Are you looking for an opportunity to earn two engineering degrees from top institutions while gaining international exposure? The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program allows students to study at BITS Pilani in India for two years and then transfer to RMIT University in Australia for the final two years. This program provides a strong academic foundation, industry connections, and global career opportunities.
Students who enroll in this program receive a B.E. degree from BITS Pilani and a B.E. (Honours) degree from RMIT University. They also get access to world-class faculty, research facilities, and work-integrated learning (WIL) opportunities at RMIT. Some students may even attend a two-week immersion program at RMIT before transferring.
This guide covers everything about the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program, including eligibility, cutoffs, fees, scholarships, and career prospects. If you want a global engineering education, this program could be the right choice for you.
Overview of RMIT University
Founded in 1887, The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) University is one of Australia’s leading institutions for higher education and research. It is ranked among the top 10 universities in Australia and #123 globally in the QS World University Rankings. RMIT is known for its strong industry connections, cutting-edge research, and work-integrated learning (WIL) programs. The university has a global reputation for excellence in engineering, technology, and design.
RMIT has multiple campuses, with its main campus in Melbourne, a city known for its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and strong job market. The university collaborates with leading global companies, providing students with internship and research opportunities in industries such as aerospace, renewable energy, artificial intelligence, and smart manufacturing.
Overview of BITS Pilani
BITS Pilani is one of India’s top private engineering institutions, known for its strong academic curriculum, rigorous selection process, and excellent placement record. It is recognized as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) by the Government of India.
BITS Pilani is ranked among the top engineering colleges in India and has a strong alumni network in companies such as Google, Microsoft, and Tesla. The university follows a flexible academic structure that encourages research, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
What is the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program?
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program is a unique collaboration between BITS Pilani and RMIT University, designed for students who want global exposure, world-class education, and strong industry connections. This program allows students to study in both India and Australia, preparing them for international career opportunities.
Program Structure
The program follows a 2+2 structure, where students spend:
- First two years at BITS Pilani, India
- Last two years at RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia
This structure ensures that students get a strong academic foundation in India before transitioning to an international learning environment at RMIT.
Degrees Awarded
After completing the program, students earn two prestigious degrees:
- Bachelor of Engineering (B.E.) from BITS Pilani
- Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) (B.E. Honours) from RMIT University
Both degrees are recognized globally, making graduates eligible for top job opportunities in India and abroad.
Early Exposure to RMIT University
Some students may get the chance to attend a two-week immersion program at RMIT University before their official transfer. This allows them to:
- Familiarize themselves with the campus, faculty, and academic culture at RMIT
- Experience Melbourne’s lifestyle and understand student life in Australia
- Interact with industry professionals and explore internship opportunities
However, participation in the immersion program depends on availability and selection criteria.
Key Highlights of the Program
1) Dual Degrees from Two Leading Institutions: Students receive two engineering degrees from BITS Pilani and RMIT University, which enhances their academic profile and job prospects. This dual-degree structure gives students an advantage in both Indian and international job markets.
2) Access to RMIT’s Resources from the First Year: From the first year itself, students gain access to RMIT University’s digital resources, faculty, research facilities, and industry collaborations. This provides an early advantage in learning cutting-edge engineering concepts and technologies.
3) Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) and Industry Exposure: One of the biggest advantages of the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program is its focus on practical learning and industry exposure. RMIT University follows a Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) model, which ensures that students:
- Work on real-world industry projects during their studies
- Participate in internships with top companies
- Develop skills required by global employers
This exposure enhances their employability and makes them job-ready upon graduation.
Why Choose the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program?
The program is ideal for students who want:
- A high-quality engineering education with global recognition
- A chance to study in India and Australia
- Access to advanced research, labs, and faculty from both universities
- Internship and job opportunities in top companies
- A post-study work visa in Australia for career growth
With a strong curriculum, industry partnerships, and global career opportunities, the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program is a great choice for students who want to build a successful engineering career.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Eligibility Criteria
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program has specific academic and English proficiency requirements that students must meet to qualify. The selection process ensures that only academically strong and motivated students can participate in this program.
