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Home » How to Get into IIT: A-Z Guide

How to Get into IIT: A-Z Guide

how to get into iit

Do you want to get into an IIT? Or looking for a definite answer on how to get into IIT? Well, it’s a dream of many Indians out there. Indian Institute of Technology or IIT is not only an educational institution but also an emotion. A brand that people across the world are aware of.

Ranked among the top institutions in the world, IITs are considered Institutes of National Importance by the Parliament of India. Also, with famous alumni like Sundar Pichai, CEO of Google and Alphabet Inc.; N.R. Narayana Murthy, Co-founder of Infosys; Raghuram Rajan, Ex-Governor of RBI; and Arvind Kejriwal, Chief Minister of Delhi to name a few, IITs have proved themselves to be the most prestigious engineering institutions in India.

Hence, it justifies the craze among Indian students to get into an IIT. Therefore, we thought of creating an A-Z Guide on “How to Get into IIT?” for aspiring students like you. Here, you’ll find all the required details for getting admission into one of these esteemed institutions.

What is the IIT exam?

IIT JEE is a joint entrance exam specifically for architecture and engineering courses. Those who want to know how to get into IITs after the 12th should know that the way to do it is to clear the IIT JEE exam. After cracking the IIT JEE exam, students are offered admission to IITs, NITs, and other engineering colleges across India. This is a great opportunity for all those who are looking forward to pursuing engineering and architecture courses.

There are three main phases of the IIT JEE exam: Main, Advanced, and Architecture test. Let’s check each exam in detail:

IIT JEE Main Exam

JEE Main exam is the first step to getting into IITs. These days this exam is conducted by NTA in online mode. A local network is used instead of the Internet to conduct a secure survey. Postgraduate students can start their journey to IITs only after clearing the main exam. So those who want to know how to get into IITs after the 12th must clear the mains exam first.

IIT JEE Advanced Exam

 After you qualify for the IIT Mains exam, the IIT JEE Advanced exam follows. The advanced stage of the IIT exam is the most difficult and it is also conducted in online mode. If you want to go through the entire IIT admission process, you must clear the IIT JEE Advanced exam.

JEE B (AAT) Arch

This exam is specifically for those students who want to enter the field of architecture. After getting selected for this exam, you will be able to pursue architecture-related courses in IITs. If you qualify for the JEE Main and Advanced exams, you can take the AAT exam. However, architecture courses are available only in two colleges, one IIT Kharagpur and the other IIT Roorkee.

Getting into IITs after the 12th is highly hyped for engineering aspirants because students get high pay packages after graduating from IITs. Top MNCs offer job opportunities to those students who graduate from IITs. That’s why parents want their kids to go to IITs. If you are also looking for how to get into IITs after the 12th then read this blog carefully.

Benefits of Studying at an IIT

Studying at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) has several benefits, including:

  • High-Quality Education: IITs are renowned for their rigorous curriculum and world-class faculty, providing students with a high-quality education in engineering, technology, and related fields.
  • Strong Industry Connections: IITs have strong connections with top companies and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, co-op programs, and career placement.
  • Research Opportunities: IITs are centers of research and innovation, and students have the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects and develop their ideas.
  • Global Exposure: IITs have partnerships with leading universities and institutions around the world, providing students with opportunities for international study, research, and collaboration.
  • Diverse Student Community: IITs have a diverse student body, with students from all over India and around the world, providing a rich cultural and intellectual environment.
  • Prestigious Degree: An IIT degree is highly respected and valued by employers, and is considered a benchmark of excellence in engineering and technology fields.

Life at IIT

Life at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) is a unique and challenging experience that combines rigorous academic study with a vibrant campus culture. Students are exposed to a demanding curriculum that covers the latest developments in engineering, technology, and related fields. Outside of class, students can participate in a variety of extracurricular activities, from clubs and sports teams to student-run organizations and cultural events.

The IIT campus is a lively and dynamic community, with students from all over India and around the world. The diverse student body provides a rich cultural and intellectual environment, and opportunities for personal growth and self-discovery. In addition to their studies, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, including libraries, labs, and recreational facilities.

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How to Choose the Right IIT Branch?

Choosing the right branch at an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) can be a challenging decision, but with the right information and careful consideration, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your interests, goals, and strengths. Here are some steps to help you choose the right IIT branch:

  • Assess your interests and strengths: Start by thinking about what you’re interested in and what you’re good at. Consider your academic background, extracurricular activities, and any related work or volunteering experience.
  • Research the different branches: Look at the curriculum, research opportunities, and career prospects for each branch at the IIT you’re considering. Get a sense of what you’ll be studying, and think about how that aligns with your interests and goals.
  • Consider your career goals: Consider what you want to do after graduation, and think about how the different branches align with those goals. Consider the job market for each branch and what kinds of careers are available for graduates.
  • Talk to current students and alumni: Reach out to current students or alumni of the IIT you’re considering, and ask them about their experiences and what they liked or didn’t like about their branch.
  • Trust your instincts: At the end of the day, it’s important to choose a branch that you’re excited about and that you believe will help you achieve your goals. If you have any doubts, don’t hesitate to speak with an academic advisor or counselor.

eligibility for iit

Eligibility for IIT

For better understanding, we shall discuss the eligibility for JEE (Main) and JEE (Advanced) separately. 

