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IIT Bombay
IIT Bombay
from Wikipedia

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay or IITB) is a public research university and technical institute in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The institute has 17 academic departments, 35 additional academic centres, and three schools.[6] Established in 1958, IIT Bombay was designated as an Institution of Eminence in 2018.

Key Information

History

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IIT Bombay's foundation stone being laid by Jawaharlal Nehru in 1959

IIT Bombay, established in 1958, was the second Indian Institute of Technology to be founded. Its establishment was supported by UNESCO, with funding provided by the Soviet Union. The proposed site for the institute, allocated by the government of Bombay State, was Powai in what is now Mumbai, then known as Bombay. The institute's first batch, composed of 100 male students, commenced their studies in a temporary facility in Worli during their first year due to the construction of the campus in Powai. They graduated in 1962.[7][8]

On 9 July 2018, Prakash Javadekar, the Union Minister of Human Resources Development, announced that IIT Bombay would be granted the status of Institution of Eminence.[9][10][11] The decision came into effect on 11 October 2018.[12][13]

Campus

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Main Building of IIT Bombay
IIT Bombay's Main Road

The 545-acre IIT Bombay campus is located between Powai lake and Vihar lake, roughly 15 kilometres away from the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport.[14] The institute has a total of 21 hostels, of which three hostels (Hostels 7, 10, 11, and 15) and a wing of the newly constructed hostel (Hostel 16) are for female students.

Due to its proximity to the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, the campus has enjoyed significant green cover. The proximity of the campus to the national park has also led to occasional sightings of leopards and mugger crocodiles. On rare occasions, they have strayed into the campus.[15][16][17]

View of IIT Bombay's Hostels

The institute has two swimming pools; football, hockey, and cricket grounds; as well as tennis, basketball, squash, and volleyball courts. It also has a Students' Activity Center (SAC) for various cultural and extracurricular activities.[18]

Organisation and administration

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Governance

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At the institutional level, IIT Bombay is governed by a Board of Governors. The chairman is nominated by the President of India, under the guidance of the IIT Council. The Director, appointed by the Union Minister of Education, is also a member of the Board, while the Registrar acts as its secretary. The Director, the executive head, chairs the institute's Senate, which comprises professors and nominated members. The Senate is IIT Bombay's highest academic body.[19]

The Director and two Deputy Directors are the principal figures responsible for executing the institute's activities. They are supported by seven Deans as well as the heads of departments, centres, and schools.[19]

Academic Office

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The Academic Office of the institute exists to facilitate, initiate and co-ordinate the academic work of the institute, particularly the teaching and assessment of students. It acts as a repository of grades and academic records of all students, both former and current. It provides administrative support to the Senate.

Departments, centres, and schools

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Lecture hall complex

IIT Bombay has 17 departments, 35 additional academic centres, and three schools.[20]

Academic departments

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Academic centres

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  • Application Software Centre (ASC)
  • Ashank Desai Centre for Policy Studies (ADCPS)
  • Biomedical Engineering and Technology Incubation Centre (BETiC)
  • Computer Centre (CC)
  • Centre for Climate Studies
  • Centre for Defence Technology Innovations and Strategies (CDTIS)
  • Centre for Distance Engineering and Education Programme (CDEEP)
  • Centre for Educational Technology
  • Centre for Liberal Education (CLE)
  • Centre for Machine Intelligence and Data Science (C-MinDS)
  • Centre for Research in Nanotechnology and Science (CRNTS)
  • Centre for Semiconductor Technologies (SemiX)
  • Centre for Systems and Control Engineering
  • Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas (CTARA)
  • Centre for Traditional Indian Knowledge and Skills (CTIKS)
  • Centre of Excellence in Oil, Gas and Energy (CoE-OGE)
  • Centre of Excellence in Quantum Information, Computing, Science and Technology (CoE-QuICST)
  • Centre of Excellence in Steel Technology (CoEST)
  • Centre of Excellence on Membrane Technologies for Desalination, Brine Management, and Water Recycling
  • Centre of Studies in Resources Engineering (CSRE)
  • DRDO-Industry-Academia Centre of Excellence (DIA-CoE)
  • Geospatial Information Science and Engineering
  • IITB-Monash Research Academy
  • Koita Centre for Digital Health (KCDH)
  • National Centre for Mathematics (NCM)
  • National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE)
  • National Centre of Excellence in Carbon Capture and Utilization (NCoE-CCU)
  • National Centre of Excellence in Technology for Internal Security (NCETIS)
  • Parimal and Pramod Chaudhari Centre for Learning and Teaching (PPCCLT)
  • Sophisticated Analytical Instrument Facility (SAIF)
  • Sunita Sanghi Centre of Ageing and Neurodegenerative Diseases (SCAN)
  • Tata Centre for Technology and Design (TCTD)
  • Technocraft Centre for Applied Artificial Intelligence (TCAAI)
  • Wadhwani Research Centre for Bioengineering (WRCB)
  • Water Innovation Centre: Technology, Research and Education (WICTRE)

