Kharagpur: In a groundbreaking move, IIT Kharagpur has unveiled a new admission pathway that could redefine entry to India’s premier engineering institutes.
Starting with the 2026 academic session, students excelling in international Olympiads or national and international sports competitions will be eligible for admission without clearing the highly competitive JEE Advanced exam.
The institute’s Senate has greenlit this innovative proposal, and a dedicated committee is now crafting the rules and eligibility criteria. Under two new schemes — Scholastic Excellence Admission (SEA) and Sports Excellence Admission (SCOPE)— students will only need to pass their Class 12 exams and meet JEE age requirements, bypassing the JEE Advanced hurdle.
This initiative aims to nurture talent beyond academics, offering opportunities to those who shine in specialised fields like Olympiads or sports.
IIT Kharagpur is set to release detailed guidelines soon, outlining the application process, selection criteria, seat allocation, and verification of medals or achievements. The institute will also coordinate with the Joint Seat Allocation Authority (JoSAA) to ensure a seamless process.
If successful, other IITs such as Madras, Bombay, Kanpur, and Gandhinagar could adopt this model, thereby reducing reliance on JEE Advanced and providing opportunities for diverse talent.
This bold step is a game-changer for students who represent India on global platforms through academic or athletic excellence.
By broadening access to IITs, the initiative promises to reshape India’s higher education landscape, celebrating multifaceted achievements while maintaining academic rigour.