Do you dream of studying abroad while earning two degrees from top institutions? The BITS 2+2 International Dual Degree Program can turn that dream into reality. This unique program lets you study the first two years at BITS Pilani and the next two years at a leading global university. You will receive two degrees—one from BITS Pilani and one from the partner university. The program is perfect for students who want global exposure, high-quality education, and better career opportunities.
BITS Pilani has partnered with renowned universities such as Iowa State University (USA), University at Buffalo (USA), RMIT University (Australia), and CentraleSupélec Paris (France). These universities are known for strong academic programs, advanced research, and industry links. Through this program, you will learn from international faculty, use world-class labs, and study in a multicultural environment. If you are ready to take your education global, this program is your first step.
What is BITS 2+2?
BITS 2+2 is a dual-degree program offered by BITS Pilani in partnership with top global universities. The program allows selected students to study for two years at a BITS Pilani campus and then complete the remaining two years at a partner university abroad. After finishing the full four-year program, students receive two degrees—one from BITS Pilani and another from the foreign university.
This program is designed for engineering students who want international exposure along with a strong academic foundation in India. The first two years focus on building core technical knowledge at BITS. The next two years at the partner university help students apply this knowledge and learn advanced topics.
Partner Universities
BITS Pilani has signed agreements with several top institutions across the world. These include:
- Iowa State University (USA)
- University at Buffalo (USA)
- RMIT University (Australia)
- CentraleSupélec Paris (France)
These universities are known for their strong engineering programs and research facilities. Each university offers specific degree programs that match with BITS Pilani’s courses.
How the 2+2 Structure Works
Students begin their studies at one of the BITS campuses—Pilani, Goa, or Hyderabad. For two years, they study core engineering courses, attend workshops, and take part in lab work. After that, eligible students can transfer to a partner university abroad.
Before moving to the foreign university, students usually attend a summer term at BITS to complete required credits and meet transfer guidelines. Once they shift abroad, they complete their final two years and earn a second degree.
This structure ensures that students get the best of both systems—Indian education for a strong base and international education for specialization and exposure.
Benefits of the Program: There are many advantages to joining the BITS 2+2 program:
- Dual Degrees: Students graduate with one degree from BITS Pilani and another from the foreign university. This adds value to their academic profile.
- Global Exposure: Living and studying in a foreign country helps students adapt to different teaching methods and cultures.
- Better Job Opportunities: Dual degrees from reputed institutions make students more attractive to employers across the globe.
- Networking: Students can build connections with international peers, professors, and industry professionals.
- Advanced Facilities: Partner universities offer modern labs, libraries, and research tools.
Who Can Apply?
To join the BITS 2+2 program, students must first get admission into BITS Pilani through BITSAT. After two years of study, they can apply for transfer to the partner university. Selection depends on academic performance, English language skills, and meeting the specific requirements of the foreign university.
In short, BITS 2+2 is a great option for students who want an international engineering education. It offers a clear path to study abroad while starting in India, saving money during the early years and gaining international experience in the later years.
BITS 2+2 Program UK Universities
Currently, there are no UK universities in the BITS 2+2 program. However, BITS may add UK partners in the future.
BITS 2+2 Program Branches
Here is a list of current branches, campuses, foreign universities, and degrees:
| BITS Degree | BITS Campus | Foreign University | Foreign Degree |
| B.E. Computer Science | Hyderabad | Iowa State University | B.S. Computer Engineering |
| Goa | RMIT | B.E. (Software Engineering) (Hons) | |
| Pilani | University at Buffalo | B.S. Computer Engineering | |
| Pilani | CentraleSupélec Paris | B.E. Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence | |
| Goa | CentraleSupélec Paris | B.E. Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence | |
| B.E. Electronics and Communication | Pilani | Iowa State University | B.S. Electrical Engineering |
| Goa | University at Buffalo | B.S. Electrical Engineering | |
| Hyderabad | RMIT | B.E. (Electronic & Computer Systems Eng) (Hons) | |
| B.E. Electrical and Electronics | Goa | Iowa State University | B.S. Electrical Engineering |
| Hyderabad | RMIT | B.E. (Electrical Engineering) (Hons) | |
| Pilani | University at Buffalo | B.S. Electrical Engineering | |
| B.E. Mechanical | Goa | Iowa State University | B.S. Mechanical Engineering |
| Pilani | RMIT | B.E. (Mechanical Engineering) (Hons) | |
| Hyderabad | University at Buffalo | B.S. Mechanical Engineering | |
| B.E. Civil | Pilani | RMIT | B.E. (Civil and Infrastructure) (Hons) |
BITS 2+2 Program Universities
BITS Pilani has partnered with four leading international universities to offer the BITS 2+2 dual-degree program. These universities are located in the United States, Australia, and France. Each university is known for its academic excellence, strong engineering departments, and high global rankings. Students selected for this program spend the first two years at BITS Pilani and then transfer to one of the partner universities to complete their studies and earn two degrees.
