Are you planning to study at one of India’s top IITs? IIT Delhi is one of the most popular choices among students aiming for a career in engineering, design, or technology. Known for its excellent academics, top placements, and strong campus life, IIT Delhi stands out as a dream destination for many. Before you take the leap, it’s important to understand everything about the institute—its rankings, fee structure, hostel facilities, and scholarships.
This guide gives you clear and updated details about IIT Delhi for the 2024–25 academic year. Whether you are an Indian student, a foreign national, or belong to a reserved category, you will find all the necessary information in one place. We’ve also included real cost estimates and answers to common questions students usually ask. Read on to know what it truly costs to study at IIT Delhi and how to plan your finances.
Overview of IIT Delhi
The Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) is one of India’s most prestigious institutions, known for its excellence in engineering, technology, and research. Established in 1961, IIT Delhi has grown into a world-class academic and research hub that consistently ranks among the top engineering institutes in India and globally. It is recognized as an Institute of Eminence by the Government of India, a status awarded to select institutions with high global standards in education and innovation.
Located in the heart of the national capital, the IIT Delhi campus spans over 325 acres in Hauz Khas, a bustling and well-connected part of South Delhi. The campus blends modern infrastructure with green open spaces, offering an ideal environment for focused learning and vibrant student life. Its location provides students easy access to various resources, internships, industry connections, and exposure to national and international opportunities.
IIT Delhi offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across engineering, science, design, and management. For B.Tech aspirants, admission is through the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE Advanced), while postgraduate programs use exams like GATE, JAM, CAT, and CEED, depending on the course. Students from across India and abroad compete rigorously to secure a seat, making the campus highly diverse and competitive.
Research and innovation form the backbone of IIT Delhi’s identity. The institute houses over 30 academic departments, centers, and schools, each with specialized research facilities. From nanotechnology and clean energy to artificial intelligence and climate science, IIT Delhi’s research output has had significant impact nationally and globally. Students are actively encouraged to participate in research from the undergraduate level itself through initiatives like the Undergraduate Research Award (URA) and the Summer Undergraduate Research Award (SURA).
Campus life at IIT Delhi is dynamic and enriching. Students enjoy access to top-tier sports facilities, a central library, advanced labs, innovation hubs, student clubs, and cultural events. The institute hosts annual festivals like Rendezvous (cultural fest), Tryst (technical fest), and Speranza (social fest), which attract students from across the country. These events provide platforms for creativity, leadership, and collaboration beyond academics.
IIT Delhi also has a strong placement record. Top multinational companies visit the campus each year, offering high-paying roles in software development, data science, consulting, core engineering, and more. Many students also pursue higher education or research careers at leading global institutions.
IIT Delhi Rankings
IIT Delhi consistently ranks as one of the best engineering institutes in India. It is ranked among the top 2 IITs by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) and consistently appears in global rankings, such as QS World University Rankings. IIT Delhi’s strong academic reputation, research output, and industry connections contribute to its high rankings. IIT Delhi ranks among the best institutes in India and the world. Here are its recent rankings:
| Ranking Organization | Category | Ranking |
| ARWU (2022) | General – International | 701–800 |
| QS (World) (2025) | General – International | 150 |
| QS (Asia) (2023) | General – International | 46 |
| NIRF (Overall) (2024) | General – India | 4 |
| NIRF (Research) (2024) | General – India | 3 |
| QS (India) (2020) | General – India | 3 |
| NIRF (2024) | Engineering – India | 2 |
| India Today (2022) | Engineering – India | 1 |
| Outlook India (2022) | Government Colleges | 2 |
| NIRF (2024) | Business/Management – India | 4 |
These rankings show that IIT Delhi performs well in academics, research, and placements. It is especially strong in engineering and technology.
The university is also recognized for its excellent placement records, with many students securing jobs in leading global companies. IIT Delhi’s focus on academic excellence, research, and holistic development makes it one of the most sought-after destinations for students in India.
