Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram : Course & Fees
The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, is a premier institution dedicated to space science and technology education and research in India. Established by the Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO), IIST plays a pivotal role in nurturing talent and fostering innovation in the field of space science and technology. It has gained a reputation as a leading center for astronautical engineering and research, making significant contributions to India’s space endeavors.
The history of IIST reflects India’s commitment to space exploration and technological advancement. Formally inaugurated on August 14, 2007, it was established as an autonomous academic institution under the Department of Space (DOS) to meet the growing demand for skilled professionals in space science and technology. The institute’s creation was inspired by the vision of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, the founder of ISRO, who emphasized the importance of nurturing young talent in space science and engineering.
IIST initially offered B.Tech programs in Aerospace Engineering, Avionics, and Physical Sciences, with a curriculum designed to provide a strong foundation in astronautical engineering. Since its inception, the institute has been actively involved in cutting-edge research related to space science and technology.
Faculty and students at IIST engage in numerous research projects, directly contributing to advancements in space exploration, satellite technology, and propulsion systems. The institute maintains a close working relationship with ISRO, offering opportunities for students to work on real-world projects, internships, and collaborative research, thereby enhancing their practical knowledge and professional competence.
Over the years, IIST has expanded its academic portfolio to include postgraduate and doctoral programs in various space-related disciplines. Its state-of-the-art infrastructure and research centers make it a hub for space science innovation in India.
The institute also boasts an astronomical observatory equipped with advanced telescopes and observation facilities, serving as a vital tool for student learning and astronomical research. IIST has also played an important role in the development of launch vehicle technology, particularly contributing to ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) program.
IIST alumni have gone on to play key roles in several ISRO missions and other global space projects, further strengthening India’s presence in the international space community. The institute stands today as a symbol of India’s dedication to space exploration, research, and technological excellence — carrying forward the legacy of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai and contributing significantly to India’s position as a spacefaring nation.
IIST Highlights
The Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) is a private university located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Recognized by the UGC and established in 1956, the institute has consistently excelled in the field of space science and engineering. Ranked 40th in Engineering by NIRF 2021, IIST offers a range of undergraduate, postgraduate, PhD, and dual degree programs across seven departments — Aerospace Engineering, Avionics, Chemistry, Earth & Space Sciences, Humanities, Mathematics, and Physics. Below are the key highlights of IIST:
About IIST
- 🛰️ Premier institute for Space Science & Technology
- 🎓 Offers BTech, MTech & PhD programs
- 🏫 Divided into 7 academic departments
- 🌍 Located in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala
- 📚 Strong research focus in collaboration with ISRO
Quick Facts
| Type of Institute | Deemed |
| Ranking | 40 (NIRF 2021, Engineering) |
| Location | Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala |
| Entrance Exams | JEE Advanced, GATE |
| Total Courses | 19 across 7 departments |
| Flagship Courses | BTech, MTech |
| Seats Intake | 140 |
| Average Package (MTech) | ₹12.5 LPA |
| Official Website | iist.ac.in |
IIST Courses & Admissions
Courses Offered
| Course | Fees | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech | ₹1.45 Lakhs (1st Year Fees) | 10+2 with 75% + JEE Advanced |
| M.Tech | ₹87,400 (1st Year Fees) | Graduation with 60% + GATE |
| B.Tech + M.S | ₹1.45 Lakhs (1st Year Fees) | 10+2 with 75% + JEE Advanced |
| B.Tech + M.Tech | ₹1.45 Lakhs (1st Year Fees) | 10+2 with 75% + JEE Advanced |
| Ph.D | ₹21,400 (1st Year Fees) | Post-Graduation with 60% |
| M.Sc | ₹87,400 (1st Year Fees) | Graduation with 60% |
IIST Admissions Overview
IIST is renowned for its flagship B.Tech program in Aerospace Engineering and Avionics.
Admission is based on JEE Main and JEE Advanced performance followed by a
counseling process. Annual tuition fees for the B.Tech program are approximately ₹1.36 Lakhs.
For postgraduate and doctoral programs such as M.Tech and Ph.D, admissions
are based on GATE scores and the institute’s written test and interview respectively.
How to Apply : IIST Admission 2023
- Registration: Visit the IIST portal, select the Undergraduate Admission link, and complete the online form. A registration number and password will be generated for future login.
- Photo Upload: Use the same photograph uploaded in JEE (Advanced) registration.
- Fee Payment: Pay the non-refundable registration fee online.
- General/EWS/OBC (Male): ₹600
- General/EWS/OBC (Female): ₹300
- SC/ST/PD Candidates: ₹300
IIST B.Tech & Dual Degree Programs
The IIST offers both undergraduate (B.Tech) and dual degree (B.Tech + M.S./M.Tech) programs. The dual degree provides specialization in:
- M.S. (Astronomy & Astrophysics)
- M.S. (Earth System Science)
- M.S. (Solid State Physics)
- M.Tech. (Optical Engineering)
• 60 seats are available for B.Tech, and 20 seats for Dual Degree programs.
• Once enrolled in the Dual Degree program, students cannot withdraw after the B.Tech portion.
Counseling Procedure
Admission to undergraduate programs is done through personal counseling based on merit, in accordance with government reservation policies. Candidates must:
- Register online on the IIST website and confirm eligibility.
- Be listed in the official admission list based on JEE (Advanced) All India Rank.