Schools

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Academics

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Programmes

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IIT Bombay is chiefly recognised for its less competitive Bachelor of Technology (BTech) programme. It also offers Bachelor of Science (BSc) and Bachelor of Design (B.Design) programmes at the undergraduate level. At the postgraduate level, it offers a wide range of programmes, such as Master of Technology (MTech), Master of Science by Research (MS by Research), Master of Science (MSc), Master of Design (M.Design), Master of Business Administration (MBA). The institute also offers doctoral (PhD) programmes and dual degrees.[21][22] Additionally, the institute further offers short-term courses through continuing education and distance education programmes.[23] The university is a member of Links to Asia by Organising Traineeship and Student Exchange (LAOTSE), an international network of leading universities in Europe and Asia exchanging students and senior scholars.

Every year, IIT Bombay awards degrees to more than a thousand students. The undergraduate students at IIT Bombay are selected through the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). The graduate students are selected through Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM) and Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). The institute currently holds more than 13,000 students and employs over 700 faculty members.

In April 2015, IIT Bombay launched the first United States-India joint Executive Master of Business Administration (EMBA) programme alongside Washington University in St. Louis.[24] In November 2015 and January 2016, the National Virtual Academy for Indian Agriculture launched a free online agriculture course in collaboration with International Crops Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics and IIT Bombay.[25]

Research

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Faculty members at IIT Bombay engage in industry-sponsored research and consultancy projects facilitated through the institute. These initiatives receive funding from a various national agencies, such as the Department of Science and Technology, Department of Space, Department of Atomic Energy, among others. Several projects are of national significance, while some are supported by international funding bodies. On average, around 400 sponsored projects are active in a given year.[26]

Rankings

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University and college rankings
General – international
QS (World) (2025)[27]129
QS (Asia) (2023)[28]48
General – India
NIRF (Overall) (2024)[29]3
NIRF (Research) (2024)[30]4
Engineering – India
NIRF (2024)[31]3
India Today (2022)[32]2
Government colleges: 
Outlook India (2022)[33]3
Business/Management – India
NIRF (2024)[34]10

Internationally, IIT Bombay was ranked 129 in the QS World University Rankings of 2025[35] and 36th in Asia.[36]

Nationally, IIT Bombay was ranked 3rd overall,[37] 4th among research institutions,[38] 3rd among engineering colleges,[39] and 10th among management schools,[40] by the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) in 2024. Outlook India ranked IIT Bombay 3rd among government engineering colleges in 2023.[41] IIT Bombay was ranked 1st in the QS India Rankings of 2025 and 118th in the QS World University Rankings.[42] IIT Bombay was ranked 2nd by India Today, for engineering colleges.[43]

Student activities

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IIT Bombay's Gymkhana serves as the overarching body for all student councils and institutional committees responsible for coordinating student activities and organising events and festivals throughout the year.[44] The institute hosts several notable student festivals, such as Mood Indigo and Techfest.[45][46]

Notable people

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See also

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is a premier public technical and in , specializing in , , , and interdisciplinary fields. Located on a 550-acre green campus in , , it was established in 1958 as the second institute in the IIT system, with initial support from and the , and was declared an Institute of National Importance under the Institutes of Technology Act in 1961. IIT Bombay offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs through 17 academic departments (including , , and ), 3 schools (such as the Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management), 4 interdisciplinary programs, and over 30 centres of excellence focused on areas like , , and . With approximately 13,300 students—comprising 6,300 undergraduates, 3,300 master's students, and 3,700 PhD candidates—and 733 faculty members as of 2024, the institute emphasizes research-driven education and has produced over 75,000 in its six decades of existence. Recognized as an Institute of Eminence by the Government of India in 2018, IIT Bombay leads in innovation and global impact, with research outputs including 2,102 journal publications and 177 patent filings in 2023–24, alongside strong industry collaborations yielding over ₹560 crore in sponsored and consultancy projects that year. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, it ranks 129th globally and 2nd in India overall, while securing 28th worldwide in Engineering and Technology (2025). The institute's fully residential campus fosters a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE) and supports over 1,500 student placements annually, underscoring its role as a hub for technological advancement and leadership development.

