Students participating in the University of Madras study abroad program stay at the International Guest House (YWCA). Each student has their own room and has the choice of whether or not they would like air conditioning (see 'Whats Included/Cost' tab  for cost difference).

The International Guest House is an oasis of relaxation in the heart of bustling Chennai.  Its traditional Indian architecture reflects the surrounding culture and it is conveniently located near a major rail station for travel and just a short auto rickshaw ride from campus. Students are provided three vegetarian meals a day prepared at the guest house.

Here is what they say!

"I loved the YWCA! The meals were convenient and when we wanted something different we would just go out."  Study Abroad Participant

Study in India

Studying abroad in India is sure to change your life! It is one of the most culturally complex countries on our planet and by immersing yourself into their beautiful chaos you will be challenged personally, you will be able to make significant contributions to their community, and you will have the time of your life!

Our flagship program at the University of Madras (சென்னைப் பல்கலைக்கழகம்) is the perfect combination of academic rigor, cultural immersion, and experiential learning. All classes at the University of Madras are taught in English so students have the entire curriculum to choose from. This program is ideal for students that need to stay on track to graduate on time and need to take sciences, humanities, arts, or business.

Why Study in India?

• A wide variety of courses to choose from, all taught in English
• Full immersion in Chennai, the cultural capital of the South
• Volunteer opportunities that contribute to the local community
• Internships to help build your resume
• Have the most amazing experience of your life!

"India is, the cradle of the human race, the birth place of human speech, the mother of history, the grand mother of legend, and the great grand mother of tradition. Our most valuable and most instructive materials in the history of man are treasured up in India only."  Mark Twain

University of Madras was founded in 1840 and is renowned as one of South India's most prestigious academic institutions. Students studying at the University of Madras will be in an academically challenging environment alongside native Indian students as well as other international students. Because the official language of the University of Madras is English students are able to take core classes in several departments including history, philosophy, engineering, dance, chemistry and every thing in between! For a complete list of courses please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

To compliment our academic programs and for further cultural immersion Experiential Learning International students are required to participate in a volunteer or internship placement. Often students will receive independent study credit for their participation through their home school. By volunteering or interning abroad students will gain a far greater insight into the local community and be able to add international work experience to their resume.

Past participants testimonial:

"Now that I have finished my degree I'm leaving for Malaysia to do fieldwork for the Malaysian Governments and Ecological Economists at UC Berkeley. I'll be helping to develop guidelines for better management of the rain forest. It seems that having studied abroad in Chennai helped me get this position. My bosses said they have been looking for someone with experience in the tropics and were pleased with my experience in Chennai."

Study Abroad Student, University of Madras in India

Culture Update!

The Indian national school system is set up a bit differently than in the Unites States, "colleges' in India are equivalent to U.S. undergraduate freshman and sophomore while universities in India are equivalent to U.S. juniors and seniors and are often referred to as 'Masters' courses.