IIT vs MIT: Which Is Better for Indian Students In 2024

We have developed a brief overview of the comparison between IIT vs MIT based on several factors, considering location, acceptance rate, courses, salary, top recruiting companies, etc. Check out the list below:

Here are some critical distinctions between the two top-class institutes that will help make a better choice between IIT and MIT. 

• IIT full-form is the Indian Institute of Technology, a group of public research-intensive technical universities in India.

• They provide several programs in specific fields like science, engineering and technology. 

• The acceptance rate in IITs is relatively low, and you must appear for the national-level entrance exam called JEE to get admission to any IITs.

• IITs offer bachelor’s, master’s and PhD degrees with a significant focus on engineering and technology. 

• Graduates from IIT have significantly contributed to science, research, technology, and entrepreneurial pursuits.

• MIT full-form for Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA. 

• MIT has unconventionally innovative research and multi-disciplinary approaches to education. 

• It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and Ph.D. degrees in multiple areas, such as science, engineering, technology, economics, social science, and business. 

• It is known for its competitive admission process, attracting top students and well-equipped faculty worldwide.

• MIT is famous for promoting the entrepreneurial spirit and is the origin of many successful startups, advanced technology, and research.

Both universities offer programs in science and technology. However, MIT offers many academic courses, including arts, social science, and business. MIT emphasises research and innovation, while the primary focus of IITs is engineering and technology. Below is a distinction between IIT and MIT based on the courses and fee structure.

When applying to universities, it is critical to understand the criteria used by the institutions you are interested in. MIT and IIT have selection standards for selecting the top candidates for their respective programs.

MIT evaluates candidates based on factors such as academic milestones, IELTS scores, SOP, LOR, etc. Additionally, students must submit their SAT scores to get admission to bachelor’s programs and GRE/GMAT scores for PG courses.

Though the university has no minimum score requirement, it still considers the SAT scores in its admission procedure. Instead, they thoroughly study the applicant’s profile to consider all the aspects and see if they are eligible for admission to MIT University.

Eligibility Criteria:

• To be eligible for MIT's undergraduate courses, applicants must graduate high school and submit ACT or SAT results.

• To be eligible for PG admissions at MIT, applicants must have a GRE or GMAT score and meet any other department-specific requirements.

• English language proficiency test scores are equally relevant for MIT submissions such as TOEFL or IELTS at both levels of study.

IITs mainly focus on a student's performance in the national-level entrance exam, Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced. Considering the different categories of students, the minimum score required to be admitted to IIT is 31-62.

The students planning to enrol in IIT must prepare and perform exceptionally well in JEE in advance to secure a seat in top IIT institutes. Understanding the eligibility criteria of both universities will help you prepare the application accordingly, improving your chances of being accepted.

Eligibility Criteria:

For UG admissions: Students applying for UG courses have the following eligibility criteria.

• For BE/BTech admissions, aspirants must have a 75% in class XII. Qualify for both JEE Main and JEE Advanced. JoSAA counselling is conducted based on JEE Advanced results to allocate a spot for admissions.

• For BSc admissions, 75% in class XII with PCM combinations is required. JEE Advanced is also preferred.

In both circumstances, aspirants must meet the JEE Advanced exam cutoff to get admitted to the courses. After passing the entrance tests, applicants must meet the IIT cutoffs.

For PG admissions: The requirements to get admission in PG courses at IIT are

• GATE scores of 60% or higher are necessary for MTech admission.

• UGC-NET or JRF scores are required for Ph.D. admission at IITs. Furthermore, the IIT faculty must approve the research project before admission.

As we have read above, both institutes are equally rewarding for students. Now, let's compare these institutes on the grounds of salary and placement. 

Check out the data compiled for all the top IIT institutes. After placement, students work in the best companies and get the highest salary packages in India.

Some of the top companies hiring students from different IITs are:

• Capital One

• Boston Consulting Group

• Google

• McKinsey & Company

• Oracle 

• Bajaj 

• JP Morgan Chase

• Bain & Company

• Samsung

• Microsoft

• Uber

• Goldman Sachs

Now, let us look at the salaries and placements of MIT universities with the best companies. The table below shows the data on salary packages from MIT.

