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What are the different ways to get into IISc apart from GATE?
Other competitive exams: Joint CSIR UGC NET for JRF, JEST, GPAT, UGC NET for JRF.
CFTI mode of entry: follow the link https://iisc.ac.in/admissions/m-tech-through-cfti-mode/
A thorough list of modes of admission can be found here: modes_of_entry
Can students from non-traditional backgrounds (e.g. BPharm, Biotechnology, Geology) apply for MTech or PhD?
There are many interdisciplinary departments in IISc that admit students from various backgrounds. For eligibility, you will need to check the admissions portal.
What are the eligibility criteria for MTech (Research) and PhD programmes?
For MTech (Research), non-CFTI applicants require a valid GATE score (and few other exams mentioned in this link ) to get shortlisted for interviews and for CFTI applicants, the details are in this link.
Is it possible to apply for multiple modes (GATE, CFTI) simultaneously?
Yes, it is possible. Candidates have the option to choose all the modes of entry at the time of filling the application. Candidates will be eligible for all the modes of entry in case they are above the cut-off for the mentioned modes of entry.
What are the cut-offs for various programmes like CDS, AI, VLSI, etc?
Follow this link to check the cut-offs of previous years: cut-offs
What is the minimum CGPA requirement for admission to different programmes?
There is no CGPA requirement in general except in the CFTI mode of entry which is 8.0 or above in the undergraduate programme. The criteria for shortlisting may differ.
Are preparation gaps or work experience considered in the admission process?
For admission, your performance in the qualifying exams, screening tests (if any), and interviews are considered.
How does IISc consider the GATE DA paper for admission?
It is considered by a few programmes, and the list can be checked here: eligibility
Is there any quota or special admission process for working professionals?
Details for Masters’ programmes: https://iisc.ac.in/admissions/m-tech-for-sponsored-candidates/
Details for research programmes: https://iisc.ac.in/admissions/external-registration-programme-ph-d/
For consideration, IISc must have an MoU with the organisation, e.g., DRDO, ISRO.
How do international students or students with foreign degrees apply?
Please visit: https://oir.iisc.ac.in/
What are the differences between MTech Coursework and MTech Research?
MTech is strictly a two-year course with more coursework requirements and a mandatory project whereas MTech Research is a research focused 2-2.5 year (varying duration) programme with lesser coursework requirements and thesis submission based on research.
What is the structure of the MTech Research curriculum?
This is a 2-2.5-year programme with greater inclination towards research as one has to submit a thesis for the fulfilment of the course. One need to complete minimum 12 credits of coursework along with research.
Details are here: https://iisc.ac.in/admissions/research-programmes/
How is the MTech (AI) programme different from CDS?
CDS focuses more on data science while the AI programme focuses on the mathematics and engineering of AI systems. Both naturally have quite a bit of overlap but are also distinct from each other in the emphasis given to machine learning in the AI programme.
What is the coursework structure for the CDS programme?
Students registered for MTech coursework in CDS are required to complete 64 credits. This consists of 14 credits for hard core courses, 13 credits for soft core courses, 12 credits for electives, and 28 credits for dissertation.
Details are here: https://cds.iisc.ac.in/academics/mtechcds/
What interdisciplinary research opportunities exist at IISc?
There are various interdisciplinary departments and programmes in IISc, specifically in the Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences. Along with this, each department is engaged in such research topics and areas.
What are the available programmes in electronics, VLSI, and semiconductor technology?
MTech programmes in EECS: https://eecs.iisc.ac.in/course-programmes/
Research programmes in EECS: https://eecs.iisc.ac.in/research-programs/
How flexible is the MTech curriculum at IISc?
In the MTech coursework, you can choose from a range of soft-core/elective courses along with the mandatory/core courses of your programmes. The MTech project is a major part of your programme in which you may get to work with a research supervisor on a dedicated project.
Can MTech students convert to MTech Research?
In a few departments, one is allowed to convert from MTech/MTech Research to PhD but MTech to MTech Research conversion is not possible.