History

Establishment and Early Years

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay was established in 1958 as the second institute in the IIT system, following , under the initiative of the to bolster technical education in the country. It was the first IIT to receive foreign assistance, with facilitating financial and technical support channeled through the in the form of rubles, equipment, and expert services from 1956 to 1973. This collaboration reflected broader War-era efforts by the to extend technological influence in newly independent nations like . Initial operations commenced in a rented building in , , where the institute admitted its first batch of approximately 100 male students on July 25, 1958. These students were selected on merit from across and enrolled in four foundational undergraduate programs in , , , and , marking the institute's early emphasis on core engineering disciplines. Classes for this pioneering group were held in the temporary facility while construction progressed on the permanent site, with the laid by Prime Minister . The first batch graduated in 1962, with 73 students completing their degrees after a four-year program conducted partly in and increasingly in as infrastructure developed. By 1961, the institute had fully relocated to its 550-acre permanent campus in , , enabling expanded facilities and a more integrated academic environment. The early drew from Soviet technical education models, prioritizing rigorous training in fundamentals through theoretical coursework, practical labs, and industry-oriented projects to address India's post-independence industrialization needs.

Key Milestones and Developments

In the 1980s, IIT Bombay significantly expanded its academic and research capabilities in emerging fields. The was formally established in 1982, becoming one of the largest such departments in the country with 22 initial faculty members and focusing on advanced computing education and research. Concurrently, the National Centre for Software Technology (NCST) was founded in in as an autonomous R&D organization under the Department of Electronics, promoting collaborations with IIT Bombay on software development, networking protocols like , and early connectivity initiatives between the two institutions starting in 1986. Other key department establishments followed, including Metallurgical Engineering in 1959 and in 1966, broadening the institute's engineering portfolio. A notable interdisciplinary advancement occurred in 2015 with the launch of the joint US-India Executive MBA (EMBA) program in partnership with . This 18-month program, the first of its kind in to confer a dual MBA degree, targeted mid-career professionals and entrepreneurs, emphasizing global leadership, innovation, and cross-cultural management through alternating modules in and . In 2018, IIT Bombay was designated as an Institution of Eminence (IoE) by the Ministry of Education, granting it greater autonomy in academic, administrative, and financial matters, along with enhanced funding to support world-class and development. This status positioned the institute among India's top higher education entities, enabling initiatives like increased international collaborations and specialized centers in areas such as AI and sustainability. Post-2018, IIT Bombay contributed significantly to national efforts, including the National Supercomputing Mission, with installations like the A100 for AI research as of 2023. Amid broader Union Budget allocations for IITs totaling over ₹10,659 crore in 2025–26, the institute continued investments in research, faculty expansion, and student facilities.

Campus

Location and Layout

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) occupies a 550-acre urban campus in , a northern suburb of , , strategically positioned between to the east and to the west. This location, selected during planning in 1957, consists of semi-forest land donated by the , with the institute founded in 1958 and academic operations beginning in 1963. The campus's setting amid hills and lakes creates a verdant oasis in the heart of Mumbai's financial district, balancing accessibility to the city with a sense of seclusion approximately an hour from central urban areas. The physical organization of the campus divides it into integrated zones that support daily life and learning, featuring academic clusters with departmental buildings, halls, and facilities in the central and southern sections; residential areas including 13 hostels and faculty-staff housing colonies primarily on the eastern side; and expansive green spaces that encompass over 100 tree species, wildflowers, and open landscapes covering much of the undeveloped terrain. This layout promotes a compact, walkable community while preserving natural contours, with pathways and roads connecting zones without encroaching on the ecological buffer provided by the surrounding lakes and foliage. IIT Bombay's environmental profile underscores its role as an ecological hotspot, home to diverse including 150 bird species and forest-dwelling reptiles, sustained by its proximity to the . The campus experiences occasional wildlife intrusions from this adjacency, such as multiple sightings, including incidents in November 2022 near forested edges and January 2025 in open areas. Additional sightings occurred in September and October 2025 near the library and Hostel 12, prompting forest department alerts. In a notable event in March 2025, a large , approximately 6 feet long, was observed roaming lakeside roads near , prompting swift wildlife response and underscoring the campus's interface with natural habitats.

