Many students often ask if there is an IIT in Bangalore. The answer is no. There is no Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) located in Bangalore. However, Bangalore is home to another prestigious institute called the Indian Institute of Science, or IISc Bangalore. IISc is one of India’s oldest and most respected science and research institutions. It plays a key role in advancing scientific knowledge and innovation.
IISc Bangalore is different from the IITs. While IITs mainly focus on engineering education and technology, IISc focuses more on research. It offers various programs in science, engineering, and technology, along with advanced research opportunities. In this article, we will learn more about IISc Bangalore, its programs, rankings, admission process, fees, placements, and how it compares with IITs.
Brief Overview of Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore
IISc Bangalore was established in 1909. It is located in Bangalore, Karnataka. IISc has a rich history of research and innovation. It started with the aim to promote scientific research in India. Over time, it has grown into a premier institute known for high-quality education and research in science and engineering.
The institute offers a wide range of programs. These include undergraduate research programs, Bachelor of Technology, integrated PhD, Master of Technology, Master of Science, and PhD courses. IISc has a strong emphasis on research and encourages students to work on advanced projects.
Why is IISc Bangalore Prestigious?
IISc Bangalore is prestigious because of its strong research focus and high academic standards. It has produced many leading scientists, engineers, and researchers who have contributed to India and the world. The faculty includes experts who have won top awards like the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, which is India’s highest science award.
The institute receives large research grants from government agencies and industries. This funding supports advanced labs, projects, and collaborations with national and international institutions. IISc has a peaceful campus that encourages learning and innovation.
Because of its research strength, IISc ranks highly in various national and international rankings. It is known for creating new knowledge and technologies, not just teaching existing ones.
Difference Between IISc and IITs
IISc and IITs both are top institutions in India but have different focuses:
- IISc Bangalore: Mainly research-focused. It offers advanced science and engineering education, with strong PhD and research programs. It is known for cutting-edge scientific studies.
- IITs: Mainly engineering-focused. IITs offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses in engineering and technology, with more emphasis on training engineers for industry jobs.
IISc has a strong PhD culture, with many students pursuing research. IITs have a larger undergraduate population and focus more on technology and engineering disciplines.
Both types of institutes are important but serve different academic and career goals.
IISc Bangalore Rankings (2025)
IISc Bangalore is one of India’s top research institutes. It has gained recognition nationally and internationally for its quality education and research output. The rankings in 2025 show how IISc stands among universities in India and across the globe. Let’s look at these rankings in detail.
IISc Bangalore International Rankings
IISc Bangalore has steadily improved its position in global rankings. These rankings are based on various factors like research publications, faculty quality, citations, academic reputation, and international collaboration. Here are the international rankings for IISc in 2025:
| Ranking Agency | Rank (2025) | Change from Previous Year |
| QS World University Rankings | 211 | Improved from 225 in 2024 |
| THE (Times Higher Education) | 251-300 | Dropped from 201-250 in 2024 |
| ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) | 401-500 | Dropped from 301-400 in 2023 |
- QS World University Rankings placed IISc at 211 in 2025. This shows a positive jump from 225 in the previous year. QS focuses on academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty-student ratio, and research impact.
- THE World University Rankings placed IISc in the 251-300 range in 2025. This is a slight drop from the 201-250 range in 2024. THE uses criteria like teaching, research, citations, industry income, and international outlook.
- ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) placed IISc in the 401-500 bracket in 2024. This ranking dropped from the previous 301-400 range. ARWU emphasizes research output, quality of faculty, and Nobel prizes or awards won by staff.
IISc Bangalore Subject-wise Rankings
IISc Bangalore performs particularly well in engineering and technology subjects.
| Subject Ranking Agency | Subject | Rank (2024) |
| QS World University Rankings | Engineering & Technology | 119 |
| THE World University Rankings | Engineering | 101-125 |
These rankings highlight IISc’s strength in engineering education and research. It is among the top 150 universities worldwide in these subjects.
IISc Bangalore National Rankings
In India, IISc Bangalore holds a very high position in various ranking frameworks.
| National Ranking Agency | Rank (2024) |
| NIRF Overall Ranking | 2nd |
| NIRF University Ranking | 1st |
| NIRF Research Ranking | 1st |
| Outlook India Top Govt. Technical Univ. | 2nd |
- The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024 ranked IISc Bangalore as the 2nd best overall institute in India. It holds the top spot for university and research rankings.