Eligibility for appearing in the JEE (Main) Examination

You will be eligible if you have either passed the class 12th or equivalent examination in one of the previous two years of the year in which the JEE (Main) is being conducted or appeared in the class 12th or equivalent examination in the year in which the JEE (Main) is being conducted.

For example, if you want to appear in the JEE (Main) 2021, you must have passed the Class 12th or equivalent examination either in 2019 or 2020. You are also eligible if you are going to appear in the 12th or equivalent examination in 2021.

Eligibility for appearing in the JEE (Advanced) Examination

For JEE (Advanced) the minimum eligibility requirement is that you must have passed the final class 12th or equivalent examination from a recognized Board of education with at least 75% marks in aggregate (65% for SC/ST/PwD) or you must be in the top 20 percentile of candidates who have passed the Class 12th Board examination from the same Board from which you have passed.

You are also eligible to appear for the JEE (Advanced) examination if you are appearing for the class 12th or equivalent examination from a recognized Board of education in the same year in which the JEE (Advanced) is being conducted. In this case, you will be eligible only provisionally.

Subsequently, before admission, you will have to fulfill the above criteria of 75% marks in aggregate or being among the top 20 percentile of successful candidates. This is the most important information for you if you want to know how to get into IIT.

Eligibility for admission to B.Arch. programs

Only those candidates who have qualified in JEE (Advanced) examination are eligible to appear in the Architecture Aptitude Test.

iit admission process

How to get admission to IIT?

To get admission into IIT you need to consider the following steps – 

Step 1 – Crack JEE Mains

JEE mains is a national entrance test that serves as a basis for admission to IITs. A student should pass 12th with a minimum of 75% marks with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as the main subjects. This is a computer-based test with 90 questions. Of these, the student must try to answer 75 questions.

JEE Mains is conducted 4 times a year. So, the best score out of your 4 attempts will be considered for the next level of exams. Remember you can appear for JEE within 3 years after passing 12th.

If you are going for engineering courses you will have to take only one PCM-based computer-based test but if you want to go for architecture you have to take 3 papers. Two of them are online and one is an offline test to assess your drawing skills.

Once you clear JEE mains with minimum cut-off criteria you are eligible for step 2.

The limit changes every year depending on the number of students and the level of difficulty. After achieving the minimum cutoff in JEE Mains, prepare for step 2. 

Step 2 – Crack JEE Advanced

JEE Advanced is again a computer-based test conducted by IIT Zonal Coordinators. The Joint Admissions Committee further regulates this. Here the student has to take 2 papers based on PCM. This is a 3-hour test and a student can only attempt it twice. JEE Advanced assesses a student’s ability, aptitude, and intelligence about his core subjects with an increased level of difficulty. Students wishing to join architecture must pass an additional pen and paper test known as the Architecture Test (AAT).

Here the aim is to grab the ALL INDIA RANK which is exactly step 3.

Step 3 – Getting ALL INDIA RANK

To be ranked here, a student must meet certain criteria. He has secured a minimum of 10% individually in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics and he must secure an aggregate of 35% marks in all the 3 subjects. Only if the student fulfills this criterion is considered for the ranking.

Step 4- IIT Seat Allotment

To get a seat in an IIT, one has to go through the standard seat allotment process. This process is carried out by the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA). This process applies to all IIT institutes.

So, after clearing JEE Mains and JEE Advanced one can find a way to score AIR and get a seat in IITs. It is a long journey and a student who aspires to become an IITian should start long before achieving the best results.

How many seats are there at IIT? – The Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) will release the seat matrix for IIT 2023 in association with the 23rd Indian Institute of Technology. Candidates will be able to access the IIT 2023 seat matrix online once the counseling session starts. Candidates need to qualify for JEE Advanced for admission to IITs. In 2022, the total number of BTech seats in all the IITs combined is about 16,053. So of all the students who appear for JEE Advanced, less than 1% finally get admission to one of the IITs.

Admission criteria for IIT

You will have to satisfy at least one of the following two criteria (after your Board results are announced) for admission to IITs:
  1. At least 75% aggregate marks in Class XII (or equivalent) Board examination or equivalent grades.
  2. Be within the category-wise top 20 percentile of successful candidates in the respective Class 12th Board examination of a particular year. These category-wise top-20 percentile cut-off score lists are announced every year after the JEE Advanced exam is over and all Board results are out.

