Planning to study in India but looking for a city that blends top academics with urban chill? Say hello to Pune. Often dubbed the “Oxford of the East,” this city is where rich history meets modern academic brilliance. And yes, the weather stays blissfully cool compared to most Indian cities.
In this study guide in Pune, we’ll unpack everything international students need to know — what to expect, where to stay, what it’ll cost, and how to thrive in one of India’s fastest-growing student hubs.
Pune is in Maharashtra, just a few hours from Mumbai, but it’s got a unique identity of its own. There are over 500,000 students here from across India and the world — all drawn by the city’s legendary universities, startup culture, rich arts scene, and that irresistible laid-back vibe. It’s as academic as it is adventurous.
So if you’re considering India for your education, this study guide in Pune will get you started — and totally clued in.
Why Pune Is a Big Deal for International Students
So, why do international students love Pune?
First off, academics. With top institutions offering globally recognised degrees in engineering, business, humanities, and media, it’s a hotbed for higher education. Institutions here are accredited, research-heavy, and collaborative worldwide.
Second, affordability. Compared to Mumbai or Delhi, Pune gives you more quality of life for less. Rent, transport, food — all reasonable.
Third? Lifestyle. Pune offers the perfect balance between career-building and soul-soothing. You’ll find tranquillity in Koregaon Park, buzz in FC Road, and weekend getaways in the Sahyadri Hills.
And don’t forget community. The international student population here is over 15,000 strong and growing thanks to dedicated support programs, language services, and cultural inclusion on campuses.
Whether you’re coming alone or with dreams of global networking, Pune will welcome you. And then some.
Top 10 Universities and Colleges in Pune
1. Savitribai Phule Pune University (SPPU)
One of India’s oldest and most respected universities. Offers everything from vocational diplomas to PhD across Arts, Commerce, Science, Management, and Law. Huge campus with strong international partnerships.
2. Symbiosis International University
A favourite among international students. Known for Management, Law, Media, Liberal Arts, and Health Sciences. Campuses across the city are tech-forward and culturally diverse.
3. FLAME University
Built for future thinkers. A liberal education powerhouse that focuses on interdisciplinary learning — from Psychology to Film.
4. MIT World Peace University (MIT-WPU)
Offers Engineering, Business, Design, and Political Science programs. Huge focus on value-based education, peace studies, and global exposure.
5. Bharati Vidyapeeth University
Has its own medical, dental, law, and engineering colleges. Offers professional degrees with good campus infrastructure.
6. ILS Law College
Over 100 years old and one of India’s most prestigious law schools. Known for academic rigour and competitive exposure.
7. National Defence Academy (NDA)
Military-focused, but collaborative studies through SPPU in defence, strategy, and leadership.
8. Tilak Maharashtra Vidyapeeth
Perfect for students interested in Sanskrit, Ayurveda, Social Work, and Culture Studies. Offers traditional and modern courses.
9. ISBM University (Indian School of Business Management)
Popular for management and executive programs. Flexible, online + hybrid models attract global students.
10. indira Institute of Management & Education
Known for well-structured MBA and PGDM programs. High placement rates and strong corporate tie-ups.
Top 10 Student Accommodation Properties in Pune
- Tribe Student Accommodation, Viman Nagar
- Your Space, Koregaon Park
- Oxfordcaps Pune
- Stanza Living Elblag House, Wakad
- Acres Villa, Baner
- Zolo Tranquil, Hinjewadi
- Nestaway Shared Flats, Kothrud
- Hola Nest, Karve Nagar
- Colive Campus, Aundh
- HostelWorld Luxe Rooms, FC Road
Top 10 Student Areas in Pune
1. Viman Nagar
Right next to the airport and Symbiosis campuses. Safe, walkable, and loaded with cafés, fitness centres, and co-living spaces. Check Tribe and Your Space here.
2. Koregaon Park
Trendy, chill, and expat-friendly. Close to Osho Ashram and FLAME University (via shuttle). Slightly upscale, but stunning.
3. Wakad
Rising favourite for Tech and MIT-WPU students. Affordable, with bars, supermarkets, hostels like Stanza Living and easy commute options.
4. Kothrud
Old but gold. Central, budget-friendly, and safe. Close to SPPU, with lots of PG-style housing. Near Nestaway flats.
5. Aundh
Modern, upbeat. Good access to ILS Law and Indira Institute campuses. Mix of private hostels and luxe apartments. Colive Campus is buzzing here.
