The Ultimate Guide to The Best Engineering Colleges in Chennai

March 25, 2025
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top engineering colleges in chennai

The Ultimate Guide to The Best Engineering Colleges in Chennai

Published on March 25, 2025
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11 Min read time

Quick Summary

  • The best colleges for engineering in Chennai have state-of-the-art engineering programs where the curriculum is taught theoretically and supplemented by practical work.
  • 2. These institutions have a strong connection to the industry; hence, they extend placement opportunities with reputed organizations that pay very competitive salaries.
  • 3. They have a full educational experience that includes modern infrastructure, research facilities, and extracurricular programs, which would help in overall personal and professional development.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

Top engineering colleges in Chennai: With many students opting for engineering as their career path, the demand for engineering colleges is rising. There are many engineering colleges all over India. What are the top engineering colleges in Chennai? But it is important to choose the right college. This would help to set the right path for your professional growth. The students should be aware of the best engineering colleges in Chennai.

The top engineering colleges in India have provided quality technical education with advanced state-of-the-art infrastructure. Some of the best engineering colleges in Chennai provide scholarships to the top students. There were around 1.5 lakh engineering seats in Tamil Nadu to be filled in 2022. Even though the competition is high, there are jobs in the market for deserving candidates.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Highlights 2025

The primary details for engineering institutes in Chennai are as follows:

ParticularsInformation
No. of Colleges20+ colleges
Range of Tuition Fees• Less than INR 1 lakh: 1 college • INR 1–2 lakh: 1 college • INR 2–3 lakh: 9 colleges • INR 3–5 lakh: 2 colleges • INR > 5 lakh: 6 colleges
Top Engineering Institutes in ChennaiIIT Madras, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SSN College of Engineering, Chennai Institute of Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, etc.
Top SpecialisationsComputer Science Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, etc.
Accepted Entrance ExamsTNEA, JEE Main, etc.
Types of CollegesInstitutions are categorized into Government (e.g., IIT Madras), Private (e.g., SRM Institute, SSN College, Chennai Institute of Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College), and other types such as Government-aided or Deemed universities.

This comprehensive overview is intended to provide a clear and detailed snapshot of the key parameters, fee ranges, and institution types, empowering prospective students to make an informed decision about pursuing engineering studies in Chennai.

Top 14 Engineering Colleges in Chennai

The top best engineering colleges in Chennai are as follows:

best engineering colleges in chennai
  1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras
  2. Anna University
  3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology
  4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology
  5. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R & D Institute of Science and Technology
  6. Rajalakshmi Engineering College
  7. B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology
  8. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)
  9. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS)
  10. Vel’s Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)
  11. Chennai Institute of Technology
  12. Easwari Engineering College
  13. Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)
  14. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute
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1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)

  • Founded: 1959
  • Highlights: Comprehended for excellence in research, innovation, and quality education; consistently ranked among the top technical institutions in India.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Public institution
  • Programs: Bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs in engineering, science, and humanities are offered.

2. Anna University

  • Established: 1978
  • Highlights: Noted for its strong academic setup and major contributions to technical education via an extensive network of affiliated colleges.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu (with affiliated institutions distributed across the region)
  • Type: Public state technical university
  • Programs: Courses in engineering, technology, architecture, and management.

3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRM IST)

  • Established: 1985 (a deemed university subsequently)
  • Highlights: The university is known for its modern campus facilities, an industry-oriented curriculum, and collaborative global academic arrangements.
  • Location: Mainly located at Chennai, Tamil Nadu (multiple campuses exist)
  • Type: Private deemed university
  • Programs: The university runs a variety of programs in engineering, medical sciences, management, and allied fields.

4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology

  • Establishment: It was Founded in 1987 as an engineering college and later grew into a deemed university.
  • Highlights: Well-known for its research orientation, modern infrastructure, and rigor in the quality of education.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
  • Type: Private deemed university.
  • Programs: Undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral courses in engineering, technology, management, and related disciplines.

5. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R & D Institute of Science and Technology

  • Founded: Late 1990s
  • Signature: Research, innovation, and strong industry collaboration.
  • Place: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: A private institution
  • Programs: Undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in engineering and technology are offered.

