The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are two of the world’s most prestigious engineering and technology institutions.
While IITs are renowned for producing top-tier engineers and innovators in India, MIT stands as a global leader in scientific research and technological advancements. Both institutions attract the brightest minds, making a comparison between IIT vs MIT relevant for students aspiring to study at the best universities.
In global rankings, MIT consistently secures top positions in global rankings, holding the #1 spot in the QS World University Rankings 2025, #2 in both the Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings 2025 and US News Best Global Universities 2024-2025.
On the other hand, IITs have also gained international recognition, with IIT Bombay ranking #118 and IIT Delhi at #150 in the QS World Rankings 2025. Other IITs, such as IIT Kharagpur, also feature among the top-ranked institutions globally.
Understanding the differences between IIT vs MIT can help students evaluate academic rigor, research opportunities, and global recognition, making an informed decision about their education and career aspirations.
Read on to explore how these institutions compare and which one might be the right fit for you!
Key Highlights:
Particulars
MIT
IIT
Fullform
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Indian Institute Of Technology
Established
April 10, 1861
September 15, 1956
Location
Cambridge, MA USA
India
Entrance Exam
SAT & ACT
JEE Advanced & GATE
Acceptance Rate
5%
1%
Average Tuition Fee
INR 27L (USD 30995) - INR 73.5L (USD 84350)
INR 3L - INR 12L
Avg Salary Package
INR 1.47Cr (USD 169,370)
INR 24 LPA
Type
Private Institution
Government Institutions
Top Recruiters
Google
Boeing
Raytheon
Lockheed
Samsung
Microsoft
Tata Steel
Qualcomm
Dell
Samsung
IIT vs MIT - Key Differences
The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) were established in 1951, with IIT Kharagpur being the first. Over the years, IITs have expanded to 23 campuses across India, aiming to provide world-class technical education and produce skilled engineers and researchers. Their motto, "Knowledge is the Supreme Goal", reflects their commitment to innovation and excellence.
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) was founded in 1861 in Cambridge, USA, with a mission to advance knowledge in science, technology, and engineering. MIT's motto, "Mind and Hand" (Mens et Manus), emphasizes the blend of theoretical learning with practical application.
Both IIT and MIT have significantly impacted the world of science and technology. MIT has contributed to pioneering advancements in artificial intelligence, robotics, and space research, while IIT alumni have played key roles in software engineering, semiconductor industries, and global research.
Did You Know? JEE Advanced is one of the toughest exams worldwide, with an acceptance rate of just 1%, making it even more competitive than Ivy League admissions!
Both IIT and MIT are among the most selective institutions in the world, admitting only the top-performing students. The admission processes at both universities are highly competitive, requiring rigorous preparation and academic excellence.
While IITs rely on JEE Advanced, one of the toughest engineering entrance exams, MIT follows a holistic admissions process, evaluating standardized test scores, academic records, essays, extracurricular achievements, and recommendations.
Acceptance Rates:
IITs: Out of nearly 1.5 million students who appear for JEE Mains, only about 200,000 qualify for JEE Advanced, and from there, only around 16,000 students secure a seat. This translates to an acceptance rate of approximately 1%.
MIT: With over 26,000 applicants each year, MIT admits around 1,300 students, resulting in an acceptance rate of approximately 4-5%.
Tips for Cracking IIT Admission
Build a strong foundation in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM).
Practice mock tests and previous years’ JEE Advanced papers.
Focus on time management and accuracy during exams.
Enroll in coaching programs or online preparation courses for structured learning.
Stay consistent with daily revision and problem-solving practice.
Tips for Getting into MIT
Aim for high SAT/ACT scores and outstanding academic performance.
Showcase leadership in extracurricular activities like research, sports, or innovation projects.
Write compelling personal essays that highlight unique experiences and aspirations.
Obtain strong recommendation letters from teachers or mentors.
Participate in international competitions, Olympiads, or research projects to strengthen your profile.
Both IIT vs MIT require dedication and strategic preparation.
What are the Top Courses at IIT and MIT?
Both IIT and MIT offer a diverse range of programs across engineering, technology, and sciences, making them top choices for students aiming for excellence in these fields. MIT offers over 50 undergraduate and 49 graduate programs, spanning engineering, business, and interdisciplinary sciences.