Let’s understand more about each of these partner universities, including their location, reputation, rankings, and their role in the BITS 2+2 program.
1) Iowa State University (ISU), USA
Location: Ames, Iowa, United States
Public University: Yes
Founded: 1858
Global Ranking: Top 500 (QS World Rankings 2024)
Specialties: Engineering, Agriculture, Computer Science, Data Science
Iowa State University is a top public research university in the United States. It is especially well-known for its programs in engineering and computer science. ISU is a member of the prestigious Association of American Universities (AAU), which includes top research universities in North America.
In the BITS 2+2 program, ISU offers dual-degree programs in the following areas:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Students complete their first two years at BITS Pilani and the next two years at ISU. After completion, they receive a B.E. degree from BITS and a B.S. degree from ISU. Students can also benefit from research opportunities, internships, and the Engineering Cohort Merit Scholarship.
2) University at Buffalo (UB), USA
Location: Buffalo, New York, United States
Public University: Yes
Founded: 1846
Global Ranking: Top 400 (QS World Rankings 2024)
Specialties: Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Pharmacy
The University at Buffalo is a flagship institution of the State University of New York (SUNY) system. It is a research-driven university with excellent infrastructure and a strong engineering faculty. UB has been recognized for innovation, diversity, and affordable education.
UB is part of the BITS 2+2 program and offers dual-degree options in:
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
After studying two years at BITS Pilani, students transfer to UB and study for two more years. On completion, students earn degrees from both BITS and UB. The university offers the “Future Leaders Scholarship,” which reduces tuition costs based on academic performance. UB also has a vibrant international community and provides student support for housing, academic advising, and internships.
3) RMIT University, Australia
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Public University: Yes
Founded: 1887
Global Ranking: Top 200 (QS World Rankings 2024)
Specialties: Engineering, Design, Architecture, Technology
RMIT (Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology) is one of Australia’s most well-regarded technical universities. It is known for its practical approach to learning and strong ties with industry. The university has campuses in Melbourne, Vietnam, and Barcelona and attracts students from over 100 countries. RMIT offers several dual-degree options under the BITS 2+2 program, including:
- Software Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil and Infrastructure Engineering
- Electronic and Computer Systems Engineering
Students complete their first two years at BITS Pilani and the next two years at RMIT. After that, they are awarded a B.E. degree from BITS and a Bachelor of Engineering (Hons) degree from RMIT.
RMIT also supports international students by offering a partial reimbursement of English proficiency test costs (up to INR 8,500). RMIT’s strong industry collaborations help students get practical training and better job opportunities after graduation.
4) CentraleSupélec Paris (CSP), France
Location: Paris-Saclay Campus, France
Public University: Yes
Founded: 1894
Global Ranking: Part of Paris-Saclay University (Top 20 globally in QS Rankings by Subject – Engineering & Technology)
Specialties: Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Research
CentraleSupélec is a top French engineering school and part of the University of Paris-Saclay. Paris-Saclay is known for its focus on advanced research, technology, and innovation. It is associated with 22 Nobel Prize winners and several global research labs.
BITS Pilani and CentraleSupélec Paris jointly offer the following dual-degree program:
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
Students start the program at BITS Pilani (either the Pilani or Goa campus), complete two years including a summer term, and then transfer to CentraleSupélec in France for the final two years. The curriculum focuses on artificial intelligence, data science, and interdisciplinary engineering.