6. Rajalakshmi Engineering College

  • Established: in the late 1990s
  • Highlights: Famed for quality education with strong industry links and thus excellent placements.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private engineering college
  • Programs: This college concentrates on various branches of engineering at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

7. B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology

  • Established: Early 2000s
  • Highlights: Recognized for its dedication to academic excellence in providing a wholesome environment conducive to learning.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private institute
  • Programs: It offers courses in engineering and technology at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

8. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)

  • Established: From the beginning of the 2000s
  • Highlights: Practical learning, Innovations and Strong industry partnerships
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private institute
  • Programs: These are offered in a wide spectrum of engineering, technology, and management disciplines.

9. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS)

  • Established: Mid-2000
  • Highlights: This institute is famous for its state-of-the-art facilities and an integrated approach towards technical and healthcare education.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private Institution
  • Programs: Interdisciplinary programs in medical, dental, engineering, and other allied health sciences are offered.

10. Vel’s Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)

  • Establishment: 2000s (by Vel’s Educational Trust)
  • Highlights: Prominent for modern curriculum and an emphasis on industry-relevant skills.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private institution
  • Programs: Provides undergraduate and postgraduate programs in engineering and technology-oriented disciplines primarily

11. Chennai Institute of Technology

  • Founded: Early 2000s
  • Highlights: Research and innovation with an overall educational approach have received emphasis.
  • City: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private Institute
  • Programs: A Wide variety of under- and postgraduate courses in engineering and technology are on offer.

12. Easwari Engineering College

  • Founded: 1992
  • Highlights: Widely acclaimed for its academic rigor, strong industry linkages, and vibrant and holistic learning experience.
  • Place: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Private engineering college
  • Programs: It runs several undergraduate as well as postgraduate engineering programs.

13. Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM Kancheepuram)

  • Established: In the year twenty-oh-seven
  • Highlights: An innovative and interdisciplinary curriculum with a very strong thrust on research and design excellence.
  • Kancheepuram, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Centrally funded technical institute.
  • Programs – Integrates information technology with design and manufacturing.

14. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute

  • Established: Late 1980s
  • Highlights: Conferred for its rigorous research thrust and wide-ranging academic programs across a multitude of disciplines.
  • Place: Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
  • Type: Private multidisciplinary institution
  • Courses: Engineering, medical, management, and related courses

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: NIRF Ranking

Institute NameNIRF Ranking
Indian Institute of Technology Madras3
Anna University42
SRM Institute of Science and Technology78
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology89
Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)41

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Admissions 2025

The BTech eligibility criteria may vary from one institution to another. However, some broad BTech eligibility criteria are:

  1. The candidates must have completed 12th grade with at least 60% aggregate from a recognized board, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as their core subjects (the pass percentage may vary in different colleges).
  2. The candidates are required to appear for standard entrance exams like TNEA, JEE Main, etc., right along with the college-specific entrance exam for admission purposes and their Class 12th results.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Eligibility, Fees, Seat

Below is an indicative table summarizing approximate details for fees, seat intake, and eligibility criteria for the engineering programs at the listed institutes. Kindly note that these figures are approximate, may vary by branch, category, and year, and are subject to change. For the most accurate and up‐to‐date information, please refer to the respective institute’s official admission guidelines and website.

Institute NameApproximate FeesSeat Intake (Indicative)Eligibility Criteria
1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras~ INR 1.8 lakh per annumOverall UG intake exceeds 1000 (branch-wise seats vary)Admission via JEE Advanced; strong performance in 10+2 (PCM)
2. Anna University~ INR 15–25K per annum (government quota)Varies; overall intake may be 2000+ across coursesAdmission through TNEA based on 10+2 marks in PCM
3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 7–9 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission via SRMJEE exam along with minimum 10+2 marks in relevant subjects
4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 5–7 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission via SAEEE exam and 10+2 (PCM) performance
5. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R & D Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 6–8 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission based on VTUEEE exam and meeting 10+2 criteria
6. Rajalakshmi Engineering College~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission through TNEA/TANCET based on 10+2 (PCM) marks
7. B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission via BSAUEEE exam and JEE merit scores, with requisite 10+2 marks
8. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission based on HITSEE exam scores and 10+2 academic performance
9. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission through TNEA/TANCET with requisite 10+2 (PCM) marks
10. Vel’s Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission based on the VEE exam and 10+2 academic criteria
11. Chennai Institute of Technology~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission via TNEA/TANCET, based on 10+2 performance in PCM
12. Easwari Engineering College~ INR 3–5 lakhs (total for B.Tech)Approximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission through TNEA/TANCET ranking with 10+2 marks in PCM
13. Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)~ INR 1.5–2 lakhs per annumApproximately 60–80 seats per branchFor UG: Admission via JEE Mains (and JEE Advanced/JoSAA for certain seats) with requisite 10+2 (PCM); for PG: via GATE/CCMT
14. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute~ INR 1–2 lakhs per annumApproximately 60–120 seats per branchAdmission based on the MGREEE exam and minimum 10+2 marks in PCM

