Top 10 Universities for Machine Learning in India [QS 2027 Rankings]

By upGrad

Updated on Nov 02, 2026 | 3 min read | 878.98K+ views

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Key points:

  • There are a number of universities in India in 2026 offering courses related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Data Science and Machine Learning (ML).
  • Top IITs and technical universities are known for their Research & special labs and good placement opportunities.
  • AI and ML recruitment in India is growing by 45% in FY26. The demand to hire AI professionals would be above one million. But there’s still a 53% skills gap.”
  • Different universities offer different online ML courses with different fees, timelines, eligibility criteria and learning modes.
  • Students should check ML curriculum, fees, hands on training, research opportunities, and placement assistance before choosing the best university.
    By looking at the top 10 best universities for Machine Learning in India, students can find an appropriate course as per their needs.

Explore our top Machine Learning courses to build practical skills in AI, data science, and machine learning. Choose a course that fits your career goals and enroll today!

What Are the Top 10 Universities for Machine Learning in India?

There are so many universities in India that offer courses in Machine learning (ML), Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Data Science. Top technical institutes provide coding, data analysis and AI model skills.

Students can also check QS World University Rankings 2027 to figure out best universities. However, it is also important to look out course syllabus, fees and entry requirements.

The following is a list of universities offering relevant courses in Machine Learning:

Top 10 Universities ML-Related Courses QS World Rank 2027
IIT Delhi

• BTech in Computer Science and Engineering

• MTech in Computer Science

• Certificate Programme in Applied Data Science and AI

• Advanced Certificate Programme in AI, ML and DL

118
IIT Bombay

• BTech in Computer Science and Engineering

• MTech in Computer Science

• Executive PG Diploma in AI and Data Science

134
IIT Madras

• BS in Data Science and Applications

• PG Diploma in AI and ML

• MTech in AI and ML

170
IIT Kharagpur

• MTech in Artificial Intelligence

• Executive PG Certificate in Applied AI and ML with Gen AI

205
IIT Roorkee

• MTech in Artificial Intelligence

• MTech in Data Science

• PG Certificate in AI, GenAI, Agentic AI and ML

335
IIT Guwahati

• Online BSc (Hons) in Data Science and AI

• MTech in Robotics and AI

• Advanced Professional Certification in Data Science and ML

349
IIT Hyderabad

• BTech in Artificial Intelligence

• MTech in AI and Machine Learning

588
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)

• BTech in CSE with specialization in AI and ML

• MTech in AI and ML

597
Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham

• MTech in Artificial Intelligence

• BTech in AI and Data Science

• MTech in AI and Data Science

1201 - 1400
IIIT Hyderabad

• Online Masters in Computer Science (AI and ML specialization)

• Minor in Modern Machine Learning

• PG Level Certification in AI and ML

Not Ranked

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What Are the Most Popular Machine Learning Courses in India?

Machine learning is one of the fastest growing field in India. Students can get a full degree in Machine learning or take up a short course to gain knowledge. Many top institutes such as the IIT’s and IIIT Hyderabad provide online and live classes.

Here are 10 popular choices, with how long each one takes:

Course Top University Duration
BS in Data Science and Applications IIT Madras 4 years
PG Diploma in AI and ML IIT Madras 1 to 2 years
Executive PG Diploma in AI and Data Science IIT Bombay 18 months
Executive PG Certificate in Applied AI and ML with Gen AI IIT Kharagpur 8 months
PG Certificate in AI, GenAI, Agentic AI and ML IIT Roorkee 11 months
Certificate Programme in Applied Data Science and AI IIT Delhi 24 weeks
Advanced Professional Certification in Data Science and ML IIT Guwahati 10 to 12 months
Online BSc (Hons) in Data Science and AI IIT Guwahati 4 years
PG Level Certification in AI and ML IIIT Hyderabad 9 months
MTech in AI and Machine Learning IIT Hyderabad 24 months 

Related Article: Machine Learning Syllabus

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What Are the Top Online Machine Learning Courses in India?

Online machine learning courses allows people to learn AI skills while leep doing job. Some are short certificates, and others are full master’s degrees. Below are 7 popular programs from top schools like IIIT Bangalore, LJMU, IIM Udaipur, and MIT Open Learning. 

Online ML and AI Courses: Duration and Fees:

Course Name Duration Fees
Executive Diploma in Machine Learning and AI (IIIT Bangalore) 12 months INR 3.10L
Executive Diploma in DS & AI (IIIT Bangalore) 12 months INR 2.80L
Chief Technology Officer & AI Leadership Programme (IIIT-B & IIM Udaipur) 6 months INR 3.65L
Master of Science in Machine Learning & AI (Liverpool John Moores University) 18 months INR 5.35L
Executive Programme in Generative AI & Agentic AI for Leaders (IIIT Bangalore) 5 months INR 2.25L
EPGP in Applied AI and Agentic AI (IIIT Bangalore) 7 months INR 1.40L
Universal AI by MIT Open Learning 200+ hours (self-paced) NA

What is the Eligibility Criteria for Machine Learning Courses in India?

The eligibility criteria for Machine Learning courses in India depends on the level of course you’re applying to. This is a general guideline. However, every university has its own set of rules regarding admissions, minimum scores, and entrance exams.