IIT Delhi Fee Structure
The fee structure for B.Tech and Dual Degree programs at IIT Delhi varies based on the student’s family income and category. The details are as follows:
| Category | Tuition Fee (₹) | One-Time Payment (₹) | Other Charges (₹) | Refundable Caution Deposit (₹) | Total Fee Payable (₹) | Amount Paid to JoSAA (₹) | Balance Amount Payable (₹) |
| General/OBC (Income > ₹5 lakh) | 1,00,000 | 8,150 | 6,250 | 8,000 | 1,22,400 | 30,000 | 92,400 |
| General/OBC (Income ₹1–5 lakh) | 33,333 | 8,150 | 6,250 | 8,000 | 55,733 | 30,000 | 25,733 |
| General/OBC (Income < ₹1 lakh) | Nil | 8,150 | 6,250 | 8,000 | 22,400 | 30,000 | -7,600 (Refundable Excess) |
| SC/ST/PD | Nil | 8,150 | 6,250 | 8,000 | 22,400 | 12,500 | 9,900 |
For Foreign Students
IIT Delhi also admits foreign students under different fee structures based on their nationality.
| Category | Tuition Fee (USD) | Other Charges (₹) | Total Charges |
| SAARC Countries | $1000 | ₹22,400 | $1000 + ₹22,400 |
| Non-SAARC Countries | $2000 | ₹22,400 | $2000 + ₹22,400 |
IIT Delhi Hostel Fee
IIT Delhi offers a wide range of hostel accommodations for students. These hostels are well-equipped and provide a comfortable living environment for students from across the country and abroad. The hostels are located within the main campus and ensure that students have easy access to academic blocks, libraries, sports facilities, and dining areas.
Types of Accommodations
The hostels at IIT Delhi are mainly divided into three categories:
1) Old Hostels: These include hostels such as Aravali, Shivalik, Nilgiri, Kumaon, Jwalamukhi, and others. These hostels generally offer single or double-sharing rooms. Most of them do not have centralized air conditioning but come with basic amenities like fans, study tables, beds, and cupboards. They are known for their vibrant student culture and active hostel life.
2) New Hostels: These are relatively modern hostels such as Dronagiri and Satpura. They offer better facilities and more modern infrastructure. Some blocks in these hostels come with centralized air conditioning, which is turned on during the summer months (April to October). These hostels also provide single or double-sharing rooms, furnished with comfortable furniture, modern washrooms, and reading spaces.
3) Nalanda and IP Transit Accommodations: These are apartment-style accommodations that house four students in one apartment. They are usually provided to postgraduate students or students who are staying temporarily. Each apartment includes shared bedrooms, a common area, and a small kitchen or utility space.
4) Family Apartments: These are reserved for married postgraduate and PhD students who want to live with their spouses. These are simple, furnished apartments that allow married students to continue their education without staying away from their families. These apartments are limited in number and provided based on availability.
Hostel Charges (Per Semester)
Hostel fees vary based on the type of accommodation. Here’s a breakdown of the charges per semester:
One-Time Charges:
- BHM (Board of Hostel Management) Deposits: ₹7,000 (non-refundable)
- Security Deposit: ₹15,000 (refundable)
Recurring Semester Charges:
- Old Hostels: ₹38,580 (includes mess charges)
- New Hostels (without AC): ₹41,580
- New Hostels (with AC during summer): ₹52,980
- Nalanda/IP Transit: ₹38,580
- Family Apartments: ₹3,000 per semester (caretaking charges only; electricity and other utilities are extra)
Short-Stay Charges
IIT Delhi also provides short-stay options for visiting students, interns, or those staying temporarily:
Old Hostels:
- ₹500/day (for up to 2 months)
- ₹750/day (for more than 2 months)
New Hostels:
- ₹750/day (for up to 2 months)
- ₹950/day (for more than 2 months)
Mess facilities are available in each hostel, and the monthly mess bill is included in the semester charges. Most hostels have recreational rooms, common TV areas, laundry services, internet access, water purifiers, and 24/7 security. The hostel environment at IIT Delhi is designed to encourage both academic focus and personal growth.
Students must follow hostel rules and maintain discipline during their stay. Hostel rooms are generally allotted at the time of admission and are subject to availability.
Total Estimated Cost of Studying at IIT Delhi
Understanding the cost of studying at IIT Delhi is important for students planning to pursue their education here. The total expenses include institute fees, hostel and mess charges, and some one-time payments. The exact amount you will pay depends on your category, family income, and whether you are an Indian or foreign student.
For Indian Students (B.Tech, Annual Family Income > ₹5 Lakh)
If your family’s annual income is more than ₹5 lakh, you will be charged the full tuition fee. The annual breakdown is as follows:
- Institute Fees: ₹1,22,400 per year
- Hostel Fees: ₹77,160 per year (approximate)
- Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹2,00,000 per year
For Indian Students (Annual Family Income between ₹1 Lakh to ₹5 Lakh)
For General and OBC students whose family income falls between ₹1 lakh and ₹5 lakh per annum, IIT Delhi offers a two-thirds tuition fee waiver.
- Institute Fees: ₹55,733 per year
- Hostel Fees: ₹77,160 per year (approximate)
- Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹1,35,000 per year
This is a substantial saving compared to students from higher-income groups.