1) BITSAT Qualification
Students who wish to enroll in this program must appear for BITSAT-2025, the entrance test for BITS Pilani. They must meet the required cutoff score for their chosen engineering branch. BITSAT is a highly competitive exam, and only candidates who score well can secure admission.
2) Class 12 (10+2) Requirements
To be eligible for admission, students must fulfill the following conditions in their Class 12 board examinations:
- Minimum 75% aggregate in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM)
- At least 60% marks in each subject (Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics)
This ensures that students have a strong foundation in core subjects before starting their undergraduate engineering studies.
3) CGPA Requirement for Transfer to RMIT
After securing admission to BITS Pilani, students must maintain a minimum CGPA of 4.5 during their first two years to qualify for transfer to RMIT University. This requirement ensures that students keep up with the academic rigor of the program.
If a student fails to achieve the required CGPA, they may not be eligible to transfer and will have to continue their studies at BITS Pilani.
4) English Proficiency Requirements for RMIT
Since the final two years of the program take place at RMIT University in Australia, students must meet the English language requirements set by RMIT. To qualify, they must take an English proficiency test and achieve the following scores:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Minimum Score Per Component |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.0 | No band < 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 60 | R:10, L:9, S:16, W:19 |
| PTE Academic | 50 | No band < 42 |
| CAE/CPE | 169 | No band < 162 |
English Test Fee Reimbursement
To support students, RMIT University reimburses ₹8,500 for the cost of the English proficiency test. This makes it easier for students to complete the required assessments without financial burden.
Why English Proficiency is Important
Since all courses at RMIT University are conducted in English, students must be able to understand lectures, participate in discussions, and complete assignments without difficulty. Meeting these proficiency requirements ensures that students can effectively adapt to an international learning environment.
Programs Offered & Branch Mapping
Students must choose their branch based on the available mapping between BITS Pilani and RMIT University.
| B.E. at BITS Pilani | B.E. (Honours) at RMIT |
| B.E. Civil | B.E. Civil & Infrastructure (Honours) |
| B.E. Mechanical | B.E. Mechanical Engineering (Honours) |
| B.E. Electronics & Communication | B.E. Electronic & Computer Systems (Honours) |
| B.E. Electrical & Electronics | B.E. Electrical Engineering (Honours) |
| B.E. Computer Science | B.E. Software Engineering (Honours) |
BITSAT Cutoffs (2024 Reference)
To qualify for admission, students must meet the BITSAT cutoff for their chosen program.
| Program | Approx. BITSAT Score (2024) |
| B.E. Computer Science | ~203 |
| B.E. Electronics & Communication | ~180 |
| B.E. Electrical & Electronics | ~147 |
| B.E. Mechanical | ~112 |
| B.E. Civil | ~108* (most accessible branch) |
In 2024, Civil Engineering had seats remaining after later rounds, making it the most accessible branch.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Fee Structure & Scholarships
| Fee Type | Pilani Campus | Goa & Hyderabad Campus |
| One-time Admission Fee | ₹57,100 | ₹57,100 |
| First Semester Tuition Fee | ₹3,97,500 | ₹3,97,500 |
| Second Semester Tuition Fee | ₹3,97,500 | ₹3,97,500 |
| Summer Term Tuition Fee (if applicable) | ₹1,39,100 | ₹1,39,100 |
| Hostel Fee (per semester) | ₹20,650 | ₹27,750 |
| Hostel Fee (summer term) | ₹10,325 | ₹13,875 |
| Mess & Electricity Advance (per semester) | ₹10,000 | ₹10,000 |
| Mess & Electricity Advance (summer term) | ₹5,000 | ₹5,000 |
| Other Advance (per semester) | ₹12,000 | ₹12,000 |
| Caution Deposit (One-time, refundable) | ₹3,000 | ₹3,000 |
| Annual Fee Increase Cap | Up to 5% per calendar year on tuition fees (if applicable) |
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Scholarships
1) RMIT University 20% Automatic Scholarship: All international students enrolling in a STEM major at RMIT University receive a 20% scholarship on their tuition fees for both years in Australia. This significantly reduces the overall cost, making education more affordable for students transferring from BITS Pilani.
