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Best Universities for Foreign Language Courses in India

Foreign language courses are available at prestigious Indian universities for professional growth.
UniList Desk

Updated Jan 2, 2026 | 07:15 PM IST
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Learning a language can open many doors. You can work in translation, teach foreign languages to students, work in tourism, or even engage in international business using foreign language skills. Many students also use foreign language qualifications to study abroad or to improve their chances of securing government jobs.
India has several well-established government universities that offer foreign language courses in languages such as French, German, Spanish, Russian and Chinese, among others. Below is a list of some major government universities in India that provide foreign language education.

1. Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi

Jawaharlal Nehru University is one of the top choices for foreign language studies in India. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and research programmes in languages such as German, French, Russian, Spanish and Chinese. JNU is known for its experienced faculty and international exposure. Courses focus on language proficiency, literature, culture and translation.

2. University of Delhi (DU), Delhi

The University of Delhi offers diploma and degree courses in several foreign languages. Students can study French, German, Spanish, Polish and Serbian. Both full-time and part-time options are available. DU is suitable for students who want to learn a foreign language alongside another academic degree.

3. English and Foreign Languages University (EFLU), Hyderabad

EFLU is a specialised university dedicated to language studies. It focuses on English and foreign languages such as Japanese, Russian, Persian, Turkish and Korean. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate and diploma programmes. EFLU prepares students for careers in translation, interpretation, teaching and international communication.

4. Banaras Hindu University (BHU), Varanasi

Banaras Hindu University offers a wide range of language programmes. Courses are available in languages such as Chinese, Japanese, Russian, French and Spanish. Students study language structure along with culture and literature. BHU’s academic environment and campus life support overall student development.

5. Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), New Delhi

IGNOU is a popular option, particularly for working professionals. It offers BA, MA, diploma and certificate courses in languages such as French, German, Spanish and Arabic. Its distance learning model allows students to study at their own pace.

6. University of Calcutta, Kolkata

The University of Calcutta offers foreign language courses in Chinese, Japanese, German, Persian and Russian. Diploma programmes are especially popular. Students may also study languages alongside arts and humanities subjects.

7. University of Allahabad, Prayagraj

The University of Allahabad offers certificate and diploma courses in foreign languages such as French, German and Russian. These are generally offered as value-added courses that students can pursue alongside their regular degree programmes.

Why Choose Government Universities for Foreign Language Studies?

Government universities usually charge much lower fees than private institutions, making them more affordable for students. Private colleges offering language courses can be expensive, while government institutions provide quality education at a reasonable cost.
Other advantages include:
  • Degrees recognised by the University Grants Commission and the Government of India
  • Strong academic support and research opportunities
  • A wide range of language options
  • Good career prospects in both government and private sectors

Tips for Admission

  • Check eligibility criteria before applying. Most courses require completion of Class 12 or graduation.
  • Some universities conduct entrance examinations for admission to language programmes.
  • Prepare for basic language aptitude or written tests if required.
Learning a foreign language can be a valuable long-term skill. Choose a government university that matches your interests and career goals. Plan ahead and prepare carefully for admissions. Best wishes for your language learning journey.

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