Want to Get Into an IIT? Here’s Your Guide.

If you’re dreaming about the IITs—their legendary campus life, groundbreaking research, and the thrill of solving problems that matter—you’re not alone. The Indian Institutes of Technology aren’t just institutions; they’re launchpads. Whether it’s engineering, technology, or pure sciences, the IITs offer some of the most sought-after academic programs in the country.

But did you know? It’s not just B.Tech anymore. Some IITs also roll out Integrated M.Sc. and Dual-Degree M.Tech. programs, allowing students to walk away with two degrees in one go. Add to that a flexible, credit-based curriculum that lets you set your own pace—and you’ve got an academic experience unlike any other. 

The only constant? English is the medium of instruction.

So, how do you get in?

The Gateway: JEE Advanced 2025

Let’s make this clear up front: JEE Advanced is the key to IITs. Your performance in this exam will decide whether you secure a seat in Bachelors, Integrated Masters, or Dual Degree programs—straight out of school.

And if you’re wondering who sets the rules, it’s the Joint Admission Board (JAB) 2025. 

Exam Pattern & Schedule:

Here’s what to expect:

• Two papers—both mandatory

• Three hours each.

• Held on the same day.

Yes, it’s intense. But that’s IIT for you.

 Eligibility Criteria for Appearing in JEE (Advanced) 2025

For Indian Nationals and OCI/PIO (Category I)

To sit for JEE Advanced 2025, you must tick off all five boxes below:

1. JEE Main 2025 Rank:
   You must be among the top 2,50,000 in the JEE Main (B.E./B.Tech). That’s not a typo—competition is fierce.

Category-wise cut-offs go like this:

• 10% GEN-EWS

• 27% OBC-NCL

• 15% SC

• 7.5% ST

• 40.5% OPEN

Within each, 5% is reserved for PwD. And OCI/PIO (I) candidates? You’re only eligible under OPEN and OPEN-PwD—no other reservation applies.

2. Age Limit:
   Born on or after October 1, 2000. If you’re SC, ST, or PwD, you’re in luck—five years’ relaxation applies.
3. Number of Attempts:
   Maximum two attempts in two consecutive years.
4. Class XII Board Exam Timing:
   First attempt in 2024 or 2025 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics? You’re good.

Took your boards earlier than 2023? Sorry, you’re out—unless your result in 2023 came after June 28, thanks to a late declaration by the board. Got your result withheld? Unfortunately, that counts too.

5. Previous IIT Admission:
   If you’ve ever accepted a seat at any IIT—online or in person—you can’t appear again. Doesn’t matter if you stayed or dropped out. There are only a few exceptions (like those in a prep course in 2024 or who withdrew before final allotments)—but even then, you must meet all other criteria.

For Foreign Nationals and OCI/PIO (Category F)

The rules are slightly different but still strict:

1. Age:
   Same cutoff: Born on or after October 1, 2000. If your country mandates military service, relax—you’ll get an extension, provided you upload valid proof.
2. Attempts:
   Only two tries. No more, no less.
3. Class XII Attempt Year:
   Only those who appeared in 2024 or 2025 with PCM subjects are eligible. Again, exceptions apply if you had mandatory armed forces service—just prove it.
4. Past IIT Admission:
   Same rule as for Indian candidates—if you joined any IIT in any program, you’re not eligible. Unless you were offered a seat and declined or withdrew before the final allotment round.

How to do Online Registration for JEE Advanced 2025?

Feeling pumped? Good. But don’t miss the deadlines.

Registration Dates for JEE Advanced 2025:

• Starts: April 23, 2025 (Wednesday, 10:00 IST)

• Ends: May 2, 2025 (Friday, 17:00 IST)

• Fee Payment Deadline: May 5, 2025 (Monday, 17:00 IST)

Head to the official website: jeeadv.ac.in to get started. Be honest during registration—any discrepancy later could cancel your application.

One Last Thing…

Did you know there’s now a way to get into IIT without JEE Advanced? Yep, some IITs are introducing fresh programs through the IAT (IISER Aptitude Test) route. Curious? We’ve broken that down for you in a separate article. You won’t want to miss it.

So whether you’re chasing the classic IIT dream or eyeing new doors opening up—stay tuned, stay focused, and let SciAstra be your compass.

About Us:

At SciAstra, we guide students who want to become scientists and pursue research by helping them secure admissions in the top colleges for the same like IISER, NISER, CEBS, ICAR, CMI, etc.

Our mentors are from the top research institutes like IISER, NISER, IACS, CMI, ISI, IISC Bangalore, and so on. If you are looking to prepare for IAT / NEST 2025, you can check out our courses and get access to live classes, recorded lectures, study material, mock tests, doubt-clearing classes, and much more!

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