IIRF Ranking Logo
College Logo

IIT BHU - Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi

Varanasi, U.P, India - 221005

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Banaras Hindu University (BHU) Varanasi, an institution of national importance, represents one of the most significant chapters in the history of Indian technical education. Its origins are inextricably linked to the visionary ideals of Bharat Ratna Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, who established the Banaras Hindu University (BHU) in 1916. Malaviya’s foresight regarding the vital role of technical education in achieving national self-reliance led to the founding of the Banaras Engineering College (BENCO) in 1919. This was a pioneering effort, as the institution became the first in India to offer degree programs in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, and Mining Engineering. 


The primary objective of the university, as envisioned by its founder, was not merely the production of technical experts but the formation of individuals characterized by high character, probity, and honor. Malaviya famously asserted that a university would only half perform its function if it did not seek to develop the "heart-power" of its scholars with the same solicitude as their "brain-power".


The institutional evolution continued through the mid-20th century. In 1920, the Department of Geology was established under BENCO, followed by the Department of Industrial Chemistry in 1921. Recognizing the increasing specialization required in heavy industries, the departments of Mining and Metallurgy were established separately in 1923 and subsequently raised to the status of the College of Mining and Metallurgy (MINMET) in 1944. Parallel to this, the College of Technology (TECHNO) was founded to integrate disciplines like Chemical Engineering and Pharmaceutics. A major reorganization occurred in 1968, when BENCO, TECHNO, and MINMET were merged to form the Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University (IT-BHU). This consolidation integrated disparate engineering disciplines under a single administrative and academic umbrella, facilitating interdisciplinary synergy that became the hallmark of the institution.


The transition to its current status as an Indian Institute of Technology was a decades-long process. A proposal for the conversion of IT-BHU into an IIT was first discussed at the 10th meeting of the IIT Council in 1972. However, it was only on June 29, 2012, that the institution officially joined the galaxy of Indian Institutes of Technology as IIT (BHU) Varanasi. This elevation granted the institute full autonomy while preserving its unique historical and cultural link to BHU, making it one of the largest residential technical universities in Asia. Today, the institute spans 16 departments and several interdisciplinary schools, situated in the heart of the 1300-acre BHU campus.

Academic Architecture and the Diversity of Educational Programs

The academic structure of IIT (BHU) is designed to provide a comprehensive and multi-layered education that ranges from fundamental engineering principles to advanced research specializations. The institution offers instructional programs for the degree of Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech), Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch), and five-year Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) programs.

Undergraduate and Integrated Programs

At the undergraduate level, students are admitted primarily based on their performance in the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced. The programs are structured to offer a solid foundation in basic sciences and humanities before transitioning to core engineering subjects.


Program Shorthand

Full Program Title

Duration

Admission Route

B.Tech

Bachelor of Technology

4 Years

JEE Advanced

IDD

Integrated Dual Degree (B.Tech + M.Tech)

5 Years

JEE Advanced

B.Arch

Bachelor of Architecture

5 Years

JEE Advanced + AAT

M.Tech

Master of Technology

2 Years

GATE

M.Pharm

Master of Pharmacy

2 Years

GPAT

M.Sc

Master of Science

2 Years

JAM

PhD

Doctor of Philosophy

3-5 Years

Written/Interview


The IDD programs are particularly notable for their research component, allowing students to transition seamlessly from undergraduate studies to a Master's degree in the same discipline. Specializations available for IDD include Ceramic Engineering, Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and others like Biochemical and Biomedical Engineering. The current student strength stands at approximately 9,084, with B.Tech students making up the largest segment (4,903), followed by PhD (1,532) and IDD (1,514) scholars.

Departments and Interdisciplinary Schools

The institutional framework is categorized into Engineering Departments, Science Departments, Interdisciplinary Schools, and a Humanities Department. This structure reflects the institute’s commitment to a holistic educational ecosystem.


Engineering Departments

Science Departments

Interdisciplinary Schools

Ceramic Engineering

Chemistry

School of Biochemical Engineering

Chemical Engineering & Tech.

Mathematical Sciences

School of Biomedical Engineering

Civil Engineering

Physics

School of Materials Science & Tech.

