13 Best Engineering Colleges in India Other Than IITs & NITs
Many students chase after IIT and NIT, and even parents also force their children to get admission to one of the IITs and NITs. Indeed, they are one of the best universities; however, most of the population is not aware of other better alternatives.
India, being one of the biggest hubs for engineering aspirants, has numerous universities that are performing really well, producing the best engineers, better infrastructure, excellent faculty, and amazing placement opportunities.
Students who get decent marks in JEE exams experience mental stress about the future and end up going into depression, thinking that now this is the end, they don’t crack IIT, and their career is finished.
But this is not the case for everyone, some students know very well about how to not lose motivation during preparation. And this is obviously because everyone is different and has their own calibre and intelligence.
Because the majority of students don’t know about other best options, they take a step back from their dream.
Don’t worry, mate, for you I bring the catered list of best engineering colleges in India other than IIT and NIT.
Why look for engineering colleges other than IITs and NITs?
Every year, a large crowd of students prepares for the JEE exam. Around 14-15 lakh students appear for JEE Mains, where the top ones get the chance to give the JEE Advanced. Some perform well in JEE Mains, but because of tough competition and limited seats, they miss their chance.
That doesn’t mean they are not talented students, there are other excellent engineering colleges that focus on practical learning, better placement records, and modern infrastructure. Some of the engineering colleges have built a strong reputation. You must consider other engineering colleges in your wish list.
The top 13 best engineering colleges other than IITs and NITs that you can choose
Don’t worry, mate, if you don’t know about the colleges, I got you covered. Here are the top engineering colleges other than IIT.
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)
Vellore Institute of Technology is a widely recognised institute of engineering. It is a private, deemed university located in Tamil Nadu. VIT offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering and technology.
The university has a good placement record, and many leading technology companies look for recruitment from their college. Modern infrastructure makes this college stand out, they have advanced labs and research centres.
Their experienced faculty focuses on practical learning, innovation, and research. And their advanced curriculum trains students to be successful in their careers. It follows the flexible learning system, which allows students to choose subjects according to their preference.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 16 in Engineering (NIRF 2025) and around #21 overall in India |
| Average fees | ₹3.5 lakh – ₹5 lakh |
| Mode of admission | Admission mainly through VITEEE (VIT Engineering Entrance Examination) |
| Address | VIT, Vellore Campus, Tiruvalam Rd, Katpadi, Vellore, Tamil Nadu 632014 |
Jadavpur University
Jadavpur University is among the leading engineering colleges and is located in Kolkata, West Bengal.
One of the best government engineering colleges with affordable fees. Renowned for their academic excellence and research.
The neutral index has ranked Jadavpur University as the no. 1 rank, and when you include all research institutions overall, then it comes under no. 22, which is a great achievement. About the placement, the college placement cell performs well, and students get the best placement opportunities.
To secure a position at Jadavpur University, students start JEE preparation in class 12, which gives them an advantage.
Jadavpur University is also known for its strong academic culture, experienced faculty, and focus on research and innovation.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 18 in Engineering and 9 in the University category (NIRF 2025) |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹10,000 – ₹25,000 per year (very low because it is a government university) |
| Mode of admission | Mainly through the West Bengal Joint Entrance Examination (WBJEE) for B.Tech programs |
| Address | Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi, 110025, |
S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology (SRM University)
For students who are looking for the best B.Tech. college in Chennai, they must consider S.R.M. Institute of Science and Technology in their list. SRM University is a preferred destination for engineering students. They ranked 11th among one of the best universities.
They have an industry-designed curriculum that helps students gain international exposure and real-world experience. Delivering their best results in engineering technology and medical, law, business, dentistry, management, and much more.
