Winter admissions at IITs take place for various courses such as MS, M.Tech, and PhD. The semester typically starts from January every year. Notifications for these courses start coming in from September, with forms to be filled in from October to December. The selection process includes interviews for these courses, after which the session commences in January​
These winter admissions should be targeted by students who have a high CGPA or B.Tech percentage (more than 8 CGPA) and are GATE qualified. However, even those with a low GATE score should not be discouraged, as the GATE score is primarily a criterion for interview calls. The main focus for winter admission in IIT, IISc, and IIM is the interview. Furthermore, the probability of selection in winter admission is higher than that in the summer as a number of students with high GATE scores have already taken admission in the summer​.
Additionally, the Fellowship Programme in Management (FPM) is the PhD program in Indian Institute of Managements (IIM) which is through GATE as well as CAT. Some specialisations, such as Organisational Behaviour and Operation Management, accept students through GATE scores instead of CAT scores. Scholarships are offered in FPM in IIM, amounting to approximately Rs 30,000 per month, along with other grants. An important aspect of the admission process is the B.Tech project, which plays a significant role in the interview for admission in these courses at IITs, IISc, and IIM in both winter and summer sessions​1​.
GATE scholarships are offered to students taking admission in winter for MS, M.Tech, PhD, and FPM, and they also get an equal opportunity for placements on campus​1​.
When do these winter admissions take place generally?
Most IITs offer admission to their postgraduate programs in two cycles - one in the Spring (around April-May) and another in the Fall (around October-November). However, the exact timelines may vary from one IIT to another and also from one year to another. Therefore, it's best to check the official websites of the respective IITs for the most accurate and updated information.
Who should target these admissions?
Students who have completed or are about to complete their undergraduate studies in relevant fields and are interested in pursuing advanced research or coursework in technology and related areas should consider applying for these programs. Some programs might also require the students to have a valid GATE score (for M.Tech) or other relevant qualifications/exams like UGC-NET/JRF for Ph.D. admissions. Working professionals looking to upgrade their knowledge and skills can also consider these programs.
It's worth noting that each IIT and each program may have slightly different eligibility criteria and admission procedures. Hence, it's important to check the details from the respective institute's official website.
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