Disclaimer: The above information is provided as a guide and may differ depending on the specific program, branch, and admission year.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Entrance Exams

Candidates for the best government and private engineering colleges in Chennai are selected through the entrance exams below:

Institute NameEntrance Exam(s)
1. Indian Institute of Technology MadrasJEE Mains
2. Anna UniversityTNEA
3. SRM Institute of Science and TechnologySRMJEE
4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and TechnologySAEEE
5. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R & D Institute of Science and TechnologyVTUEEE, CLAT, and LSAT
6. Rajalakshmi Engineering CollegeTNEA and TANCET
7. B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and TechnologyBSAUEEE and JEE merit scores
8. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)HITSEE
9. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS)TNEA and TANCET
10. Vel’s Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)VEE
11. Chennai Institute of TechnologyTNEA and TANCET
12. Easwari Engineering CollegeTNEA and TANCET
13. Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)JEE Mains, JoSAA/CSAB, and GATE/CCMT counselling
14. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research InstituteMGREEE

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Fees & Salary

Below is a summary table highlighting the approximate tuition fees and average salary packages offered by some of the best engineering colleges in Chennai. These figures serve as a general guide for prospective students interested in engineering courses in Chennai and represent data from top engineering colleges. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the course, branch, admission category, and market conditions.

Institute NameApproximate Tuition FeesApproximate Average Salary Package
1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras~ INR 1.8 lakh per annum~ INR 20 LPA
2. Anna University~ INR 15–25K per annum (government quota)~ INR 3–4 LPA
3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 7–9 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 4–6 LPA
4. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 5–7 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 4–6 LPA
5. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R & D Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 6–8 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 4–6 LPA
6. Rajalakshmi Engineering College~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
7. B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
8. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
9. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
10. Vel’s Institute of Science, Technology & Advanced Studies (VISTAS)~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
11. Chennai Institute of Technology~ INR 4–6 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 3–5 LPA
12. Easwari Engineering College~ INR 3–5 lakhs (total for B.Tech)~ INR 2.5–4 LPA
13. Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)~ INR 1.5–2 lakhs per annum~ INR 7–10 LPA
14. Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute~ INR 1–2 lakhs per annum~ INR 2.5–4 LPA

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Recruiters

Below is a table summarizing placement details for some of the top engineering colleges. The table highlights the average placement package along with a selection of leading recruiters. This information serves as a reference for prospective students interested in engineering courses in Chennai and other regions, and it reflects the performance of some of the best engineering colleges. Please note that the figures are indicative and may vary over time; for the most current details, kindly refer to the official placement reports or the respective institute’s website.

College NameAverage Placement PackageTop Recruiters
IIT Madras PlacementsINR 19 LPAAirbus, Honeywell, Rolls-Royce, Axis Bank, Goldman Sachs, etc.
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences PlacementsINR 4 LPACognizant, Capgemini, Accenture, Bosch, Mahindra, etc.
SRM IST Kattankulatur PlacementsINR 6 LPAMicrosoft, Google, Amazon, HCL, IBM, TCS, etc.
Anna University PlacementsINR 6 LPAMicrosoft, Google, Amazon, Practo, Accolite, Caterpillar, CodeNation, etc.

This table is designed to help you explore placement trends and opportunities available at these top engineering colleges. Should you need additional insights or more detailed information, please feel free to ask.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai for Aspiring Engineers

There are several engineering colleges in Chennai, but if you are looking to apply to the best engineering colleges in Chennai, this is your guide. The engineering colleges listed above can help an aspirant become an engineer.