6. Hinjewadi
Home to Pune’s IT zone and many MBA/B.Tech colleges. Co-working labs, cafes, and hostels like Zolo make this area very student-centric.
7. Baner
Near MIT-WPU, suited for PG students or working part-timers. Spacious studios and longer-term stays available. Acres Villa is a top pick.
8. Karve Nagar
Affordable, quiet, and close to SPPU. Traditional Pune vibes with modern student needs being met. Hola Nest is here.
9. FC Road (Fergusson College Road)
The OG student zone. Close to everything – cafes, libraries, thrift stores, and local joints. Ideal for bachelors and postgrads alike.
10. Swargate/Parvati
More residential and great for budget-seeking internationals heading to non-central campuses. Calm and well-connected.
What It Costs to Live in Pune as a Student
Let’s put some numbers on your monthly budget.
- Rent (PG/shared room): ₹6,000–₹15,000
- Food (mess/tiffin services + eats): ₹3,500–₹6,000
- Transport: ₹800–₹1,500 (local buses, rickshaws, and cabs)
- Utilities (if outside PBSA): ₹1,000
- Other (Internet, mobile, gym, books): ₹2,000–₹3,000
🪙 Total Monthly Spend: ₹13,000–₹25,000 ($155–$300 USD approx.)
Pune allows you to live easily within budget — and still enjoy a bustling social and academic scene.
Moving Around: Student Transport in Pune
Despite its growing traffic, Pune is still easy to navigate. Especially if you plan smart.
- Local Buses (PMPML): The most affordable option. Student passes are available across major routes. Runs frequently but can be crowded during peak hours.
- Two-Wheeler Rentals: Apps like ONN Bikes or Bounce offer scooters for students. ₹500–₹1,000 monthly rental depending on usage. Helmet’s required.
- Uber/Ola/Rickshaws: Easy to find. Good for short commutes (4–6 km). Average ride costs ₹50–₹120.
- Bicycle Lanes + Rental Cycles: Certain neighbourhoods like Baner, Aundh, and SPPU campus support student cycling. Small rental shops and apps offer affordable rates.
- Metro (coming soon): Phases of Pune Metro are opening soon, promising smoother north-south commutes.
- Walking: Safe and scenic in many residential student zones like Koregaon Park, FC Road, and Viman Nagar.
Your daily commute won’t break your budget here — and that’s a win.
Summary — Why You Should Study Abroad in Pune
Everything about Pune just works for students. It’s academic. Affordable. Culturally rich. Chill but never boring. There’s a reason why it’s been called the Oxford of the East — institutions here deliver world-class knowledge with Indian hospitality.
This study guide in Pune is your roadmap through a city where students are treated like the core of its community. Whether you’re sipping chai at a library in Kothrud or debating philosophy in a Symbi classroom — this place gets you. And helps you thrive.
Expect solid academics, wild monsoons, spiritual Sundays, and group projects that turn into lifelong friendships. Pune might not be loud like Mumbai or political like Delhi — but it’s smart, soulful, and quietly powerful.
Exactly what a great education should feel like.
Top 10 FAQs About Studying in Pune
1. Is Pune safe for international students?
Absolutely. It’s one of India’s safest student cities. You’ll find dedicated international offices and helpful locals.
2. What’s the best university in Pune for international students?
Symbiosis and SPPU top the charts. For liberal arts, FLAME is increasingly popular among global applicants.
3. Is Pune expensive to live in?
Not really. You can survive comfortably at ₹13,000–₹25,000/month depending on lifestyle.
4. Can international students work part-time in Pune?
India restricts part-time work on student visas. However, internships within your institution are possible.
5. What is the weather like?
Mild summers, beautiful monsoons, and pleasant winters. Avoid July’s rain without an umbrella!
6. Do colleges in Pune offer English-language programs?
Yes — most programs, especially in private institutions, are taught in English.
7. Are scholarships available?
Yes. Universities like Symbiosis and FLAME offer merit-based and international need-based scholarships.
8. What’s the social life like for students?
It’s amazing. Cafés, concerts, film festivals, food trails, and cultural fests happen year-round.
9. Is public transport good in Pune?
Yes. PMPML buses and app cabs make it easy. The metro will add more convenience.
10. Can I travel easily from Pune?
Definitely. Pune is well-connected to Mumbai, Goa, Bangalore, and more via flights, trains, and buses.