IITs collectively offer hundreds of programs across 23 campuses, with a strong emphasis on engineering, technology, and research.
While IITs primarily focus on core engineering disciplines, MIT provides a broader academic spectrum, including business, economics, and applied sciences.
Below is a comparison of the top courses at both institutions along with their average annual tuition fees.
Top Courses at IITs
Course Level
Course Name
Average Annual Tuition (INR)
Bachelor’s
BTech in Computer Science and Engineering
INR 8L - INR 10L
Bachelor’s
BTech in Electrical Engineering
INR 8L - INR 10L
Master’s
MTech in Artificial Intelligence and Data Science
INR 3L
Master’s
MTech in Chemical Engineering
INR 2-3L
Master’s
MBA in Business and Management
INR 12L
Top Courses at MIT
Course Level
Course Name
Average Annual Tuition (USD)
Bachelor’s
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Engineering
What is the Eligibility Criteria for IIT vs MIT Admissions?
Getting into IIT or MIT is highly competitive, and both institutions have rigorous admission criteria. IIT admissions primarily rely on entrance exams like JEE Advanced, while MIT admissions consider a holistic approach, including academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays.
Eligibility Criteria for IIT Admissions:
Candidates must have completed 10+2 (Class 12) with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) as core subjects.
Must qualify for JEE Main to be eligible for JEE Advanced (the final exam for IIT admissions).
Should secure a minimum percentage in Class 12 (varies each year as per IIT regulations).
Indian nationals, Overseas Citizens of India (OCI), and foreign nationals (limited seats) can apply.
A maximum of two attempts are allowed for JEE Advanced.
Eligibility Criteria for MIT Admissions:
Must have completed high school with coursework in Mathematics, Science, and English.
Strong academic record with a high GPA (no fixed cut-off, but competitive applicants often have a 3.9+ GPA on a 4.0 scale).
Standardized test scores such as SAT or ACT (MIT reinstated SAT/ACT requirements).
Requires English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS for non-native English speakers.
Strong letters of recommendation, extracurricular achievements, and compelling application essays are essential.
No age limit, but applicants must meet MIT’s academic and personal evaluation standards.
The admission processes for IIT and MIT differ significantly. IIT admissions are based on performance in national-level entrance exams, while MIT considers academics, extracurricular achievements, essays, and recommendations.
Here is the admission process for IIT:
Step 1: Appear for JEE Main (conducted by NTA). The top 2.5 lakh rankers qualify for JEE Advanced.
Step 2: Register for JEE Advanced and take the exam. The final selection is based on JEE Advanced scores.
Step 3: Secure a rank within the IIT cutoff list (varies for different IITs and programs).
Step 4: Participate in JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority) counseling for seat allocation.
Step 5: Once allotted a seat, complete the admission formalities, including document verification and fee payment.
Admission Process for MIT:
Step 1: Maintain a high GPA in high school, preferably above 3.9 on a 4.0 scale.
Step 2: Take SAT or ACT (MIT requires standardized test scores). Aim for 1500+ on SAT or 34+ on ACT.
Step 3: International students must take TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency.
Step 4: Submit the MIT application through the MIT Admissions portal with:
High school transcripts
Letters of recommendation
Extracurricular activities and achievements
Personal essays
Step 5: Shortlisted candidates may be called for an optional interview.
Step 6: Wait for the admission decision and, if selected, complete enrollment formalities.
Both IIT and MIT have extremely competitive admission processes, requiring thorough preparation and strong academic records.
Which is Better, IIT or MIT in Terms of Rankings?
Did you know?MIT has been ranked the No.1 university in the world for 13 years in a row by the QS World University Rankings.
University rankings are a key indicator of an institution's academic reputation, research excellence, and global influence. MIT is consistently ranked among the top universities worldwide, while IITs hold strong positions in engineering and technology, particularly in India.