What is the process for transferring credits from MTech to PhD?
Motivated MTech/ MDes/ MTech (ERP)/ MTech (Sponsored) students are given the option to transfer to PhD upon the completion of two terms. The minimum CGPA for eligibility to transfer to a PhD programme is 8.0, considering all the courses (a minimum of 24 credits) taken in the first two terms.
If the request is approved, the date of registration for the PhD programme will be the date of joining the MTech/ MDes/ MTech (ERP) programme. The PhD research topic should be such that the courses taken during the first year of the MTech/ MDes/ MTech (ERP) are sufficient for the research training programme (RTP).
However, depending on the requirements of the research problem and the recommendation of the research supervisor(s), the student may credit one or two extra courses. In all cases, they should complete the comprehensive examination within one year after transferring to the PhD programme.
How does one select a research topic at IISc?
Each research group works differently. You will go through a research training programme or RTP. You will then discuss with your adviser and arrive at a broad topic, then read the existing research on it and fine-tune to a specific problem.
What are the major research areas at IISc in AI, quantum computing, robotics, and data science?
IISc is the hub for quantum computing under the National Quantum Mission. The major research areas in quantum computing are photonic qubits and the associated stability, coding, and quantum information processing.
There is a separate department focusing on robotics and autonomous systems (CPS). Here, the emphasis is on robot control, cobots, learning, multirobot coordination, swarms, path planning, and learning.
A separate department focuses on computational and data sciences. Several faculty and students in this department do research in AI and ML, data science, data engineering, and MLOps.
What research areas are currently being explored in the ECE, CDS, and EE departments?
ECE – communication theory, systems, networks, signal processing, image processing, machine learning and AI, antennas and propagation, photonics, quantum computation, and error correcting codes both quantum and classical.
CDS – scientific computing and intelligent systems.
EE – power systems, signal processing, machine vision, and cybersecurity.
What interdisciplinary research collaborations exist at IISc?
IISc has an entire Division of Interdisciplinary Sciences. CDS, CPS, CeNSE, ICWAR, CiSTUP, and several other entities working at the intersection of science and engineering, basic and applied research, are within this division. Several of these departments offer MTech, MTech (Res) or PhD, or a combination thereof.
What are the opportunities for industry-sponsored research?
Those in the industry can take up an external registration programme which is sponsored by their employer. Many companies send their employees for higher education through this programme. In addition, you could work on research projects sponsored by industry. There are MTechs which are sponsored by industry (e.g. TI) which involve working closely with the industry and your adviser. Plenty of opportunities exist.
How does IISc support open science initiatives?
Several faculty members publish in open access journals. Several students and faculty share their resources freely online. Several tools are put out as digital public goods.
What are the top research labs and groups at IISc?
This is a bit difficult to answer. Several are world renowned labs. We invite you to explore our webpages.
How do placements compare between MTech Coursework and MTech Research students?
Students from all the programmes are allowed to participate in the placements; so, it is almost similar for all the programmes.
What career paths exist after completing a PhD from IISc?
Postdoctoral programmes for those keen on research, R&D industry positions, start-ups and entrepreneurship.
What are the placement statistics for different departments?
You can see the annual report that IISc releases every year for placement information.
The annual reports can be found here:
https://iisc.ac.in/outreach/publications/iiscpress-new/annual-reports/
Please search for Placement in the Annual Report document.
How well does IISc prepare students for careers in industry and academia?
The programmes at IISc prepare you well for industry and research with greater focus on cutting-edge and multi-dimensional research and up to-date courses. This puts you in a good place in core-industry from R&D to applications.
What are the future prospects of computational and data science, VLSI, and microelectronics? What is the job market scenario for AI, VLSI, and data science graduates?
One can opt for a PhD in India or abroad. Apart from that, IISc has an excellent placement record. Interested students can pursue careers in industries such as Amazon, Flipkart, Global Foundries, Qualcomm, CISCO, Applied Materials, Texas Instruments, Nvidia, TCS, Infosys, Tejas Networks, or similar MNC or Indian companies and startups.