Computer Science & Engineering


NC Jain School of Decision Science

Electrical Engineering



Electronics Engineering



Mechanical Engineering



Metallurgical Engineering



Mining Engineering



Pharmaceutical Engineering



Architecture, Planning & Design




The Department of Ceramic Engineering holds the distinction of being an evolution from the earlier Silicate Technology program, maintaining its position as a unique specialty within the IIT system. The Department of Humanistic Studies, initiated in 2015, provides the necessary social and ethical framework for technical education, offering courses in History, Philosophy, Sociology, English, and Computational Linguistics. This department manages PhD programs in these areas, inviting applicants from engineering, science, and humanities backgrounds to bridge the gap between "hard" and "soft" sciences.

Curriculum Flexibility and Modernization

In line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, IIT (BHU) has undertaken an extensive revision of its undergraduate curriculum. This modernization introduces multi-layered flexibility in academic pathways. For instance, students at the end of their fourth semester have the opportunity to pursue a Minor or a second Major in a subject outside their parent department, based on preference and merit. Furthermore, students in four-year programs can opt to convert to an integrated dual degree (IDD) at the end of their academic cycle if they wish to focus on deep research. This approach ensures that students are not merely academically proficient but are also equipped with interdisciplinary skills suited for a complex global economy.

Admission Process and Rigorous Eligibility Criteria

Admission to IIT (BHU) is a highly competitive process, managed through national-level examinations that serve as a filter for the highest academic talent in India.

Undergraduate Admissions (UG)

For admission into the B.Tech and IDD programs, candidates must qualify for the JEE Advanced. Earlier, the intake for Pharmaceutical sciences was shared between JEE and a separate university test (BHU-PMT), but post-conversion, all intake for B.Tech and IDD in Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology is exclusively through JEE Advanced. For the B.Arch program, in addition to qualifying JEE Advanced, candidates must appear for the Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT). The Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) manages the counseling and seat allotment based on the candidate's rank and preferences.

Postgraduate Admissions (PG)

The postgraduate landscape comprises M.Tech, M.Pharm, and M.Sc degrees. Admission to M.Tech programs is strictly through the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). Candidates must register for the Common Offer Acceptance Portal (COAP) for seat allotment.

For M.Pharm, candidates must qualify for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT). The selection may also involve a written test and an interview conducted by the Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology.


M.Sc admissions for Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematical Sciences are facilitated through the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM).

Doctoral Programs (PhD) and Registration Categories

PhD admissions are conducted twice a year (Odd and Even Semesters). The institute offers several registration categories to accommodate regular students, working professionals, and sponsored candidates.


Category

Eligibility Requirements

Financial Support

Full-Time Regular

Master’s degree (60% marks/6.0 CPI) + GATE/GPAT/NET

Institute Assistantship (₹37,000/month)

Full-Time Sponsored

2 years work exp.; Sponsored by employer

No Institute Assistantship

Full-Time External

Working in R&D labs/industry; 2 years service

Supported by employer

Part-Time Executive

Professionals with 5–7 years experience

Self-supported/Employer

Part-Time Internal

Regular staff members of IIT (BHU)

Institute salary

Project Fellow

Research fellows working in sponsored projects

Project funding


The eligibility criteria for PhD in Engineering require a Master's degree in the relevant discipline with 60% marks or 6.0 CPI. Alternatively, B.Tech graduates from IITs/NITs/CFTIs with a CPI above 7.5 (or 7.0 for those with 2+ years of experience) may be considered for direct PhD admission, often with a waiver for the GATE requirement under specific conditions. For PhD in Humanities, a Master’s degree with 60% marks is required, and candidates must pass a written test and an interview.

The Research and Development Ecosystem: Thrust Areas and Funding

Research and Innovation are the central pillars of the mission of IIT (BHU) Varanasi. The office of the Dean, Research and Development (DORD) plays a pivotal role in managing relationships with funding agencies, facilitating collaborations, and overseeing the institute’s vast research portfolio.

Financial Outlay and Project Scale

The institute has seen a consistent upward trend in research funding. There are currently 590 ongoing sponsored projects with a cumulative financial outlay of ₹330.47 crores. The growth trajectory is evident in the number of new projects sanctioned annually.