2) BITS Pilani Merit-Cum-Need (MCN) & Merit Scholarships: Students studying at BITS Pilani, Goa, or Hyderabad may be eligible for Merit-Cum-Need (MCN) Scholarships or Merit Scholarships. These scholarships are awarded based on:
- Academic performance (CGPA)
- Financial need
| Scholarship Scheme | Eligibility | Amount of Scholarship |
| Institute’s Merit Award Scheme | Top 1% Students | 100% of total tuition fee |
| Top 2% Students | 40% of total tuition fee | |
| Institute’s Merit-Cum-Need Award Scheme | 3% Students | 80% of total tuition fee |
| 6% Students | 40% of total tuition fee | |
| 12% Students | 25% of total tuition fee | |
| 6% Students | 15% of total tuition fee |
The MCN scholarship helps students cover tuition and other academic expenses during their first two years at BITS Pilani.
Cost of Living in Australia
Living in Australia, especially in a city like Melbourne, requires proper financial planning. Students in the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program will spend their final two years at RMIT University, so understanding the monthly living expenses is essential.
Estimated Monthly Expenses
The average cost of living in Melbourne ranges between AUD 1,500 – 2,500 per month, depending on housing choices, lifestyle, and spending habits. Below is a detailed breakdown of common expenses:
1) Rent (AUD 225 – 562 per week): Housing costs depend on whether students live alone, share an apartment, or stay in university accommodation. Options include:
- On-campus accommodation: AUD 300 – 450 per week
- Shared apartment: AUD 225 – 350 per week
- Private studio/apartment: AUD 400 – 562 per week
Rent is one of the biggest expenses, so students often choose shared housing to reduce costs.
2) Food & Groceries (AUD 140 – 280 per week): The cost of food depends on eating habits and meal preferences.
- Cooking at home: AUD 140 – 200 per week
- Eating out occasionally: AUD 200 – 280 per week
Supermarkets like Coles, Woolworths, and ALDI offer affordable grocery options. Students who cook at home save significantly on food expenses.
3) Utilities, Internet & Transport (AUD 55 – 110 per week): These essential expenses include:
- Electricity & Water: AUD 20 – 40 per week
- Internet & Phone Bills: AUD 10 – 25 per week
- Public Transport (Myki Card): AUD 25 – 45 per week
Students get discounts on public transport using concession cards. Many choose to walk or cycle to save money.
4) Entertainment & Personal Expenses (AUD 80 – 150 per week): This includes:
- Movies, restaurants, and cafes
- Gym memberships
- Shopping and miscellaneous spending
So, the average total monthly expenses in Melbourne for a student is approximately AUD 3,204. Students who budget wisely can manage their social life without overspending.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Education Loans & Financial Support
Pursuing an international degree at a top-ranked university like RMIT University requires significant financial planning. The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program offers students the opportunity to study abroad, but tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs can add up. Education loans help students manage expenses efficiently and ensure that financial limitations do not interfere with their academic journey.
Why Consider an Education Loan?
Education loans provide structured financial support for students aiming to study at BITS Pilani and RMIT University. Some of the key benefits include:
- Comprehensive coverage – Education loans cover tuition fees, hostel/living expenses, travel, and academic materials.
- Flexible repayment – Many banks offer post-study repayment options to ease financial pressure on students.
- Tax exemptions – Interest paid on education loans qualifies for tax benefits under Section 80E of the Income Tax Act.