How does IISc support entrepreneurship and startups?
IISc has an entrepreneurship cell which has incubated many startups from IISc. Many students and faculty have started their own ventures that are thriving.
Please see https://entiisc.iisc.ac.in/
Are internships allowed for MTech students? What industry collaborations exist?
Yes, internships are allowed for MTech students and it happens via the placement cell as well. Many labs are engaged in industry collaborations, and multiple students have been a part of such collaborations in the past and present.
Some details are here: https://eecs.iisc.ac.in/initiatives/industry-initiatives/
How do IISc graduates fare in international PhD programmes?
Many undergraduate and graduate students join international PhD programmes and fare well.
What types of questions are asked in MTech and PhD interviews?
The questions focus on the basics of mathematics such as linear algebra and probability and courses from your undergraduate/postgraduate programmes, along with those on projects/research done previously.
How can one prepare for IISc interviews?
Focus on fundamentals concepts in the field/course of study. Be clear and precise about earlier research and projects that you have done.
How is the selection done through COAP and CFTI modes?
You must apply to IISc. Cut-offs for shortlisting are announced; this is followed by screening tests/interviews. The MTech candidates who are to be offered admission are informed through COAP.
What is the role of CGPA in the selection process?
During the interview, all aspects are considered. Your CGPA is one of them along with performance in qualifying exams, interviews/screening tests.
What are the different pathways to get a direct PhD admission?
There are three ways:
(ii) If the company you are working for offers you an opportunity to do a direct PhD.
(iii) Having a high CGPA in BTech from a centrally funded technical institute (CFTI).
What is life like as a student at IISc?
Engaging, hard work, tough but fun, not without highs and lows, but the goal of research motivates us, plenty of opportunities for co-curricular and extracurricular activities, high quality facilities, great friendships, and having a great time learning new topics, discovering new research outcomes, and discovering our own true potential.
What are the hostel and accommodation facilities like, including for married students?
We have several hostels for men and women, and also married student quarters. A priority list is operated. Some accommodation is shared. You will learn about them once you join. The facilities are good and appropriate for a higher educational institute.
What scholarships and fellowships are available?
Ministry of Education (MoE) scholarships are available for all research students (MTech (Research) and PhD). MoE scholarships are also available for all GATE-qualified MTech students. Only a few CFTI mode-based MTech programmes and MSc (Chemical Sciences and Life Sciences) programmes are not covered. Even these have industry support in some cases.
For stipend amounts, please see:
https://iisc.ac.in/admissions/fees-and-scholarships/
What are the cultural and extracurricular activities at IISc?
IISc has many clubs (e.g. Rangmanch, Rhythmica, various sports clubs), and there are many facilities available to play various sports including basketball, badminton, tennis, and soccer. Please look at IISc’s brochure and website for more information.
How does IISc compare to IITs in terms of research and opportunities?
IISc is the NIRF top-ranked university and NIRF top-ranked in research. For placement details, please refer to our website or annual report.
How strong are international collaborations at IISc?
IISc has collaborations with every continent except Antarctica. Several of our students go on exchange visits to partner institutions abroad to pursue collaborative research projects.
What is the role of industry partnerships in IISc research and academics?
Several colleagues collaborate with industry and work on sponsored projects. IISc partnerships with the Foundation for Science Innovation and Development (FSID), which enables startups. IISc supports several Section 8 translational entities such as ARTPARK and TANUH. IISc works with several government, research, and multinational agencies on collaborative projects. There are vibrant collaborations between IISc and industries.
How does IISc support students from non-traditional backgrounds (e.g. industry professionals)?
We have the MTech (Online) programme for professionals, external registration programme (ERP) for sponsored PhDs, and sponsored MTech programmes for employees of entities that have an MoU with IISc. We have an entire Centre for Continuing Education (CCE) to help industry professionals upskill and become more familiar with modern tools and technologies.
