Are you a student from Karnataka dreaming of joining an IIT? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of students from the state prepare for the JEE exams with one goal in mind: to study at one of India’s top engineering institutes. The Indian Institutes of Technology are known for excellent academics, great placements, and strong alumni networks. But many students wonder, “How many IITs are actually in Karnataka?”
In this article, you’ll get a clear answer to that question. We’ll talk about the only IIT in Karnataka, which is IIT Dharwad, and how it has grown since its start in 2016. You’ll also learn about other top engineering colleges in the state, admission details for IIT Dharwad, cutoff trends, and smart tips to help you get there. If you’re serious about engineering, this guide will help you plan your path and make informed decisions for your future.
How Many IITs Are There in Karnataka (2025)?
Karnataka has one IIT, IIT Dharwad, which is the sole Indian Institute of Technology in the state as of 2025.
IIT Dharwad: The Only IIT in Karnataka
IIT Dharwad is the only Indian Institute of Technology located in the state of Karnataka. It is a public technical university that was established in 2016 as part of the third phase of IIT expansion in India. Since then, the institute has made steady progress in academics, infrastructure, and research.
Establishment and Early Years
The idea of setting up an IIT in Karnataka was proposed as early as the 1990s. The late Union Human Resource Development Minister S. R. Bommai had moved a proposal to the central government to establish an IIT in Dharwad. In 1998, a committee headed by Udupi Ramachandra Rao, the former ISRO chairman, supported the idea and recommended an IIT in the Hubballi-Dharwad region.
However, it was only in the 2015–16 Union Budget that then Finance Minister Arun Jaitley sanctioned a new IIT for Karnataka. The state government shortlisted Dharwad, Mysuru, and Raichur as possible locations. Dharwad was selected, and IIT Dharwad officially began operations in July 2016.
Initially, IIT Dharwad operated from a temporary campus located at the Water and Land Management Institute (WALMI) in Belur Industrial Area, on the outskirts of Dharwad city. The institute was formally inaugurated on 28 August 2016.
Permanent Campus and Infrastructure
IIT Dharwad’s permanent campus is located in Chikkamalligawad, Dharwad, Karnataka. The campus spans over 470 acres and became fully operational in March 2023. The campus was inaugurated and dedicated to the nation by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. With this, the institute moved out of its temporary facility and began operating in its own modern campus with updated labs, classrooms, hostels, and recreational spaces.
Mentorship by IIT Bombay
To support its early growth, IIT Dharwad was assigned to IIT Bombay as its mentor institute. As part of this mentorship, a monitoring cell was established at IIT Bombay by the Ministry of Education. Officials on special duty from IIT Bombay helped guide the planning, infrastructure, and academic structure of IIT Dharwad. This support helped IIT Dharwad align with the academic and administrative standards expected from the IIT system.
Academic Programs and Departments
IIT Dharwad started its academic journey in 2016 with three B.Tech programs:
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
In 2021, the institute introduced Engineering Physics as a new branch. By 2022, four more academic disciplines were added:
- Chemical and Biochemical Engineering
- Mathematics and Computing
- Civil and Infrastructure Engineering
- Interdisciplinary Sciences
This expansion reflects the institute’s focus on offering a wide range of academic and research options for students. The aim is to keep up with emerging technologies and industry needs.
IIT Dharwad Faculty and Students
As of 2025, IIT Dharwad has 86 academic staff members and 866 students in total
- 701 undergraduates
- 59 postgraduates
- 106 doctoral students
The student-to-faculty ratio remains healthy, allowing personalized attention and a strong learning environment. The faculty at IIT Dharwad are involved in research and often collaborate with national and international institutions.
The main campus in Chikkamalligawad offers modern classrooms, labs, sports facilities, student hostels, and faculty housing. The location is peaceful, with a natural setting that supports a focused academic life. The institute is well connected by road and rail to other major cities like Bengaluru, Pune, and Mumbai.
IIT Dharwad National Ranking
According to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2023, IIT Dharwad was ranked 93rd among all engineering institutions in India. While this is a developing rank compared to older IITs, it shows steady growth and recognition among engineering colleges.
Alternatives to IIT in Karnataka for Engineering Students
While IIT Dharwad is the only IIT in Karnataka, students have many other excellent options for studying engineering in the state. Whether you don’t clear JEE Advanced or want to explore different specializations, Karnataka offers several top engineering colleges. These institutes provide strong academic programs, good faculty, research opportunities, and decent placement records.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore
IISc Bangalore is one of the best institutions in India for science and engineering. Though it is not an IIT, it offers top-quality education, especially in research and innovation. IISc is known for its advanced M.Tech and research-based courses, but it has also started offering undergraduate B.Tech programs in Mathematics and Computing. Admission to its B.Tech program is through JEE Advanced, just like the IITs.
If you’re aiming for pure sciences, data science, or research-driven careers, IISc is a great choice. It regularly ranks at the top in NIRF rankings for overall and research categories.
