Indian Institute of Technology Madras
Chennai, India • Founded 1959 • World Rank #787
Updated May 2026
Overview
Established in 1959, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large metropolis of Chennai (population range of over 5,000,000 inhabitants), Tamil Nadu.
Officially recognized by the Department of Higher Education of the Ministry of Human Resources Development of India, Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) is a large-sized coeducational Indian higher education institution. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 65-year-old Indian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
IITM also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Geographic and contact information for Indian Institute of Technology Madras — useful before scheduling visits or sending enquiries. Each channel below routes to a different team, so pick the one matching your question.
Academic Details
The basic academic profile of Indian Institute of Technology Madras, including enrolment and faculty composition. Total student count fluctuates intake-to-intake; treat the figure as approximate rather than precise.
Academic Structures
Indian Institute of Technology Madras's internal academic organisation — faculties, schools, and constituent units — is broken down below. Each unit handles a specific subject cluster and houses its own programmes and faculty.
Unit 16 items
- Department of Aerospace Engineering
- Department of Applied Mechanics
- Department of Biotechnology
- Department of Chemical Engineering
- Department of Chemistry
- Department of Civil Engineering
- Department of Computer Science and Engineering
- Department of Electrical Engineering
- Department of Engineering Design
- Department of Humanities and Social Sciences
- Department of Management Studies
- Department of Mathematics
- Department of Mechanical Engineering
- Department of Metallurgical and Materials Engineering
- Department of Ocean Engineering
- Department of Physics
Degrees
Also Dual degree (5 yrs) in Engineering, B.Tech. and M.Tech.; Master of Science by Research (a further 2 yrs) in Engineering
Bachelor's 1 program
Bachelor's programmes build foundational expertise, preparing graduates for entry-level professional roles and further postgraduate study.
- Engineering
Master's 5 programs
Master's programmes develop advanced specialised expertise, suited to senior industry positions and applied research.
- Chemistry
- Engineering
- Management
- Mathematics
- Physics
Doctoral 2 programs
Doctoral programmes train independent researchers, leading to academic, scientific, and senior advisory careers.
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
Faculties & Divisions
All faculties operate under Department of Higher Education of the Ministry of Human Resources Development of India.
Aerospace Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Aerospace Engineer
- Avionics Specialist
- Systems Engineer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Applied Mechanics (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Biotechnology (Department/Division) 13 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Agricultural Engineering
- Biology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Cell Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Genetics
- Molecular Biology
- Neurosciences
- Organic Chemistry
- Pharmacy
Chemical Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Process Engineer
- Plant Manager
- Materials Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Chemistry (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Chemist
- Lab Researcher
- Quality Control Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Civil Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Civil Engineer
- Construction Project Manager
- Structural Engineer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Computer Science and Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Software Engineer
- Data Scientist
- Systems Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Electrical Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Electrical Engineer
- Power Systems Engineer
- Automation Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Humanities and Social Sciences (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Researcher
- Policy Analyst
- Social Worker
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Management Studies (Department/Division) 7 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Finance
- Human Resources
- Labour and Industrial Relations
- Management
- Marketing
- Public Administration
- Transport Management
Common Career Paths
- Operations Manager
- Project Manager
- HR Manager
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mathematics (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Data Analyst
- Statistician
- Actuary
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Mechanical Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Mechanical Engineer
- Design Engineer
- Manufacturing Engineer
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Ocean Engineering (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Engineer
- Project Manager
- Technical Consultant
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Physics (Department/Division) Faculty details available
Specialisations & Subjects
No specified subjects listed.
Common Career Paths
- Physicist
- Research Scientist
- Data Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Central Electronics (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Electronic Engineering
Composites Technology (Research Division) 8 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Aeronautical and Aerospace Engineering
- Ceramics and Glass Technology
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Polymer and Plastics Technology
- Technology
Continuing Education (Research Division) 1 subject offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Systems Analysis
Common Career Paths
- Teacher
- Educational Administrator
- Curriculum Specialist
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Materials Science (Research Division) 10 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Chemical Engineering
- Chemistry
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Engineering
- Inorganic Chemistry
- Materials Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Physics
- Technology
Common Career Paths
- Research Scientist
- Lab Technician
- Analyst
Illustrative career directions for this field; specific outcomes depend on programme and student choices.
