Many students dream of studying in a top Indian institute and also want to study abroad. BITS Pilani now gives you this chance. It offers a special 2+2 international dual degree program. In this program, you study two years at BITS and the next two years at a foreign university.
You earn two degrees—one from BITS and one from the partner university. This helps you gain both strong basics and global exposure. You also get to learn new ways of teaching and meet people from different cultures.
The BITS 2+2 program is designed for students who want to gain international academic experience while staying rooted in Indian education during the first two years. It also prepares students for global careers with strong technical skills.
Let’s understand the full structure, partner universities, degree options, eligibility, and other important details of the BITS 2+2 program.
What is the BITS 2+2 Program?
The BITS 2+2 Program is an international dual-degree program offered by BITS Pilani. It is designed for students who want to complete part of their engineering education in India and the rest abroad. This program lets you study for the first two years at a BITS Pilani campus and the next two years at a top international university. At the end of the program, you receive two degrees—one from BITS Pilani and one from the foreign partner university.
The full duration of the program is four years. It follows the 2+2 model. This means students spend the first half (2 years) at BITS and the second half (2 years) at a partner university outside India. This structure allows you to begin your studies in India in a familiar environment and then transition to an international university with confidence.
BITS Pilani has signed formal agreements with leading global universities to offer this program. The partner universities include:
- Iowa State University (USA)
- RMIT University (Australia)
- University at Buffalo (USA)
- CentraleSupélec Paris (France)
Each of these institutions has a strong reputation in engineering and science. These partnerships ensure that students receive high-quality education both in India and abroad.
BITS 2+2 Program US Universities Structure
The BITS 2+2 program has a clear and well-structured format when partnered with U.S. universities like Iowa State University and the University at Buffalo. It follows a four-year model, where students study for the first two years at one of the BITS campuses in India and the next two years at the partner university in the United States. This section explains how the program is organized and what students can expect during each phase. The entire program is divided into two phases:
Phase 1: Years 1–2 at BITS Pilani
Students begin their academic journey at one of the three BITS campuses—Pilani, Goa, or Hyderabad. The campus depends on the program and the partner university they are linked with.
Duration:
- Two academic years
- One summer term between the second and third year
Academic Focus: During these two years, students study core subjects that form the base of engineering education. The focus is on building strong fundamentals in areas such as:
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Basic Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- Computer Programming
- Engineering Graphics
- English and Communication Skills
- Humanities and Social Sciences
This phase also helps students build problem-solving and analytical thinking skills. The teaching style includes lectures, labs, tutorials, and project-based learning.
Summer Term: At the end of the second year, students participate in a summer term. This term may include:
- Bridge courses to prepare for the U.S. university curriculum
- Internships in Indian industries or labs
- English language support or skill-building workshops
Phase 2: Years 3–4 at Partner University (USA)
After completing two years at BITS and meeting the eligibility criteria, students transfer to the partner university in the U.S. This process does not require a new entrance exam, but students must meet academic and language requirements.
Curriculum Focus: At the U.S. university, the coursework becomes more specialized. Students study advanced topics based on their chosen major, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Embedded Systems
- Robotics
- Software Engineering
- Signal Processing
They also take part in research projects, capstone design courses, and industry internships. These activities help students apply their classroom learning to real-world problems. This final phase prepares students for careers in top global companies or admission to leading graduate programs.
BITS 2+2 Program US Universities
The BITS 2+2 Program includes formal partnerships with two top universities in the United States: Iowa State University and the University at Buffalo. These institutions are known for their high-quality engineering programs, excellent research infrastructure, and strong industry connections. Through this program, BITS students can earn a second undergraduate degree from these universities after completing two years at BITS and two years in the U.S.
Below is a detailed explanation of how each BITS campus is linked to specific programs at these U.S. partner universities.
1) Iowa State University (USA)
Location: Ames, Iowa
Ranking: Among top U.S. public universities for engineering
Specialization: Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering
Program Duration: 2 years at BITS + 2 years at Iowa State
Degree Awarded:
- BITS: B.E. in relevant discipline
- Iowa State: B.S. in an equivalent or related field
BITS Campus Linkages and Degree Mapping
| BITS Campus | BITS Degree (Years 1–2) | Iowa State Degree (Years 3–4) |
| Pilani | B.E. Electronics & Communication | B.S. Electrical Engineering |
| Goa | B.E. Electrical & Electronics / Mechanical | B.S. Electrical / Mechanical Engineering |
| Hyderabad | B.E. Computer Science | B.S. Computer Engineering |
Key Features of the Iowa State Pathway
- Iowa State University has a strong focus on applied engineering, robotics, and embedded systems.
