Important Guidelines for International Students
At Ashoka, we are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive environment where you can thrive both academically and personally. Whether this is your first time in India or you are returning, we are here to ensure that your transition is smooth and your journey fulfilling.
Visa FRRO Registration:
General Instructions for Registration:
All international students visiting India on a long-term basis (for more than 180 days) or as otherwise specified on their visa are required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 14 days of their arrival.
The registration process is conducted online through the e-FRRO portal.
Procedure:
STEP 1 – Students must provide all visa and passport details to the Office of the Registrar by sending an email to documents@ashoka.edu.in, upon which a Unique ID will be generated.
STEP 2 – Students must create a user ID and password by registering online on the FRRO portal at https://indianfrro.gov.in. For documents such as the Request for Registration, Bonafide Certificate, Confirmation of Residential Address, and Undertaking, Students have to write to the Office of the Registrar at documents@ashoka.edu.in.
The entire FRRO registration process, along with other FRRO services such as visa extension, return visa, and exit permit, is online without having to visit the FRRO unless there is an emergency. The University will issue the necessary documents upon students’ request from time to time. The University will assist students in subsequent visa renewals and other required visa services. It shall be the sole responsibility of the students to monitor and keep track of all their visa-related services and their respective timelines. In the event of any delay in the submission of applications for such visa services, and should such delay result in the imposition of any monetary penalty, fine, or late fee by the competent authorities, the students shall bear and pay the full amount of such penalty. The University shall not be held liable for any financial or other consequences arising from the students’ failure to comply with the prescribed timelines.
Indian Bank Account:
There is a wide choice of banks, and on campus we have HDFC Bank. Most international students will open a bank account that provides the following:
- online banking
- a debit card
This type of account is usually free, but additional fees may apply for one-off services or additional benefits.
How to open a bank account:
Typically, there is an application form for opening a new account, but if you’re unsure and you’re opening an account with a bank, you can visit in person for assistance.
To open an account, international students will usually need:
- Copy of Valid Foreign Passport (relevant pages showing all identification details)
- Valid Visa along with immigration endorsement.
- In case the passport does not carry an overseas address, valid overseas address proof is required, issued by the Government department of the foreign jurisdiction.
- Valid proof of local address which would be updated as mailing address (Copy of FRRO/E-FRRO certificate can be accepted as local address proof)
- Letter from University offering admission
For most students, the process to open a bank account in India is straightforward. However, each application is assessed individually by the bank, and approval is not guaranteed.
It is advisable to ensure you have access to funds you can use for your initial expenses during the first few months in India, in case it takes some time to make all the arrangements for your new bank account.
If you are under 18, you may need to follow a different process. Your chosen bank will be able to advise you on this.
Indian SIM Card:
International students in India can easily obtain a prepaid or postpaid mobile connection (SIM). The connection is typically valid for the duration of the student visa or FRRO registration. If students wish to obtain an Airtel connection (SIM), they can do so on campus, as Airtel representatives visit from time to time.
Required Documents to Obtain an Airtel Connection (SIM):
Original Passport: Must include a photograph
Original copy of Visa: Valid Indian student visa.
Proof of Address in India: A bonafide/address letter issued by the university.
Local Reference (Sometimes Required for Postpaid Connections): A local reference who can provide their personal details and Indian address.
Important Notes:
- For most students, the process of obtaining a SIM is straightforward. However, each application is assessed individually by the SIM card company, and the issuance of a SIM is not guaranteed.
- It is advisable to carry a roaming SIM card for the first few months, in case it takes some time to obtain a SIM card.
