India is home to some of the world’s best engineering institutions, and getting into them is a dream for many students. Engineering is a highly sought-after career path, and every year, lakhs of aspirants prepare rigorously to secure a spot in one of the prestigious engineering colleges. With numerous entrance exams available, the journey to becoming an engineer starts with choosing the right exam that aligns with your career goals and abilities.
Top Engineering Exams in India
This guide will walk you through the top engineering entrance exams in India that pave the way to securing admission into top-tier institutions.
1. JEE Main (Joint Entrance Examination Main)
JEE Main is the most popular engineering entrance exam in India. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), it serves as the gateway to various undergraduate engineering programs in the National Institutes of Technology (NITs), Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs), and many other centrally funded technical institutes. Additionally, JEE Main is the qualifying exam for JEE Advanced, the entrance test for IITs (Indian Institutes of Technology).
Key Highlights of JEE Main:
- Eligibility: Students must have passed or be appearing for the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Exam Format: The exam is conducted twice a year, in January and April, and is available in online mode. The paper consists of three sections: Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Number of Attempts: A candidate can attempt the exam six times (twice a year for three consecutive years).
- Total Marks: 300 marks, with equal weightage to each subject.
Why Choose JEE Main:
- It is accepted by the majority of engineering institutions across India.
- Offers a chance to qualify for JEE Advanced for admission into IITs.
- The exam is held multiple times, offering flexibility to the candidates.
2. JEE Advanced
JEE Advanced is conducted by one of the seven zonal IITs on a rotational basis. This exam is considered one of the toughest engineering entrance exams globally and is the only gateway to securing admission into 23 IITs across India. Students who clear JEE Main and are ranked within the top 2,50,000 candidates are eligible to appear for JEE Advanced.
Key Highlights of JEE Advanced:
- Eligibility: Only students who qualify JEE Main can appear for JEE Advanced.
- Exam Format: The exam consists of two papers, Paper 1 and Paper 2, each lasting three hours. Both papers contain questions from Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Question Type: It includes a mix of multiple-choice questions, numerical questions, and match-the-following type questions.
Why Choose JEE Advanced:
- Admission to the most prestigious engineering institutions in India – IITs.
- The curriculum and rigor of IITs open doors to global opportunities.
- The exam tests not only conceptual understanding but also problem-solving ability and analytical thinking.
3. KNET (Kalvium National Entrance Test) Assessment
For students looking for advanced Computer Science Engineering programs at Top Universities, the KNET offers a tech-driven alternative. Kalvium is known for its industry-integrated engineering curriculum focusing on computer science and software engineering. Unlike traditional engineering colleges, Kalvium provides an innovative education model where students work on real-world industry projects while they study, ensuring they are job-ready from day one.
Moreover, through Kalvium, students have the opportunity to gain admission to top NAAC A+ universities, blending experiential learning with the prestige and academic rigor of some of the most reputable institutions in India. This unique combination of industry exposure and academic excellence sets students on a fast track to success in the tech world.
Key Highlights of the KNET:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have completed or be in their final year of 12th grade with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Exam Format: The KNET is designed to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude, logical reasoning, and problem-solving skills. The focus is on assessing a student’s ability to tackle real-world tech challenges rather than rote memorization of theoretical concepts.
- Curriculum Focus: Students are provided with hands-on learning in software development, coding, and modern tech stacks, ensuring they are equipped with the latest industry skills.
- Universities: Students can secure admission to top NAAC A+ universities like Alliance University, Lovely Professional University, Chitkara University, JECRC University, JIS University, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education (KARE) and more.
Why Choose Kalvium:
- The curriculum is project-based and focused on experiential learning, unlike traditional lecture-driven models.
- Students start to work on live projects from the first year itself, with up to 3 years of internship opportunities at top IT companies starting second year, thereby bridging the gap between academic knowledge and industry demands.
- The KNET allows candidates to bypass conventional engineering exams and gain entry into a futuristic B.Tech CSE program.
Learn more about the future of Computer Science Engineering
4. BITSAT (Birla Institute of Technology and Science Admission Test)
BITSAT is conducted by BITS Pilani for admission into its undergraduate engineering courses at Pilani, Goa, and Hyderabad campuses. It is a highly competitive exam, with more than 3 lakh candidates vying for around 2,000 seats every year.
Key Highlights of BITSAT:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, along with proficiency in English.