Some of the top companies hiring students from MIT are:

• The Boston Consulting Group

• McKinsey & Company

• Amazon

• Google 

• Bain & Company

• Verizon

• Boeing

• Lockheed

• Quanta Computers

• Raytheon

• Intel

• BAE 

MIT and IIT are famous for their academic excellence in the areas of science, technology, and engineering. While MIT is situated in Cambridge, USA, IIT has 23 institutes all over India. Both institutes have rigorous academic curricula that equip students for success in their respective disciplines. Both institutes offer handsome salary packages with top recruiting companies. Ultimately, choosing between IIT vs MIT is based on your preferences, professional goals, and financial constraints.

We hope this blog based on the comparison of IIT vs MIT has given you a better understanding of the two top educational institutions and their distinctions, allowing you to make an informed selection that is best for you. If you are still confused and seeking more information on this topic, we encourage you to speak with our expert counsellors at Meridean Overseas Education Consultants (MOEC) if you need more profound insight. If you cannot travel to our offices, we offer online counselling services via our website. Contact us now at application02@meridean.org or call us at 1800-1230-00011.

1. Is getting admission to and studying at IIT more challenging than MIT?

IIT and MIT are renowned universities with challenging academic programs. While the approach and teaching approaches differ slightly, it is difficult to determine which institution is more difficult because it ultimately comes down to individual skills and abilities. Both colleges have low acceptance rates, with IIT significantly lower than MIT. To choose which college best fits you, you must carefully analyse the programs and courses available at both.

2. Is MIT a preferable choice for Indian students?

It is difficult to say which is better for Indian students: MIT or IIT. Both institutions have advantages and disadvantages. While MIT has a higher global ranking and acceptance rate, IITs have a larger student body and a broader choice of offerings. It is ultimately determined by the individual student's preferences, professional aspirations, and academic interests.

3. What is the MIT and  IIT acceptance rate?

The acceptance rates at MIT and IIT differ. The acceptance rate at MIT is higher than that of IIT. MIT has an acceptance rate of roughly 6.7%, while IIT has a somewhat lower acceptance rate of 0.5% to 2%. However, it is crucial to note that both universities are renowned and offer demanding academic programs. 

4. How do IIT and MIT rank in terms of worldwide recognition?

IIT and MIT are renowned internationally for their academic prowess and research accomplishments. MIT is typically regarded as more renowned and has a higher global ranking, although IIT is noted for producing top-tier engineers and scientists. However, both institutions provide demanding academic programs and are recognised for contributing to various sectors.

5. Which tests are necessary for admission to IIT vs MIT?

To gain admission to an IIT, students must pass the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) administered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The admissions process at MIT differs according to the degree of study. Undergraduate programs need students to take the SAT exam, whereas graduate programs require the GRE. Additionally, international students must take an English proficiency test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.

6. Can I continue my education at MIT after graduating from IIT?

It is feasible to study at MIT after earning your degree at IIT. However, entrance to MIT differs from that of other IITs, and you must meet their admission requirements. In addition, you must complete the application process and demonstrate your academic distinction and potential for success at MIT. Many IIT alumni have been admitted to MIT for advanced studies.

7. Why do students choose MIT to IIT for higher education?

Students prefer MIT to IIT for further education due to its excellent global ranking, acceptance rate, and the diversity of courses available. MIT is regarded as the top institution in the world, with a more hands-on approach to teaching. Furthermore, MIT greatly emphasises research and innovation, which appeals to many students.

8. What distinguishes MIT from IIT?

MIT and IIT differ in status, research funding, and academic offerings. Attending MIT can provide you access to some of the most cutting-edge research facilities in the world.

9. What are the best courses to pursue at MIT?

The courses that were chosen and best at MIT are Engineering and Physical Science. 

10. Which tests are necessary for admission to IIT or MIT?

To gain admission to an IIT, students must pass the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) administered by the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The admissions process at MIT differs according to the degree of study. Undergraduate programs need students to take the SAT exam, whereas graduate programs require the GRE. Additionally, international students must take an English proficiency test, such as the IELTS or TOEFL.