Year

Number of New Projects Sanctioned

Financial Outlay (New Projects)

2021

62

Data N/A

2022

115

Data N/A

2023

94

Data N/A

2024

134

Data N/A

2025 (Q1)

77

₹79.03 Crores


Strategic Research Thrust Areas

Research activities at IIT (BHU) are aligned with national missions such as "Swachh Bharat," "Ayushman Bharat," "Make in India," and "Digital India". The institute has identified key thrust areas to drive its scientific agenda:


  • Energy Solutions: Focus on Green and Clean Energy, Hydrogen Energy, and compact hydrogen generation devices.

  • Advanced Materials: Research into steels, multiferroics, composite materials, and smart materials for stealth technology.

  • Health and Bioengineering: Development of new drugs, biosensors, and medical devices; evaluation of poly-herbal wound dressing materials.

  • Defense and Space: Collaborations with DRDO and ISRO on high-temperature facilities and space-plasma physics.

  • Cyber-Physical Systems: Focused on data analytics and predictive technologies through specialized hubs.

Institutional Chairs and Centers of Excellence

To accelerate research in specialized domains, the institute has established several Chairs and Centers of Excellence (CoE).


  • Institutional Chairs: These include the BIS Chair, Malviya Chair (MoRTH), and Steel Chair, funded by industry and government to drive policy and technical innovation.

  • Centers of Excellence: The institute hosts the ISRO Regional Academic Centre for Space, DIA-CoE (DRDO), and CoE-MTD (Machine Tool Design).

  • Central Facilities: High-end research is supported by the Central Instrument Facility (CIF), the Supercomputing Center, and the Precision Engineering Hub (PEH).

Notable Research Projects and Funding Agencies

Individual faculty members are engaged in cutting-edge research supported by agencies like the Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), Department of Science and Technology (DST), and Department of Atomic Energy (DAE).


Principal Investigator

Project Title

Funding Agency

Dr. Chandana Rath

Multifunctional Mn/Fe doped CeCrO3 for Photocatalysts

SERB

Prof. Dhananjai Pandey

J.C. Bose Fellowship (Research in Materials Science)

SERB

Dr. Ajay Pratap

Resource-Optimized Fog Computing for Healthcare

SERB

Dr. Tanima Dutta

Medical Image Forensics for Smart Healthcare

SERB

Dr. Pradeep Srivastava

Poly-herbal Bi-layer wound dressing material

DRDO

Dr. Santosh Kumar

Development of Sheet Hydro-forming for missile components

DRDL (DRDO)

Dr. Subir Das

Ground Water Contamination in Porous Media

BRNS (BARC)


The research ecosystem also includes a strong component of consultancy. The number of consultancies increased from 894 in 2018 to 1,745 in 2024, with a financial outlay rising from ₹14.04 crores to ₹36.46 crores in the same period. This highlights the institute’s success in solving real-world industrial problems.

Innovation, Incubation, and the Startup Culture

IIT (BHU) Varanasi has developed a robust entrepreneurship ecosystem that supports students and faculty in transforming innovative ideas into commercial ventures. This is managed primarily through the Malviya Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (MCIIE) and other specialized hubs.

Malviya Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (MCIIE)

MCIIE serves as the umbrella body for several programs, including the Technology Business Incubator (TBI) sponsored by the National Science and Technology Entrepreneurship Development Board (NSTEDB), DST. It offers an Open Learning Programme in Entrepreneurship (OLPE) and various awareness programs to foster an entrepreneurial mindset.

I-DAPT Hub Foundation (TIH)

The I-DAPT Hub is a Section 8 company established at IIT (BHU) under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). Its primary focus is on "Data Analytics and Predictive Technologies" (DAPT) with applications in healthcare, telecommunications, defense, and power.


The Hub recently announced grants worth ₹5 crores for 22 startups and 12 research projects. One of its landmark initiatives is the Chanakya Fellowship, which provides financial support to researchers at various levels who are working on deep-tech products.


Fellowship Level

Objective

Monthly Stipend

Chanakya UG

Ideation and concept development for undergraduates

₹4,000

Chanakya PG

Research-based startups for Master’s graduates

₹15,000

Chanakya Doctoral

Top-up for current PhD scholars in DAPT areas

Varies

Chanakya Post-Doc

Commercialization of PhD work with TRL >5

₹80,000


Startups supported by I-DAPT are required to register and comply with reporting standards. The Hub generally takes a minimum of 5% equity in these ventures and provides full support for registration and patent filing.