- Outlook India also placed IISc at 2nd among government technical universities in 2024.
IISc Bangalore Admission Process (2025)
The admission process at IISc Bangalore is different from most other institutes because it focuses heavily on research potential and academic excellence. IISc offers several programs such as B.Sc (Research), B.Tech (Mathematics and Computing), MTech, MSc, Integrated PhD, and PhD. Each program has its own eligibility criteria and selection process. Let’s look at the admission details for each program in 2025.
Admission to B.Sc (Research) Program
The B.Sc (Research) program at IISc Bangalore is unique. It is designed for students who want to begin research early in their academic careers. Admission to this program is highly competitive. IISc accepts applications from students who qualify in any one of several national-level exams. These exams include:
- KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana): A national fellowship program for students interested in science.
- JEE Main: The preliminary engineering entrance exam.
- JEE Advanced: The second stage of the IIT entrance exam.
- NEET: For students interested in biology-related streams under B.Sc (Research).
Students who score well in any one of these exams can apply for IISc Bangalore’s B.Sc (Research) program. After verifying eligibility, IISc releases a shortlist of candidates based on merit. These candidates are then invited to participate in a counseling process conducted by IISc. During counseling, students confirm their interest and select their preferred research areas.
IISc also looks at students’ academic records and other achievements while finalizing admission. The goal is to select students who have strong aptitude and motivation for research in science and technology.
Admission to B.Tech (Mathematics and Computing)
IISc offers a specialized B.Tech program in Mathematics and Computing. Admission to this program is through the JEE Advanced exam only. Students need to appear and qualify in JEE Advanced, which is one of the toughest engineering exams in India.
Only students who rank among the top candidates in JEE Advanced are eligible to apply. IISc Bangalore conducts its own counseling for this program. During the counseling, students with valid JEE Advanced ranks choose their seats based on availability and preferences.
The B.Tech (Mathematics and Computing) program is small in intake, usually admitting around 30-40 students each year. This makes admission very competitive, requiring excellent performance in JEE Advanced.
Admission to MTech, MSc, Integrated PhD, and PhD Programs
For postgraduate and doctoral studies, IISc has a rigorous admission process that includes exams and interviews.
- MTech Admission: Candidates must qualify the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) exam. The GATE exam tests knowledge in specific engineering disciplines. Shortlisted candidates are called for interviews. Admission is based on GATE scores and interview performance.
- MSc Admission: Candidates need to have a good academic record in relevant science subjects. Admission may include written tests and interviews, depending on the department.
- Integrated PhD Admission: This is for students who want to start research immediately after their bachelor’s degree. Students usually need to clear GATE, NET, or other national exams. They must also clear the IISc interview and selection rounds.
- PhD Admission: Candidates with a master’s degree or equivalent apply for the PhD program. They must have valid GATE/NET scores or equivalent qualifications. Admission includes interviews and departmental assessments.
IISc places high importance on research aptitude during interviews. The selection committee looks for candidates who show curiosity, problem-solving skills, and commitment to research.
Application Process and Important Dates
IISc Bangalore opens its online application portal for all programs well ahead of the academic year. Students must fill the application form carefully and submit all required documents before the deadline. The application fee varies depending on the program and category.
It is important for students to regularly check the official IISc website for the latest notifications, dates for entrance exams, result announcements, and counseling schedules. Missing any important date can lead to loss of admission opportunity.
Key Points to Remember
- IISc offers multiple entry paths for B.Sc (Research), including KVPY, JEE Main, JEE Advanced, and NEET.
- B.Tech admission is only through JEE Advanced ranks.
- Postgraduate admissions require GATE/NET scores and interviews.
- The institute conducts its own counseling sessions after shortlisting candidates.
- The admission process emphasizes merit, research potential, and academic excellence.
IISc Bangalore Fee Structure (2025)
The fee structure at IISc Bangalore is designed to support students from diverse backgrounds. The fees vary depending on the program you choose, such as B.Sc (Research), B.Tech (Mathematics and Computing), or postgraduate programs like MTech and PhD. IISc also provides scholarships and fee waivers for students from reserved categories and those with excellent academic performance.