Facilities and Infrastructure

IIT Bombay provides residential accommodation through 17 hostels that house over 10,000 students, ensuring a fully residential experience for its community. These hostels include specialized facilities such as Hostel 12 (H12), dedicated exclusively to female students, offering secure and supportive living environments with amenities like common rooms, gyms, and high-speed internet connectivity. Key academic infrastructure supports advanced teaching and research, including the under-construction Academic Science Block 1 (ASB-1), a planned 10-story building (comprising a , , and 10 upper floors) designed to accommodate departments like Chemistry and Biosciences and Bioengineering. The Central serves as a central repository with a collection of approximately 440,000 items, including books, journals, e-resources, and non-book materials, accessible to over 11,000 members through digital and physical services. Advanced laboratories, such as the National Centre for Photovoltaic Research and Education (NCPRE), focus on technologies, including research on photovoltaic systems, materials, and integration for grid-connected applications. In December 2025, a statue of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar was unveiled in the basement of the Nandan Nilekani Main Building, inaugurated by Shri Ramdas Athavale, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment. Amenities enhance student well-being and recreation, with sports complexes featuring facilities for , , , and indoor games, alongside a dedicated aquatic center and fitness centers. The on-campus medical center, known as IIT Hospital, offers 24/7 emergency services, outpatient care, and specialized consultations for the student population. Sustainable features include installations, such as the 1 MWe National Solar Thermal Power Plant using and linear Fresnel technologies, and ongoing rooftop solar projects to promote integration. As of the 2023–2024 , the institute's total student capacity stands at 13,282, encompassing undergraduates, postgraduates, and PhD scholars across its residential setup.

Organisation and Administration

Governance Structure

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) operates as an autonomous statutory organization under the , which declares it an Institution of National Importance and outlines its powers, duties, and governance framework, including the establishment of key oversight bodies. This Act provides IIT Bombay with significant autonomy in academic, administrative, and financial matters, enabling it to function independently while aligning with national educational priorities. At the apex of its governance is the Board of Governors, responsible for strategic policy-making, financial oversight, and overall institutional direction. The Board is chaired by Dr. Sharad Kumar Saraf, an IIT Bombay alumnus, who has held the position since August 2022. Complementing the Board, the serves as the primary academic authority, handling matters related to , policies, examinations, and appointments to ensure high standards in and scholarship. Day-to-day administration is led by the Director, Prof. Shireesh Kedare, who has served in this role since April 2024 and reports to the Board while implementing its directives. As of 2025, IIT Bombay employs 732 members, supporting its expansive academic and research operations. Additionally, its designation as an Institution of Eminence, granted by the Ministry of Education, has enhanced its funding mechanisms, providing up to ₹1,000 over five years to bolster research infrastructure, international collaborations, and innovation initiatives.

Departments, Centres, and Schools

IIT Bombay's academic structure is built around 17 core departments that form the foundation of its , , and education, supplemented by over 30 centres and multidisciplinary schools to promote integrated learning and innovation. These units collectively deliver a diverse array of programs, from undergraduate to doctoral levels, enabling the institute to award over 3,000 degrees annually, as in 2023–24. The core departments cover essential disciplines with a focus on foundational and applied knowledge. The Department of Aerospace Engineering emphasizes , systems, and to advance and technologies. The Department of Chemical Engineering concentrates on process optimization, reaction engineering, and sustainable chemical processes for industrial applications. The Department of Computer Science and Engineering explores algorithms, data structures, and computational theory to support and information systems. The Department of Electrical Engineering addresses circuits, , and to drive advancements in and power infrastructure. Additional departments include Biosciences and Bioengineering, which integrates with principles; Civil Engineering, focusing on and urban infrastructure; Earth Sciences, studying and resource exploration; Economics, offering economic theory and policy analysis; Energy Science and Engineering, targeting clean energy technologies; Environmental Science and Engineering, promoting pollution control and ecosystem management; Industrial Engineering and Operations Research, optimizing supply chains and decision-making models; Mechanical Engineering, covering thermodynamics and robotics; Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science, developing advanced alloys and ; Chemistry, investigating molecular interactions and synthesis; Physics, probing and condensed matter; Mathematics, advancing pure and applied mathematical modeling; and Humanities and Social Sciences, providing insights into and societal dynamics. Multidisciplinary centres at IIT Bombay bridge traditional silos by integrating expertise across fields, with several key units driving collaborative academic initiatives. The Centre for Machine Intelligence and Data Science (C-MInDS), established in 2020 and inaugurated in 2023, specializes in artificial intelligence, machine learning algorithms, and big data analytics to foster computational solutions for complex problems. Other centres include the Centre for Technology Alternatives for Rural Areas (CTARA), which develops appropriate technologies for sustainable rural development; the Centre of Studies in Resources Engineering (CSRE), focusing on remote sensing and geospatial data for environmental monitoring; the Koita Centre for Digital Health, combining engineering with healthcare to innovate diagnostic and therapeutic tools; the Ashank Desai Centre for Policy Studies, analyzing public policy through interdisciplinary lenses like economics and technology; the Centre for Educational Technology, creating digital learning platforms and pedagogical tools; and the Centre for Systems and Control Engineering, applying control theory to automation and dynamic systems. These centres support specialized coursework and projects that draw from multiple departments. The institute's three schools provide targeted, professional-oriented education within broader academic frameworks. The Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM) offers programs blending management principles with engineering applications to prepare leaders for tech-driven industries. The IDC School of Design concentrates on processes, including industrial, interaction, and visual communication to solve real-world design challenges. The Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship emphasizes innovation ecosystems, startup methodologies, and venture creation to cultivate entrepreneurial skills across disciplines. This structure ensures comprehensive academic offerings, with program details elaborated in dedicated sections.