Students will get global level experience. SRM believes in practical learning so students gain industry ready technical skills.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 13 in the Engineering and 22 in the Overall category |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹11 lakh – ₹19 lakh depending on the branch and campus. |
| Mode of admission | Mainly through SRMJEEE and also accepts national exams like JEE Main, NEET, etc. |
| Address | SRM Nagar, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu – 603203, India |
Anna University
Anna University is a prominent option for technical education in India. It is a public state university located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with its main campus in Guindy. The university was originally established on 4 September 1978.
Anna University is famous for its strong legacy in engineering and technology, building one of the best engineering programs with high rankings. The university encourages students to develop a strong research output while working on projects.
They have a large network affiliated with 494 colleges. Considering it is well-established with a great academic reputation.
One of the best colleges for students who look for quality education, experienced faculty, and high credibility in engineering education across India.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 20 in Engineering (NIRF 2025) and consistently among the top 20 engineering universities in India |
| Average fees | B.E./B.Tech approx ₹50,000 – ₹1,00,000 per year depending on course |
| Mode of admission | TNEA exam |
| Address | Sardar Patel Road, Guindy, Chennai, Tamil Nadu – 600025, India |
DTU, Delhi
Delhi Technological University is a popular choice for engineering studies and constantly ranks among the top institutions. DTU has a strong reputation in engineering education students can get their admission by clearing JEE mains.
DTU placement cells offer the best packages and get the top recruiters from India. It is a government college with industrial connections. The faculty encourages students to actively participate in technical projects, research activities, and cultural events, which helps them develop both technical and personal skills.
The great thing is their campus features 70+ active clubs, including robotics, cultural, and entrepreneurial societies, with the most popular “India’s biggest” cultural fest, Engifest.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 30 in Engineering and 62 Overall in India |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹4.5 lakh – ₹11 lakh |
| Mode of admission | JEE Main, followed by JAC Delhi counselling |
| Address | Shahbad Daulatpur, Main Bawana Road, Rohini, New Delhi – 110042, India |
Jamia Millia Islamia
Jamia Millia Islamia is one of the best medical colleges in Delhi. They are funded by the government, so they are an affordable option for students.
They have a history. Originally it was established at Aligarh, United Provinces, during the British Raj in 1920, it moved to its current location in New Delhi, Okhla, in 1935. It was given deemed status by the University Grants Commission in 1962.
Now Jamia Millia University is ranked among the top universities, students can get admission by clearing JEE Mains. This university has good academic facilities that help students improve their skills. Universities have great placement records. Many students get the placement from Jamia University.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 24 in Engineering and 13 Overall in India |
| Average fees | B.Tech approx ₹16,000 – ₹20,000 per year (very affordable because it is a central university) |
| Mode of admission | admission mainly through JEE Main, followed by JMI counselling |
| Address | Jamia Nagar, Okhla, New Delhi – 110025, India |
Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani
Birla Institute of Technology and Science stands out as a top engineering college. This college has multiple campuses in Pilani, Goa, Hyderabad, and even Dubai, founded in the year 1946.
The college provides undergraduate and postgraduate research programs across various fields, including Computer Science and Mechanical Engineering, Electronics, and Chemical Engineering.
BITS Pilani focuses on high-quality learning in engineering and is highly reputed for academic performance. On top of that, It recently partnered with IIT Roorkee for research in AI, sustainable energy, and decarbonization.
It has modern infrastructure, advanced labs, a great hostel facility, a research centre, and libraries. Their placement cell has a strong placement record. Students choose this college for their quality education and the best faculty.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 11 in Engineering and 16 Overall in India |
| Average fees | total fees approx ₹20 lakh – ₹24 lakh |
| Mode of admission | Admission through BITSAT exam |
| Address | Jawahar Nagar, Kapra Mandal, Medchal District, Telangana, 500078, India |
Netaji Subhas University of Technology
Netaji Subhas University of Technology is considered a leading engineering institute located in Delhi. It is a government-funded institution.
Comes under the Tier 1 engineering college in Delhi, and they have an excellent placement record. Students get selected in top companies, and the selection rate is around 95%.
