Path to staying
- Study60 months, renewable
- Post-study workup to 12 months
Overview
- Country
- India
- Visa name
- Student Visa (S Visa)
- Status
- Active
- Duration
- 60 months
- Max duration
- 60 months
- Renewable
- Yes
The S-1 Student Visa is the primary visa for international students pursuing full-time academic courses at recognised educational institutions in India. Covers undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, diploma, and other long-term academic programmes. Issued for the duration of the academic programme, up to 5 years.
Tuition and costs
- Tuition policy
- Mixed
- Tuition range
- $500 – $15,000/year
- Proof of funds
- $4,000/year
- Funds type
- Bank statement
- Scholarships
- Available
Government/public universities: ₹50,000–₹200,000/yr ($600–$2,400). Private universities: ₹100,000–₹500,000/yr ($1,200–$6,000). Top private institutions (medical, engineering): ₹500,000–₹1,200,000/yr ($6,000–$14,500). India is one of the most affordable destinations for higher education.
Work rights during study
- Work allowed
- No
- Permission
- Not allowed
International students on S visa are NOT permitted to work during studies. No part-time work allowed. Course-mandated internships and paid placements may be allowed with approval from the university and FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).
Post-study work options
| Program | Type | Duration | Min degree | Work | PR path |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Employment Visa | Work permit | 12 mo–60 mo | Any | Unrestricted | No |
Language requirements
| Test | Purpose | Language | Min score | Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT / IELTS | Admission | English | — | English is the medium of instruction at most Indian universities. Some programmes offered in Hindi. TOEFL/IELTS may be required by some institutions. |
Fees and costs
| Fee | Type | Amount | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Student Visa Application Fee | Application | $100 | One time |
Dependents and family
- Dependents
- Allowed
- Restriction
- Spouse and children on X (Entry) visa or dependent visa.
- Spouse work
- Not allowed
- Conditions
- Dependants cannot work. Must obtain a separate employment visa to work in India.
How to apply
- Method
- Online
- Processing
- 5-30 days
- Interview
- Required
- Official site
- indianvisaonline.gov.in
- Health insurance
- Not required
Notes and caveats
Must register with FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) within 14 days of arrival. Study in India programme (government initiative) provides a centralised application portal. No post-study work visa — graduates must secure employment and switch to employment visa. Very affordable education but limited work opportunities during and after study.
Also in India
Last verified May 3, 2026 Source