Students are encouraged to research various loan options and choose the one that best fits their needs.
Top Education Loan Options for BITS-RMIT Students
Several banks and financial institutions offer education loans specifically designed for students pursuing higher education abroad. Below are some of the best loan options available for students in the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program.
1) SBI Global Ed-Vantage Loan (BITS-RMIT Tie-up)
The State Bank of India (SBI) Global Ed-Vantage Loan is designed for Indian students studying abroad, including those attending RMIT University in Australia. Since SBI has an official tie-up with BITS Pilani, students applying for this loan get priority processing and faster approval.
Key Features:
- Interest Rate: ~6.9% per annum (subject to change)
- Coverage: Tuition fees, living expenses, travel costs, and academic materials
This is one of the most affordable loan options due to its lower interest rates and longer repayment tenure.
2) ICICI Bank Education Loan
ICICI Bank provides education loans for students pursuing higher education abroad, including those at RMIT University. This loan is popular due to its fast disbursal process and flexible repayment options.
Key Features:
- Interest Rate: 10.25% – 14% per annum
- Processing Time: Quick loan approval and disbursal to ensure timely availability of funds
- Repayment Flexibility: EMI options allow students to repay loans after completing their studies
Students who need fast loan approval and flexible repayment plans can consider this option.
3) HDFC Bank Education Loan
HDFC Bank offers education loans tailored for students studying overseas, including BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program participants.
Key Features:
- Interest Rate: Approx. 8.35% per annum
- Customized plans for students studying in Australia
- Flexible repayment options based on financial needs
- Quick loan processing and disbursal
HDFC Bank is known for personalized loan options and easy repayment terms.
General Loan Eligibility & Application Process
Students applying for education loans must meet the eligibility criteria set by banks. Some general requirements include:
- Confirmed Admission – Students must have official admission confirmation from BITS Pilani.
- Academic Performance – A strong academic record improves chances of loan approval.
- Co-Signer Requirement – Most banks require a co-signer (parent/guardian) for the loan.
- Collateral for Higher Loan Amounts – Some loans may require collateral (property, fixed deposit, or other assets) for larger amounts.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Application Process
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program has a structured application process that ensures students meet both BITS Pilani’s admission requirements and RMIT University’s transfer criteria. The process involves three major steps: qualifying via BITSAT, applying for the program, and meeting RMIT’s entry requirements.
Step 1: Qualify via BITSAT-2025
1) Register for BITSAT-2025: The first step is to register for BITSAT-2025, the BITS Pilani Admission Test. The application form is available on the official BITS admission portal, where students must:
- Provide personal details and academic history
- Upload necessary documents
- Pay the BITSAT registration fee
2) Prepare for BITSAT-2025: BITSAT is a computer-based test that evaluates students on Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, English, and Logical Reasoning. To secure admission into the BITS-RMIT program, students must:
- Score well to meet the required cutoff for their chosen branch
- Focus on time management and accuracy during the exam
- Take mock tests to familiarize themselves with the exam pattern
3) Meet the Required Cutoff: Each branch in the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program has a different BITSAT cutoff. Students must achieve the minimum BITSAT score to be eligible for their preferred engineering branch.
Once students qualify in BITSAT, they can move to the next step of the application process.
Step 2: Apply for the BITS-RMIT Program
After clearing BITSAT, students must officially apply for the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program through the BITS Pilani admission portal.
1) Submit Class 12 Marks and BITSAT Score: Students need to upload their:
- Class 12 (10+2) marksheet, showing a minimum of 75% aggregate in PCM and at least 60% in each subject (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
- BITSAT score, which determines eligibility for different branches
Only students who meet these academic criteria can proceed to the next stage.
2) Indicate Preference for the BITS-RMIT Program: While filling out the application, students must:
- Select the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program as their preferred option
- Choose their preferred engineering branch from the available options
- Confirm their willingness to transfer to RMIT University after two years
Once the application is submitted, students will receive confirmation from BITS Pilani regarding their selection.