Academics

Programs Offered

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) offers a diverse array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to foster technical expertise, interdisciplinary skills, and research capabilities. At the undergraduate level, the flagship four-year (B.Tech.) program is available across eight departments: , , , , , , , and Metallurgical Engineering and Materials Science. Additionally, the institute provides a four-year (B.Sc.) in Chemistry, , and , as well as a four-year Bachelor of Design (B.Des.) in . Students may also opt for integrated five-year dual-degree programs combining a B.Tech. with a Master of Technology (M.Tech.), offered in specializations such as Communication and , , and , allowing seamless progression to advanced studies without a separate admission process. Postgraduate offerings include the two-year Master of Technology (M.Tech.) in over 30 specializations across engineering disciplines, such as , , and Urban Systems; the two-year (M.Sc.) in fields like Applied Statistics and , , Chemistry, , and Physics; the two-year (M.Des.) with focuses on and Mobility and Vehicle Design; and the two-year (MBA) through the Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM), emphasizing analytics and operations. The (Ph.D.) program is available in all academic departments and centers, supporting full-time research with coursework requirements. A notable specialized program is the 18-month Executive (EMBA) jointly offered with since 2015, targeting mid-career professionals with a blending , , and global business perspectives delivered in modular sessions. The curriculum across programs adopts a flexible, credit-based with two main semesters (Autumn and Spring) per academic year, totaling approximately 140-160 credits for undergraduate degrees and 60-80 for most master's programs. It prioritizes core and scientific foundations in the initial years, followed by advanced departmental courses, laboratory work, and electives—up to 20-25% of credits—in , social sciences, , and emerging areas like and to encourage holistic development. Grading employs a 10-point letter scale (AA for 10 points to FF for fail), where the Semester Performance Index (SPI) and Cumulative Performance Index (CPI) are computed as weighted averages of grade points earned, with a minimum CPI of 4.0 required for degree progression and 5.0 for good standing.

Admissions Process

Admission to undergraduate programs at the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is managed through the (JoSAA) and is based on performance in the Joint Entrance Examination (Advanced), or JEE (Advanced). Candidates must first qualify the JEE (Main) by ranking among the top 2.5 performers to become eligible for JEE (Advanced). The JEE (Advanced) serves as the primary selection method for B.Tech, (B.Tech + M.Tech), B.S., and B.Des programs, with eligibility criteria including a minimum of 75% aggregate marks in Class 12 (65% for SC/ST candidates) or being in the top 20 percentile of their . Approximately 1,360 seats are available across these programs for the 2025-2026 academic year, distributed across various departments such as , , and . The admissions process incorporates reservation policies mandated by the to promote social equity. These include 15% seats reserved for Scheduled Castes (SC), 7.5% for Scheduled Tribes (ST), 27% for Other Backward Classes belonging to Non-Creamy Layer (OBC-NCL), 10% for Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and 5% horizontal reservation for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) across categories. Candidates from reserved categories must meet relaxed qualifying criteria in JEE (Advanced), such as a lower minimum of marks compared to general category applicants. Postgraduate admissions at IIT Bombay vary by program and are highly competitive, emphasizing national-level entrance exams. For M.Tech and M.Tech + Ph.D. programs, candidates require a valid score in the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (), followed by centralized counseling through the Common Offer Acceptance Portal (COAP). M.Sc. programs are accessed via the (JAM), while the (MBA) requires a (CAT) score, supplemented by group discussions and personal interviews. Other programs, such as M.Des and M.Sc. + Ph.D. in , follow similar exam-based routes with program-specific eligibility, typically requiring a with at least 60% marks (55% for SC/ST/). International admissions operate through distinct quotas to foster global diversity. Foreign nationals can apply via the Direct Admission of Students Abroad () scheme for undergraduate programs, which uses SAT scores, or through separate postgraduate channels like the Study in India program, often requiring equivalent international qualifications and English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. These quotas typically constitute 15-20% of seats in select programs, with applications processed independently of domestic counseling. To enhance gender diversity, IIT Bombay implements supernumerary seats exclusively for candidates, a policy introduced across IITs to achieve at least 20% enrollment. This initiative has contributed to a gradual increase in representation; in 2025, enrollment at IIT Bombay reached 19.57%, with overall IIT system figures at 20.15%. The policy ensures additional seats beyond the standard capacity if needed to meet diversity targets, without displacing male candidates.