Their academic record makes this university one of the best and most trusted in India. They have an amazing campus and modern infrastructure. A faculty that focuses on practical learning encourages students to explore new technologies.
You can choose NSUT for their academic environment, brilliant teachers and good infrastructure.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | Around 70 in Engineering |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹8 – ₹10 lakh |
| Mode of admission | Admission through JEE Main, followed by JAC Delhi counselling |
| Address | Dwarka Sector-3, New Delhi – 110078, India |
Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology
Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology was established in the year 1956. It is a private, deemed-to-be university in Patiala, India. This college is a strong contender in technical education.
In Punjab, this college is popular for its courses in computer science, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering. Students can get admission by clearing JEE Mains. The college offers modern infrastructure and research facilities. Moreover, students will get the best placement opportunities.
You can select this college because of its educational structure, placement opportunities, and industrial connections.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 29 in Engineering |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹12.5 lakh – ₹20 lakh depending on specialization |
| Mode of admission | Mainly through JEE Main score, followed by institute counselling |
| Address | P.O. Box 32, Bhadson Road, Patiala, Punjab – 147004, India |
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology
Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology is renowned for engineering education, located in Bhubaneswar.
This university is top-ranked in India, and it is a deemed-to-be-a-society accredited with A++ by the NAAC.
It is considered one of the good engineering colleges in India apart from IITs and NITs. They offer programs for engineering, management, law, and science. Has the best infrastructure around a 36-sq-km campus. Students can get admission by clearing KIITEE.
Recognized as an Institute of Eminence, it focuses on research through the Central Advanced Research Centre (CARC) and supports entrepreneurship via a Technology Business Incubator (TBI).
The faculty promotes industry-based learning to build research and practical training, helping students develop strong technical skills and prepare for successful careers.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | Around 36 in Engineering (NIRF 2025) and 17 in the University category in India |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹18 lakh – ₹26 lakh, depending on branch and hostel facilities |
| Mode of admission | Admission mainly through KIITEE and also JEE Main scores |
| Address | Patia, Bhubaneswar, Odisha – 751024, India |
Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology
The Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology is a preferred destination for engineering students.
Established in the year 1856 and located in Howrah, West Bengal, near Kolkata. This institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering.
IIEST’s excellent placement cells offer the best packages and attract the top recruiters from India.
Students can get seats by clearing the JEE Main exams. And also known for promoting practical learning, quality education, and research.
The best thing is that the college is recognised as a top-tier technical institution, which is why it earns the position of one of best engineering colleges rankings in India.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | 49th among engineering institutes |
| Average fees | B.Tech total fees approx ₹5 – ₹6 lakh for the full course |
| Mode of admission | Admission through JEE Main, followed by JoSAA counselling |
| Address | Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology, Botanical Garden Area, Howrah |
Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering
Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering is a well-established institution. It is a private engineering college located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, that was founded in the year 1996 by the founder of HCl Tech, Mr. Shiv Nadar.
SSNC is popular for its academic and placement records. Furthermore, it has a large industrial connection. Students can get admission through clearing TNEA.
The curriculum has one of the best engineering and technology programs focusing on research and innovation.
Infrastructure includes the advanced labs, libraries, and student facilities. You should consider this college for your dream college list, looking for one of the best options outside the IIT and NIT.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | Around 45 in Engineering (NIRF 2024) |
| Average fees | B.Tech approx ₹2 lakh – ₹3 lakh per year depending on the course |
| Mode of admission | Admission mainly through TNEA |
| Address | SH 49A, Kalavakkam, Tamil Nadu 603110 |
College of Engineering, Pune
The College of Engineering, Pune, is a widely recognised technological university, it is a unitary public university of the Government of Maharashtra. It was established in the year 1854. It is one of the oldest reputed colleges in Pune.