Here are the eligibility criteria:

1. Undergraduate Eligibility

  • Students must pass Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, and Maths (PCM).
  • Many IITs expect at least 75% marks in Class 12 (65% for reserved categories).
  • IITs and IIITs take students through JEE Advanced and JoSAA counselling for BTech programs. 
  • Some private universities accept their own entrance exams. For example, Amrita accepts AEEE or JEE scores. 
  • Online degrees like IIT Madras BS need a Class 12 pass and a qualifier exam. IIT Guwahati’s online BSc needs a qualifier test of 2 hours with 80 questions, unless the candidate is exempt.

2. Postgraduate Eligibility

  • BE/BTech in any engineering discipline (4-year degree) is a must. Some of the programs also accept an MSc, MS or MCA in CS, IT or Maths.
  • Most of the MTech courses require a valid GATE score in CS, EC or IT.
  • Private universities may ask for minimum 60% marks or first class. For example VIT requires 60% aggregate marks for MTech.
  • Final year students may be welcome to apply but must have completed all exams by the admission deadline.
  • The candidates should have completed all the BS degree courses before joining the PG Diploma level of IIT Madras. 

3. Online Course Eligibility

  • BTech, BE, BSc, MSc, MCA, BCA with minimum 50% in the degree.
  • Executive PG Diploma from IIT Bombay requires 4 years of undergraduate degree or 3 years degree with 1 year work experience.
  • Certificate in Applied Data Science and AI from IIT Delhi for graduates and diploma holders with 10+2+3 from recognized universities.
  • Some courses require work experience. 
  • Some programs expect basic coding skills, mostly in Python programming. IIIT Hyderabad’s PG certificate needs a coding background. 
  • Online courses usually do not need an entrance exam. Selection is based on marks, work experience, and document checks.

Also Read: Generative AI Course Eligibility

How to choose the best university for Machine Learning courses in India?

Choosing the best university for Machine Learning courses in India depend on individual learning requirements, how much money they have to spend and what they want to do in future. Students can compare different universities using some key points.

Steps to choose the best university

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What are the Top Career Opportunities after Machine Learning Courses in India?

Students can take Machine Learning classes to gain skills for jobs in AI, data analysis and software development. Salary depends on the position, experience, skills and on the company itself.

Top 5 Jobs After Machine Learning Courses:

Job Role Average Annual Salary in India
Machine Learning Engineer INR 13.2L
AI Engineer INR 15.7L
Data Scientist INR 16.1L
Data Engineer INR 12.1L
Research Scientist INR 10.4L

Sourced By: AmbitionBox

 

Conclusion

There are a lot of career opportunities in machine learning field in India. Choosing the right university for machine learning course in India depends on various factors such as course fee, duration, eligibility, practical training, and your career goals.

It is recommended to compare different programs. Finding the right course will help students to develop the relevant skills required for future AI and data science jobs.

To find the right course for your goals, schedule a free counselling session with our experts now!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the best universities for Machine Learning in India?

Some of the best universities to study machine learning in India are:

  • IIT Delhi
  • IIT Bombay
  • IIT Madras
  • IIT Hyderabad

2. What are the best colleges to study AI and Machine Learning courses in India?

Some of the best colleges in India to study Artificial intelligence and Machine Learning are;

  • IIT Kharagpur
  • IIT Roorkee
  • IIT Guwahati
  • Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)
  • IIIT Hyderabad and Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham are also great choices.

3. What are the best universities for Machine Learning courses in India?

Some of the best universities in India to study a masters in machine learning are:

  • IIT Bombay
  • IIT Delhi
  • IIT Madras
  • IIT Hyderabad

Before taking up a course you should compare the specializations, entry requirements and practical aspect of each course.

4. Is AI and ML more challenging than Computer Science Engineering?

AI and ML can be quite challenging as they rely on maths, stats and data analysis. CSE has a broader range of subjects to learn, such as coding, databases, operating systems and computer networks. It will depend on your personal interests and skills.

5. Is Machine Learning a well paid career in India?

Machine Learning is a well paid career in India. On average, Machine Learning Engineers earn around ₹13.2 lakh per year, based on the salaries shown in this article. Your actual salary will depend on your skills, experience, company and location.

6. How long is a Machine Learning course?

This depends on the course and university:

  • Certificate courses can take between 6-12 months.
  • BTech: Usually 4 years.
  • MTech: Usually 2 years.
  • Some online courses offer flexible study times.

7. Can I study Machine Learning course online?

Yes! You can study Machine Learning online through degree and certificate courses. Some great options include courses from IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati and IIIT Hyderabad. Before taking a course you should compare the syllabus, entry requirements, practical projects and certification.

8. What are the entry requirements to study Machine Learning after Class 12?

Most undergraduate engineering courses require you to have completed Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry and Maths. Many IIT BTech courses require you to pass JEE Advanced. Entry requirements can vary for online degree courses.

9. How do I choose the best Universities for Machine Learning?

Before choosing a course you should look at:

  • Syllabus and specialisms
  • Fees and course duration
  • Staff, research and practical projects
  • Internships, career support and reputation.
  • Overall university rankings can help you choose.

10. What jobs can I do after completing a course in Machine Learning?

Courses in Machine Learning can help you become a:

  • Machine Learning Engineer
  • AI Engineer
  • Data Scientist
  • Data Engineer
  • Research Scientist

The right job will depend on technical skills, qualifications and career interests. Choosing one of the best universities for Machine Learning in india can help to find the right course to help you achieve your career goals.

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