one of the oldest universities in India, Prayagraj offers opportunities for fostering research partnerships and engaging with a student population steeped in tradition.

Kanpur

A major industrial centre, Kanpur is also a powerhouse for technical and management education. Significance: The presence of premier institutions like the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur and top management colleges makes the city a strategic location for partnerships in engineering and management fields.

Agra

While best known for the iconic Taj Mahal, Agra is also growing as a centre for education.

Significance: Its cultural significance and connectivity position it as an attractive destination for educational collaborations and as a draw for international students.

Varanasi

What Does This Mean for Higher Education Professionals?

Uttar Pradesh offers a unique and multifaceted opportunity for higher education professionals at international institutions. With its vast population, increasing literacy rates, and a growing focus on education, the state is becoming a critical market for student recruitment. Cities like Lucknow, Kanpur, and Varanasi host renowned institutions that are producing highly skilled graduates across engineering, management, liberal arts, and technical fields. These centres of excellence provide fertile ground for collaborations, including student exchange programmes, faculty partnerships, and joint research initiatives.

For institutions seeking to establish a physical presence in India, Uttar Pradesh is particularly appealing due to its robust infrastructure and strong government support. The state’s Higher Education Incentive Policy, 2024 aims to attract international and private universities to establish branch campuses in the state. This policy offers financial incentives such as 100% stamp duty exemption and up to 20% capital subsidy (capped at Rs 100 crore) to the first five foreign universities to set up campuses in the state. Additional subsidies are also offered for universities establishing campuses in aspirational districts. The policy also extends similar benefits to top NIRF-ranked Indian universities.

Gautam Buddha Nagar (Noida and Greater Noida) stands out as a hub for educational innovation, boasting excellent connectivity, high literacy rates, and thriving urbanisation. With projects like the Jewar International Airport and the University Plot Project in Greater Noida, the region is well-positioned to become a magnet for international universities seeking to set up campuses.

So far, Australia’s Western Sydney University (WSU) has announced its plans to set up an International Branch Campus (IBC) in Greater Noida and Victoria University in Noida, Uttar Pradesh

Additionally, the state’s strategic location, proximity to Delhi, and ongoing infrastructure improvements—such as the Delhi–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System— enhance its accessibility and attractiveness as a higher education destination. Uttar Pradesh’s partnerships with foreign universities and its emphasis on scholarships and fellowships create an enabling environment for international collaboration. By tapping into UP’s burgeoning talent pool and leveraging its supportive ecosystem, higher education institutions can position themselves at the forefront of one of India’s most promising educational landscapes.

Overview & Heat Map of Uttar Pradesh

habited cities in the world, Varanasi is a

(also known as Prayagraj): City with a stries stry,

eth, Studies

IIT BHU with the University of ElectroCommunications, Japan Schools: St. Mary’s Convent School, St Thomas School, Seth MR Jaipuria Schools, Delhi Public School, St. Francis School Bal Bharti Public School, St Joseph’s Convent School, St. John’s School

Ability to Transfer: Academic Quality

Presence of International Curriculum Schools:

Uttar Pradesh has over 40 International schools, and continues to see further growth and investment in this area.

Reputed Higher and Secondary Education Institutes (as per NIRF Ranking) 4

Conducive Environment

Conducive Environment to Transfer

Educational Environment

91 Universities

588

8375

Educational Environment

Financial Strength

Per capita income

JSD 2090 in 2022-23 nigher than USD 2051 at national level.

Economic Growth

USD 313 Bn State GDP (2023-24), GDP growth rate 19% 9.2% contribution to National GDP

267

USD 1.3 Bn; (Oct 2019 to March 2023) 11th in India

Uttar Pradesh has demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering education and entrepreneurship, creating a dynamic environment for academic institutions and international partnerships. The state's focus on vocational and skill development aligns with its broader vision of equipping youth with employment-oriented skills and supporting institutions aiming to expand into underserved areas.

Mission Kayakalp 2.0 2024

Under this initiative, the state aims to modernise all government schools with digital classrooms, inclusive sanitation, solar power, and secure boundary walls by 2025. This initiative not only enhances student retention but also aligns rural schooling standards with urban benchmarks— paving the way for future public-private collaboration in school infrastructure.