Research and Innovation

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has established itself as a leading hub for and in , with annual external exceeding ₹700 as of 2023-24 dedicated to sponsored projects across diverse fields. In the 2022-23, the institute secured ₹375 in external for 280 new sponsored projects, marking a 58% increase from ₹114 in the previous year, while consultancy projects generated an additional ₹111.39 through 776 initiatives. For 2023-24, total external for reached a record ₹700 . These funds support interdisciplinary efforts coordinated by the Industrial and Consultancy Centre (IRCC), established in 1976 as the nodal agency for managing , development, and industry interactions at the institute. IRCC facilitates research in key areas such as (AI) and , , and , aligning with national priorities like technological self-reliance and . For instance, projects in AI focus on applications in and , while initiatives explore and e-mobility, and efforts advance and biosciences through facilities like the Cryo-Electron Microscopy Centre. In 2022-23, IRCC coordinated over 205 industry meetings and finalized more than 300 agreements, enabling the procurement of advanced equipment for labs in , , and climate studies. IIT Bombay's innovation ecosystem is bolstered by robust generation, with 175 applications filed in 2022-23, including 133 patents, and 211 rights granted, comprising 176 patents. Cumulatively, the institute has filed hundreds of patents since 2010, reflecting a surge in output—such as 421 Indian patents in 2023-24 alone, a 160% increase from prior years, with 467 patents granted that year—covering technologies from devices like NanoSniffer to anti-hail systems developed by the department. The Society for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SINE), founded in as a non-profit incubator, has nurtured over 212 technology startups since its inception, with 17 new companies incubated and 10 graduating in 2022-23; notable successes include ideaForge, which filed for a ₹750 IPO, and startups raising ₹191.46 in funding that year. Collaborations form a cornerstone of IIT Bombay's research strategy, bridging academia, industry, and global partners to amplify impact. Domestically, partnerships with (TCS) have led to developments like India's first quantum diamond microchip imager for non-destructive semiconductor analysis, while Reliance Jio's collaboration launched the Bharat GPT program to advance generative AI for Indian languages and contexts. Internationally, IIT Bombay signed 47 memoranda of understanding with foreign universities in 2022-23, including ongoing ties with through the IITB-Monash Research Academy and for health innovations, alongside joint projects with institutions like in physics. A flagship example is the institute's involvement in the National Supercomputing Mission, where the Centre for Development of Advanced Computing deployed the PARAM Rudra system—a 3.1 petaflops facility—in 2023 to support computational research in AI, modeling, and simulations across IIT Bombay and affiliated institutions.

Rankings and Reputation

IIT Bombay consistently ranks among the top engineering institutions globally and nationally, reflecting its strong academic and research performance. In the 2026, it secured the 129th position worldwide, an improvement from previous years, while placing 71st in and 28th in Engineering & Technology. Nationally, the (NIRF) 2025 ranked it 3rd in the engineering category, behind and , based on parameters including teaching, learning, resources, research, and perception. These rankings underscore IIT Bombay's excellence in core areas like academic reputation and citations per faculty, where it scored 73.3 and 82.9, respectively, in QS metrics. Internationally, IIT Bombay also features prominently in other evaluations. The Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025 places it in the 251–300 band globally, leading Indian institutions with an overall score of 56.3, driven by strengths in teaching and environment. In the US News Best Global Universities for rankings (2024–2025 edition), it ranks 240th worldwide, highlighting its contributions to research and global reputation. These positions affirm IIT Bombay's status as a leading technical , particularly in disciplines. The institute's programs benefit from accreditations by the (NBA), ensuring alignment with international quality standards; for instance, undergraduate programs in , , and & Engineering hold valid NBA accreditation under Tier-1. IIT Bombay's reputation is further bolstered by its achievements and research impact, with graduates frequently leading in technology and industry—such as former CEO and co-founder —contributing to high employability rankings, including the 101–110 band in QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022. Its research output garners significant citations, exceeding 100,000 annually in Scopus-indexed s, establishing its influence in global scholarship.