- Exam Format: BITSAT is an online test consisting of four sections: Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English Proficiency & Logical Reasoning.
- Total Marks: 450 marks.
Why Choose BITSAT:
- BITS Pilani is consistently ranked among the top private engineering institutes in India.
- The exam includes a Logical Reasoning and English Proficiency section, making it different from other entrance tests.
- The campuses are known for their strong alumni network and high-quality education.
5. VITEEE (Vellore Institute of Technology Engineering Entrance Examination)
The VIT Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE) is the admission test for undergraduate engineering programs at VIT Vellore, Chennai, Bhopal, and Amaravati campuses. With a high standard of education and excellent placement records, VIT is a preferred option for many students.
Key Highlights of VITEEE:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology.
- Exam Format: The test is conducted online and consists of sections in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology, English, and Aptitude.
- Total Marks: 125 marks.
Why Choose VITEEE:
- VIT has a track record of strong placements and research opportunities.
- The addition of Aptitude and English sections ensures a more comprehensive assessment of a student’s skills.
- The institute provides various scholarship schemes based on merit.
6. SRMJEEE (SRM Joint Engineering Entrance Examination)
SRMJEEE is the entrance test for admission to the SRM Group of Institutions, including the SRM campuses in Kattankulathur, Ramapuram, Vadapalani, and other locations. Known for its excellent campus infrastructure and high placement rates, SRM is a prominent private engineering institute.
Key Highlights of SRMJEEE:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology.
- Exam Format: The exam is conducted online and consists of sections in Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics/Biology, English, and Aptitude.
- Total Marks: 125 marks.
Why Choose SRMJEEE:
- SRM is known for its global collaborations and exchange programs.
- The exam assesses aptitude and English, making it more holistic.
- Students have access to cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art facilities.
7. COMEDK UGET (Consortium of Medical, Engineering, and Dental Colleges of Karnataka)
COMEDK UGET is conducted by the Consortium of Medical, Engineering, and Dental Colleges of Karnataka for admissions into engineering courses at private colleges in Karnataka. With over 180 engineering colleges accepting COMEDK scores, it is a highly preferred exam among students who seek admissions in Karnataka-based institutions.
Key Highlights of COMEDK UGET:
- Eligibility: Students must have passed the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Exam Format: The exam is conducted online and consists of 180 multiple-choice questions in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Total Marks: 180 marks.
Why Choose COMEDK UGET:
- A large number of colleges accept COMEDK scores, offering more options for students.
- The exam is simpler in format compared to JEE or BITSAT, making it more accessible to a larger pool of candidates.
8. MHT-CET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test)
MHT-CET is the state-level entrance exam conducted by the State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra for admissions into engineering colleges within Maharashtra. Students who wish to study engineering in the state’s government and private institutions often opt for this exam.
Key Highlights of MHT-CET:
- Eligibility: Candidates must have passed or be appearing for the 12th-grade examination with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
- Exam Format: The test consists of two papers: Paper 1 for Mathematics and Paper 2 for Physics and Chemistry.
Why Choose MHT-CET:
- The exam is state-specific and offers a relatively easier pathway to securing admission into engineering colleges within Maharashtra.
- A high number of government and private institutions accept MHT-CET scores.
Which Engineering Entrance Exam Should You Choose?
Choosing the right entrance exam is crucial for aspiring engineers. The decision should be based on factors like:
- The type of institution you want to attend (IIT, NIT, private universities, etc.).
- Your preferred stream of engineering (mechanical, civil, computer science, etc.).
- The level of competition you are comfortable with.
For those aiming for top-tier institutes like IITs and NITs, JEE Main and Advanced are the most critical exams. Students looking for private institutions with a strong placement record can opt for BITSAT, VITEEE, or SRMJEEE. For a unique and modern approach, the KNET offers a refreshing alternative for tech-focused aspirants who want to start their engineering journey with a project-based, industry-integrated curriculum.
Regardless of the exam you choose, diligent preparation and a clear understanding of the exam pattern are key to achieving your engineering dreams.
Ready to embark on your journey to becoming a world-class engineer? Whether you’re aiming for top institutes through entrance exams or seeking an innovative, industry-integrated education, the choice you make today will shape your future. Don’t miss out on crucial tips, insights, and guidance! Download our FREE 9 Points Checklist now and take the first step towards your dream college.