For Indian Students (Annual Family Income < ₹1 Lakh)
Students with annual family income below ₹1 lakh get a full tuition fee waiver. Here’s what the fee looks like:
- Institute Fees: ₹22,400 per year
- Hostel Fees: ₹77,160 per year (approximate)
- Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹1,00,000 per year
Students in this category receive the highest financial benefit.
For SC/ST/PwD Students
IIT Delhi provides full tuition fee waivers for all SC, ST, and PwD students, regardless of income.
- Institute Fees: ₹22,400 per year
- Hostel Fees: ₹77,160 per year
- Total Estimated Cost: Around ₹1,00,000 per year
Like other students with fee waivers, this amount includes non-tuition components such as caution deposit and other charges. Additionally, SC/ST students are eligible for special scholarships and stipends that can further reduce the effective cost.
For Foreign Students (Non-SAARC Countries)
The fees for foreign nationals are different from those for Indian students. They are charged in US dollars for tuition and in Indian Rupees for other components.
- Institute Fees: $2,000 (Tuition) + ₹22,400 (Other Charges)
- Hostel Fees: ₹77,160 per year (approximate)
- Total Estimated Cost: Around $2,000 + ₹1,00,000 per year
Note that foreign students may also have to account for additional expenses such as international travel, visa, insurance, and personal expenses.
Financial Assistance and Scholarships
IIT Delhi is committed to supporting students from all backgrounds, especially those who are economically disadvantaged. Various financial aid schemes are available to make education affordable and accessible.
1) Merit-cum-Means (MCM) Scholarships
These scholarships are available to students whose annual family income is less than ₹5 lakh. Under this scheme:
- Two-thirds of the tuition fee is waived for eligible General and OBC category students.
- Some students also receive a monthly stipend to support additional academic or living expenses.
This helps students from middle-income families focus on their studies without worrying too much about financial stress.
2) SC/ST Scholarships
All SC and ST category students are eligible for:
- Full tuition fee waiver
- Additional stipends to cover living costs
- Free access to many campus facilities
These scholarships ensure that financial constraints do not limit the educational opportunities of students from marginalized communities.
3) Institute Free Studentship
This scheme is meant for students who may not qualify for the above categories but still face financial hardship.
- It provides partial or full tuition fee waivers depending on the student’s economic situation.
- Students must apply with supporting documents such as income certificates and bank statements.
This flexibility ensures that deserving students get the support they need to continue their education.
Conclusion
IIT Delhi offers world-class education, excellent faculty, and top placement opportunities. But along with academic goals, it is important to understand the costs and facilities. This article has given you a complete overview of IIT Delhi’s fee structure, hostel charges, total yearly expenses, and available scholarships. Whether you are a general category student, from a reserved category, or an international applicant, knowing the exact fee breakdown helps you plan better.
The good news is that IIT Delhi supports students through scholarships and financial aid. If you belong to an economically weaker section, there are several options to reduce your burden. Hostel facilities also vary in cost, giving you choices based on comfort and budget.
If you are serious about joining IIT Delhi, prepare well, aim high, and also keep your documents and financial plans ready. With the right preparation, IIT Delhi can become the stepping stone to your future success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) Are hostel fees mandatory for all students?
Yes, hostel fees are compulsory for all students staying on campus. However, if a student resides with parents or guardians within a 12 km radius of IIT Delhi, they may apply for exemption. Approval is granted only after a formal request and verification by the institute authorities.
2) Can I get a refund if I vacate the hostel mid-semester?
Yes, if a student vacates the hostel mid-semester due to valid reasons such as withdrawal or approved leave, the institute refunds any excess mess or accommodation charges. The refund process requires submitting a formal application along with clearance forms to the hostel office. Processing usually takes a few weeks.
3) Are there installment options for fee payment?
Generally, students are required to pay their fees at the beginning of each semester. However, in special cases, the administration may allow fee payments in installments. Students facing financial difficulties should contact the Dean of Students’ Affairs or the accounts section to request and formalize an installment plan.
4) Is mess food included in the hostel charges?
Yes, mess food charges are included in the per-semester hostel fees. This includes the cost of food, kitchen consumables, gas, electricity, and staff wages. All students living in hostels must pay mess charges, and opting out is usually not permitted unless there’s a valid medical or personal reason.
5) Can I choose between old and new hostels?
Hostel allotment is typically done based on availability and academic batch. First-year students are usually assigned to specific hostels, while senior students may shift in later years. Preferences for old or new hostels can be submitted, but final decisions rest with the hostel administration based on logistics.