Student Life

Residential Halls and Campus Culture

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay provides on-campus residential accommodations through 21 hostels designated H1 through H21, with capacities ranging from approximately 200 to over 800 residents per hall, alongside dedicated family quarters for married postgraduate and doctoral students such as Manas Apartments. These facilities ensure nearly all of the institute's approximately 13,700 students (as of 2024)—drawn from diverse regions across and including around 90 international scholars—experience a fully residential environment that fosters close-knit communities. Hostel allocation is systematically managed by the Hostel Coordinating Unit, prioritizing gender segregation with separate halls for male and female residents—such as H1 through H9, H12–H14, and portions of H15 for males, and H10, H10A, H11, and parts of H15 for females—while considering academic year and program to group undergraduates, postgraduates, and doctoral candidates appropriately. First-year undergraduates are typically assigned to entry-level hostels like H1 for orientation and integration, whereas senior undergraduates and postgraduates occupy progressively specialized accommodations, with reshuffling possible based on availability and academic progress; family units are reserved for eligible married scholars after a waiting period. Campus culture at IIT Bombay revolves around a strong sense of , where students manage daily life in self-governing equipped with messes, areas, and basic amenities, promoting autonomy from an early stage. Traditions such as friendly hostel rivalries and inter-hall , particularly in sports and general championships, cultivate camaraderie and competition among residents, enhancing the vibrant social fabric amid the institute's diverse student body. To promote a safe and inclusive residential environment, ragging in any form is strictly prohibited at IIT Bombay and is classified as a criminal offence. Punishments include a minimum fine of Rs. 10,000 and cancellation of hostel allotment for verbal ragging, with suspension or expulsion for more serious cases. Preventive measures require interactions between seniors and freshers to occur only in common areas and prohibit seniors from visiting fresher rooms or entering fresher hostels without permission. The institute implements a "Blackout" period until the end of mid-semester examinations, restricting senior-fresher interactions, entry into fresher hostels, and certain student-led events and communications to eliminate ragging culture. Student accounts indicate that these measures have significantly reduced ragging incidents, creating a safer environment, although some freshers report feeling isolated during Blackout while appreciating the protection from potential harassment. In 2025, IIT Bombay was among institutions issued show-cause notices by the University Grants Commission for failing to submit mandatory anti-ragging undertakings, a procedural requirement under UGC regulations. Integrated support services bolster residential life, with the Student Wellness Centre offering counseling through dedicated hostel duties—such as post-lunch sessions in halls like H10 and H11—and external options, alongside on-campus health facilities accessible to all residents for addressing academic, emotional, and physical needs.

Extracurricular Activities and Clubs

The Students' at IIT Bombay serves as the central body overseeing a wide array of student-led extracurricular activities, fostering holistic development through participation in clubs and societies that span technical, cultural, entrepreneurial, and social domains. These initiatives encourage students to explore interests beyond academics, build leadership skills, and engage in collaborative projects, with activities coordinated across various councils such as the Institute Technical Council (ITC) and the General Secretary for Activities and Academics (GSAA). Technical clubs under the ITC promote innovation and hands-on learning in engineering disciplines, including the Electronics and Club, which supports teams like the Robocon squad that annually competes in national and international robotics challenges such as the . The Aeromodelling Club, affiliated with the Association revived in 2002, focuses on aircraft design and flight simulations, while Krittika, the Astronomy Club, organizes stargazing sessions and telescope-based observations. Other societies, such as the Web and Coding Club and the Mathematics and Physics Club, host workshops, hackathons, and quizzes to enhance problem-solving abilities. Cultural and artistic pursuits are vibrant through genre-specific clubs like for music, InSync for dance, for dramatics, and the Club, enabling students to perform, debate, and create year-round. The Entrepreneurship Cell (E-Cell), established in 1998 and operating under the Desai Sethi School of Entrepreneurship, nurtures startup ideas via workshops, speaker sessions, and competitions like Eureka, an plan contest. Social impact initiatives include the (NSS) unit, which coordinates community service projects such as rural outreach and environmental drives to promote . Complementing this, the Gender Cell runs workshops and training programs on and equity, aiming to create an inclusive campus environment free from discrimination.

