IIT Salary – How Much Do IIT Graduates Really Earn?
Everyone wonders if an IIT degree translates into a fat paycheck. The short answer: yes, but the amount varies a lot. Your branch, the company you join, where you work, and how much experience you have all decide the final number.
On average, a fresh IIT graduate in 2025 walks out with a package between 12 and 20 lakh INR per year. Core branches like Computer Science, Electrical and Mechanical tend to sit at the higher end, often crossing the 20‑lakh mark when they join big tech firms or multinational companies.
Which Branches Pay the Most?
Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) is the clear leader. Companies like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Indian giants such as Flipkart and Paytm offer starting salaries of 20‑25 lakh, sometimes higher with bonuses and stock options. Electronics and Communication (ECE) and Electrical Engineering (EE) follow, especially when graduates land jobs in product design, hardware, or energy sectors.
Civil, Chemical, and Metallurgical branches typically start lower, around 12‑15 lakh, but they can still earn well if they move into project management, consulting, or specialized industries.
How to Boost Your IIT Salary
Getting a good offer is just the first step. Here are practical ways to raise your earnings over time:
- Internships: Real‑world experience sets you apart. A strong internship at a reputable firm can add 2‑3 lakh to your starting package.
- Skill Up: Learning in‑demand tools – like cloud platforms (AWS, Azure), data science, AI, or embedded systems – gives you leverage during negotiations.
- Higher Studies: A master’s from a top global university or an MBA can push your salary into the 30‑lakh range, especially in leadership roles.
- Network: Attend campus drives, tech meetups, and alumni events. A referral often means a better offer.
- Switch Jobs Smartly: Moving to a new company after 2‑3 years typically yields a 40‑50% salary jump.
Location also matters. Jobs in Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai pay a premium because of the cost of living and concentration of tech firms. If you’re okay with relocating, you’ll see higher numbers.
Finally, don’t ignore the total compensation. Stock options, performance bonuses, health benefits, and work‑from‑home allowances can add a substantial amount to your take‑home.
In short, an IIT degree gives you a strong salary base. Choose a high‑pay branch, stack up relevant skills, and plan your career moves strategically to keep the numbers growing.