RKVY-RAFTAAR Agri-Business Incubator (R-ABI)

Supported by the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, R-ABI focuses on agri-tech innovations in Eastern Uttar Pradesh. It provides pre-seed grants up to ₹5 lakhs and seed-stage funding up to ₹25 lakhs for ventures in precision farming, food technology, and post-harvest management.

Entrepreneurship Success and Alumni Impact

The startup culture is deeply rooted, with over 850 startups founded or co-founded by IIT (BHU) alumni. Successful ventures that have disrupted various sectors include:


  • Zscaler: Cybersecurity firm founded by Jay Chaudhry.

  • Cricbuzz: Sports media platform co-founded by Pankaj Chhaparwal.

  • ShopClues: E-commerce marketplace co-founded by Sanjay Sethi.

  • Zostel: Hospitality startup widely recognized in the travel sector.

  • FirstCry: E-commerce giant for baby products.

  • Adda247: Ed-tech platform for government job preparation.

The student-run Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell), established in 2018, acts as a bridge between budding entrepreneurs and the business world, hosting founders from companies like NoBroker, PayPal India, and BCG.

Employability and Career Outcomes: Placement Statistics

The Training and Placement (T&P) Cell at IIT (BHU) is dedicated to ensuring that students are prepared for the global job market through industry readiness programs and a rigorous placement season.

Placement Performance for 2024-2025

The institute continues to show exceptional placement outcomes even in a challenging global economy. As of November 12, 2025, the T&P Cell reported a total of 1,416 job offers received across all programs.


Parameter

2024-2025 (as of Nov '25)

2023-2024

Total Job Offers

1,416

1,373

B.Tech Placement Rate

92.33%

89.81% (CSE)

Highest Package

₹2.2 Crore PA

₹1.68 Crore PA

Average Package (B.Tech)

₹23.49 Lakh PA

Data N/A

Average Package (Overall)

₹24.49 Lakh PA

₹22.77 Lakh PA (2023)

Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs)

297

310

Internship Offers

502

475

Branch-wise Salary Trends (2024)

Salaries at IIT (BHU) remain highly competitive across diverse disciplines, with Computer Science and Engineering leading the package trends.


B.Tech Branch

Average Salary (2024)

Highest Salary (2024)

Computer Science & Engineering

₹34.87 LPA

₹1.68 Crore

Electronics Engineering

₹27.47 LPA

Data N/A

Electrical Engineering

₹24.81 LPA

Data N/A

Chemical Engineering

₹19.97 LPA

Data N/A

Mechanical Engineering

₹19.03 LPA

Data N/A

Ceramic Engineering

₹17.87 LPA

Data N/A

Pharmaceutical Engineering

₹16.59 LPA

Data N/A

Metallurgical Engineering

₹14.94 LPA

Data N/A

Mining Engineering

₹13.38 LPA

Data N/A

Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) students also witnessed strong earning potential, with average packages ranging from ₹12.40 LPA in Pharmaceuticals to ₹35.69 LPA in CSE.

Top Recruiters and Industry Readiness

The institute attracts top-tier global recruiters from sectors such as technology, finance, consulting, and core engineering. Notable names include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Uber, Goldman Sachs, JPMorgan Chase, NVIDIA, McKinsey & Company, and Reliance Industries.

To prepare students for these roles, the T&P Cell organizes the Career Development Programme (CDP). This involves mock simulations, coding contests, and hackathons conducted under the guidance of industry experts. The CDP for the 2026-27 session, for instance, includes over 10 events across 5 domains, engaging more than 3,300 students.

International Tie-ups and Institutional Collaborations

IIT (BHU) Varanasi has developed a comprehensive international relations strategy to position itself as a global hub for innovation. This is managed through the Office of International Relations, which facilitates student and faculty exchanges and joint research programs.

Global Academic MoUs

The institute has signed several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with top-rated universities across the globe.


Partner Institution

Country

Focus Area / Duration

University at Buffalo (SUNY)

USA

Multi-disciplinary / 5 Years

Virginia Commonwealth Univ.