The college offers programs like mechanical engineering, civil engineering, computer science, and electrical engineering. Students can get admission by clearing JEE and MHT. The offered infrastructure includes laboratories, modern classrooms, and research facilities.
The faculty encourages industry-based learning through research and hands-on training, helping students build strong technical skills for future careers. Students develop leadership skills and teamwork abilities through their engineering journey.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| NIRF Ranking | Around 73 in Engineering |
| Average fees | B.Tech approx ₹80,000 – ₹1.2 lakh per year depending on category |
| Mode of admission | Admission through MHT-CET or JEE Main |
| Address | Wellesley Road, Shivajinagar, Pune, Maharashtra – 411005, India |
Comparison table of top engineering colleges in India other than IITs and NITs
By this comparison table, you have a quick idea of which exam you need to crack and which college you will get into. We will help you decide the best college other than IIT and NIT.
| College Name | Location | Type | Admission Exam | Key Highlights |
| Vellore Institute of Technology | Vellore, Tamil Nadu | Private (Deemed) | VITEEE | Flexible credit system, modern infrastructure, strong placements |
| Jadavpur University | Kolkata, West Bengal | Government | WBJEE | Affordable fees, strong research culture, excellent academic reputation |
| SRM Institute of Science and Technology | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Private (Deemed) | SRMJEEE | Industry-focused curriculum, global exposure, modern campus |
| Anna University | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Public State University | TNEA | Large affiliated network, strong academic legacy, research focus |
| Delhi Technological University | Delhi | Government | JEE Main | Top recruiters, strong alumni network, vibrant campus life |
| Jamia Millia Islamia | New Delhi | Central University | JEE Main | Affordable education, strong academic reputation, good placements |
| Birla Institute of Technology and Science Pilani | Pilani, Rajasthan | Private (Deemed) | BITSAT | Highly reputed engineering institute, strong research and placements |
| Netaji Subhas University of Technology | Delhi | Government | JEE Main | Tier-1 engineering institute, high placement rate, modern campus |
| Thapar Institute of Engineering and Technology | Patiala, Punjab | Private (Deemed) | JEE Main | Strong industry connections, good infrastructure |
| Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology | Bhubaneswar, Odisha | Private (Deemed) | KIITEE | Large campus, innovation labs, entrepreneurship support |
| Indian Institute of Engineering Science and Technology Shibpur | Howrah, West Bengal | Government | JEE Main | Historic institute, research focus, strong academic reputation |
| Sri Sivasubramaniya Nadar College of Engineering | Chennai, Tamil Nadu | Private | TNEA | Industry connections, strong placement records |
| College of Engineering Pune | Pune, Maharashtra | Government | JEE Main / MHT-CET | One of the oldest engineering colleges, strong technical programs |
Ready to choose best engineering colleges in India other than IITs and NITs
Honestly, IITs and NITs were not the only options in India. Yes, they are one of the best colleges, perhaps other universities are also making a mark up, providing great quality education, environment, modern teaching facilities, infrastructure, and supportive faculty.
There are different types of private, government, and deemed universities. To make the right decision, you must consider some factors like college academic record, placement facility, reputation of the university, environmental safety, and quality of education.
Well-established institutions like VIT, DTU, BITS Pilani, NSUT, and IIEST are continuing to create skilled engineers. All of them are successful in their careers, reaching top companies and global industries.
The best college is the one that supports you in completing your story. Colleges other than IITs and NITs are supporting in shaping students’ careers and helping them build their future.
And to get there and do better in terms of academics, you need some kind of guidance and knowledge. For this you can join Chaitanya’s Academy where we help students like you to prepare well for the upcoming college journey.
We also provide JEE or any engineering entrance exam preparation where we guide you with the best schedule, create a proper study plan, and let you learn with expert mentors.
So ready to start working on your goals and stay consistent with your little moves? You can contact Chaitanya’s Academy, where we can help you get one step closer to becoming a successful engineer.