Below, you will find a detailed breakdown of the fees for the academic year 2025.
IISc Bangalore Institute Fees
Institute fees include tuition, caution money, and annual fees. These fees vary by program.
| Particulars | B.Sc (Research) Fee (₹) | B.Tech (Mathematics & Computing) Fee (₹) |
| Caution Money (Refundable) | 15,000 | 15,000 |
| Tuition Fee (per year) | 10,000 | 2,00,000 |
| Annual Fees | 5,200 | 5,200 |
| Total (1st Year) | 30,200 | 2,20,200 |
- Caution Money is a refundable security deposit paid once at the time of admission. Students get this amount back when they leave the institute.
- Tuition Fee is charged yearly and depends on the course. B.Tech tuition is higher compared to B.Sc (Research).
- Annual Fees include charges for library, medical facilities, and other student services.
IISc Bangalore Hostel Fees
Hostel accommodation is optional but popular among students who want to stay on campus. Hostel fees cover lodging and mess charges.
| Particulars | Amount (₹) |
| Hostel Caution Money | 20,000 |
| Hostel + Mess Charges (per year) | 60,000 |
- Hostel caution money is refundable at the end of the stay.
- Mess charges include food and dining services. Students can choose meal plans as per their preference.
Fee Waivers and Scholarships
IISc Bangalore offers fee waivers and scholarships to help deserving students.
| Category | Benefit |
| SC/ST/PwD Students | Full tuition fee waiver; no tuition fees |
| KVPY Scholars | Fellowships and scholarships available |
| DST-INSPIRE Fellows | Fellowships for research scholars |
- Students from Scheduled Castes (SC), Scheduled Tribes (ST), and Persons with Disabilities (PwD) do not have to pay tuition fees.
- KVPY (Kishore Vaigyanik Protsahan Yojana) and DST-INSPIRE fellowships provide financial support for research-oriented students.
- Other merit-based scholarships may also be available based on academic performance and research potential.
IISc Bangalore Cutoff Year Wise (2025)
Admission cutoffs change every year depending on competition and seat availability. For B.Sc (Research) and B.Tech (Math & Computing), only students with top ranks in JEE Advanced, or JEE Main get admission.
IISc Bangalore JEE Main Cutoff 2024
| JEE(MAIN) EXAM 2024 CUT OFF BASED ON CATEGORY RANK | ||||||||||||
| Category | GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC | OBC(F) | SC | SC(F) | ST | ST(F) | PWD | KM |
| Cut-off | 903 | 1169 | 1214 | 1636 | 1665 | 2992 | 581 | 687 | 314 | 336 | 4 | 1509 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Advanced Cutoff 2024
| JEE(Advanced) EXAM 2024 CUT OFF BASED ON CATEGORY RANK | ||||||||||||
| Category | GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC-NCL | OBC-NCL(F) | SC | SC(F) | ST | ST(F) | CRL_PWD | KM |
| Cut off Rank | 1095 | 1763 | 829 | 1483 | 2348 | 3013 | 484 | 579 | 190 | 205 | 19 | 1200 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Main Cutoff 2023
| JEE(MAIN) EXAM 2023 RANK CUT OFF BASED ON COMMON RANK LIST(CRL) | ||||||||||||
| GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC | OBC(F) | SC | SC(F) | ST | ST(F) | PWD | KM | |
| Cut-off | 360 | 777 | 7531 | 10830 | 7827 | 10830 | 20558 | 22000 | 30282 | 50000 | 8000 | 8000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Advanced Cutoff 2023
| JEE Advanced 2023 EXAM RANK CUT OFF BASED ON COMMON RANK LIST(CRL) | ||||||||||||
| CATEGORY | GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC | OBC(F) | SC | SC-(F) | ST | ST-(F) | PWD | KM |
| Cut-off | 360 | 777 | 7531 | 10830 | 7827 | 10830 | 20558 | 22000 | 30282 | 50000 | 8000 | 8000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Main Cutoff 2022
| JEE(MAIN) EXAM RANK CUT OFF BASED ON COMMON RANK LIST(CRL) | |||||||||
| CATEGORY | GN | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC-NCL | OBC-NCL(F) | SC(F) | ST | ST(F) | PWD |
| Cut-off | 241-353 | 12001-17555 | 14001-20596 | 13001-17740 | 17001-20736 | 20001-21000 | 50001-55000 | 60001-70000 | 21000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Advanced Cutoff 2022
| JEE(Advanced) 2022 EXAM RANK CUT OFF BASED ON COMMON RANK LIST(CRL) | |||||||||