USA

General Research / Ends 2025

University of Edinburgh

UK

Metallurgy / 2 Years

Niigata University

Japan

Physics / 5 Years

Kyushu Institute of Tech.

Japan

Institute-wide / Renewed 2020

University of Siegen

Germany

Materials Science / 5 Years

ENS Lyon

France

Civil Engineering / 5 Years

Tallinn Univ. of Tech.

Estonia

Chemical Engineering / 5 Years


University of Porto

Portugal


National and Industry Partnerships

Beyond international borders, IIT (BHU) is deeply integrated with the Indian national research agenda. MoUs with national bodies like ISRO, DRDO, and various ministries support strategic research.


  • ISRO: An MoU signed in 2020 for a duration of 10 years supports space-related research under Dr. Shishir Gaur.

  • DRDO: A 25-year long-term partnership established in 2022 focuses on defense technological self-reliance.

  • Industry Collaborations: The institute has active partnerships with companies like Tata Motors, Northern Coalfield Limited, and HP India to address specific industrial challenges.

Infrastructure and Centenary Development Projects

To accommodate the growing student community and meet modern research demands, IIT (BHU) has embarked on a series of ambitious infrastructure projects. Many of these are part of the Centenary Initiatives, which began in 2019.

Centenary Infrastructure Projects

With an estimated outlay of around ₹425 crores, these projects are being built in a phased manner to prepare the institute for the next 100 years.


Project Name

Estimated Cost

Status / Features

Centenary Innovation & Research Park (CIRP)

₹73.83 Crores

G+6 building for AI, Health, and Water research

Centenary Defense & Precision Engg. Hub

₹85.78 Crores

Focused on defense research and high-precision tools

Yavatkar Convention Center

$1.6 Million (Gift)

National/International seminar hall; donated by alumni

Malviya Student Activity & Computing Centre

₹60.75 Crores

Supporting extra-curricular and computing needs

Dhanrajgiri Hostel-II

₹49.66 Crores

Completed; 402 double occupancy rooms

Morvi Hostel-II

₹97.00 Crores

S+10 floors; 576 rooms; handover in progress

Faculty Apartments (Vivekanand Hostel)

₹40.01 Crores

Completed; 64 three-BHK flats

Dev & Vardhana Goswami Lecture Complex

$1.6 Million (Gift)

Inaugurated 2025; 1,850 student capacity


The development philosophy favors vertical growth to preserve the campus’s characteristic green spaces. All new constructions are planned as "Green Buildings" intended to reduce carbon footprint and conserve energy and water.

Central Facilities and Resources

The Shreenivas Deshpande Library serves as the academic nerve center, while the Supercomputing Center provides high-performance computing (HPC) resources. The Central Instrument Facility (CIF) offers state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment like EXAFS for research in materials science. Additionally, the institute has established the Precision Engineering Hub (PEH) and the Centre for Faculty Development and Educational Tech.

Standings in the Educational Landscape: Ranking Analysis

IIT (BHU) Varanasi has consistently secured high positions in various national and international ranking frameworks, reflecting its academic and research excellence.

National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF)

In the 2024 and 2025 NIRF rankings, the institute has shown stability and significant progress, particularly in the Engineering category.


Category

2025 Rank

2024 Rank

2023 Rank

Engineering

10

10

15

Overall

31

30

31

Research

22

Data N/A

Data N/A

Innovation

11-50 (Band)

11-50 (Band)

10


The institute’s score in the engineering category was 67.24 in 2025, with particularly high scores in Graduation Outcomes (GO) and Teaching Learning & Resources (TLR).

International Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF)

The IIRF evaluates institutions on industry interface, placement performance, and research capabilities.


Stream

2025 Rank

2024 Rank

2023 Rank

Engineering (Government)

8

8

8

Architecture

6

Data N/A

Data N/A


In 2025, IIT (BHU) was ranked as the 8th best government engineering college in India, ahead of several other IITs and top-tier NITs.

Alumni Base and Global Network Impact

The alumni of IIT (BHU) Varanasi have occupied leadership positions in diverse fields, ranging from high-tech industry to civil services and national politics.

Notable Alumni in Business and Industry

  • Nikesh Arora (EEE '89): CEO and Chairman of Palo Alto Networks; former President of SoftBank Group and Google executive.