Step 3: Meet RMIT Entry Requirements
To successfully transfer to RMIT University in Australia, students must fulfill additional requirements.
1) Maintain a Minimum CGPA of 4.5 at BITS Pilani: During the first two years at BITS Pilani, students must:
- Maintain a minimum CGPA of 4.5 to be eligible for transfer
- Perform well in core engineering subjects to ensure smooth credit transfer
- Stay updated with RMIT transfer guidelines to avoid any eligibility issues
If a student fails to maintain the required CGPA, they will not be eligible for transfer and will have to continue their studies at BITS Pilani instead.
2) Submit English Proficiency Test Scores: Since RMIT University conducts all its courses in English, students must demonstrate proficiency in the language by taking an approved English test. The minimum required scores are:
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Minimum Score Per Component |
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.0 | No band < 5.5 |
| TOEFL iBT | 60 | R:10, L:9, S:16, W:19 |
| PTE Academic | 50 | No band < 42 |
| CAE/CPE | 169 | No band < 162 |
3) English Test Fee Reimbursement by RMIT: To support students, RMIT University reimburses ₹8,500 for the cost of the English proficiency test. Students can claim this amount after successfully enrolling at RMIT.
Final Steps: Preparing for Transfer to RMIT University
Once students have:
- Maintained the required CGPA at BITS Pilani
- Achieved the necessary English proficiency test scores
- Received confirmation from RMIT University
They can complete the formalities for transfer and begin preparations to study in Melbourne, Australia.
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program offers an excellent pathway to international education, and students who meet all the requirements can benefit from global exposure and better career opportunities.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Career & Post-Study Opportunities
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program provides students with practical industry exposure through internships and Work-Integrated Learning (WIL). These opportunities enhance skills, improve employability, and allow students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.
- Practice School (PS) at BITS and Industry Projects at RMIT.
- Paid or unpaid internships during semester breaks (subject to visa rules).
Work While Studying in Australia
Students transferring to RMIT University in Melbourne will need a Student Visa (Subclass 500). This visa allows them to work while studying, helping them gain industry experience and manage living expenses.
Work Regulations
- During semesters: Students can work up to 48 hours per fortnight (i.e., 24 hours per week).
- During semester breaks: Students can work unlimited hours without restrictions.
Part-time jobs in Melbourne are available in various sectors, including retail, hospitality, customer service, and technical roles. Many students also take up research assistant or internship roles related to their field of study.
BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485)
Upon completing their degree, students can apply for the Post-Study Work Visa (Subclass 485) in Australia. This visa allows graduates to work in Australia temporarily after finishing their studies.
Work Rights Based on Degree Level
| Degree | Work Rights Duration |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 2 years |
| STEM/ICT First-Class Honours | 3 years |
| Master’s Degree | 3 years |
| PhD | 4 years |
Since RMIT University is a top-ranked Australian institution, students graduating from the BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program are eligible for extended work rights, especially if they pursue STEM-related fields.
This Post-Study Work Visa provides an opportunity to gain international work experience, apply for permanent residency (if eligible), or explore further study options.
Conclusion
The BITS-RMIT Dual Degree Program is a great opportunity for students who want a global engineering education with strong industry exposure. It offers dual degrees from BITS Pilani and RMIT University, access to cutting-edge research, and opportunities to work in top industries. With two years in India and two years in Australia, students gain both technical expertise and international experience.
The program also provides scholarships, education loans, and internship opportunities to support students. After graduation, students can apply for a post-study work visa in Australia, opening doors to global career opportunities.
If you want to study in India and Australia, earn two recognized degrees, and build a strong career in engineering, this program is worth considering. Start preparing for BITSAT-2025, meet the eligibility criteria, and take the first step toward an international engineering career.
