Do you dream of studying abroad but also want to stay close to home during the early years of college? The BITS 2+2 Program could be the right path for you. It lets you start your engineering degree at BITS Pilani and finish it at a top international university. In just four years, you earn two degrees—one from BITS and one from a foreign partner university.
This program gives you the best of both worlds. You learn the basics in India and then specialize abroad. You also get to experience life in a new country, meet people from around the world, and prepare for a global career. With strong academics, cultural exchange, and real-world training, the BITS 2+2 Program helps you grow both as a student and as a professional.
In this guide, you will find full details about the program, partner universities, course options, benefits, and how to apply.
What is the BITS 2+2 Program?
The BITS 2+2 Program is a unique dual-degree undergraduate program offered by BITS Pilani in partnership with international universities. It allows students to complete their Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) degree partly in India and partly abroad. In this program, students spend the first two years studying at one of the BITS Pilani campuses—Pilani, Goa, or Hyderabad. They complete the remaining two years at a partner university in a different country.
Currently, BITS Pilani has partnered with three well-known international universities:
- Iowa State University, USA
- RMIT University, Australia
- University at Buffalo (State University of New York), USA
After completing all four years, students receive two engineering degrees—one from BITS Pilani and one from the foreign university. This makes the BITS 2+2 Program a dual-degree program. It gives students the advantage of getting an Indian and an international degree within the same time as a regular 4-year program.
The program aims to give students global academic exposure, practical training, and cultural experience. During the first two years at BITS, students build strong fundamentals in engineering. The curriculum includes core science and math subjects, basic engineering concepts, and general education courses. In the final two years, the partner university provides advanced training, electives, research opportunities, and industry internships.
The BITS 2+2 Program also includes a summer term at the end of the second year. This term helps students prepare for their transition to the foreign university. It may include bridge courses, short internships, or project work.
Is There a BITS Chemical Engineering 2+2 Program?
No. Currently, BITS does not offer a 2+2 program in Chemical Engineering. The 2+2 program is available only in select engineering branches. These include Computer Science, Electronics, Electrical, Mechanical, and Civil Engineering. Students who want to study Chemical Engineering can still join regular BITS programs, but not the 2+2 international program.
BITS 2+2 Partner Universities & Program Options
Here is a table showing available branches, campuses, foreign universities, and the degree students get:
| 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 | |
| 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 Structure
The BITS 2+2 Program is carefully structured to provide students with a balanced mix of foundational learning, specialized training, and global exposure. It is divided into two phases: the first two years at BITS Pilani and the final two years at a partner university abroad. Let’s break down each phase in detail.
Phase 1: Years 1–2 at BITS Pilani
The first phase focuses on building a solid foundation in engineering and preparing students for advanced studies abroad.
Duration:
- Two academic years (four semesters).
- One summer term, which includes either bridge courses, internships, or preparatory work.
Campuses and Course Offerings: BITS Pilani offers this program across its three campuses:
- Pilani Campus: Electronics & Communication for Iowa State University.
- Goa Campus: Mechanical Engineering for RMIT University.
- Hyderabad Campus: Computer Science for the University at Buffalo.
Curriculum Focus: The coursework during this phase covers:
- Core engineering subjects: Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Programming, and Circuit Theory.
- General education courses: English, Communication Skills, and Humanities.
Students follow the standard BITS curriculum for their chosen stream.
For example:
- A Computer Science student at the Hyderabad campus will study Data Structures, Object-Oriented Programming, and Algorithms.
- An Electronics & Communication student at the Pilani campus will study Digital Electronics, Circuit Theory, and Communication Systems.
Summer Term: The summer term after the second year is crucial. It helps bridge the academic gap between BITS and the partner university by offering:
- Bridge courses to align with the partner university’s syllabus.
- Internships to build practical skills.
- English proficiency training for students needing to meet language requirements like TOEFL or IELTS.
Phase 2: Years 3–4 at the Partner University
The second phase focuses on specialized training, research opportunities, and global exposure.
Transfer Process: Students transfer to the partner university after completing the first two years at BITS Pilani, provided they meet:
- Academic criteria: A CGPA of at least 5.75 at BITS Pilani.
- English proficiency requirements: Scores from tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or SAT (requirements vary by university).
Curriculum Focus: At the partner university, students dive into specialized courses tailored to their field. This may include:
- Artificial Intelligence and Robotics at Iowa State.
- Renewable Energy Systems and Infrastructure Engineering at RMIT.
- Machine Learning and Advanced Software Engineering at the University at Buffalo.
Research and Internships: Students get opportunities for:
- Capstone projects that combine research and industry applications.
- Internships with global companies, helping them build a strong resume for future job prospects.
- Research collaborations with professors, ideal for those considering higher studies.