  • Jay Chaudhry (ECE '80): CEO, Chairman, and Founder of Zscaler, a pioneer in cloud security.

  • Deepak Ahuja (Ceramic '85): CFO of Verily Life Sciences; former CFO of Tesla.

  • Pawan Kumar Goenka (Mechanical '76): Former MD of Mahindra & Mahindra; Chairman of IN-SPACe.

  • Ram Charan (Mechanical '59): World-renowned management consultant and author.

Notable Alumni in Public Service and Science

  • Krishan Kant: Former 10th Vice President of India.

  • Manoj Sinha (Civil '79): Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir.

  • Dr. Kota Harinarayana (Mechanical '65): Former scientist at DRDO and architect of India's Light Combat Aircraft (Tejas).

  • Dr. Indu Bhushan (Electrical '81): Former CEO of the National Health Authority (Ayushman Bharat).

  • Padma Shri Dr. Anil Kumar Tripathi: Biotechnologist and pioneer in research.

Alumni Connectivity and Financial Support

Alumni engagement is managed through the Institute Alumni Interaction Cell (IAIC), the Student Alumni Interaction Cell (SAIC), and the IIT (BHU) Foundation (an endowment fund based in New York).


  • Endowments: The batch of 1976 donated ₹60 lakhs for laboratory development.

  • Scholarships: Sh. Venkataramana Mukkapati (ECE '86) donated $115,000 to support students attending international conferences.

  • Mentorship: SAIC facilitates one-on-one mentorship for over 150 students annually, covering domains like software development and civil services.

Institutional Funding and Financial Governance

As a centrally funded technical institute, IIT (BHU) receives its primary capital and revenue grants from the Ministry of Education (MoE), Government of India.

Annual Accounts and Budgeting

The annual accounts are prepared in a prescribed format to ensure transparency and accountability. The budget is categorized into several schedules.


  • Schedule 1 (A) & (B): Corpus and Capital Funds.

  • Schedule 3 (A): Sponsored Projects accounts, which manage external research funding.

  • Schedule 10: Grants and Subsidies received from the government.

For the year 2024-25, the institute reported significant capital expenditure for upgrading facilities and laboratories. The Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) provides loan schemes for major construction works like the Morvi and Dhanrajgiri hostels.

Strategic Resource Mobilization

The institute aims for sustainable funding by offering its advanced facilities (like the Supercomputing center) to industry and government organizations on a "pay-per-use" basis. This internal revenue generation helps meet recurring expenditures and augment research funds.

Conclusion: Future Strategic Outlook

IIT (BHU) Varanasi stands as a bridge between a glorious century of traditional engineering and a future defined by data analytics and predictive technologies. The institution’s growth from a colonial-era college to a top-10 NIRF ranked IIT illustrates its capacity for adaptation and excellence.


The strategic focus on interdisciplinary research, evidenced by the establishment of the School of Decision Sciences and the I-DAPT Hub, aligns the institute with the requirements of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The massive investment in infrastructure through Centenary projects will provide the necessary physical environment to sustain a student body that is growing by 300 students annually.


Moreover, the institute’s success in fostering a world-class startup ecosystem, supported by a vast and philanthropic alumni network, ensures that it continues to contribute significantly to the national economy and technological self-reliance. As it integrates the principles of NEP 2020 and expands its global footprint through MoUs with partners like the University of Buffalo and ENS Lyon, IIT (BHU) Varanasi is well-positioned to remain a cornerstone of India's scientific and technological landscape for the next century.


FAQs


1. What is the historical background of IIT (BHU) Varanasi?

The institution was founded in 1919 as the Banaras Engineering College (BENCO). It evolved into the Institute of Technology (IT-BHU) in 1968 and was officially designated as an Indian Institute of Technology in 2012.


2. Who was the founder of the institute?

The institute was established due to the foresight of Bharat Ratna Mahamana Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya, who also founded the Banaras Hindu University (BHU). 


3. Where is the institute located?

It is situated within the 1,300-acre residential campus of Banaras Hindu University in Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh.


4. Is IIT (BHU) Varanasi an autonomous institution?

Yes, it attained full-fledged IIT status and autonomy with the IIT (Amendment) Act of 2012.


