Symbiosis University
Pune is quiet in comparison to the city of Mumbai, though they are only a few hours apart. This small city is full of greenery, eateries, and kind locals who are willing to help out whenever it is needed. Whether you are exploring a historic fort built centuries ago, touring one of many temples and shopping areas, or walking through one of Pune’s five story malls, no place combines history and modernity quite like India does.
Symbiosis International University is made up of a diverse range of students from around the world, as well as many different course trajectories. Multiple gatherings and events are held each semester for students, and the student population is friendly and inclusive. Faculty come from around India and the world, to provide access to an interactive education and administration.
Application Deadline
Program Start
Program End
Program Details
Academic Program
The program curriculum offers a wide selection of courses in the following academic and professional concentrations:
- Business, Law & Diplomacy
- Computer Science & Software Engineering
- Environment & Management
- Fashion Design, Styling & Merchandising
- Indian Culture & Languages
- Industrial & Product Design
- Journalism, Communications & Media
- Medicine, Health & Nutrition
- Media & Film
- Science, Math & Engineering
- Tourism & Hospitality Management
Students can earn up to 18 credits (with internship) per semester. Hindi and Indian Studies required.
All courses are taught in the English language. Prior knowledge of Hindi and Marathi are not required.
Course Descriptions and Syllabi
Review KEI’s website for more information regarding course offerings.
General Education Information for UAlbany Students
Credits earned on this program will automatically satisfy the International Perspectives requirement. Three credits of foreign language study will satisfy the Foreign Language requirement. No additional approval is required for you to earn these general elective credits.
Major/Minor Information for UAlbany Students
Courses may also satisfy major and minor requirements, upon approval by the department.
Transcript
All courses taken abroad count towards UAlbany General Elective credits. Credits and grades will appear on your UAlbany transcript. You may file a request to have additional courses approved for equivalency as necessary.
Your Instructors
Your courses are taught by local faculty.
Housing
You will live in the university residence hall (hostel). The rooms are double-occupancy and each room has an attached bathroom. Every room has two single beds, 2 desks and 2 cupboards. More information is online here.
Meals
You can choose to dine at the residence hall cafeteria, which serves a choice of Indian staples. Pune has many restaurants and cafes. Compared to the USA, the cost of food is inexpensive.
Estimate of Costs
India Symbiosis University Non-exchange 2019-20
Some additional information on costs can be found online here.
More Information
Click for more information on Program Costs and Financial Aid.
Remember to speak with the Office of Financial Aid at your home campus to determine how your aid package could apply towards your program abroad.
Academic Requirements
Juniors, seniors, and exceptional sophomores are eligible to participate. Applications are welcome from students in all majors. For the Symbiosis program, applicants should have a minimum overall 2.5 GPA. A higher GPA in your major is preferred.
Experiential Learning
KEI organizes cultural activities and field trips as part of the program. Transportation and lodging for all these activities are included in the program fee. Below are the most commonly organized excursions and activities. KEI reserves the right to change planned excursions for destinations of equal value and interest. Excursions may change based on availability, local festivals and interest. Academic year and multiple term students participate on planned excursions during their first term of study.
Funding Opportunities
Most financial aid and academic awards will apply to semester programs.
External scholarships, listed on our website, are a good way to partially fund your study abroad experience. In addition, the Center for International Education and Global Strategy offers two scholarship programs for UAlbany students studying abroad on UAlbany or 4-year SUNY programs.
More information on applying to these scholarships is located on the Scholarships web page.
In Their Own Words
KEI has truly met all of my expectations and so much more. I thought I was just going to be dropped off in India, but KEI staff gets to know you and you get to know them. They really care about your experience.” – Christina Luu
About the City
Pune (Poona) is the cultural capital of Maharashtra and the educational center of India. Situated at the foothills of the Sahyadri range, the City is known for its cooler climate and warm people. Its proximity to Mumbai (approximately 1 1/2hours drive), India’s commercial and entertainment center, has spurred economic and social development. Despite being one of the fastest growing cities in India, Pune still retains its quaint old values and traditions.
Hinduism is the most commonly practiced religion, although Parsis, Jews, Sikhs, Christians and Muslims represent sizeable minorities. The Osho International Meditation Resort is one of the largest spiritual centers in the world with 200,000 visitors annually. Marathi is the official language of Maharashtra. Hindi and English are understood and spoken widely.
Pune is often referred to as “Oxford of the East” with more than a hundred prominent institutes (colleges), universities and research facilities. Its educational base has made Pune an IT hub, with several large-scale technology companies. Automotive companies and the metal industry also contribute to the city’s economic growth. Despite its prosperity, almost 40% of the population lives in poverty.
Pune dates to 937 AD and marks significant historical milestones, having served as a Maratha stronghold and nurturing some of India’s most memorable personalities. Many social reformers, revolutionaries, political leaders, researchers, scientists, educators and athletes lived and worked in Pune.
Today, Pune is very much a modern city. Cinemas, discos, shopping malls, pubs, coffee shops and cafes have opened as young professionals and university students make their presence felt. Contemporary writers, artists, actors, singers and other celebrities have also made Pune their home.
Travel Documents
A valid passport is required to participate in this program. KEI will assist you with the Indian visa process. More information regarding the visa application process is available upon acceptance to the program.
Application Availability
Applications become available online one semester before the program start date, based on the following timeline:
- Spring/Winter/Spring Break programs: July
- Fall/Year/Summer programs: December
Program Dates
Academic Year 2019/20
7/13/2019 to 5/13/2020
Fall 2019
7/13/2019 to 12/15/2019
Spring 2020
1/3/2019 to 5/13/2020
More information about the academic calendar can be found online here.
About the Program
Often referred to as the Oxford of the East, Pune is best known as the educational capital of India with more than 100 institutes and universities. But Pune is so much more. Its history, friendly people and range of cultural and recreational activities are sure to keep you engaged. Read more about India and Pune.
- Study at Symbiosis International University (SIU)
- Hindu language Indian studies courses
- Liberal arts, humanities and business courses (taught in English)
- Internship and volunteer opportunities
- Maximum of 18 credits per semester and 9 credits during summer
- Transcripts issued by SIU and/or Lincoln University (accredited in the USA)
- Cultural field trips in Pune, Mumbai, Delhi and Agra (Taj Mahal)
- Affordable comprehensive program fee
- Predeparture advising and planning
- KEI Onsite Director and 24/7 emergency support
More information about the program is available online here.
Program Orientations
Upon acceptance to the program, you will be required to attend a mandatory pre-departure orientation. During this time, you will have the opportunity to meet other program participants, discuss in-depth the details of your program, and prepare of the overall education abroad experience. The fall semester pre-departure orientation will be conducted the Saturday before the end of Spring UAlbany classes and in late November/early December for the spring term abroad.
Upon arrival at Symbiosis, you will attend a mandatory program orientation. This is an important and informative set of sessions organized by International Office of your host university.
Support Services
UAlbany’s Office of Education Abroad staff assists you during the application process, in your preparation to travel abroad, and on-site if necessary. KEI’s staff serve as an experienced resource for resolving issues that you may encounter in while abroad.