Cultural and Technical Festivals

IIT Bombay hosts two flagship annual festivals that exemplify student-led innovation and cultural vibrancy: and Mood Indigo. , established in 1998, is recognized as Asia's largest science and technology festival, drawing over 180,000 attendees annually through a diverse array of competitions, workshops, and lectures that foster technological engagement and outreach. Events such as international robowars and exhibitions featuring advanced , like the RoboThespian and Einstein , highlight cutting-edge demonstrations, while social initiatives promote and education across . In collaboration with the Solar Urja through Localisation for Sustainability (SoULS) project, has achieved notable , including the most people assembling solar-powered lamps simultaneously (6,841 participants) and the largest environmental lesson (4,780 participants) on October 2, 2019, emphasizing awareness. Complementing Techfest's technical focus, Mood Indigo, launched in 1971, stands as Asia's premier cultural festival, spanning four days in late December with over 240 events that blend artistic expression, intellectual discourse, and social advocacy. Key attractions include pro-nights featuring high-profile performers such as , , and international acts like and in conversation, alongside fashion shows, debates, and informal games that encourage cross-cultural interactions. The festival often adopts themes tied to social causes, such as the 2014 "Transform Maharashtra" initiative aimed at community development, and has hosted celebrities like and for inspirational sessions, amplifying its role in promoting inclusivity and awareness. These festivals significantly enhance student engagement at IIT Bombay, serving as platforms for , , and global networking while attracting participants from thousands of colleges across . Techfest's record-breaking initiatives underscore IIT Bombay's commitment to impactful technology dissemination, with millions of online engagements extending its reach beyond the . Similarly, Mood Indigo's evolution from a modest INR 5,000 event to a Limca Book record-holder for hosting the most international artists in 2010 reflects its enduring cultural significance, fostering a vibrant spirit amid rigorous academics.

Notable People

Prominent Alumni

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) has produced a distinguished cadre of alumni who have made significant contributions across , , and . Nandan Nilekani, a B.Tech graduate in from IIT Bombay in 1978, co-founded in 1981 and served as its CEO until 2002 and non-executive chairman until 2017; he later chaired the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), overseeing the project that enrolled over 1.3 billion Indians. In the technology leadership sphere, , who earned his B.Tech in from IIT Bombay in 2005, joined (now X) in 2010 and rose to become its in 2017 before serving as CEO from November 2021 to October 2022, during which he navigated the platform's acquisition by . Agrawal's tenure highlighted his expertise in and distributed systems, fields rooted in his IIT Bombay foundation. , another electrical engineering B.Tech alumnus from IIT Bombay in 1968, founded and chairs , a focused on with over $2.5 billion in revenue, and established the Wadhwani Foundation in 2000 to advance AI for social good, including initiatives in and healthcare across . Wadhwani received an honorary from IIT Bombay in 2018 for his entrepreneurial impact. IIT Bombay alumni excel in diverse fields, from software innovation and to and , exemplifying the institute's role in fostering global leaders. The alumni network, comprising over 70,000 graduates worldwide as of 2023, plays a pivotal role through the IIT Bombay Alumni Association (IITBAA), established in 2001, which facilitates funding for campus projects—such as Nilekani's Rs. 315 crore donation in 2023 for scholarships and research—and mentorship programs connecting current students with industry professionals. In 2024, IIT Bombay welcomed back nine alumni batches to campus for their milestone reunions.

Distinguished Faculty

The Indian Institute of Technology Bombay employs 733 faculty members as of 2023-24, spanning various , , and interdisciplinary disciplines. These faculty contribute significantly to , teaching, and institutional leadership, with many holding prestigious national and international recognitions for their scholarly work. Prof. Shireesh Kedare serves as the Director of IIT Bombay, having assumed the role in 2024. A professor in the Department of , Kedare's research focuses on , including solar thermal technologies and energy optimization, influencing national and initiatives. In departmental leadership, Prof. Umesh Bellur, a former Professor and Head of the Department of from 2019 to May 2025 (retired July 2025), advanced areas such as distributed systems, , and , fostering collaborations with industry and academia. His tenure emphasized , including projects on scalable computing infrastructures that support large-scale . Several faculty have received high civilian honors, including the . For instance, Prof. Deepak B. Phatak, from the Department of , was awarded the in 2013 for contributions to education and technology development in underserved communities. Additionally, numerous faculty are elected fellows of prestigious academies such as the Indian National Science Academy (INSA) and the , India (NASI); examples include Prof. Ruchi Anand in Chemistry (INSA Fellow, 2023) and Prof. Munukutla Radhakrishna in Earth Sciences (INSA Fellow, recent election). These fellowships recognize groundbreaking research in fields ranging from structural biochemistry to .

References

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