Credit Transfer: The program follows a smooth credit transfer system:
- Courses completed at BITS Pilani are pre-approved for credit at the partner university.
- Some summer courses at BITS may also count toward the final degree.
- Students graduate with a B.E. from BITS and a B.S. or B.E. from the partner university.
In summary, the BITS 2+2 Program provides a clear and structured academic pathway. Students gain the best of both worlds — a strong foundation at BITS and advanced specialization abroad — preparing them for global career opportunities and higher studies.
BITS 2+2 Partner Universities & Program Options
The BITS 2+2 Program partners with three renowned international universities, offering students the opportunity to earn dual degrees and gain global exposure. Each partner university has its own set of degree pathways, specialized courses, and unique features. Let’s explore the program options available at each university in detail.
1) Iowa State University (USA)
Iowa State University (ISU) is a leading public research university known for its strong focus on engineering, technology, and innovation. It is located in Ames, Iowa, and has a reputation for cutting-edge research in STEM fields.
BITS Campus Linkages: Students from BITS Pilani can transfer to Iowa State University through the following pathways:
- Pilani Campus: B.E. Electronics & Communication → B.S. Electrical Engineering.
- Goa Campus: B.E. Electrical & Electronics/Mechanical → B.S. Electrical/Mechanical Engineering.
- Hyderabad Campus: B.E. Computer Science → B.S. Computer Engineering.
Specialized Courses at ISU: Students can choose from a wide range of specialized subjects, such as:
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Computer Engineering students.
- Embedded Systems and Robotics for Electrical Engineering students.
- Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics for Mechanical Engineering students.
Unique Features:
- Direct support from the International Student Office (ISSO) for visa processing, housing, and academic advising.
- Access to research labs focused on AI, renewable energy, and sustainable technology.
- Strong STEM internship programs with global companies.
2) RMIT University (Australia)
RMIT University is a globally recognized institution based in Melbourne, Australia, known for its focus on technology, design, and enterprise. It emphasizes practical learning, industry partnerships, and research-led education.
BITS Campus Linkages: Students from BITS Pilani can transfer to RMIT through these pathways:
- Pilani Campus: B.E. Civil/Mechanical → B.E. (Honours) Civil & Infrastructure/Mechanical Engineering.
- Hyderabad Campus: B.E. Electronics & Communication/Electrical & Electronics → B.E. (Honours) Electronic & Computer Systems/Electrical Engineering.
- Goa Campus: B.E. Computer Science → B.E. (Honours) Software Engineering.
Specialized Courses at RMIT: Students at RMIT can take advanced courses like:
- Renewable Energy Systems for Electrical Engineering students.
- Data Science and Software Architecture for Software Engineering students.
- Infrastructure Planning and Urban Development for Civil Engineering students.
Unique Features:
- 50% reimbursement of English test fees (like IELTS or TOEFL) for admitted students.
- Strong links with industries, providing internship opportunities and project-based learning.
- Focus on hands-on experience through real-world projects and collaborations with tech companies.
3) University at Buffalo (USA)
The University at Buffalo (UB) is a top-ranked public university in New York, USA. It is known for its strong engineering programs, focus on research, and flexible academic pathways. UB is part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system.
BITS Campus Linkages: BITS Pilani students can transfer to the University at Buffalo through the following options:
- Pilani Campus: B.E. Computer Science/Electrical & Electronics → B.S. Computer Science/Electrical Engineering.
- Goa Campus: B.E. Electronics & Communication → B.S. Electrical Engineering.
- Hyderabad Campus: B.E. Mechanical → B.S. Mechanical Engineering.
Specialized Courses at UB: UB offers cutting-edge courses in fields like:
- Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing for Computer Science students.
- Control Systems and Power Electronics for Electrical Engineering students.
- Advanced Manufacturing and Robotics for Mechanical Engineering students.
Unique Features:
- Flexible English proficiency pathways: Students can meet requirements through TOEFL, IELTS, or SAT scores.
- Remote English Language Institute (ELI): For students needing extra support in language skills before starting at UB.
- Access to UB’s research centers for AI, robotics, and sustainable technology.
BITS 2+2 Program Eligibility Criteria
The BITS 2+2 Program has clear and well-defined eligibility criteria to ensure that students are academically prepared and capable of handling the challenges of both BITS Pilani and the partner universities. Let’s break down the requirements for both phases of the program — starting at BITS Pilani and transferring to the international universities.
Eligibility Criteria for Admission to BITS Pilani
To enroll in the BITS 2+2 Program, students must first secure admission to BITS Pilani through its regular admission process. The key requirements include:
Academic Qualifications: Candidates must have passed their 12th-grade examination with:
- A minimum of 75% aggregate marks in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
- At least 60% marks in each subject — Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
Entrance Exam: Admission is granted based on the BITS Admission Test (BITSAT) score. BITSAT is a computer-based test that assesses a student’s proficiency in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and Logical Reasoning. The cut-off score varies by campus and program but is typically higher for competitive branches like Computer Science and Electronics & Communication.
