About the City – Why You Should Study in Chennai
Tropical vibes. Ancient temples. Cutting-edge tech. Chennai is where contrasts collide, in the best way possible.
If you’re looking to study in Chennai, you’re stepping into one of India’s most historic yet rapidly modernizing cities. Located on the southeastern coast, Chennai (formerly Madras) blends tradition with tech, heritage with hustle. It’s home to global IT companies, world-renowned universities, a buzzing arts scene, and some of the best food you’ll ever try.
Despite being one of India’s largest metros, Chennai retains a calm rhythm. Less chaotic than Delhi. More affordable than Mumbai. Equally ambitious.
This city is the educational heart of South India, boasting IITs, medical universities, liberal arts colleges and more. And with over 100,000 international students enrolled across Tamil Nadu, you’ll never feel out of place here.
Oh, and you’re never too far from the sea. Because in Chennai, weekends can easily shift from campus chaos to beach calm.
Why International Students Are Choosing to Study in Chennai
You’re about to enter a city where education doesn’t just aim for the future. It builds it.
1. World-Ranked Institutions
Chennai is home to top-ranked institutions like IIT Madras, Anna University, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology, all of which draw students from across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. These universities are globally noted for engineering, business, medicine, and humanities.
2. Affordable Yet Excellent
Compared to tier-one countries or Indian metros like Delhi or Bangalore, Chennai offers high-quality education at affordable tuition rates. The cost of living? Way easier on your wallet. Shared housing, home-cooked meals, and local commutes cost less than a fast-food lunch in the West.
3. Culturally Rich, Globally Friendly
Chennai’s openness comes from centuries of trade and cultural exchange. Today, it reflects in modern amenities, English-friendly campuses, and support systems tailored to international students. You’ll find Indian hospitality blends beautifully with global academe.
4. Emerging Career Hub
The city is a hotbed for IT, finance, manufacturing, biotech, and automotive industries. Chennai’s proximity to major multinational hubs like Infosys, Amazon, and Accenture makes it an ideal place for internships and post-study work.
5. Balance of Tradition and Modern Living
Let’s be honest, Chennai is an experience. Watch Carnatic concerts one night, then attend coding marathons the next. Study during the day, stroll Marina Beach after class. Your academic hustle is wrapped in a culture-running-on-heartbeat vibe.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Chennai
Looking to learn from the best? These institutions top the list academically and culturally:
1. IIT Madras (Indian Institute of Technology)
India’s #1 ranked engineering institution. Considered Ivy League-level in STEM globally. Offers top-notch infrastructure, global research networks, and vibrant student life.
2. Anna University
Public technical university, known for engineering and technology. Massive in size, with several affiliated colleges across Tamil Nadu.
3. University of Madras
One of India’s oldest universities. Offers arts, science, humanities, and research programs. Located in the heart of Chennai with stunning heritage architecture.
4. SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRMIST)
Private university that’s international student–friendly. Offers programs in engineering, medicine, business, and law with strong global exchange ties.
5. VIT Chennai (Vellore Institute of Technology – Chennai Campus)
A top private institution known for strong placement records and futuristic programs like AI, cybersecurity, and mechatronics.
6. Loyola College
Autonomous Catholic college affiliated with the University of Madras. Known for commerce, business, and social sciences.
7. Stella Maris College
Prestigious women’s college specializing in arts, social sciences, and visual communication. Centrally located and highly sought after.
8. Hindustan Institute of Technology & Science
Offers a wide range of tech and aviation programs. Strong emphasis on global exposure and international partnerships.
9. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology
Highly rated for computer science, dental studies, and engineering. Known for hosting international conferences and startup incubators.
10. Madras Medical College (MMC)
One of India’s top medical colleges. Ideal for students pursuing MBBS or post-grad medical courses.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Chennai
Found your uni? Great. Now find your place to live. Here’s where international students are staying comfortably:
- Stanza Living – Turino House
- Colive Astra
- Zolo Grande
- HelloWorld – Aristo
- Your Space – Anna Nagar
- OxfordCaps Idealist House
- ZiffyHomes Tiana
- UniAcco Ananya Heights
- Nestaway – Maduravoyal Cluster
- CoHo – Luxury PG for Students
Shared rooms, en-suites, study zones, high-speed internet, and in-house meals, most properties come with everything a student needs.
Top 10 Student Areas in Chennai (With Nearby Universities & Housing)
Picking where to live is just as important as picking what to study. Luckily, Chennai has options for every lifestyle and budget.
1. Adyar
- Nearby: IIT Madras, Anna University
- Housing: Stanza Living, Zolo Grande Green, clean, and peaceful. Walk to lectures or cycle to cafes. Great for focused students who also love a quality lifestyle.
2. Velachery
- Nearby: SRMIST, Vels University
- Housing: Colive, PG hostels Buzzing area with malls, lounges, and affordable food. Ideal for undergrads and postgrads alike.
3. Anna Nagar
- Nearby: Stella Maris, University of Madras
- Housing: Your Space, CoHo A slightly posh residential area but loved for quiet streets and modern student housing.
4. Nungambakkam
- Nearby: Loyola College, MMC
- Housing: ZiffyHomes, boutique PGs Central location with great cafes and bookstores. Perfect for social and academic balance.
5. Taramani
- Nearby: IITM Research Park
- Housing: HelloWorld Aristo, Zolo Hostels Sci-tech centric neighbourhood. Loads of networking events and workshops. Super student-friendly.
6. Tambaram
- Nearby: VIT Chennai, MCC
- Housing: Stanza Living, local PGs Farther from city centre but quieter. Budget-friendly and connected by suburban rail.
7. Sholinganallur
- Nearby: Tech Parks, Sathyabama University
- Housing: Nestaway clusters Lots of shared flats and PGs. Great location for job-seeking students or final-year batches.
8. Guindy
- Nearby: Anna University
- Housing: Budget hostels, UniHostels Strategically located between centre and south. Green corridors with campus access.
9. Mount Road (Anna Salai)
- Nearby: Madras Medical College, University of Madras
- Housing: PG suites, family-run hostels Central zone, ideal for students who love quick commute and being in the mix of everything.
10. Kilpauk
- Nearby: Medical Colleges
- Housing: Zolo North, local hostels Located near major hospitals and medical colleges. Best for healthcare and med students.
Cost of Living in Chennai for International Students
Living in Chennai isn’t just manageable, it’s budget-friendly when compared to metros or Western cities.
Here’s an estimated monthly breakdown in INR and GBP:
| Item | Monthly Cost (INR) | Approx. in GBP |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (Shared/En-suite) | ₹8,000–₹18,000 | £75–£170 |
| Food & Groceries | ₹5,000–₹7,000 | £45–£65 |
| Transport (Metro/Bus) | ₹700–₹1,200 | £6–£12 |
| Utilities & WiFi | ₹1,000 | £10 |
| Mobile & Subscriptions | ₹300–₹500 | £3–£5 |
| Social & Extras | ₹2,000–₹4,000 | £18–£35 |