5. How many academic departments does the institute have?

The institute comprises 16 departments, including 11 engineering departments, 3 science departments, and a Humanities and Social Sciences section.


6. What is the admission process for the B.Tech program?

Admission to B.Tech programs is strictly through the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced, followed by JoSAA counseling.


7. What are the eligibility criteria for undergraduate admissions?

Candidates must have passed 10+2 with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics, securing at least 75% marks (65% for SC/ST/PwD) or being in the top 20 percentile of their respective boards.


8. Does the institute offer an Architecture program?

Yes, it offers a five-year Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) program. Admission requires qualifying for JEE Advanced and the Architecture Aptitude Test (AAT).


9. How can I apply for M.Tech programs?

M.Tech admissions are primarily based on valid GATE scores and registration through the Common Offer Acceptance Portal (COAP).


10. Is there a direct admission option for M.Tech for IIT graduates?

Yes, IIT graduates with a CGPA of 8.0 or above are exempted from the GATE requirement and may be selected based on interviews.


11. What is the admission route for the Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) program?

Candidates must qualify for the Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test (GPAT). Selection may also involve a written test or interview.


12. How are students admitted to the M.Sc programs?

Admission to M.Sc programs in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematical Sciences is facilitated through the Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM).


13. What are the requirements for PhD admission?

Applicants typically need a Master's degree with 60% marks or 6.0 CPI. Admission involves a written test and an interview.


14. What registration categories are available for PhD scholars?

Categories include Full-Time Regular (with assistantship), Full-Time Sponsored, Full-Time External, Part-Time Internal, Part-Time External, and Part-Time Executive.


15. What is the monthly stipend for full-time regular PhD students?

Eligible regular full-time PhD candidates receive an Institute Assistantship of approximately ₹37,000 per month.


16. What is the Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) program?

The IDD is a five-year program that allows students to earn both a B.Tech and an M.Tech degree concurrently.


17. Can IDD students exit with only a B.Tech degree?

The institute recently revamped the IDD model to allow students to exit after four years with a B.Tech degree or voluntarily opt-in for the M.Tech component after the sixth semester.


18. Which engineering branch has the highest B.Tech intake?

Mechanical Engineering typically has the highest seat capacity, with approximately 178 seats.


19. Does the institute offer a program in Computer Science?

Yes, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering offers B.Tech, IDD, M.Tech, and PhD programs.


20. Is Pharmaceutical Engineering offered at IIT (BHU)?

Yes, the Department of Pharmaceutical Engineering and Technology offers a four-year B.Tech, as well as M.Pharm and PhD programs.


21. What is the approximate tuition fee for B.Tech students?

The tuition fee is approximately ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,20,000 per semester for general category students.


22. Are there fee concessions for reserved category students?

Tuition fees are generally waived for students belonging to SC, ST, and PwD categories.


23. What is the N.C. Jain Scholarship?

It is a prestigious endowment scholarship provided to first-year B.Tech and IDD students based on merit.


24. Does the institute provide merit-cum-means scholarships?

Yes, the institute offers Merit-cum-Means scholarships to approximately 25% of undergraduate students.


25. What was the highest placement package in 2024-2025?

The highest package recorded for the 2024-25 session reached ₹2.2 crore per annum.


26. What is the average package for a B.Tech graduate?

The average package for B.Tech students in the 2024-25 session was ₹23.49 lakh per annum.


27. Who are some of the frequent recruiters at the campus?

Top recruiters include Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Goldman Sachs, Uber, NVIDIA, and Reliance Industries.


28. How many job offers were secured in the 2024-25 placement season?

As of November 2025, the Training and Placement Cell reported a total of 1,416 job offers received.


29. What is the placement rate for the Computer Science branch?

The B.Tech CSE branch recorded a placement rate of 89.81% during the 2024 placements.


30. Does the institute help students find internships?

Yes, the T&P Cell facilitated over 500 internship offers for the 2024-25 session.


31. What is the I-DAPT Hub Foundation?

It is a Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) focused on Data Analytics and Predictive Technologies, established under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems.


32. What does the Chanakya Fellowship support?

The fellowship program supports motivated UG, PG, and PhD students working on research, innovation, and technology development in DAPT areas.


33. What is MCIIE?

The Malviya Centre for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (MCIIE) is the institute's primary incubator for supporting startups and entrepreneurship.


