Top Overall Colleges in India: A Comprehensive Guide
Top Overall Colleges in India
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)
Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) was established in 1959 by the Government of India. It is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, and is one of the leading institutions for higher technological education and research. Over the years, IIT Madras has cemented its place as an Institute of National Importance, contributing significantly to research, innovation, and education in India.
For six consecutive years, from 2019 to 2024, IIT Madras retained its 1st position in the Overall Category of India Rankings, reflecting its consistent commitment to excellence in education. Before that, the institution was ranked 2nd in 2017 and 2018. IIT Madras excels in research output, industry collaborations, and offering state-of-the-art facilities to students and faculty alike, making it a dream destination for many aspiring engineers and technologists across the country.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru
Founded in 1909, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, is one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions for scientific and technological research in India. The establishment of IISc was supported by philanthropist Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the Government of India, and the Maharaja of Mysore. Located in Bengaluru, Karnataka, IISc continues to be at the forefront of cutting-edge research in science and engineering.
IISc Bengaluru has retained the 2nd position in the Overall Category of India Rankings 2024, having consistently held this position since 2019. Previously, IISc was ranked 1st in the Overall Category in 2017 and 2018. Known for its advanced research programs, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a highly qualified faculty, IISc remains a top choice for students looking to pursue careers in scientific research and advanced engineering disciplines.
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT Bombay) is located in Powai, Mumbai, and was established in 1958 by the Government of India. Recognized as an Institute of National Importance, IIT Bombay has consistently produced some of the finest engineers and technologists in the country. It is renowned for its excellent faculty, innovative research programs, and a strong focus on entrepreneurship and industry linkages.
In the India Rankings 2024, IIT Bombay is ranked 3rd in the Overall Category, maintaining its top-tier status. Over the years, from 2017 to 2023, IIT Bombay has consistently been ranked between 3rd and 4th in the Overall Category. With its vibrant student community, excellent campus facilities, and a strong focus on interdisciplinary research, IIT Bombay continues to be a popular choice among aspiring engineers and technologists.
Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi)
Established in 1961, Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT Delhi) is one of the leading public engineering and research institutions in India. Situated in Hauz Khas, Delhi, IIT Delhi was initially affiliated with the University of Delhi before being recognized as an Institute of National Importance. Over the years, IIT Delhi has grown to become one of the most sought-after engineering institutions in the country.
In the Overall Category of the India Rankings 2024, IIT Delhi is ranked 4th. From 2017 to 2023, IIT Delhi has consistently been ranked between 3rd and 5th, demonstrating its consistent performance in academics, research, and innovation. The institute boasts world-class infrastructure, a highly experienced faculty, and strong industry connections that make it one of the top choices for engineering aspirants across India.
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur)
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) was established in 1959 in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, and is one of India’s top public engineering and research institutions. Recognized as an Institute of National Importance, IIT Kanpur has been a pioneer in engineering education and research, with a strong emphasis on innovation and academic excellence.
In the India Rankings 2024, IIT Kanpur retained its 5th position in the Overall Category, holding this rank for the fourth consecutive year from 2021 to 2024. Prior to that, it was ranked between 6th and 7th from 2017 to 2020. IIT Kanpur’s contribution to research and its close collaboration with industry partners make it a top destination for students pursuing higher education in engineering and technology.
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur)
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur (IIT Kharagpur) was the first IIT to be established in India, in 1951. Located in Kharagpur, West Bengal, it has a rich legacy as an Institute of National Importance. IIT Kharagpur is known for its diverse academic programs and a strong emphasis on research in various fields of engineering, technology, and management.
In the India Rankings 2024, IIT Kharagpur stands at the 6th position in the Overall Category. Between 2017 and 2023, the institute’s rankings varied between 4th and 7th positions, reflecting its consistent performance. IIT Kharagpur offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs and is renowned for its alumni network that spans across various industries globally.
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi (AIIMS, New Delhi)
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi (AIIMS, New Delhi), established in 1956, is one of India’s premier medical institutions. AIIMS was created as an Institution of National Importance by an Act of Parliament, with the objective of providing top-tier medical education, research, and patient care services.
AIIMS New Delhi secured the 7th position in the Overall Category of the India Rankings 2024, rising from 9th in 2022 and 6th in 2023. AIIMS remains the leading institution for medical education in India, attracting students from all over the country who aspire to become medical professionals. Its excellent hospital services, research output, and advanced medical education make it a top choice for students.
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee)
Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IIT Roorkee) is the oldest technical institution in Asia, having been established in 1847. Located in Roorkee, Uttarakhand, IIT Roorkee is one of the most respected institutions for higher education in engineering and technology in India. The institute was declared an IIT in 2001.
IIT Roorkee retained its 8th position in the Overall Category of India Rankings 2024 for the second year in a row. Between 2017 and 2022, IIT Roorkee’s rankings ranged between 7th and 9th. With its rich legacy and continuous focus on research, innovation, and industry collaboration, IIT Roorkee remains a popular destination for engineering students.
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati)
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT Guwahati) was established in 1994 in Assam and is the sixth member of the IIT fraternity. IIT Guwahati has grown rapidly to become a top destination for engineering students and is recognized for its advanced research programs and beautiful campus on the banks of the Brahmaputra River.
In the India Rankings 2024, IIT Guwahati secured the 9th position in the Overall Category, maintaining the same ranking as in 2023. Between 2017 and 2022, it fluctuated between 7th and 12th positions. IIT Guwahati’s unique location and focus on research in emerging areas of technology make it a sought-after institution for engineering aspirants.
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi
Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), New Delhi, is one of India’s top public central universities, established in 1969 by an Act of Parliament. JNU is widely recognized for its focus on research and its liberal arts and social sciences programs. Over the years, it has built a reputation for being a center of intellectual thought and academic excellence.
JNU retained its 10th position in the Overall Category of India Rankings 2024, holding this spot for three consecutive years. Between 2017 and 2021, it was ranked between 6th and 10th. JNU continues to attract students from all over India due to its rigorous academic programs and strong emphasis on research in various fields.