India

India has the second-largest higher education system in the world, offering a wide variety of courses that are recognised globally. Degree courses are taught in English, and an affordable fee structure makes India an attractive study destination for students. Increasing numbers of foreign universities have set up international branch campuses in India.

Cambridge A Level and Cambridge IGCSE qualifications are accepted as equivalent to Grade 12 (NCrF Level 4.0) and Grade 10 (NCrF Level 3.0) high school qualifications respectively in India. Equivalence to foreign qualifications is awarded by University Grants Commission, India. This ensures smooth progression for Cambridge students who choose to study at universities in India.

Qualification equivalence is as follows:

• Five subjects including English language at Cambridge IGCSE / Cambridge O Level are equated to Grade 10 qualification of the Indian secondary schooling system. The pass criterion at subject level is set at a minimum 33% percentage uniform mark (PUM).
• Cambridge International A Levels in two/three subjects are equated to Grade 12 qualification of the Indian senior secondary schooling system.

Universities and other academic institutions in India that admit students with Cambridge qualifications use the same criteria to confirm equivalence of minimum qualifications. Meeting the equivalence criteria for Grade 12 does not guarantee admission to a chosen university or a course, and institutions expect students to apply with a minimum of three A Level subjects. Institutions have specific pre-study requirements for applicants to engineering, medicine and dental courses. Entry is through national, state or institution-specific admissions tests. Universities may add more specific requirements to help them select students, especially in the case of competitive courses.

Applying to university in India

Watch the videos below to find out more about applying to undergraduate courses in India with Cambridge qualifications. The videos feature interviews with admissions leaders and former Cambridge students enrolled at Indian universities. The videos are for schools, guidance counsellors, students and their families.

Find out more

• Destination India brochure (PDF, 3MB)
• Frequently Asked Questions (PDF, 427KB)
• Cambridge IGCSE and O Level recognition in India (PDF, 3MB)
• Cambridge International AS & A Level recognition in India (PDF, 7MB)

We advise you to check with institutions directly for the most up-to-date information regarding admissions requirements and policies for local and international students.

Recognition database

Find out which universities in India recognise Cambridge qualifications by using our Recognition database.