These colleges are recognized by affiliated bodies and have been providing the best engineering colleges in Chennai with state-of-the-art infrastructure for the students to excel in their courses. Best engineering colleges in Chennai: These engineering colleges are popular for providing good placement to students. Most of these colleges are mentioned in the NIRF rankings.

Best engineering colleges in Chennai: So, what are you waiting for? Enrol in any of them to future-proof your career!

Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive into our guide on Career Advice.

Conclusion

In summary, Chennai is a prominent centre for high-quality engineering education, with several renowned institutions like IIT Madras, Anna University, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology. These schools boast exceptional facilities, experienced staff, and impressive job prospects, guaranteeing students a strong foundation for their professional lives. Whether your interests lie in computing, mechanical engineering, or cutting-edge areas like AI and robotics, Chennai’s leading engineering colleges provide an ideal setting to transform your aspirations into accomplishments. Begin your exploration today and embark on the initial stage towards a promising engineering career!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

Q1. What entrance exams do I need to take for admission to the top 10 best engineering colleges in Chennai?

Ans. The entrance exams that students can take for admission to the best engineering colleges in Chennai are JEE Mains, GATE, TANCET, HITSEEE, VTUEEE, and SAEEE. The candidates have to clear the exam to be invited for counselling. The candidates would be offered seats according to their ranks. So, the students need to get higher ranks to get their preferred engineering stream.

Q2. Can students from other states apply for admission to the top engineering colleges in Chennai?

Ans. Students from other states can apply for private engineering colleges and IIT Madras. The best engineering colleges in Chennai, all the private colleges and the MHRD-affiliated colleges like IIT Madras and IITDM have provisions for students from other states. However, the students have to clear the mandatory exam to meet the eligibility criteria for counselling. The details would be available on the official website of the colleges.

Q3. Are any internship opportunities available for engineering students in the top colleges in Chennai?

Ans. Yes, some colleges assist in getting internships for students. It is one of the best engineering colleges in Chennai. you need to check with the college for more details. The top colleges in Chennai have a provision to provide internships to their students in top national and international organizations. The best engineering colleges in Chennai. They have signed multiple MOUs with the organizations. This provides better industrial exposure to the students.

Q4. What extracurricular activities are available for students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

Ans. What are the best engineering colleges in Chennai? The students can participate in the college’s sports, arts & cultural activities. Every college has different sports facilities like cricket, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and indoor sports. The students can participate in inter and intra-college tournaments. All the colleges have different clubs and societies like robotics clubs, literature clubs, film societies and others. This gives them a chance to showcase their talents.

Q5. Are any research opportunities available for engineering students in top colleges in Chennai?

Ans. Yes, most of the top engineering colleges in Chennai provide research opportunities to students in collaboration with national and international institutes. Best engineering colleges in Chennai: Many colleges have signed MOUs with different national and international research institutes. This provides an opportunity for the students to learn in those institutes by way of student exchange programmes.

Q6. What is the industry exposure like for students pursuing engineering from top colleges in Chennai?

Ans. The students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai often get the opportunity to meet with industry experts through different programmers or COEs. The best engineering colleges in Chennai help them understand their industry before joining them. Industrial exposure is important as it prepares students for the professional world. They get to work with industry experts and learn from them. This is an important part of engineering courses.

Q7. How are the hostel and accommodation facilities for students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

Ans. Best engineering colleges in Chennai: The hostel facilities in Chennai are different for different colleges. However, most colleges provide the basic amenities to make the students comfortable by providing hostel facilities for boys and girls. The hostels are maintained properly and provide hygienic food. Most hostels have medical facilities, security, indoor & outdoor sports facilities, and reading halls for the students.

Q8. What support system is available for students who need academic or emotional support in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

Ans. Colleges have different departments where students can get academic and emotional support during their courses. The best engineering colleges in Chennai have provisions to support the students emotionally and academically by ensuring regular interactions with their faculties. Many colleges also have student bodies that facilitate interactions between juniors and seniors. This helps the students to cope academically and stay mentally strong

Q9. Are there any international collaborations or partnerships that the best engineering colleges in Chennai have?

Ans. Yes, all the best engineering colleges in Chennai collaborate with international and national institutes to benefit the students. The best engineering colleges in Chennai sign several MOUs with international colleges and organizations. This allows the students to interact with different people and flourish academically. The students are encouraged to collaborate with these institutes as it would help them academically and professionally.

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