- Only registered candidates will be considered for counseling and final admission.
| Course Name | Specialization | Eligibility | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| B.Tech | Aerospace Engineering, Avionics | 10+2 with 75% (65% for SC/ST/PD) with PCM | JEE Advanced score + Counseling |
| B.Tech + M.S | Astronomy & Astrophysics, Solid State Physics | As per B.Tech eligibility | Through IIST Counseling |
| B.Tech + M.Tech | Earth System Science, Optical Engineering | As per B.Tech eligibility | Through IIST Counseling |
IIST B.Tech. & Dual B.Tech. Courses – Application Process 2023
Candidates aspiring to enroll in undergraduate programs at IIST must register for JEE Main or JEE Advanced. After registration, a roll number will be generated which should be retained for future reference during admission. Applicants must pay an application fee of INR 600 (INR 300 for SC/ST/PwD and female candidates).
IIST M.Tech. & M.S. Admission 2023
IIST offers a range of advanced postgraduate programs in science and engineering disciplines. Candidates can apply for multiple courses, provided they pay separate application fees for each. Selection is typically based on GATE scores, followed by a written test and/or interview.
| Course | Specialization | Eligibility | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| M.Tech | Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics | B.Tech in Aerospace, Aeronautical, Mechanical, or Chemical Engineering with valid GATE in AE/ME/CE | Written Test + Interview |
| M.Tech | Control Systems | B.Tech in Avionics, EEE, ECE, E&I with valid GATE in EC/EE/IN | Written Test + Interview |
| M.Tech | Machine Learning & Soft Computing | B.Tech in EE/ECE/IT/CS or M.Sc in Maths/Stats/CS with valid GATE in CS/Maths/Stats/ECE/EE | GATE Score + Interview |
| M.S. | Astronomy & Astrophysics | B.Tech or M.Sc in relevant science/engineering fields with valid GATE/JEST/UGC NET score | GATE/JEST/UGC NET + Interview |
⚠️ Note: Eligibility and specializations vary by department. Candidates should refer to the official notification before applying.
IIST M.Tech. & M.S. Courses – Application Process 2023
Candidates applying for M.Tech./M.S. programs must hold a B.E./B.Tech./M.Sc. or equivalent degree with a minimum of 60% marks or CGPA 6.50/10 for General/EWS/OBC categories and 55% marks or CGPA 6.00/10 for SC/ST/PD categories. A valid GATE score in the relevant area is mandatory.
Applicants must verify eligibility criteria on the official website before applying. The application form must be submitted online, and a hard copy should be presented during the personal interview or written test.
The application fee is INR 600 (INR 300 for SC/ST/PwD and female candidates).
IIST Ph.D. Admission 2023
For admission to Ph.D. programs, candidates must have completed an M.Tech. degree in the relevant field with first class or equivalent. Admission is based on a Written Screening Test followed by a Personal Interview.
- Candidates with an MS in Engineering from a top overseas university or an Integrated M.Tech/M.S. from IITs/IISc with a CGPA of 9.0/10 are exempted from GATE.
- Applicants without valid GATE scores but with exceptional academic records may also be considered.
| Course Name | Specialization | Research Area | Eligibility | Selection Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ph.D. | Aerospace Engineering | Turbulent flow modeling, Heat transfer, Microscale flow | B.Tech & M.Tech in Mechanical or Aerospace Engg. (Thermal/Propulsion specialization) | Written Test + Interview |
| Ph.D. | Avionics | Nanoscience, Power Systems, RF Design, Computational Intelligence | M.E./M.Tech. in ECE, EE, or related disciplines | Written Test + Interview |
| Ph.D. | Chemistry | Nanocomposites, Energy materials, Organic synthesis | M.Sc. in Chemistry/Nanoscience or M.Tech. in related fields | Written Test + Interview |
| Ph.D. | Earth & Space Science | Geology, Remote Sensing, Atmospheric Science | M.Sc./M.Tech. in Geology, Physics, or Earth Science-related field | Written Test + Interview |
| Ph.D. | Physics | Photonics, Quantum Materials, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance | M.Sc. in Physics/Applied Physics or M.Tech. in Photonics | Written Test + Interview |
⚠️ Note: This table lists selected specializations. For a complete list and detailed eligibility, refer to the official IIST admission brochure on the IIST website.
IIST Ph.D. Courses Application Process 2023
- Students can apply for IIST PhD programs only through the official website.
- Ensure all details are correct before submission — no changes allowed after submission.
- Application fee: INR 700 per department (INR 250 for SC/ST/PWD/Women).
- Each course application requires a separate non-refundable fee.
- Government/PSU employees must upload a “No Objection Certificate.”
- Reserved category candidates must upload valid certificates during form submission.
Placement
IIST is a premier institute for Space Science education and research. The placement record has consistently been impressive.
- 2021 placement drive hosted on IIST campus.
- 42 students placed during the placement season.
- Highest CTC: INR 11.5 LPA
- Average CTC: INR 7.6 LPA
- Top recruiters: TCS, Mahindra & Mahindra, Viz Experts, Analog Devices, Mercedes Benz, and others.
Ranking
| Stream | Ranking Name | Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| B.Tech | NIRF | #48 out of 200 in India 2023 #2nd in Kerala |
| B.Tech | IIRF | #12 out of 170 in India 2023 |
| Overall | NIRF Innovation | #6 out of 25 in India 2020 |
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