The Study in Kerala scheme is an ambitious initiative launched by the Kerala state government with the aim of positioning Kerala as a global hub for higher education.

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This initiative is designed to attract international students to pursue their academic careers in Kerala, providing them with an opportunity to access world-class education in a culturally rich and socially inclusive environment.
Study in Kerala Scheme
The scheme aims to enhance the state’s education sector, boost its international academic presence, and promote Kerala as a preferred destination for students worldwide.
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To kickstart its global vision, the Kerala government is launching the ‘Study in Kerala’ initiative in 2025-26, which is poised to be a game-changer in the state’s higher education landscape.
Objective of the Study in Kerala Scheme
The primary objective of the Study in Kerala scheme is to make Kerala a sought-after destination for international students. By offering high-quality educational programs, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and an enriching cultural experience, the scheme seeks to improve the global ranking of Kerala’s educational institutions and foster international collaboration in education. Some key goals of the scheme include:
- Attracting international students: Encouraging students from across the globe to choose Kerala for higher education.
- Promoting academic excellence: Ensuring that Kerala’s universities and colleges meet global standards, with updated curricula and cutting-edge research.
- Fostering global partnerships: Creating educational partnerships with leading universities and institutions worldwide, facilitating student and faculty exchanges, joint research projects, and collaborative programs.
- Enhancing skill development: Offering skill development courses and career planning initiatives to ensure that students are well-prepared for the global job market.
- Improving infrastructure: Strengthening the physical and digital infrastructure of educational institutions to support the increasing number of international students.
Eligibility for the Scheme
The Study in Kerala scheme is open to students from all over the world who wish to pursue higher education in Kerala. However, there are certain eligibility criteria for students to be considered for admission:
- Academic Qualifications: Students must have completed their higher secondary education or equivalent to apply for undergraduate programs. For postgraduate programs, a relevant undergraduate degree or its equivalent is required.
- Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate proficiency in English or the medium of instruction used in the chosen course. Some courses may require specific language proficiency tests (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL).
- Age Limit: The age requirements may vary depending on the program. For most undergraduate programs, the applicant should be between 18 to 25 years old, while postgraduate programs may have slightly different age criteria.
- Visa and Immigration: Students will need to comply with the visa and immigration requirements set by the Indian government for studying in India. A valid student visa must be obtained before arrival.
Key Features of the Study in Kerala Scheme
The Study in Kerala scheme offers several unique features that make it a highly attractive option for international students:
- World-Class Education: Kerala’s higher education institutions are well-known for their academic excellence. Many universities in the state have earned top rankings in national assessments, with several of them also making it to international rankings. The state is home to institutions offering a variety of disciplines, from engineering and technology to arts, humanities, and business management.
- Cultural and Social Inclusivity: Kerala is renowned for its diversity and rich cultural heritage. International students will have the opportunity to experience this unique cultural blend, promoting global understanding and peace. Kerala is a safe and welcoming state, making it an ideal environment for students from all backgrounds.
- Affordable Education: Compared to other global destinations for higher education, Kerala offers relatively affordable tuition fees and living costs. This makes it an attractive option for international students seeking quality education at an affordable price.
- Skill Development Focus: The scheme emphasizes skill development programs across a variety of fields. These programs are designed to equip students with the necessary practical skills to succeed in the global job market, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation.
- State-of-the-Art Infrastructure: Educational institutions in Kerala are continually improving their infrastructure. The state is investing heavily in modernizing campuses, upgrading research facilities, and improving student amenities to make Kerala a world-class academic destination.
- Research Opportunities: Kerala’s universities are increasingly focusing on research and innovation, with new Centers of Excellence being set up to provide advanced research opportunities for both students and faculty.
- Digital Learning: In line with global educational trends, Kerala has incorporated digital learning platforms into its academic framework. This allows students to access high-quality learning materials and online courses, making education more flexible and accessible.
Benefits of the Study in Kerala Scheme
The Study in Kerala scheme offers numerous benefits to international students:
- Global Exposure: Students studying in Kerala will be exposed to a global educational environment, with opportunities to interact with peers from various countries, participate in international academic collaborations, and gain a broader perspective of global issues.
- High-Quality Education: Students will receive education from well-established universities and colleges that adhere to high academic standards, ensuring that they receive a comprehensive and up-to-date education.
- Cultural Experience: Apart from academics, international students will have the chance to immerse themselves in Kerala’s rich culture, learning about its traditions, festivals, art forms, and culinary delights.
- Cost-Effective: Studying in Kerala is a more affordable option compared to many Western countries, providing international students with quality education at a lower cost.
- Post-Graduation Opportunities: The state’s growing industries, especially in sectors like IT, healthcare, tourism, and research, provide ample employment opportunities for graduates. The strong link between educational institutions and industries further enhances career prospects for students.
- Supportive Environment: Kerala offers a safe and peaceful environment for international students. Additionally, institutions provide support in terms of accommodation, counseling, and career guidance.
Application Process for Study in Kerala Scheme
The application process for the Study in Kerala scheme typically involves the following steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Interested students should visit the official website of the Study in Kerala scheme to get detailed information about the application process, available courses, and institutions.
- Course Selection: Students should select the course and institution they are interested in. Information regarding course details, eligibility, and fees will be available on the website.
- Online Application: International students can apply online through the official portal. The application form will require personal details, academic qualifications, and other relevant documents.
- Document Submission: Students will need to submit scanned copies of their academic transcripts, passport, proof of language proficiency (if required), and other relevant documents.
- Visa Application: Once the admission is confirmed, students can apply for a student visa at the Indian embassy or consulate in their home country.
- Admission Confirmation: After receiving the visa, students can travel to Kerala and complete their registration and admission process at the respective institution.
Conclusion
The Study in Kerala scheme represents a forward-thinking initiative by the Kerala state government to transform the region into a global center for higher education. By offering world-class education, a welcoming cultural environment, and a focus on skill development and research, Kerala is set to become a preferred destination for international students. This scheme not only benefits students by providing them with access to high-quality education but also helps Kerala enhance its academic reputation on the global stage.