Paying University Fees

[ziemer]

I am an Indian student and I will be starting MS this fall in USA.
I need to get USDs for paying fees at the university.

I have a NRI (non-resident Indian) friend in USA who can give me USDs in exchange for INR (Indian Rupee)
Has anybody used this method of currency exchange between individuals before?

Somebody suggested that this kind of currency exchange between individuals could be against the law in India. Is this true?
Any input would be appreciated.

Thanks.