Below are separate ranking tables for MIT and IIT
MIT Rankings:
Ranking Platform
MIT Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025
#1
Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings 2025
#2
US News Best Global Universities 2024 -2025
#2
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU - Shanghai Ranking) 2024
Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur (IIT-KGP)
#222
Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM)
#227
Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IITK)
#263
Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee (IITR)
#335
Indian Institute of Technology, Guwahati (IITG)
#344
Indian Institute of Technology, Indore
#477
Indian Institute of Technology, Varanasi (IIT-BHU Varanasi)
#531
Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IITH)
#681 - #690
Indian Institute of Technology Bhubaneswar
#951 - #1000
While MIT leads globally in research and innovation, IITs remain among the best institutions in India, producing top engineers, researchers, and entrepreneurs.
IIT vs MIT: Alumni
Fact:MIT has a vast alumni network of over 149,000 graduates spread across more than 150 countries.
A strong alumni network plays a crucial role in shaping an institution’s reputation and global influence. Both IIT and MIT have produced some of the world's most successful entrepreneurs, scientists, engineers, and industry leaders.
Their alumni networks contribute significantly to technological advancements, business innovations, and research breakthroughs worldwide.
Notable Alumni of IIT:
Sundar Pichai (IIT Kharagpur) – CEO of Google & Alphabet.
Narendra Karmarkar (IIT Bombay) – Inventor of the Karmarkar’s algorithm, used in optimization.
Raghuram Rajan (IIT Delhi) – Former Governor of the Reserve Bank of India.
Narayana Murthy (IIT Kanpur) – Co-founder of Infosys.
Arvind Krishna (IIT Kanpur) – CEO of IBM.
Notable Alumni of MIT
Kofi Annan – Former UN Secretary-General and Nobel Peace Prize winner.
Buzz Aldrin– Second person to walk on the moon.
Richard Feynman – Renowned physicist and Nobel Prize winner.
Drew Houston – Co-founder and CEO of Dropbox.
I.M. Pei – World-famous architect, known for designing the Louvre Pyramid in Paris.
IIT vs MIT: Salary & Placement Packages
Securing a degree from a prestigious institution like IIT or MIT significantly boosts career prospects, with graduates receiving attractive salary packages and placement opportunities. Both institutions have strong industry ties, enabling students to land high-paying jobs across various sectors.
1. MIT Salary & Placement Overview
MIT graduates consistently receive top offers from leading global companies. The MBA Class of 2024 reported:
55.5% of accepted job offers came from return summer internships.
64.9% of job offers were school-facilitated.
10% of graduates are starting their own business.
39.7% accepted jobs due to growth potential.
MIT Salary Breakdown:
Salary Type
Amount (USD)
Average Base Salary
INR 1.47Cr (USD 169,370)
Median Base Salary
INR 1.50Cr (USD 169,550)
Highest Salary
INR 1.65Cr (USD 190,000)
2. IIT Salary & Placement Overview
IITs witness strong placement seasons, with top recruiters actively hiring graduates. In 2024–25, IIT Delhi alone recorded:
1200+ job offers, including 1150 unique selections.
50+ international offers from organizations in Japan, Netherlands, South Korea, UAE, UK, and the US.
Leading recruiters: Microsoft, Google, Goldman Sachs, American Express, Barclays, Intel India, Qualcomm, and Oracle.
IIT Salary Breakdown:
Salary Type
Amount (INR)
Average Salary
INR 24 LPA
Median Salary
INR 25.8 L LPA
Highest Salary
INR 41 LPA
Note: Date taken from final placement report of IIT Delhi MBA class 2021-2023
IIT vs MIT: Top Recruiters
Both IIT and MIT have strong recruiter networks, with companies from diverse industries hiring graduates.
Institution
Top Recruiters
MIT
Google
Amazon
Apple
McKinsey
Goldman Sachs
Microsoft
Tesla
BCG
JPMorga
Chase
IIT
Microsoft
Google
Goldman Sachs
Intel India
Qualcomm
Oracle
Barclays
American Express
PayU
Meesho
Conclusion
Both IIT and MIT are world-class institutions that attract brilliant minds and offer outstanding academic and career opportunities. While MIT leads in global rankings, research, and innovation, IITs provide top-tier education at a more affordable cost and have a strong presence in India and beyond.