Vocational and Skill Development

The Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM) offers short-term skill training programmes across employable sectors through government and private providers, ensuring statewide accessibility. With the Start-up Training Provider Policy 2023, the state aims to collaborate with 169 private institutions to train youth in entrepreneurship and innovation. For international universities, this presents a unique opportunity to engage in partnerships and develop industryrelevant programmes that cater to the state's growing demand for entrepreneurial education.

Education Service Selection Commission Bill 2023

The state has also strengthened its education infrastructure with the Education Service Selection Commission Bill 2023, which establishes an integrated commission for recruiting teachers in government-aided and other educational institutions. This initiative supports the delivery of quality education, further enhancing Uttar Pradesh's reputation as a destination for academic excellence.

NEP 2020 Implementation

As the first state to fully implement the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, Uttar Pradesh has introduced transformative changes in higher education. Highlights include:

• Four-year undergraduate programmes with compulsory vocational and co-curricular courses.

• Mandatory internships and dissertations, preparing students for real-world challenges.

• Flexible entry and exit options and an inter-departmental credit transfer system, creating a student-centric learning ecosystem.

• Introduction of part-time Ph.D. programmes, offering flexibility for research-oriented learners.

• ABACUS-UP, a digital initiative connecting teachers and students seamlessly.

• Several state and private universities in UP have joined the UGC-backed Digital University consortium, enabling blended and online degree offerings in technical and management fields. This opens doors for joint international certifications, digital micro-credentials, and asynchronous course-sharing models with foreign universities

These reforms signal a progressive approach to education, offering international universities an excellent opportunity to align their programmes with NEP standards and connect with a forward-thinking student demographic.

Innovative Dropout Prevention System

The state has introduced an early warning system to monitor student attendance and reduce dropout rates. By intervening promptly when absences exceed 40 days, and engaging with parents or guardians, this initiative ensures sustained student participation, which can improve academic outcomes and enhance the talent pipeline.

E-Learning for Rural Areas

To bridge the urban-rural divide, the state has established E-Learning Parks with high-speed

Opportunities for Global Academic Partnerships

For higher education professionals, Uttar Pradesh represents a strategic opportunity for student recruitment, partnerships, and programme development. The state’s proactive approach to skill development, emphasis on entrepreneurship, and full adoption of NEP 2020 create a fertile environment for academic collaborations. International institutions can leverage the state’s robust initiatives—such as skill training programmes, e-learning infrastructure, and flexible education policies—to design tailored offerings that meet the evolving needs of students and align with government priorities.

By partnering with Uttar Pradesh’s vocational and higher education ecosystem, universities can gain access to a vast, motivated student population while contributing to the state’s long-term educational and economic goals.

COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION

Vocational training and skill development initiatives

Uttar Pradesh Skill Development Mission (UPSDM)

Vocational Education & Skill Development Department (VESD)

ECONOMIC ADVANTAGES

India’s 3rd largest economy

9.20% of the national GDP

ROBUST EDUCATIONAL LANDSCAPE

91 universities, 8,114 colleges. Highest Enrolment in Schools & Colleges

EDUCATIONAL HUBS

Diverse hubs: Lucknow, Allahabad, Kanpur, Agra, Varanasi, Meerut, Ghaziabad, Noida & Greater Noida

EMPHASIS ON START-UPS

Start-up Training Provider Policy, 2023. Focus on training youth in startups

Uttar Pradesh is emerging as a significant player in India’s educational landscape, driven by government initiatives, infrastructure investments, and the increasing prominence of global partnerships. For international higher education providers, the state offers numerous opportunities to engage with a large, diverse, and aspirational student population. Below, we delve deeper into the state’s key developments and provide actionable recommendations for maximising impact in this promising market.

Expanding Educational Ecosystem in Tier 2 and Tier 3 Cities

The establishment of three new private universities in Meerut, Bijnor, and Unnao underscores a strategic focus on tier 2 and tier 3 cities. These regions are experiencing rapid growth in infrastructure, rising disposable incomes, and increased aspirations for quality education. For international providers, this signals an opportunity to:

• Collaborate with new universities exchange programmes, and dual-degree offerings.