| GN | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC-NCL | OBC-NCL(F) | SC(F) | ST | ST(F) | PWD | |
| Cut-off | 241-353 | 12001-17555 | 14001-20596 | 13001-17740 | 17001-20736 | 20001-21000 | 50001-55000 | 60001-70000 | 21000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Main Cutoff 2021
| Round 4: JEE(Advanced) 2021 Cut Off based on All India Rank (CRL) | ||||||
| GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC | OBC(F) | |
| Cutoff | 221-230 | 451-550 | 10001-12000 | 12001-14000 | 12001-13000 | 15001-17000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Advanced Cutoff 2021
| Round 4: JEE(Main) 2021 CutOff based on Common Rank list (CRL) | ||||||
| GN | GN(F) | EWS | EWS(F) | OBC | OBC(F) | |
| Cutoff | 221-230 | 451-550 | 10001-12000 | 12001-14000 | 12001-13000 | 15001-17000 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Main Cutoff 2020
| Category | JEE Main 2020 Cutoff Range (CRL) |
| EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | 4001 – 10000 |
| OBC-NCL (Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer) | 7501 – 12000 |
| OBC-NCL PWD (Persons with Disabilities) | 12001 – 14000 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 10001 – 15000 |
| SC PWD (Scheduled Caste – Persons with Disabilities) | 15001 – 17000 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 40001 – 50000 |
| KM (Kashmiri Migrants) | 8001 – 10000 |
| GN PWD (General Category – Persons with Disabilities) | 1501 – 100 |
IISc Bangalore JEE Advanced Cutoff 2020
| Category | JEE Advanced 2020 Cutoff Range (CRL) |
| EWS (Economically Weaker Section) | 4001 – 10000 |
| OBC-NCL (Other Backward Classes – Non-Creamy Layer) | 7501 – 12000 |
| OBC-NCL PWD (Persons with Disabilities) | 12001 – 14000 |
| SC (Scheduled Caste) | 10001 – 15000 |
| SC PWD (Scheduled Caste – Persons with Disabilities) | 15001 – 17000 |
| ST (Scheduled Tribe) | 40001 – 50000 |
| KM (Kashmiri Migrants) | 8001 – 10000 |
| GN PWD (General Category – Persons with Disabilities) | 1501 – 10000 |
Why Choose IISc Bangalore Over IITs?
- Strong Research Focus: IISc has a stronger focus on research than most IITs. It has a rich PhD culture and encourages students to innovate and contribute to science.
- Outstanding Faculty: IISc faculty include Nobel laureates, Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar award winners, and other top scientists. This creates a vibrant learning and research environment.
- More Funding: IISc receives more research grants than most engineering colleges. This funding helps maintain excellent labs and research facilities.
- Unique Programs: Programs like B.Sc (Research) and Integrated PhD offer opportunities not commonly available at IITs. Students get hands-on research experience from early stages.
- Collaboration Opportunities: IISc collaborates with many national and international research institutes. Students can participate in advanced projects and conferences.
Conclusion
IISc Bangalore is one of India’s premier research institutes. It is not an IIT but stands out because of its strong focus on science and engineering research. The institute offers unique programs such as B.Sc (Research), B.Tech (Mathematics & Computing), and advanced MTech and PhD courses.
IISc ranks highly in both national and international surveys. It has a competitive admission process that selects top students through exams like KVPY, JEE Advanced, and GATE. The fee structure is reasonable, and scholarships are available for many students.
Career prospects after IISc are excellent, with many students pursuing higher studies or getting jobs in top tech companies and research organizations. IISc’s emphasis on research, excellent faculty, and strong funding make it a preferred choice for students who want to build a research career.
For students aiming at a research-oriented education in science and engineering, IISc Bangalore offers unmatched opportunities. It complements the engineering education offered by IITs, providing students a strong foundation in innovation and advanced knowledge.