- Students receive access to world-class labs, including the Virtual Reality Applications Center and Ames Laboratory (a U.S. Department of Energy national lab).
- Students can participate in summer research internships or co-op programs to gain real-world experience.
- Iowa State offers over 900 student organizations, including technical societies and cultural clubs.
- The university has a large international student population, making it easy for Indian students to adjust and integrate.
Eligibility Criteria (Iowa State)
| Requirement | Details |
| BITS CGPA | Minimum 5.75 out of 10 |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL ≥ 99, IELTS ≥ 7.5, Duolingo ≥ 130 |
| Academic Qualification | 65–70% in 12th standard (board-specific) |
2) University at Buffalo (USA)
Location: Buffalo, New York
Ranking: Top 40 public universities in the U.S. (US News)
Specialization: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
Program Duration: 2 years at BITS + 2 years at University at Buffalo
Degree Awarded:
- BITS: B.E. in relevant discipline
- Buffalo: B.S. in an equivalent or related field
BITS Campus Linkages and Degree Mapping
| BITS Campus | BITS Degree (Years 1–2) | University at Buffalo Degree (Years 3–4) |
| Pilani | B.E. Computer Science / Electrical & Electronics | B.S. Computer Science / Electrical Engineering |
| Goa | B.E. Electronics & Communication | B.S. Electrical Engineering |
| Hyderabad | B.E. Mechanical | B.S. Mechanical Engineering |
Key Features of the University at Buffalo Pathway
- University at Buffalo is a flagship SUNY institution, known for its STEM research and innovation.
- Strong labs in cybersecurity, biomedical devices, AI, and nanotechnology.
- Excellent record for job placements and internships with U.S. companies like Tesla, IBM, and Microsoft.
- Students can apply for OPT (Optional Practical Training) after graduation, which allows up to 3 years of work in the U.S. for STEM graduates.
- Offers a vibrant student life and cultural diversity with students from over 100 countries.
Eligibility Criteria (University at Buffalo)
| Requirement | Details |
| BITS CGPA | Minimum 5.75 out of 10 |
| English Proficiency | TOEFL ≥ 70, IELTS ≥ 6.5, SAT ERWS ≥ 500 |
| Academic Qualification | 60–70% in 12th standard depending on board |
Comparison of Iowa State vs. University at Buffalo
| Feature | Iowa State University | University at Buffalo |
| Location | Ames, Iowa | Buffalo, New York |
| Degree Titles | B.S. in Electrical, Mechanical, or Computer Engg. | B.S. in CS, Electrical, or Mechanical Engg. |
| Minimum TOEFL Score | 99 | 70 |
| Minimum IELTS Score | 7.5 | 6.5 |
| Research Focus | Robotics, Embedded Systems | AI, Cybersecurity, Biomedical Devices |
| Cost of Living | Lower | Moderate to High |
| Internship Opportunities | Midwest tech firms, university labs | East Coast companies, start-ups, research labs |
| Weather | Cold winters, mild summers | Cold, snowy winters, pleasant summers |
| International Student Support | Strong | Very strong |
Benefits of Choosing the U.S. Pathway
- Dual Degrees: Students graduate with two recognized degrees, one from India and one from the U.S.
- Academic Excellence: U.S. universities offer advanced labs, updated curriculum, and research projects that match industry needs.
- Career Opportunities: Students are eligible for OPT and may apply for jobs or graduate programs in the U.S.
- Global Recognition: Both Iowa State and Buffalo have global academic rankings and industry tie-ups.
- Smooth Transition: BITS ensures academic preparation and support for cultural adjustment through its summer term and counseling.
BITS 2+2 Program Non-US Universities
In addition to partnerships with U.S. universities, BITS Pilani also offers 2+2 dual-degree programs with leading institutions in Australia and France. These include:
- RMIT University (Australia)
- CentraleSupélec Paris (France)
These collaborations give students international exposure, access to world-class research, and opportunities to earn a second engineering degree from a globally respected institution. Below is a detailed look at the structure, campus linkages, degree mapping, and unique features of these two non-US partner universities.
