The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) is set to offer admissions for BTech and BS programs by introducing a new pathway based on Olympiad scores. Starting from the 2025-26 academic year, five departments will offer admissions to talented students who have excelled in international Olympiads.
IIT Kanpur's new initiative joins a growing trend among top Indian institutions, including IIT Gandhinagar, IIT Bombay, IISc, IISER, and several private universities. These institutions are recognising the exceptional potential of Olympiad-level talent and offering direct admission pathways to BTech and BS programs.
Departments Offering Olympiad-Based Admissions
- Biological Sciences and Bioengineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Chemistry
- Economic Sciences and Mathematics
- Statistics
The selection process for Olympiad-based admissions will involve two stages:
Initial Screening: Each department will review applications based on the applicant's Olympiad rankings and shortlist candidates accordingly.
Written Examination and Interview: Shortlisted candidates will be required to appear for a mandatory written examination and may be called for an interview, if necessary.
A selection committee, headed by the Dean of Academic Affairs, will consolidate recommendations from each department to ensure a streamlined admissions process and fill all available seats within each department.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for Olympiad-based admissions, candidates must:
- Be of the same age as JEE (Advanced) candidates.
- Have appeared for their Class XII (or equivalent) exams for the first time in the year of admission or the previous year.
- Have Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects in their Class XII exams.
- Have attended the relevant Olympiad training camp in the subject for which they are applying.
- Not have been previously admitted to an IIT through JoSAA or had an IIT admission canceled.
Prof. Shalabh, Dean of Academic Affairs, IIT Kanpur, said, "Our Olympiad-based admissions initiative is designed to provide opportunities for the brightest minds who have excelled in international competitions. We are cultivating a diverse academic environment rich in innovation and critical thinking. Our goal is to enhance our academic community with individuals who bring unique perspectives and exceptional analytical skills. Through this initiative, we aim to support and promote innovation in disciplines that are essential to India's growth and global competitiveness."
Timeline for Admissions
- Call for Applications: Early March 2025
- Application Deadline: End of March 2025
- Departmental Screening and Exams: May 2025
- Final Offers: June 2025
This shift away from the traditional JEE route provides a unique opportunity for students who have demonstrated extraordinary abilities in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Informatics.
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