Sophisticated Analysis Instrumentation Facilities (Research Division) 5 subjects offered
Specialisations & Subjects
- Chemistry
- Instrument Making
- Materials Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Physics
Programs Offered
Search the Indian Institute of Technology Madras programme catalogue or scan it by degree level. The catalogue updates periodically; recently added programmes may not yet appear in some search-engine results.
67 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in India
Bachelor's Degree 17 programmes
Showing 10 of 17.
Master of Business Administration 2 programmes
Master's Degree 43 programmes
Showing 10 of 43.
Doctorate 4 programmes
How to apply to Indian Institute of Technology Madras
The standard application path for Indian Institute of Technology Madras, broken into five practical steps with the documents and channels you will need at each stage.
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1
Find a programme that fits your goals
Begin by reviewing the programmes section above. Indian Institute of Technology Madras offers 67 programmes grouped by qualification level. Decide on a target tier (bachelor's, master's, or doctoral) before narrowing by subject.
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2
Confirm you meet the requirements
Each programme at Indian Institute of Technology Madras has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.
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3
Assemble your application package
Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.
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4
Submit your application
Apply directly via Indian Institute of Technology Madras's online portal at www.iitm.ac.in. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.
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5
Contact admissions and follow up
After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +91 (44) 2257 8000. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions about Indian Institute of Technology Madras
Common questions students ask about Indian Institute of Technology Madras — answers pulled straight from the institution's published profile.
When was Indian Institute of Technology Madras founded?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras was established in 1959 (approximately 67 years ago).
In which city is Indian Institute of Technology Madras?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras is based in Chennai, India.
Is Indian Institute of Technology Madras a public or private institution?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras is a public institution.
How many students study at Indian Institute of Technology Madras?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras has approximately 10,000-14,999 students.
How is Indian Institute of Technology Madras ranked?
It ranks #787 globally and #9 in India.
What qualification levels does Indian Institute of Technology Madras offer?
Programmes at Indian Institute of Technology Madras cover bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes.
How is Indian Institute of Technology Madras organised academically?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras is organised into 16 academic units across its disciplines.
Is Indian Institute of Technology Madras officially recognised?
Yes, Indian Institute of Technology Madras is recognised by Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD).
Where can I learn more about Indian Institute of Technology Madras?
Indian Institute of Technology Madras's official website is www.iitm.ac.in.
Top-Ranked Universities in India
Faculty awards and national-leader status concentrate at the top India universities. Indian Institute of Technology Madras's faculty distinctions compared to leaders signal where the institution sits in academic networks.
Members of Association of Indian Universities (AIU)
Strategic alliances often grow alongside Association of Indian Universities (AIU) membership — bilateral agreements deepen collaboration beyond the broader network frame. Such alliances sometimes exist between Indian Institute of Technology Madras and specific members below.
Faculties at nearby universities
Geographic neighbours to Indian Institute of Technology Madras appear below — each worth considering if location is part of your decision. Nearby institutions tend to share academic calendars, making cross-applications less complex.
Where Else to Study Civil Engineering & Construction
For students considering Civil Engineering & Construction, these India institutions deliver the discipline alongside Indian Institute of Technology Madras. Look beyond programme names to compare module content, assessment methods, and stated graduate outcomes.
Universities Compared with Indian Institute of Technology Madras
Students applying to Indian Institute of Technology Madras often shortlist similar institutions of comparable scale, prestige, and academic depth. These universities frequently appear alongside Indian Institute of Technology Madras on application lists, useful for hedging or for direct head-to-head comparison.
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