1) RMIT University (Australia)
RMIT University, located in Melbourne, is one of Australia’s top universities known for practical, industry-aligned education. The BITS-RMIT 2+2 program allows students to spend their first two years at BITS Pilani and the final two years at RMIT University. On completion, they receive one degree from BITS Pilani and one honours degree from RMIT.
| BITS Campus | BITS Degree | RMIT Degree (Honours) |
| Pilani | B.E. Civil Engineering | B.E. (Civil and Infrastructure Engineering) (Honours) |
| Pilani | B.E. Mechanical Engineering | B.E. (Mechanical Engineering) (Honours) |
| Hyderabad | B.E. Electronics & Communication | B.E. (Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering) (Hons) |
| Hyderabad | B.E. Electrical & Electronics | B.E. (Electrical Engineering) (Honours) |
| Goa | B.E. Computer Science | B.E. (Software Engineering) (Honours) |
Students are placed at a specific BITS campus based on their intended major and RMIT linkage. This ensures that the first two years match well with the courses offered at RMIT in the final phase.
Program Structure
- Years 1–2: Core engineering education at BITS
- Summer Term: Optional English test preparation or internships
- Years 3–4: Specialized courses and project-based learning at RMIT
Unique Features of the RMIT Program
- Project-Based Learning: RMIT focuses on solving real-world problems through team projects. Students work on industry-led problems in labs and studios.
- Industry Connections: RMIT has strong ties with Australian industries, which increases chances for internships and jobs after graduation.
- English Test Reimbursement: RMIT reimburses 50% of the English language test fees (like IELTS) for students who are admitted to the program.
- Modern Campus Facilities: The Melbourne campus has advanced labs, research centers, and an international student-friendly environment.
- Optional Work Rights: Students studying in Australia may be eligible to work part-time during semesters and full-time during breaks.
2) CentraleSupélec Paris (France)
CentraleSupélec is a top-ranked French engineering institution. It is part of the Université Paris-Saclay, which ranks #12 globally (as per QS 2024 rankings). The BITS-CentraleSupélec 2+2 program allows students to gain a dual degree in cutting-edge fields like computer science and artificial intelligence.
| BITS Campus | BITS Degree | CentraleSupélec Degree |
| Pilani | B.E. Computer Science | B.E. in Computer Science and AI (CSP) |
| Goa | B.E. Computer Science | B.E. in Computer Science and AI (CSP) |
Only Computer Science students from the Pilani and Goa campuses are eligible for this program. The curriculum is designed to shift smoothly into CentraleSupélec’s AI and computing specializations.
Program Structure
- Years 1–2: Engineering foundation in computer science at BITS
- Summer Term: Optional French language training, bridge courses, or internships
- Years 3–4: AI, data science, machine learning, and advanced computing courses at CentraleSupélec
Unique Features of the CentraleSupélec Program
- Elite Status: CentraleSupélec is a founding member of Université Paris-Saclay and one of France’s Grandes Écoles—top-tier engineering institutions.
- Scholarships Available: Students may receive up to €12,000 per year in scholarships. Around 70% of BITS students in this program receive financial aid.
- Language Support: BITS offers optional French language classes during the summer term to help students adjust to life in France.
- Modern Research Ecosystem: Students get access to AI research labs and cutting-edge projects in collaboration with European companies.
- Diverse Community: CentraleSupélec attracts students from across the globe, giving BITS students a chance to collaborate internationally.
BITS 2+2 Program US Universities Eligibility Criteria
The BITS 2+2 Program has clear eligibility requirements for students who wish to transfer to partner universities in the United States, such as Iowa State University and the University at Buffalo (State University of New York). These requirements are divided into two main parts:
- Eligibility at BITS Pilani
- Eligibility at the Partner University in the US
Students must meet both sets of criteria to successfully transfer after completing two years at BITS Pilani. The conditions include academic performance, English language proficiency, and standardized testing (if applicable).
BITS Pilani Requirements
Before transferring to the US university, students must first gain admission to BITS Pilani through regular procedures and meet the academic progression standards.
| Criteria | Minimum Requirement |
| Class 12 Subjects | Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) |
| Class 12 Aggregate Marks | Minimum 75% aggregate in PCM |
| Minimum Marks in Each Subject | At least 60% in each of Physics, Chemistry, Math |
| Admission Test | Must qualify through BITSAT-2024 |
| BITSAT Cutoff (Varies by Program & Campus) | ~270–350 marks (for top branches) |
Note: Admission into the 2+2 program is not a separate process. Eligible students are selected from those admitted into standard B.E. programs at BITS Pilani, Goa, or Hyderabad campuses.