National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal
Located near Mangalore, NITK Surathkal is one of the top NITs in India. It offers B.Tech, M.Tech, and PhD programs in multiple branches like Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Electronics, and more. The admission process is through JEE Main followed by JoSAA counselling.
NITK has a strong placement record, with top companies hiring students each year. Its coastal campus is known for its beautiful surroundings and excellent academic infrastructure. Many students who miss IITs aim for NITK as their next best choice.
Other Reputed Engineering Colleges
Karnataka is home to several well-known engineering colleges that offer affordable and quality education. Some of these include:
University Visvesvaraya College of Engineering (UVCE), Bangalore: One of the oldest engineering colleges in India, UVCE is affiliated with Bangalore University and has recently been granted autonomous status.
BMS College of Engineering, Bangalore (Autonomous): It is one of the top private engineering colleges in the state but functions with a quality close to government institutions. Admissions are through COMEDK or KCET.
Ramaiah Institute of Technology (MSRIT), Bangalore: Known for strong academics, MSRIT has consistently good placements and industry tie-ups. It is affiliated with VTU and admits students through KCET and COMEDK.
R.V. College of Engineering (RVCE), Bangalore: A top-ranked private college, RVCE is well-known for its excellent infrastructure, placements, and alumni network. Admission is through KCET and COMEDK.
PES University, Bangalore: PES is a private deemed university offering quality education in engineering and technology. Admission is through PESSAT, KCET, or JEE Main.
New Horizon College of Engineering, Bangalore: This autonomous college is known for good academic results, industry exposure, and placement support.
Nitte Meenakshi Institute of Technology (NMIT), Bangalore: An autonomous college under VTU, NMIT offers good faculty, research opportunities, and decent placements. Admissions are via KCET and COMEDK.
State-Level Entrance and Private Colleges
If you’re aiming for engineering in Karnataka, you can also apply through:
- KCET (Karnataka Common Entrance Test): This exam is for students who want admission to state engineering colleges. Government quota seats in both government and private colleges are filled through KCET.
- COMEDK UGET: This is another entrance exam conducted for admission to private engineering colleges in Karnataka.
How to Get Admission into IIT Dharwad?
Getting admission into IIT Dharwad is a dream for many engineering aspirants, especially those from Karnataka. Like all other IITs, admission to IIT Dharwad is done through the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) system, which includes JEE Main and JEE Advanced. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the complete admission process, eligibility, cutoff trends, seat allocation, and preparation tips.
Step 1: Appear for JEE Main
The first step is to appear for JEE Main, which is conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). This exam acts as a screening test for JEE Advanced.
Eligibility for JEE Main:
- You must have passed Class 12 or equivalent with Physics and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.
- You can attempt JEE Main a maximum of three times over two consecutive years.
- There is no age limit, but you must meet the year-of-passing requirement.
You need to score among the top 2.5 lakh candidates in JEE Main (including all categories) to become eligible for JEE Advanced.
Step 2: Clear JEE Advanced
Once you qualify JEE Main, you must register and appear for JEE Advanced. This is the only entrance exam that grants admission to IITs, including IIT Dharwad.
Eligibility for JEE Advanced:
- You must be among the top 2.5 lakh JEE Main rankers.
- You should not have taken JEE Advanced more than twice in the past.
- You must have scored at least 75% marks in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST/PwD), or be in the top 20 percentile of your board.
Step 3: Participate in JoSAA Counselling
Once you clear JEE Advanced, you must participate in the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) counselling process. You will need to:
- Register online on the JoSAA portal.
- Fill in your preferred choices (colleges and branches).
- Check mock allotments.
- Lock your choices before the deadline.
Tips for Aspiring Students
- Start early: Begin your JEE preparation from Class 11 or even earlier.
- Follow a plan: Divide your study time between Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Practice mock tests: Use online platforms to attempt previous year papers and timed tests.
- Join a coaching institute (optional): Many students join coaching classes in cities like Kota, Hyderabad, or Bangalore.
- Use NCERT books for basics, then move on to advanced material like HC Verma, Irodov, and coaching modules.