When comparing IIT vs MIT, the best choice depends on a student's career goals, financial considerations, and academic aspirations. MIT graduates secure some of the highest salary packages globally, while IITians make a significant impact in technology, business, and entrepreneurship. Both institutions have a strong alumni network, with graduates excelling in top leadership positions across industries.
Ultimately, whether you aim for IIT or MIT, success depends on hard work, strategic preparation, and leveraging opportunities. Choosing the right path will help shape a rewarding future in engineering, technology, and beyond!
Both IIT vs MIT have highly competitive admission processes, but in different ways. IITs have an acceptance rate of around 1%, making JEE Advanced one of the toughest exams worldwide. MIT’s acceptance rate is about 4-5%, but it follows a holistic approach, evaluating academics, extracurricular activities, essays, and recommendations.
Do IIT students go to MIT for higher studies?
Yes, many IIT graduates pursue master's or PhD programs at MIT, as it offers world-class research opportunities and global recognition. IIT vs MIT comparisons often highlight that top IIT students with strong research experience and academic records successfully gain admission to MIT for advanced studies.
Which institute has better research opportunities, IIT or MIT?
MIT is globally recognized for its cutting-edge research, receiving high funding and collaborating with top industries. While IITs also focus on research, their primary strength lies in technical education and engineering innovation. When comparing IIT vs MIT, MIT offers greater exposure to groundbreaking research in AI, robotics, and quantum computing.
Can a student apply to both IIT and MIT?
Yes, students can apply to both IIT and MIT, but the admission processes differ. IIT admissions are based on JEE Advanced, while MIT considers SAT/ACT scores, essays, recommendation letters, and a holistic profile review. Those preparing for IIT vs MIT admissions need different strategies for each.
How does student life at IIT compare to MIT?
IIT vs MIT student life varies significantly. MIT has a diverse international student body, flexible course structures, and a strong emphasis on research and entrepreneurship. IITs offer a more structured academic experience, with a focus on technical education, competitive campus culture, and national-level events like Techfest and cultural festivals.
Which institute has better entrepreneurship opportunities, IIT or MIT?
MIT has a thriving startup ecosystem, with alumni founding companies like Dropbox and HubSpot, supported by MIT’s strong funding and incubators. IITs also foster entrepreneurship, producing top startup founders in India, but in the IIT vs MIT comparison, MIT has a greater global impact in the startup world.
Is MIT only for science and engineering students?
No, MIT offers a wide range of programs beyond engineering, including business, economics, architecture, and social sciences. IITs, on the other hand, primarily focus on engineering, technology, and management programs. When comparing IIT vs MIT, MIT provides a more interdisciplinary education.
Are scholarships available for international students at MIT?
Yes, MIT offers need-based financial aid and scholarships to international students, ensuring financial constraints do not limit talented applicants. In the IIT vs MIT comparison, IITs provide government subsidies and merit-based scholarships, making them more affordable for Indian students.
Which institution has a stronger alumni network, IIT or MIT?
Both IIT vs MIT have influential alumni networks. MIT alumni hold leadership positions globally, including in Fortune 500 companies and groundbreaking research institutions. IIT alumni have significantly shaped the global tech industry, with leaders like Sundar Pichai (Google) and Narayana Murthy (Infosys).
Can international students apply to IIT?
Yes, international students can apply to IITs, but their admission process is different from that of Indian students. Unlike JEE Advanced, foreign applicants can apply through DASA (Direct Admission of Students Abroad) or other IIT-specific international admission programs.
Do IIT and MIT have exchange programs?
Yes, some IITs have exchange programs and research collaborations with MIT, allowing students to gain exposure to international education. The IIT vs MIT partnership has led to joint research projects and student exchange initiatives, benefiting students from both institutions.
Which institution is better for artificial intelligence and data science, IIT or MIT?
MIT is a world leader in AI and data science research, with dedicated labs, strong industry partnerships, and extensive funding. IITs also offer excellent AI programs, but in the IIT vs MIT comparison, MIT provides greater access to advanced research, faculty, and high-paying job opportunities in AI-driven industries.
upGrad abroad Editorial Team |2735 articles published
We are a dedicated team of study-abroad experts, ensuring intensive research and comprehensive information in each of our blogs. With every piece written, we aim at simplifying the overseas education ...
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