Engineering remains one of India’s most sought-after career paths, with millions of students competing for limited seats in premier institutions. While IITs and NITs are the first choice for many aspirants, the fierce competition and limited seats make it essential to explore equally prestigious alternatives. This comprehensive guide presents the top 10 engineering colleges in India other than IIT and NIT that offer excellent education, infrastructure, faculty, and placement opportunities.
These institutions have consistently demonstrated academic excellence, research capabilities, and industry connections that rival—and sometimes exceed—those of IITs and NITs. Whether you couldn’t secure an IIT/NIT seat or are strategically exploring all options, these colleges provide pathways to successful engineering careers with world-class facilities and education.
Selection Criteria for Top Engineering Colleges
State-of-the-art laboratories are a hallmark of India’s premier engineering institutions
Our ranking methodology for identifying the top engineering colleges in India other than IIT and NIT considers several crucial factors:
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1. Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS), Pilani
The iconic main building at BITS Pilani campus
Established in 1929, BITS Pilani stands as one of India’s oldest and most prestigious private engineering institutions. With campuses in Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad, and Dubai, BITS has built a reputation for academic excellence and creating well-rounded professionals.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹12-14 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹1.8 crore per annum |
| Placement Rate | 95% |
| Top Recruiters | Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley |
Admission Process:
BITS Pilani admits students through BITSAT (BITS Admission Test), a computer-based online test. The application process typically begins in January, with the exam conducted in May-June.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹18.64 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.E. program (₹4.66 lakhs per year), plus hostel and mess charges of around ₹18,000 per semester.
Apply to BITS Pilani
Applications for BITSAT 2025 are now open. Register before the deadline to secure your chance at one of India’s premier engineering institutions.
2. Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore
The modern campus of VIT Vellore offers world-class facilities
Founded in 1984, VIT has rapidly risen to become one of India’s top private engineering institutions. Known for its international collaborations and industry connections, VIT offers a global perspective on engineering education.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹6.05 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹45 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 92.3% |
| Top Recruiters | Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Deloitte, Cognizant |
Admission Process:
Admissions to VIT are through the VIT Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE), conducted online in April-May each year. Applications typically open in November.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹7.80 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (varies by program), plus hostel and mess charges of around ₹1.2 lakhs per year.
Apply to VIT Vellore
VITEEE 2025 applications are now open. Register today to secure your spot at one of India’s most innovative engineering institutions.
3. Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology, Patiala
The sprawling campus of Thapar Institute in Patiala, Punjab
Established in 1956, Thapar Institute has evolved into one of North India’s premier engineering institutions. Its partnership with Trinity College Dublin has enhanced its curriculum and teaching methodologies to international standards.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹8-8.1 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹43 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 90% |
| Top Recruiters | Amazon, Microsoft, Adobe, Deloitte, Samsung |
Admission Process:
Thapar Institute admits students based on JEE Main scores. The counseling process typically begins after the JEE Main results are announced.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹16.10 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.E. program (₹4.03 lakhs per year), plus hostel and mess charges.
Apply to Thapar Institute
Applications based on JEE Main 2025 scores will open soon. Stay updated and prepare your documents for timely submission.
4. Delhi Technological University (DTU), Delhi
The prestigious Delhi Technological University campus in the capital city
Formerly known as Delhi College of Engineering (DCE), DTU was established in 1941 and has been a pioneer in technical education in India. Its location in the national capital provides students with unique opportunities for industry exposure and internships.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹10-11 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹1.25 crore per annum |
| Placement Rate | 95% |
| Top Recruiters | Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Samsung |
Admission Process:
DTU admits students through JEE Main scores followed by counseling conducted by the Delhi government. Delhi residents have a quota in admissions.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹7.81 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program for Delhi students (₹1.95 lakhs per year), with higher fees for outside Delhi students.
Apply to DTU Delhi
Applications based on JEE Main 2025 scores will open after results are announced. Prepare your documents and stay updated on counseling schedules.
5. Jadavpur University, Kolkata
The historic engineering faculty building at Jadavpur University
Established in 1955, Jadavpur University has emerged as one of Eastern India’s premier institutions for engineering education. Known for its strong research focus and academic rigor, it consistently ranks among India’s top universities.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹5.50 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹39 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 85% |
| Top Recruiters | TCS, Infosys, Wipro, IBM, Cognizant |
Admission Process:
Jadavpur University admits students through the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE). The counseling process begins after the WBJEE results are announced.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹24,000 per annum for the 4-year B.E. program, making it one of the most affordable quality engineering institutions in India.
Apply to Jadavpur University
WBJEE 2025 applications will open soon. Prepare for the examination to secure your place at this prestigious institution.
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6. College of Engineering Pune (COEP), Pune
The historic main building of COEP, one of India’s oldest engineering institutions
Founded in 1854, COEP is one of India’s oldest engineering institutions. Its rich heritage combined with modern infrastructure and teaching methodologies makes it a preferred choice for engineering aspirants.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹5.3-7.8 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹43.3 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 90% |
| Top Recruiters | Microsoft, Amazon, Infosys, TCS, Wipro |
Admission Process:
COEP admits students through the Maharashtra Common Entrance Test (MHT-CET) and JEE Main scores. The counseling process is conducted by the Directorate of Technical Education, Maharashtra.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹3.39 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (₹84,750 per year), making it one of the most affordable quality engineering institutions.
