Top IITs for Computer Science (CSE) in 2025 – Rankings, Seats, Cutoff

Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) is the most in-demand branch in Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Every year, lakhs of JEE Advanced aspirants dream of securing a seat in the top IITs for CSE, known for their world-class faculty, cutting-edge curriculum, global placements, and excellent research facilities.

In this blog, we present a detailed and updated guide to the top IITs for Computer Science in 2025, based on the latest NIRF rankings, JEE Advanced 2024 cutoffs, seat matrix, and placement records. This blog is especially helpful for JEE aspirants and their parents trying to make an informed decision during JoSAA counselling.

Why is CSE the Most Preferred Branch in IITs?

CSE is the top choice among engineering aspirants, and the reasons are compelling:

• Top-tier Salaries: Highest average and median salary packages
• Global Career Opportunities: Roles in MNCs and startups across the world
• Future-Ready Curriculum: Courses in AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, Data Science
• Startup & Research Scope: Strong R&D support and incubation centres in IITs
• Interdisciplinary Nature: Applications in finance, healthcare, robotics, and more

Due to this, the CSE branch in IITs sees fierce competition, with opening ranks typically within the top 100.

List of Top IITs for Computer Science (CSE) in 2025

Below is a list of the best IITs for CSE in 2025 based on their latest NIRF 2024 ranking, seat intake, and JEE Advanced cutoff trends:

Note: These are general category ranks. Reserved category ranks (EWS, OBC-NCL, SC, ST) vary and follow relaxed cutoffs.

Top IITs for CSE – Detailed Comparison

1. IIT Bombay – India’s Tech Powerhouse

• NIRF Rank: 3
• Location: Mumbai
• Cutoff Range (Gen): AIR 1 to 67
• Seats in CSE: 126
• Average Package: ₹30 LPA+
• Top Recruiters: Google, Facebook, Uber, Microsoft, Goldman Sachs
• Special Highlights:
  • Strong international placement network
  • Robust alumni network in Silicon Valley
  • Excellent research output and tech startup culture

2. IIT Delhi – Gateway to Global Careers

• NIRF Rank: 2
• Location: New Delhi
• Cutoff Range (Gen): AIR 2 to 105
• Seats in CSE: 121
• Average Package: ₹28 LPA+
• Top Recruiters: Amazon, Microsoft, Apple, Sprinklr, JP Morgan
• Special Highlights:
  • Strategic location near corporates and startups
  • Strong placement cell and international collaborations
  • High success rate in GRE, GATE, and CAT exams

3. IIT Madras – Research and Innovation Hub

• NIRF Rank: 1
• Location: Chennai
• Cutoff Range (Gen): AIR 28 to 163
• Seats in CSE: 60
• Average Package: ₹26 LPA
• Top Recruiters: Qualcomm, Oracle, Adobe, Nvidia, Flipkart
• Special Highlights:
  • Ranked No.1 in NIRF consistently
  • Strong AI/ML and IoT research clusters
  • Modern infrastructure and innovation centres

4. IIT Kanpur – Strong Academic Rigor

• NIRF Rank: 4
• Location: Kanpur
• Cutoff Range (Gen): AIR 109 to 215
• Seats in CSE: 100
• Average Package: ₹24 LPA
• Top Recruiters: Google, Rubrik, Cohesity, TCS Research, DE Shaw
• Special Highlights:
  • Pioneer in systems and algorithms research
  • Strong coding culture and peer group
  • Excellent CS faculty with global PhD backgrounds

5. IIT Kharagpur – Largest Campus, Diverse Options

• NIRF Rank: 5
• Location: Kharagpur
• Cutoff Range (Gen): AIR 174 to 300
• Seats in CSE: 180
• Average Package: ₹22 LPA
• Top Recruiters: SAP Labs, ZS, Oracle, Amazon, Microsoft
• Special Highlights:
  • Offers dual degree options in CSE and AI
  • Diverse electives and multidisciplinary projects
  • Focus on entrepreneurship and innovation

CSE Cutoff Trends in Top IITs (2022–2024)

CSE cutoffs remain highly competitive and relatively stable across top IITs.

How to Choose the Right IIT for CSE?

If you’re confused between two or more IITs, consider these factors:

Placements

• Compare average and median CSE packages
• Check list of recruiters and global placement opportunities

Faculty & Research Facilities

• Look for faculty-to-student ratio
• Access to AI/ML, Data Science labs

Campus Life & Location

• Choose cities for better exposure and internships
• Consider weather, connectivity, and cost of living

Seat Matrix and Dual Degree Options

• Some IITs offer BTech-MTech dual degrees in CSE
• More seats might mean less peer pressure but possibly lower package

NIRF Ranking and Alumni Network

• Higher NIRF ranking = stronger academics and industry connect
• Alumni presence in top tech firms can influence placements

Upcoming and Emerging IITs for CSE

If your JEE Advanced rank is beyond 1000, don’t worry. Several new IITs are growing fast:

• IIT Hyderabad: Known for AI/ML courses and strong placements
• IIT Indore: Impressive placement growth in recent years
• IIT Gandhinagar: Strong faculty base, R&D labs
• IIT Mandi: Focus on data science and interdisciplinary learning
• IIT Goa, Bhilai, Jammu: Newer campuses but promising future

Also consider IIIT Hyderabad, a non-IIT but top-tier institute for CSE.

Conclusion

Computer Science & Engineering in IITs opens the door to the most lucrative and dynamic careers in India and abroad. The top IITs for CSE in 2025 — Bombay, Delhi, Madras, Kanpur, and Kharagpur — continue to dominate rankings and placements.

While the competition is intense, understanding seat intake, cutoff trends, and campus features will help you make a smart and strategic choice.

Pro Tip: Aim for a rank under AIR 500 in JEE Advanced to maximise your chances of getting CSE in a top IIT.

Choose wisely, and prepare thoroughly!

FAQs – Top IITs for CSE in 2025

1. Which IIT is best for Computer Science in India?

IIT Bombay and IIT Delhi are considered the best IITs for Computer Science, with excellent faculty, global recruiters, and high average salary packages.

2. What is the JEE Advanced 2024 cutoff for CSE at IIT Bombay?

The general category cutoff for CSE at IIT Bombay was AIR 67 in 2024. Similar trends are expected in 2025.

3. What is the average package for CSE in top IITs?

The average package ranges from ₹22 LPA to ₹30 LPA in older IITs like Bombay, Delhi, and Madras.

4. Should I choose IIT Hyderabad over IIT BHU for CSE?

Yes, IIT Hyderabad has better placement trends and research in AI/ML, making it a better choice for Computer Science.

5. Can I get CSE in a top IIT with a 1000 rank?

Highly unlikely in old IITs. However, you can get CSE in newer IITs like Hyderabad, Indore, Mandi, or BHU.