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff Ranks
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff (General-All India)
| Course | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering | 4777 | 5978 | 6375 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering | 10950 | 10267 | – / – |
| B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering | 13892 | 14010 | 13435 |
| B.Tech. in Engineering Physics | 13582 | 13387 | 12851 |
| B.Tech. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering | 15903 | 16106 | 15739 |
| B.Tech. in Mathematics and Computing | 7126 | 7412 | 7381 |
| B.Tech. in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering | 15654 | 16739 | 15945 |
| Integrated B.Sc.+ M.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Sciences | 16615 | 18027 | 16968 |
| B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering | – / – | – / – | 8772 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – / – | – / – | 9778 |
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff (OBC-All India)
| Course | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering | 1848 | 2386 | 2225 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering | 3750 | 3966 | – / – |
| B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering | 4950 | 5158 | 5082 |
| B.Tech. in Engineering Physics | 4998 | 5738 | 5258 |
| B.Tech. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering | 5352 | 5555 | 5830 |
| B.Tech. in Mathematics and Computing | 2645 | 3090 | 2819 |
| B.Tech. in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering | 5157 | 5548 | 5549 |
| Integrated B.Sc.+ M.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Sciences | 5712 | 6538 | 6185 |
| B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering | – / – | – / – | 3368 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – / – | – / – | 3823 |
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff (SC-All India)
| Course | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering | 1119 | 1172 | 1295 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering | 2126 | 2282 | – / – |
| B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering | 2379 | 2773 | 2629 |
| B.Tech. in Engineering Physics | 2904 | 2863 | 3133 |
| B.Tech. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering | 2806 | 3155 | 3121 |
| B.Tech. in Mathematics and Computing | 1677 | 1821 | 1479 |
| B.Tech. in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering | 2494 | 2879 | 2856 |
| Integrated B.Sc.+ M.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Sciences | 2971 | 3454 | 3302 |
| B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering | – / – | – / – | 1712 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – / – | – / – | 2080 |
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff (ST-All India)
| Course | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering | 485 | 444 | 607 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering | 967 | 871 | – / – |
| B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering | 1095 | 1113 | 1213 |
| B.Tech. in Engineering Physics | 1253 | 1346 | 1442 |
| B.Tech. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering | 1264 | 1343 | 1337 |
| B.Tech. in Mathematics and Computing | 721 | 828 | 788 |
| B.Tech. in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering | 963 | 1200 | 1147 |
| Integrated B.Sc.+ M.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Sciences | 1482 | 1574 | 1549 |
| B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering | – / – | – / – | 850 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – / – | – / – | 906 |
IIT Dharwad JEE Advanced Cutoff (Economically Weaker Section-All India)
| Course | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering | 719 | 801 | 906 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical Engineering | 1768 | 1654 | – / – |
| B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering | 2163 | 2411 | 2196 |
| B.Tech. in Engineering Physics | 2274 | 2309 | 2339 |
| B.Tech. in Chemical and Biochemical Engineering | 2245 | 2532 | 2463 |
| B.Tech. in Mathematics and Computing | 1168 | 1126 | 1167 |
| B.Tech. in Civil and Infrastructure Engineering | 2345 | 2621 | 2422 |
| Integrated B.Sc.+ M.Sc. in Interdisciplinary Sciences | 2542 | 2925 | 2524 |
| B.Tech. in Electronics and Communication Engineering | – / – | – / – | 1458 |
| B.Tech. in Electrical and Electronics Engineering | – / – | – / – | 1567 |
Conclusion
If you’re a student in Karnataka aiming for the IITs, your main focus within the state should be IIT Dharwad. As of 2025, it is the only Indian Institute of Technology in Karnataka. Since its establishment in 2016, IIT Dharwad has grown steadily, with the support of IIT Bombay. It now has a fully operational permanent campus, modern infrastructure, quality faculty, and improving placement records, making it a solid choice for aspiring engineers.
To secure admission into IIT Dharwad, you must clear both JEE Main and JEE Advanced. This requires early planning, consistent effort, and smart preparation. Begin your preparation as early as Class 11, focus on NCERT fundamentals, solve mock tests regularly, and manage your time well. Even if you don’t get into IIT Dharwad, don’t be discouraged.
Karnataka also offers excellent alternatives like IISc Bangalore (for research-focused students), NITK Surathkal (with strong placements), and other top government and private engineering colleges. Each of these institutions provides quality education and good career prospects.
Choose your path based on your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Stay focused, work hard, and believe in yourself. With the right guidance and dedication, you can reach your dream engineering college.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
1) Is IIT Dharwad a good IIT?
Yes, IIT Dharwad is a solid choice. It’s a growing IIT with strong ties to IIT Bombay, a permanent campus, modern labs, and qualified faculty. Placements are improving steadily, making it a promising option for students.
2) What is the JEE Advanced cutoff for IIT Dharwad?
The JEE Advanced cutoff varies by branch and category. In 2025, the CSE cutoff may be around ranks 6000–7000 (Open category).
3) Will Karnataka get a new IIT soon?
Currently, there are no official plans for a new IIT in Karnataka. IIT Dharwad is expected to expand further, adding more branches, research facilities, and improving its infrastructure as part of its long-term growth strategy.
4) How does IIT Dharwad compare to NITK Surathkal?
Both institutes are highly regarded. IIT Dharwad, while newer, offers the IIT system’s advantages. NITK Surathkal has a strong reputation, especially for placements. If choosing between CSE at NITK and a lower branch at IIT Dharwad, carefully consider the branch and future goals.