34. What are the key research thrust areas at IIT (BHU)?

Thrust areas include Green and Clean Energy, Healthcare, Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Materials (like steel), and Defense.


35. Are there any specialized research facilities on campus?

The institute hosts a Central Instrument Facility (CIF), a Supercomputing Center, and a Precision Engineering Hub (PEH).


36. What is the NIRF 2025 ranking for IIT (BHU) in Engineering?

The institute was ranked 10th in India in the Engineering category by NIRF 2025.


37. How is the institute ranked overall in India?

IIT (BHU) secured the 31st position in the Overall category in the NIRF 2025 rankings.


38. What is its standing in the IIRF 2025 rankings?

It was ranked 8th among government engineering colleges in India by the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) 2025.


39. What is the QS World University Ranking for 2026?

The institute is ranked #566 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026.


40. What is the Yavatkar Convention Center project?

It is a proposed world-class convention center for seminars and conferences, supported by a $1.6 million donation from alumnus Dr. Raj Yavatkar.


41. Has the institute completed any recent infrastructure upgrades?

Recent completions include the high-rise Dhanrajgiri Hostel-II, Morvi Hostel-II, and several blocks of faculty apartments.


42. What is the Centenary Innovation and Research Park (CIRP)?

CIRP is a planned multi-storey facility designed to house state-of-the-art research centers for AI, healthcare, and water resource management.


43. Who are some of the most notable alumni of the institute?

Notable alumni include Nikesh Arora (CEO, Palo Alto Networks), Jay Chaudhry (Founder, Zscaler), and Sh. Manoj Sinha (LG of Jammu and Kashmir).


44. What is the role of the Student Alumni Interaction Cell (SAIC)?

SAIC manages the connection between current students and the global alumni network through mentorship programs and mock interviews.


45. What is the IIT Gymkhana?

The Gymkhana is the student governing body that functions through various councils for sports, culture, and science and technology.


46. What is the E-Cell at IIT (BHU)?

The Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell) is a student-run body that fosters a startup culture and bridges the gap between students and the business world.


47. Does the institute offer a PhD program in Humanities?

Yes, the Department of Humanistic Studies offers PhD programs in History, Philosophy, Sociology, English, and Computational Linguistics.


48. Is there a joint doctoral program with other IITs?

Yes, IIT (BHU) and IIT Guwahati offer a joint PhD program, which is the first of its kind between two IITs.


49. How can alumni register with the institute network?

Alumni can register through the official Alumni Registration Portal by providing their graduation details and department.


50. What are the common councils in the institute?

The primary student councils are for Games and Sports, Culture, Science and Technology, Film and Media, and Social Service.

Overview

Located in the holy city of north India, IIT (BHU) Varanasi reminds one of rich cultural heritage of India. Founded in pre independent India, in 1919 as the Banaras Engineering College, it was renamed as the Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University in 1968.

Vision

True to its location, the institute thinks more for humanity and technical excellence.

‘Pursuance of Value Based Excellence in Science & Technology Education and Research. To serve Humanity through enlightened and morally sound human capital. To contribute to the development of the nation by solving the problems of the nation and society at large’.

Research

R&D is the thrust area of the institute.  Students and faculty members are encouraged to be creative in their activities. In this context, mention can be made of Central Instrument Facility which is one of the newly formed Specialized Core Facilities at Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi.

“Our mission is to provide futuristic research infrastructure and quality education services in support of advanced instrumentation.”

Alumni

  • Nikesh Arora is an Indian-American Business Executive. He is the Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of Palo Alto Networks.
  • Krishan Kant was the tenth Vice President of India from 1997 until his death. Previously, he was Governor of Andhra Pradesh from 1990 to 1997.

 

IIRF Ranking

Placement Performance (PP)

N/A

Teaching Learning Resources & Pedagogy (TLRP)

N/A

Research (Volume, Income and Reputation)

N/A

Industry Income And Integration

N/A

Placement Strategies & Support (PSS)

N/A

Future Orientation (FO)

N/A

External Perception & International Outlook (EPIO)

N/A

Select Ranking:

Key Stats

Yes

Scholarship Availability

Excellent

Research Perspective

FAQ's

IIT BHU - Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi | IIRF Ranking