Apply to COEP Pune
MHT-CET 2025 applications will open soon. Prepare for the examination to secure your place at this prestigious institution.
7. Birla Institute of Technology (BIT), Mesra
The serene campus of BIT Mesra nestled among greenery
Established in 1955, BIT Mesra has grown into a premier engineering institution with a focus on quality education and research. Its sprawling campus provides an ideal environment for academic pursuits.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹11.76 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹47 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 85% |
| Top Recruiters | Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Infosys, TCS |
Admission Process:
BIT Mesra admits students through JEE Main scores. The counseling process begins after the JEE Main results are announced.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹11.47 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (₹2.87 lakhs per year), plus hostel and mess charges of around ₹12,000 per semester.
Apply to BIT Mesra
Applications based on JEE Main 2025 scores will open after results are announced. Prepare your documents for timely submission.
8. SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai
The modern infrastructure at SRM’s main campus in Kattankulathur
Founded in 1985, SRM has grown into one of India’s largest private universities with multiple campuses. Known for its modern infrastructure and international collaborations, SRM offers a global perspective on engineering education.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹3.6 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹41.6 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 85% |
| Top Recruiters | Amazon, TCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant |
Admission Process:
SRM admits students through the SRM Joint Engineering Entrance Examination (SRMJEEE), conducted online multiple times a year. Applications typically open in November.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹10 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (varies by program), plus hostel and mess charges.
Apply to SRM University
SRMJEEE 2025 applications are now open. Register today to secure your spot at one of India’s largest private engineering universities.
9. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Coimbatore
The serene campus of Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham nestled in Coimbatore
Founded in 1994, Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham has rapidly risen to become one of India’s top private universities. Its unique blend of traditional values and modern education has earned it recognition as an Institution of Eminence by the Government of India.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹6.8 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹60 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 90% |
| Top Recruiters | Microsoft, Amazon, IBM, Infosys, TCS |
Admission Process:
Amrita admits students through the Amrita Entrance Examination (AEEE) and also accepts JEE Main scores. The application process typically begins in November.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹14-16 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (varies by program), plus hostel and mess charges.
Apply to Amrita University
AEEE 2025 applications are now open. Register today to secure your spot at this prestigious Institution of Eminence.
10. Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), Manipal
The world-class infrastructure at MIT Manipal’s sprawling campus
Established in 1957, MIT Manipal has grown into one of India’s premier private engineering institutions. Known for its world-class infrastructure and global exposure, it offers a comprehensive engineering education experience.
Key Highlights:
Top Engineering Programs:
Placement Statistics:
| Parameter | Details |
| Average Package | ₹7.2-7.6 lakhs per annum |
| Highest Package | ₹54.5 lakhs per annum |
| Placement Rate | 95% |
| Top Recruiters | Microsoft, Google, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley |
Admission Process:
MIT Manipal admits students through the Manipal Entrance Test (MET) and also accepts JEE Main scores. The application process typically begins in November.
Fee Structure: Approximately ₹17.80 lakhs for the entire 4-year B.Tech program (₹4.45 lakhs per year), plus hostel and mess charges.
Apply to MIT Manipal
MET 2025 applications are now open. Register today to secure your spot at one of India’s most prestigious private engineering institutions.
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Conclusion: Making the Right Choice Beyond IITs and NITs
Engineering graduates celebrating their achievement and bright futures ahead
While IITs and NITs remain the dream destinations for many engineering aspirants, the institutions featured in this list offer comparable—and sometimes superior—education, infrastructure, and placement opportunities. These top 10 engineering colleges in India other than IIT and NIT have consistently demonstrated excellence in various parameters and produced successful graduates who have made significant contributions to industry and academia.
When choosing an engineering college, consider factors beyond rankings, such as location preference, specialization strengths, fee structure, and campus culture. Each institution has its unique strengths and specializations that might align better with your career goals and preferences.
Remember that success in engineering depends more on your dedication, learning attitude, and skills development than just the brand name of your institution. These top colleges provide the platform and resources—it’s up to you to make the most of them.
Are these colleges at par with IITs and NITs in terms of quality education?
Yes, many of these institutions offer education quality comparable to IITs and NITs. Colleges like BITS Pilani, VIT Vellore, and DTU Delhi have excellent faculty, infrastructure, and research facilities that rival the top IITs. In some specialized programs, these colleges might even outperform certain IITs and NITs.
What are the admission pathways for these colleges?
These colleges offer multiple admission pathways:
- Through JEE Main scores (DTU, COEP, BIT Mesra)
- Through their own entrance exams (BITS Pilani via BITSAT, VIT via VITEEE, SRM via SRMJEEE)
- Through state-level entrance exams (Jadavpur University via WBJEE, COEP via MHT-CET)
How do the placement opportunities compare with IITs and NITs?
While top IITs generally have higher average packages, many colleges on this list offer excellent placement opportunities. Institutions like BITS Pilani, DTU Delhi, and Thapar Institute have placement statistics comparable to many NITs and some IITs. Top companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon regularly recruit from these institutions.
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