IEPAN Launches Stay in Nepal Study in Nepal Campaign for Foreign Degrees

Key points

• IEPAN officially introduced the Stay in Nepal, Study in Nepal campaign during a press meeting in Kathmandu.
• The initiative aims to keep capital within the country by encouraging students to earn foreign university degrees locally.
• Organizers requested the Ministry of Education and Sports to establish a Study in Nepal Board and streamline e-visa systems.
• Currently, 58 colleges in Nepal offer programs affiliated with 35 international universities to over 37,000 students.

Details

The International Education Providers Association of Nepal (IEPAN) announced a national campaign titled Stay in Nepal, Study in Nepal on September 29, 2026. The primary goal of this initiative is to provide access to international academic qualifications locally while curbing the significant outflow of foreign currency spent on overseas education. IEPAN also plans to expand this effort to attract international students from South Asia, East Asia, and Africa to pursue higher studies in Nepal.

To ensure the initiative succeeds, IEPAN asked the Ministry of Education and Sports to introduce key administrative reforms. Their proposals include setting up a government level Study in Nepal Board to evaluate campus facilities before granting authorization to enroll international applicants. Additionally, the association requested standard e-visa options and diplomatic mission processing to make student visas easier to obtain.

Data shared by IEPAN shows that 58 permitted institutions in Nepal currently deliver foreign programs in partnership with 35 universities across seven nations. A total of 37,208 students are enrolled in these programs. IEPAN leadership noted that pursuing an international degree inside Nepal enables students to stay close to their families while saving significantly on accommodation and living overheads.

What this means for students

If you are choosing between studying locally or pursuing foreign-affiliated degrees, verify institutional approvals and compare long-term academic benefits. Students deciding between technical routes in domestic universities can read our guide on CSIT vs BIT, which to choose or learn how to use TU past questions the right way to plan their study path effectively.