For example:
- A student aiming for B.E. Computer Science at the Hyderabad campus to later transfer to the University at Buffalo needs to secure a competitive BITSAT score.
- Those opting for Mechanical Engineering at Goa campus to transfer to RMIT University must also meet the respective cut-off.
Direct Admission:
- Top rankers from state or central board examinations may qualify for direct admission to BITS Pilani without taking BITSAT.
Eligibility for Transfer to Partner Universities
After completing the first two years at BITS Pilani, students can transfer to their chosen partner university for the final two years, provided they meet specific academic and language requirements.
Academic Requirements: Students must maintain a minimum CGPA of 5.75 (on a 10-point scale) at BITS Pilani to be eligible for transfer. Some universities may have additional criteria for specific programs, but meeting the CGPA threshold is mandatory for all transfer pathways.
English Proficiency Requirements: Since students will be studying in an English-speaking country, they must demonstrate language proficiency through standardized tests:
1) Iowa State University (USA):
- TOEFL: ≥ 99
- IELTS: ≥ 7.5
- Duolingo: ≥ 130
2) RMIT University (Australia):
- IELTS: ≥ 6.5
- TOEFL: ≥ 79
- PTE Academic: ≥ 58
3) University at Buffalo (USA):
- TOEFL: ≥ 70
- SAT (ERWS): ≥ 500
- IELTS: ≥ 6.0
Flexibility for English Proficiency:
- The University at Buffalo offers alternative pathways, like allowing students to meet the requirement with SAT scores or completing Remote English Language Institute (ELI) courses if needed.
- RMIT University reimburses 50% of English test fees for admitted students.
BITS 2+2 Program Dual Degree Benefits
The BITS 2+2 Program offers a unique opportunity for students to earn two degrees — one from BITS Pilani and another from a prestigious international partner university. This dual-degree structure not only strengthens a student’s academic profile but also enhances career prospects by providing global exposure. Let’s break down the key benefits of this program.
1) Academic Advantages
Two Degrees, Global Recognition: Students graduate with:
- A B.E. degree from BITS Pilani — a top-ranked private engineering institute in India.
- A B.S. or B.E. degree from the partner university — Iowa State University (USA), RMIT University (Australia), or the University at Buffalo (USA).
The international degrees from the USA or Australia carry global recognition. The engineering programs at Iowa State University are ABET-accredited, a mark of quality assurance for STEM education. RMIT University is known for its focus on project-based learning and ties to the industry. The University at Buffalo is part of the SUNY system, offering strong research opportunities and an extensive alumni network.
Specialized Curriculum: The dual-degree program combines the best of both worlds. The first two years at BITS focus on core engineering subjects like Calculus, Physics, Programming, and Circuit Theory. The final two years at the partner university dive into specialized courses like Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Renewable Energy, and Advanced Software Engineering.
2) Career Opportunities
Access to Global Job Markets: The program opens doors to job opportunities in both India and abroad. Students gain exposure to international job markets, making them eligible for internships and full-time roles in the USA, Australia, and beyond.
Internships and Research: Students participate in industry-aligned internships and capstone projects during their final two years.
- At Iowa State, students work on research projects in AI, cybersecurity, and sustainable technology.
- RMIT students tackle real-world problems through projects focused on renewable energy and software development.
- Buffalo’s students collaborate on robotics, cloud computing, and infrastructure projects.
These experiences add weight to a student’s resume, giving them a competitive edge in the job market.
Alumni Networks: Graduates become part of two alumni networks — one from BITS Pilani and another from the partner university.
- This dual network provides broader career connections, mentorship opportunities, and global job referrals.
- It also enhances their chances of pursuing higher education (like MS or PhD programs) at top global universities.
3) Cultural and Personal Growth
International Campus Experience: Living and studying abroad helps students:
- Improve communication skills by interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds.
- Adapt to new environments by experiencing different teaching methods, campus life, and social cultures.
- Build global networks through participation in student clubs, hackathons, and industry events.
Global Perspective: The exposure to international education systems broadens a student’s outlook. They learn to:
- Solve global challenges through collaborative research.
- Adapt to global work cultures, preparing them for careers at multinational companies.
Conclusion
The BITS 2+2 program is a great chance for students who want an international degree and global exposure. It offers top-quality education both at BITS and at foreign universities. Students get practical knowledge, project experience, and a chance to work abroad. The program is ideal for those who aim for a strong career in engineering with international recognition.
By choosing the right branch and preparing well, students can get admission into this competitive and rewarding program. The dual-degree setup gives them academic depth and career opportunities in India and abroad.
