William Paterson University and Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University (IP University), in Delhi, India, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will expand academic exchange and research collaboration between the two institutions. The agreement was formalized during a virtual signing ceremony earlier this month.

“We are excited for this new partnership with IP University, which will extend William Paterson’s global reach while providing IP University’s students access to a quality William Paterson education,” said President Richard J. Helldobler. “This new exchange pathway will build on the strong record of success of Indian students at William Paterson, while also further enriching the campus experience for all WP students and better preparing them for careers in an increasingly inter-connected world.”

Under the MOU, IP University students will be eligible to participate in a 2+2 pathway program leading to a bachelor’s degree from William Paterson University. Students will complete their first two years at IP University in India through a jointly developed curriculum co-designed with William Paterson faculty. They will then spend their final two years on William Paterson’s campus in Wayne, New Jersey.

IP University, located in the nation’s capital, is one of the largest public universities in northern India, enrolling more than 93,000 students across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. IP University Vice Chancellor Mahesh Verma is the recipient of the Padma Shri Award for "distinguished service" – one of the highest and most respected civilian awards in India.

The MOU follows a visit to India in February 2025 by President Helldobler and William Paterson Vice President for Enrollment Management George Kacenga, during which they met with Verma and other senior leaders at IP University.

“During our visit to Delhi, we heard directly from students about their goals, expectations, and the opportunities they hope to access. What stood out was how closely their aspirations align with William Paterson’s strengths. Establishing a WP presence with our partner’s campus in India allows us to support those aspirations from the start through shared academic programs and research that prepare students for continued study in the United States,” Kacenga says.

This agreement is the latest in William Paterson University’s growing network of partnerships with Indian institutions. The University has also signed MOUs with J.B. Institute of Engineering & Technology (JBES) and Sushant University and is in advanced stages of MOU discussion with others.

“Indian students already succeed at a high level at William Paterson. Their success shows that when we create the right conditions, global talent does not just enroll, it strengthens the institution,” Kacenga says.