Students benefit from:
- Training at a top global university
- French-European academic environment
- CSP Engineering Cohort Merit Scholarships (up to €12,000 per year)
- Access to top researchers and Nobel Prize-winning institutions
The cost of living and other expenses in France are also considered, with an estimated annual living cost of €12,000 and residence/health expenses of around €600 per year.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
English language proficiency is a key requirement for students who want to join the BITS 2+2 program. All four partner universities—University at Buffalo (UB), Iowa State University (ISU), RMIT University, and CentraleSupélec Paris—require students to demonstrate their ability to understand, speak, read, and write in English. This ensures that students can perform well in academics, complete coursework, and communicate effectively with faculty and peers during their time abroad.
Why English Proficiency is Important
English is the medium of instruction at all partner universities. Students must be able to follow lectures, write reports, take part in discussions, and complete exams in English. A good level of English also helps students adjust better to the academic and social environment of a foreign university. Without a strong grasp of the language, students may struggle with assignments, teamwork, and even everyday life activities like shopping, banking, or health care.
To ensure readiness, each partner university asks students to submit scores from an accepted English proficiency test. These scores are a part of the admission process and must meet the university’s minimum requirements.
Accepted English Proficiency Tests
The following English language tests are accepted by most partner universities in the BITS 2+2 program:
- TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language – Internet-based)
- IELTS (International English Language Testing System)
- Duolingo English Test
- PTE (Pearson Test of English Academic)
- Cambridge C1 or C2
- SAT or ACT (with strong English section scores, in some cases)
The test you choose depends on the partner university’s requirements and your own comfort with the test format.
Minimum Scores Required
Each university has its own minimum score requirement. Below are general guidelines:
| Test Name | Minimum Score Range |
| TOEFL iBT | 70 to 99+ |
| IELTS | 6.0 to 7.5+ |
| Duolingo English Test | 105 to 130+ |
| PTE Academic | 58 to 76+ |
| Cambridge C1/C2 | As per CEFR advanced levels |
Note: These are general guidelines. Some universities may require higher scores or specific sub-section scores. For example, TOEFL sub-scores should be at least 22 in reading, listening, speaking, and writing for certain universities.
Sub-Section Requirements: Some universities do not only look at your total score. They also check if you meet the minimum score in each section—reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
For example:
- TOEFL: A minimum of 22 in each section may be required.
- IELTS: Each band (listening, reading, writing, speaking) must be above 6.0 or 6.5, depending on the program.
- Duolingo: Sub-scores must align with speaking and literacy benchmarks.
If students fail to meet the sub-score requirement, they may have to take an additional English course during their first semester abroad. Some universities may also place students in beginner or foundation-level English classes like ELI 100 instead of regular academic courses.
Test Validity
The English language test scores are only valid for two years. So, the test must be taken within two years before the date you plan to begin the program at the foreign university. For example, if you plan to start in August 2026, your test must be dated after August 2024.
English Proficiency Waiver
Some partner universities may offer a waiver for students who have completed their schooling in English-medium institutions, such as:
- International Baccalaureate (IB)
- US or UK curriculum schools
- CBSE/ICSE schools (in select cases, based on academic performance and consistency)
However, this waiver is not guaranteed and depends on the policies of the partner university. Students should always confirm the latest admission guidelines.
Conclusion
The BITS 2+2 International Dual Degree Program offers a unique opportunity for students to study in two world-class institutions and earn two prestigious degrees. With two years at BITS Pilani and two years at a top global university, students gain academic excellence, international exposure, and real-world experience. The program not only strengthens your technical knowledge but also builds your global confidence and communication skills.
Whether your interest is in computer science, mechanical engineering, electronics, or civil infrastructure, this program covers a wide range of branches with well-structured academic plans. It prepares you for global job markets, research roles, or further studies in top universities.
If you aim to build a career that crosses borders, the BITS 2+2 program is a great starting point. It opens the door to international learning, global networking, and lifelong academic connections. For motivated students, this is a valuable path to success.
