Older IIT’s less sought after branch or Computer Science at newer IITs?

The debate surrounding whether students should prioritize the prestige of an older IIT or secure a sought-after branch like Computer Science (CS) at a newer IIT continues to spark discussions among IIT aspirants. A recent post on Reddit has reignited this conversation, with one IIT graduate sharing their experience of choosing a less popular branch at IIT Madras over a Computer Science seat at IIT Bhilai.

The result was an impressive job offer of Rs 55 lakh per annum. The author of the post emphasised that the “IIT tag” plays a significant role in their career success, stating, “A degree from an old IIT isn’t just a degree, it’s a signal.”

According to the author, the brand value and established ecosystem of older IITs offer more career opportunities than the specific branch of study. “You don’t need a CS degree to be a great developer. What you do need is access to the right ecosystem, and Old IITs provide exactly that.”

Varied Perspectives from Students

This viewpoint, however, has received varied reactions. One Reddit user shared a different perspective: “My friend got a 1 crore package in India in placements with CS from ‘not old’ IIT. There is no set rule. At the end of the day, you have to work hard and grab the opportunities at hand.”

Some also questioned whether the prestige of an older IIT automatically guarantees career success. One user remarked, “I low key feel OP is one of the people who get pissed if some tier 3 guy gets the same salary in the same position as them in a company.”

Earning a salary of 60 LPA base in my second year after graduation with a “low” Old-Generation IIT Branch.
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Choosing Between Legacy and Specialisation

The discussion reflects a broader dilemma faced by aspiring IIT students. Many find themselves torn between the reputation of an older IIT and the potential benefits of pursuing a preferred branch at a newer IIT. While older IITs come with a legacy of excellence and a network that could be valuable in career development, newer IITs are not far behind. Their modern infrastructure, research opportunities, and rapidly growing placement records make them competitive in the job market as well.

One Reddit user said, “When you pick a college, always pick the older IITs even if you are getting good branches in tier 3 IITs,” advocating for legacy over specialization.

Ultimately, the decision to choose between an older IIT or a newer one with a specific branch comes down to personal preference and career goals. For those seeking an established network and the prestige associated with a long history, an older IIT may be the right choice. However, if a specific branch like Computer Science is a priority, newer IITs may also offer valuable opportunities.

As one user aptly put it, “At the end of the day, your effort and how you leverage the opportunities are what will make the difference.”

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