University Options in Bangalore for IGCSE, A Levels & IBDP Students – Local & International Campuses

Bangalore (Bengaluru) offers excellent university options for students with IGCSE, International A Levels, or IBDP. This guide covers top-tier institutions, private universities, and international programmes that accept these qualifications, helping expat and local families make informed choices.

Top-tier universities accepting IGCSE/A Levels/IBDP

Premier institutions:

• Indian Institute of Science (IISc) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; highly selective, top-ranked globally for Sciences, Engineering, Research (entrance exam required)
• Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIM Bangalore) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; top-ranked Business School (graduate level)
• Bangalore University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; comprehensive university, strong in Arts, Sciences, Commerce, Engineering

Private universities:

• Christ University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Arts, Sciences, Commerce, Business, Law, Engineering
• Manipal Academy of Higher Education – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Medicine, Engineering, Business (campuses across India)
• PES University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Engineering, Management, Law
• RV College of Engineering – accepts A Levels, IBDP; top-ranked Engineering college

International programmes and partnerships

• International Institute of Information Technology Bangalore (IIIT-B) – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Computer Science, Information Technology
• Symbiosis International University – accepts A Levels, IBDP; strong in Business, Law, Media (some programmes)

Admission requirements

IGCSE: Typically 5 subjects at grade C or above, including English and Maths. Competitive programmes may require A/A* grades.

A Levels: Usually 3 A Levels with grades BBB-AAA depending on the programme. IISc and IITs require entrance exams in addition to A Levels.

IBDP: Typically 28-35 points minimum. Competitive programmes may require 32+ points with specific Higher Level requirements.

Entrance exams: Many programmes require entrance exams (e.g. JEE for Engineering, NEET for Medicine, CAT for Business).

English language: IELTS 6.0-7.0 or equivalent (varies by university and programme).

Tuition fees for expat/international students

Public universities:

• IISc, IIM Bangalore, Bangalore University: INR 50,000–300,000 per year (approximately USD 600–3,600). International students may pay 2–5x more than Indian citizens. IIM Bangalore (graduate level) fees are higher.

Private universities:

• Christ University: INR 200,000–600,000 per year (approximately USD 2,400–7,200).
• Manipal Academy: INR 400,000–1,200,000 per year (approximately USD 4,800–14,400). Medicine programmes significantly higher.
• PES University: INR 300,000–700,000 per year (approximately USD 3,600–8,400).

Note: Fees vary significantly by programme (Medicine and Engineering typically higher). Many universities offer merit-based scholarships. Always check current fees directly with universities.

Why choose Bangalore?

• Silicon Valley of India – India’s IT capital, excellent career opportunities in Technology, IT, Startups
• Quality education – IISc is among the world’s top science institutions
• Diverse economy – strong in Technology, IT, Aerospace, Biotechnology, Finance
• Startup ecosystem – vibrant startup culture, innovation hubs
• Quality of life – pleasant climate, modern infrastructure, cosmopolitan city
• Career opportunities – excellent job market, especially in IT, tech, startups, aerospace

Tips for expat families

• Entrance exams – many programmes require competitive entrance exams; prepare early
• Language considerations – most programmes are in English, but some may require Kannada
• Accreditation – ensure universities are accredited by UGC (University Grants Commission) or AICTE
• Scholarships – many universities offer merit-based scholarships
• Career focus – Bangalore’s economy favours Technology, IT, Startups, Aerospace, Biotechnology
• Work opportunities – excellent post-graduation work opportunities, especially in IT and tech
• Cost of living – Bangalore is moderately expensive; factor in accommodation and living costs

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How Tutopiya supports university preparation

Tutopiya helps students achieve the IGCSE, A Levels, or IBDP grades needed for Bangalore universities. Explore our learning portal or book a free trial with a tutor.

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This guide is based on publicly available information. Always check the latest admission requirements directly with universities.