Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) remains the top choice for students pursuing a degree at the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), according to recent trends from the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main 2025 and JEE Advanced results.
The data reveals that CSE accounts for 34.6% of total seat allocations, reflecting a growing inclination towards this branch, driven by industry demand and the rapid advancement of technology.
While CSE continues to dominate, traditional branches such as Electrical Engineering (14.1%), Mechanical Engineering (13.4%), and Civil Engineering (12.6%) maintain their popularity. Although less preferred, Chemical Engineering still holds a steady 6.3% of total seat allocations. Additionally, newer fields like Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), Environmental Engineering, and Aerospace Engineering are seeing a rise in student interest.
When broken down by individual IITs, some variations in preferences emerge. At IIT Bombay, 43.2% of students opt for CSE, followed by 16.3% choosing Electrical Engineering. IIT Delhi reflects a similar trend, with CSE drawing 40.5% of students and Mechanical Engineering coming in second at 15.1%. IIT Kanpur, another leading institution, allocates 38.5% of its seats to CSE, with 14.5% to Electrical Engineering.
As per the Indian Express report, experts cite the increased demand for CSE due to its critical role in emerging sectors like AI, data science, and automation. The boom in interdisciplinary programs, where fields like AI and data science intersect with traditional engineering disciplines, also contributes to the surge in CSE's popularity.
However, the appeal of traditional engineering branches is far from fading. Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical Engineering still attract many students, especially those seeking careers in core sectors like manufacturing, infrastructure, and energy. The growing focus on sustainability has also spurred interest in Environmental Engineering. Aerospace Engineering is seeing renewed attention, driven by India's expanding space program and the global demand for aerospace innovations.
These trends underscore the evolving landscape of engineering education in India, where both industry-driven demand and the introduction of cutting-edge technologies influence students' choices. The IITs, known for their rigorous academic standards, continue to adapt by offering programs that align with the technological needs of the future.
As students gravitate towards branches that offer solid academic foundations and robust career prospects, the preferences in IIT admissions reflect a broader shift towards fields poised to drive future technological advancements.
