Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University)

IIT (BHU) Varanasi, formerly known as IT-BHU, boasts a rich history dating back to its inception in 1919 as Banaras Engineering College (BENCO). Founded by Pandit Madan Mohan Malviya, it grew under his vision of blending technical education with nation-building. The institute's evolution saw the establishment of the College of Technology (TECHNO) and the College of Mining & Metallurgy (MINMET), eventually merging into IT-BHU in 1968.

IT-BHU transitioned to IIT (BHU) Varanasi in 2012, aligning with the standards of the Indian Institutes of Technology. The institute offers undergraduate programs leading to Bachelor of Technology (BTech) degrees and Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) programs spanning five years, with admissions through JEE Advanced. Postgraduate offerings include Master of Technology (MTech) and PhD degrees, with admissions through GATE and institutional applications.

Admission criteria prioritise excellence, with undergraduate admissions based on JEE Advanced performance and state board exam results. Notably, the top 20 percentile performers are considered, ensuring a diverse and talented student body.

Consistently ranked among the top engineering institutions in India, IIT (BHU) Varanasi secured the 15th position in engineering colleges and 31st overall in the 2023 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF). The institute maintains its legacy while implementing modern regulations and methods, all the while remaining dedicated to academic excellence, research, and nation-building. 

IIT (BHU) Varanasi's origin dates back to 1919 when it was established as Banaras Engineering College (BENCO) under the visionary leadership of Dr. Annie Besant and Pandit Madan Mohan Malaviya. Initially offering programs in mining, metallurgy, ceramics, and related fields, the college laid the foundation for engineering education in India.

As the years passed, the institution grew and diversified. The Department of Geology was introduced in 1920, followed by the Department of Industrial Chemistry in 1921. Mining and Metallurgy gained independent status in 1923, eventually forming the College of Mining and Metallurgy (MINMET) in 1944. These developments marked the steady expansion and specialisation of technical education at the institute.

In 1968, a significant milestone was reached as BENCO, MINMET, and the College of Technology (TECHNO) were amalgamated to form the Institute of Technology, Banaras Hindu University (IT-BHU). This integration provided the institute with greater resources, infrastructure, and academic autonomy, propelling it towards national prominence.

Over the ensuing decades, IT-BHU continued to flourish. New departments, such as Electronics Engineering and Applied Sciences, were established, enriching the academic landscape and fostering interdisciplinary research. The institute's reputation for excellence attracted top talent among faculty, researchers, and students, further enhancing its standing in the academic community.

Despite proposals dating back to 1972 and recommendations in 2003 to elevate IT-BHU to the status of an Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), it wasn't until 2012 that this aspiration was realised. Following legislative approval, IT-BHU officially became IIT (BHU) Varanasi, marking a historic moment in its journey of growth and transformation.

The transition to IIT status heralded a new era of opportunities and challenges for the institution. With a renewed focus on innovation, research, and global collaboration, IIT (BHU) Varanasi has continued to uphold its legacy of academic excellence. The institute's centenary celebrations in 2019-2020 served as a testament to its rich history and enduring commitment to educational innovation.

Undergraduate Programs: IIT (BHU) Varanasi offers a range of undergraduate programs designed to provide a solid foundation in engineering and technology. The flagship course is the Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech) program, available in various specialisations such as Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mining Engineering, and Ceramic Engineering. Admissions are highly competitive and are based on the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced. The institute also offers Bachelor of Pharmacy (B.Pharm) and Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) programs.

Postgraduate Programs: For postgraduate students, IIT (BHU) offers Master of Technology (M.Tech) and Master of Pharmacy (M.Pharm) programs. These programs are designed to deepen the student's expertise in their chosen fields and prepare them for advanced roles in industry and research. Admissions to these programs are based on the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) for M.Tech and GPAT for M.Pharm. The institute also offers a Master of Science (M.Sc) in various science disciplines, providing a strong research-oriented education.

PhD Programs: IIT (BHU) Varanasi offers Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs across all its departments and interdisciplinary schools. These programs aim to develop research scholars capable of contributing significantly to their fields. PhD candidates are selected based on their academic performance, research proposals, and interviews. The PhD programs cover a wide range of disciplines including engineering, technology, pharmacy, and sciences.

Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) Programs: The Integrated Dual Degree (IDD) program is a unique offering at IIT (BHU), where students can earn both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in engineering within a span of five years. This program allows for an in-depth study of the subject and offers specialisations in various engineering disciplines.

Diploma Programs: While IIT (BHU) primarily focuses on degree programs, it occasionally offers diploma and certificate courses through its continuing education and extension services. These programs are designed for working professionals and other individuals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge in specific areas of technology and management.

Other Programs: IIT (BHU) also provides opportunities for postdoctoral research, internships, and various short-term courses. These programs are aimed at fostering advanced research and development skills among scholars and professionals.

- QS World University Rankings: IIT BHU - Varanasi is positioned at #1291
- QS WUR Ranking By Subject: It falls within the range of #501-530
- QS Sustainability Ranking: IIT BHU - Varanasi is placed at #684
- Asian University Rankings: It holds the #59 spot

The job integration rate at IIT (BHU) Varanasi is exemplary, with 1,044 offers received during the 2024 placements. Top companies like Qualcomm, Uber, Goldman Sachs, and Google are regular recruiters. The highest package offered in 2024 was INR 1.68 crore per annum, reflecting the institute's strong industry connections and the high calibre of its graduates.

• IIT-BHU | Home
• IIT (BHU) Varanasi | Wikipedia
• IIT BHU Varanasi (IIT BHU): Courses, Admission 2024, Fees, Rankings, Placements | Shiksha
• Indian Institute of Technology (Banaras Hindu University), Varanasi | College Pravesh
• IIT BHU Varanasi: Courses, Admission 2024, Cutoff, Placements, Fees, Ranking | Collegedunia
• IIT BHU: Admission, Courses, Fees, Placements | Careers360
• Indian Institute of Technology BHU Varanasi (IIT BHU Varanasi) | Top Universities
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• HISTORY OF THE UNIVERSITY | Government of India, Ministry of Education
• BHU's Institute of Technology gets IIT status | Times of India
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