Progression Requirement (To Transfer to US University after Year 2)
| Criterion | Minimum Requirement |
| CGPA at BITS Pilani (after Year 2) | ≥ 5.75 out of 10 |
| Course Completion | All required courses in Years 1 and 2 must be completed |
| Attendance and Discipline | Good conduct and attendance record required |
Maintaining the required CGPA is very important. If a student falls below this threshold, they may not be eligible to transfer to the partner university even if they meet all other requirements.
Partner University Requirements (US Universities)
Each partner university in the US has its own academic and English language requirements. Students must satisfy both academic performance and language proficiency benchmarks. Some universities may also ask for SAT or other equivalent exams.
A) Iowa State University (USA)
Iowa State University is a leading U.S. public university known for its engineering, robotics, and computing programs. It has specific eligibility requirements for BITS students entering through the 2+2 program.
| Requirement | Details |
| Class 12 Marks (for Indian Boards) | Minimum 65–70%, depending on the board |
| College CGPA Requirement | Minimum 5.75 CGPA at BITS |
| Prerequisite Courses | All key engineering foundation courses completed |
| Backlogs / Failed Courses | Not permitted; must clear all Year 1 and 2 subjects |
Students must have a good academic track record with no disciplinary issues.
English Proficiency Requirements
| Test | Minimum Score |
| TOEFL iBT | ≥ 99 |
| IELTS | ≥ 7.5 overall |
| Duolingo English Test | ≥ 130 |
| PTE Academic | ≥ 68 (if accepted) |
Test scores must be less than 2 years old at the time of application.
B) University at Buffalo (USA)
The University at Buffalo (UB) is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is known for its research facilities and flexible course structures.
| Requirement | Details |
| Class 12 Marks (for Indian Boards) | Minimum 60–65% |
| BITS CGPA Requirement | Minimum 5.75 CGPA |
| Required Subjects | Physics, Math, and Chemistry in high school |
| Transfer Credits | Completion of required courses in first 2 years at BITS |
English Proficiency Requirements
| Test | Minimum Score |
| TOEFL iBT | ≥ 70 |
| IELTS | ≥ 6.0 overall |
| SAT (Evidence-Based Reading and Writing) | ≥ 500 |
| PTE Academic | ≥ 53 |
Unlike Iowa State, UB has more relaxed language score criteria, making it a better fit for students who need time to improve their English proficiency.
Comparison Table: Iowa State vs University at Buffalo
| Criteria | Iowa State University | University at Buffalo |
| Required CGPA at BITS | ≥ 5.75 | ≥ 5.75 |
| 12th Grade Marks | 65–70% | 60–65% |
| TOEFL Requirement | ≥ 99 | ≥ 70 |
| IELTS Requirement | ≥ 7.5 | ≥ 6.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | ≥ 130 | Not Required |
| SAT (ERW) | Not required | ≥ 500 (optional) |
| Transfer Flexibility | Strict course mapping | More flexible |
| Focus Areas | Robotics, Electrical, AI | CSE, ECE, Mechanical |
| Ease of Admission (Relative) | Moderate to High competition | More accessible (lower cutoff) |
Important Notes for Students
- Language Test Exemptions: Students who have completed schooling in English-medium institutions may request a waiver of language proficiency tests, depending on the university policy.
- Documents Required: Students must submit transcripts, course syllabi (for credit transfer), test scores, Statement of Purpose (SOP), and letters of recommendation.
- Application Timeline: Students typically apply to the partner university during the 4th semester at BITS. Final decisions are made before the end of Year 2.
- Visa Requirements: Once accepted, students must apply for an F-1 Student Visa for the USA. The university provides I-20 forms required for visa processing.
Conclusion
The BITS 2+2 program is a good choice for students who want both Indian and global degrees. You get to study two years at a top Indian institute and two years at a foreign university. This gives you strong basics and international exposure.
You also improve your chances for global jobs or higher studies. You work on research projects, get internships, and attend world-class classes. BITS has partnered with well-known universities in the USA, Australia, and France. These partnerships make the program strong and useful for your future.
The entry process is simple, but you must meet academic and English test requirements. If you are ready to work hard and dream big, this program can open global doors for you.