The marks scored in the following 5 subjects will be considered for calculating both the Class 12th aggregate marks as well as the cut-off marks of the top 20 percentile:

  1. Physics
  2. Chemistry
  3. Mathematics
  4. A language (if you have taken more than 1 language, then the language in which you have scored higher will be considered)
  5. Any subject besides the above 4 (the subject in which you have scored the highest marks will be considered)

These were some of the steps regarding how to get admission in IIT colleges after 12th class.

Admission Criteria for admission to B.Arch. programs

  1. Only available at IIT (BHU) Varanasi, IIT Kharagpur, and IIT Roorkee
  2. You will have to pass the Architecture Aptitude Test.
  3. There is no separate ranking in the AAT.
  4. Allotment of seats will be solely based on the category-wise All India Rank in the JEE (Advanced) 2020 and B. Arch. the program will be offered only to those candidates declared PASS in the AAT.

Syllabus for IIT Entrance Exams

The syllabus for the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) entrance exams varies depending on the exam but typically covers mathematics, physics, and chemistry. Here’s a general overview of the syllabus for the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main, which is one of the exams used to admit students to IITs:

  • Mathematics: Algebra, Trigonometry, Analytical Geometry, Differential Calculus, Integral Calculus, Vectors, and Three-Dimensional Geometry.
  • Physics: Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetic Waves, Optics, and Modern Physics.
  • Chemistry: Physical Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, and Inorganic Chemistry.

Note: The exact syllabus and topics covered can vary from year to year, and it’s always a good idea to consult the official exam website or check with the IITs you’re interested in for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, preparing for these exams requires a strong foundation in each subject, as well as a deep understanding of the topics covered in the syllabus.

How to Prepare for IIT Entrance Exams

The most common question among students is how they can ace the IIT JEE Main Exam or how they should tackle the IIT JEE Advanced Exam. If you are also the one, don’t worry! We are here to help you. 

Here are some steps you can take to prepare for these exams:

  • Start Early: Begin preparing as early as possible, ideally at least one year in advance. This will give you enough time to cover the entire syllabus and build a strong foundation in each subject.
  • Study the Syllabus: Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam format, and make a study plan that covers all the topics in sufficient depth.
  • Get the Right Study Materials: Use high-quality study materials, such as textbooks, lecture notes, and sample papers. Additionally, consider enrolling in a coaching class or online course to get additional guidance and support.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice: Regular practice is key to success in these exams. Try to solve as many practice questions and sample papers as possible to build your speed, accuracy, and confidence.
  • Focus on Weaknesses: Identify your weaknesses and focus on improving them. Seek help from teachers, coaches, or online resources if needed.
  • Manage your Time: Time management is crucial in these exams, as you’ll need to balance your studies with other commitments. Set aside dedicated time each day for studying, and stick to a consistent schedule.
  • Stay Motivated: Stay motivated and focused on your goals. Surround yourself with positive influences, and reward yourself for your hard work and achievements along the way.

These were some important tips and tricks regarding how to get into IIT after 12th class.

Conclusions

To end with, we would say that there is no magic formula to getting into an IIT. Some students studied for just 3-4 hours a day and got into IITs. Some students toiled for 8-10 hours a day but still couldn’t make it. An in-depth understanding of the fundamental concepts in Science and Mathematics is one of the keys. But that’s not all. The levels of your analytical and logical skills are supremely important.

Therefore, before you begin the race by getting the answer to the question ‘how to get into IIT’, you need to know whether you should begin the race. Career counseling is a must before you start. Talk to your teachers who know you well. Talk to competent and unbiased career counselors. Take an informed and logical decision. Or else it will be like jumping into the sea without knowing how to swim.

That’s it for today. With hope to see you soon, thank you! GOOD LUCK.

For more details, you can check out the JEE Mains and JEE (Advanced) websites.

Also read:

FAQs

How many hours do to study to get into IIT?

Each student has their abilities, so their study time may vary. However, 6-7 hours of study every day is mandatory to crack the IIT JEE exams. Dedicating 1 hour to each subject is a good study strategy.

How many times can a student appear for IIT JEE Mains?

A candidate can take the IIT JEE Mains exam six times in three consecutive years as the Mains exam is conducted twice a year.

Can I get into IITs without clearing JEE?

Yes, you can get into IITs even without clearing JEE exams. IITs offer several courses apart from B. tech courses. You can take the relevant entrance exams for the course you want to pursue.

Is 12 marks important for IIT JEE?

There is no minimum marks criteria to clear the IIT JEE exam. However, to get admission to IITs, a candidate must pass 12th with a minimum of 75% in the case of general students and 65% in the case of reserved categories. Additionally, they must be in the top 20 percentile.

Can I join IIT after the 10th?

No, just passing 10th does not qualify you for IIT admission. At least you need to pass the 12th to clear the IIT JEE exams.

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