• Expand recruitment efforts tailored messaging about affordability, career outcomes, and global exposure.

• Leverage government incentives to establish a footprint in these emerging hubs.

Strong Policy Support for Innovation and Skill Development

The Uttar Pradesh government’s proactive policies, such as the Start-up Training Provider Policy 2023, environment for innovation in education. These policies encourage international providers to:

• Invest in skill-focused programmes: the needs of Indian industries and students.

• Introduce entrepreneurial programmes: in business development, innovation, and start-up incubation, building bridges between education and enterprise.

• Align with NEP reforms: programmes that cater to the evolving educational preferences of Indian students.

The significant growth of private school enrolments in cities like Lucknow, Noida, and Greater Noida, along with the presence of international schools, highlights a readiness for global higher education. These institutions provide a steady pipeline of students familiar with international standards, making them prime candidates for overseas study. Recommendations include:

• Partner with private and international schools preparation programmes

• Offer pathway programmes barriers to entry for international admissions.

• Engage with parents and counsellors, marketing campaigns and on-ground events.

Uttar Pradesh is at the cusp of a transformative educational evolution, offering international providers unparalleled opportunities to connect with a rapidly expanding student population. By engaging with the state’s policies, infrastructure, and institutions, international universities can position themselves as integral contributors to UP’s educational ecosystem while simultaneously benefiting from its vast market potential. A thoughtful, tailored

Rise of Private and International Schools as a Talent Pipeline

In Conclusion

Our comprehensive analysis in the Acumen India 10 States Report: Uttar Pradesh demonstrates that the state is positioning itself as a major hub for higher education in India—supported by rapid infrastructure growth, progressive education policies, and a large, aspirational student base. For global institutions, it offers prime opportunities in student recruitment, academic partnerships, and campus establishment across both metro and emerging cities.

It is India’s most populous state and ranks second in terms of economic value as it contributes 9.2% to the national GDP. The higher education landscape includes over 91 universities, 8,375 colleges, 588 engineering colleges, and 68 medical colleges. Literacy levels are improving, currently at 67.7%, while private school enrolment stands at 36.4%, supported by more than 40 international curriculum schools—creating a strong pipeline for global higher education pathways.

Government policy is a major driver of this educational growth. Infrastructure invest ments add to the state’s attractiveness. The upcoming Jewar International Airport, the Delhi–Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System, metro expansions, and high-speed internet access are enhancing connectivity and accessibility. This positions cities like Greater Noida, Lucknow, and Kanpur as well-connected hubs capable of hosting large-scale academic events, partnerships, and hybrid learning initiatives.

For international higher education providers, Uttar Pradesh offers a unique opportunity to tap into a vast and aspirational student base. Potential avenues include establishing branch campuses, creating dual-degree and exchange programmes with top local institutions, building partnerships with private and international schools, and expanding outreach into tier-2 and tier-3 cities. The state’s strong academic foundations, progressive policies, and rapidly improving infrastructure make it one of India’s most promising education

Reference Document

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[2] ’UP sees highest school enrollment rate in 15 years’ | Jan 19, 2023 Available:https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lu know/up-sees-highest-school-enrolment-rate-in-15-years/articleshow/97111814.cms

[3] Department of School Education and Literacy, “National Achievement Survey 2021 State Report Card Uttar Pradesh,” Nov. 2021. Available: https://nas.gov.in/report-card/nas-2021

[4] Department of Higher Education, “National Institution Ranking Framework 2024,”. Available: https://www.nirfindia.org/nirfpdfcdn/2024/pdf/Report/IR2024_Report.pdf

[5] “169 pvt institutions in UP to train youth for startup firms,” The Times of India, Jul. 21, 2023. Accessed: May 28, 2024. [Online]. Available: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/lucknow/169-pvt-institutions-in-up-to-train-youth-for-startup-firms/articleshow/102001568.cms

UPPCS Magazine https://uppcsmagazine.com/impact-of-operation-kayakalp-in-transforming-primary-and-upper-primary-schools-into-model-institutions/