The Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and National Institutes of Technology (NITs) have long been known for offering lucrative job opportunities to their graduates. However, recent trends indicate that the average starting salary for graduates from these premier institutions has been declining over the last three years. This article explores the factors behind this drop, its implications for JEE Main 2025 aspirants, and strategies students can adopt to enhance their employability.
Declining Salary Trends at IITs and NITs
In recent years, the average starting salary for graduates from IITs and NITs has witnessed a noticeable decline. Once known for their lucrative placement packages, these premier institutes are now experiencing a shift in hiring trends and salary structures. While top-tier IITs continue to secure high-paying offers, the overall average salary has dropped due to various market and economic factors.
Analysis of Average Starting Salaries (Last 3 Years)
The table below shows the average starting salary trends for IIT and NIT graduates over the past three years:
| Year | Average IIT Starting Salary (INR LPA) | Average NIT Starting Salary (INR LPA) |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 18.5 | 12.2 |
| 2023 | 16.8 | 11.5 |
| 2024 | 15.3 | 10.8 |
The steady decline in salaries suggests a shift in the job market and changing industry demands.
Reasons Behind the Drop in Average Salary
Several factors have contributed to the decline in average salaries at IITs and NITs. A global economic slowdown, reduced hiring in tech sectors, rising competition among graduates, and changing industry demands have all played a role. Additionally, companies are now prioritizing skill-based hiring over brand value, making it essential for students to adapt to evolving recruitment trends. Several factors have contributed to the decline in average starting salaries at IITs and NITs:
1. Economic Slowdown and Global Recession
The global economy has faced uncertainties due to inflation, geopolitical conflicts, and the post-pandemic slowdown. This has led companies to adopt cost-cutting measures, including offering lower salaries.
2. Increased Competition
With a growing number of graduates from IITs and NITs, competition for high-paying jobs has intensified. Companies have more candidates to choose from, which has contributed to reduced salaries.
3. Shift in Industry Demand
The demand for AI, machine learning, and data science professionals has grown, while traditional engineering fields like mechanical, civil, and electrical have seen fewer high-paying offers.
4. Decline in International Placements
A reduction in international job offers, especially from the US and Europe, has impacted the overall average salary figures, as these offers typically come with higher pay packages.
5. Hiring Freeze in Tech Companies
Leading tech companies like Google, Microsoft, and Amazon have slowed down hiring, impacting salary figures for graduates in the software sector.
Sector-Wise Salary Trends at IITs and NITs
While salaries have declined on average, some sectors continue to offer competitive packages. Software development, AI & ML, fintech, and consulting firms still recruit graduates with attractive salaries, though with more selective hiring. On the other hand, core engineering and manufacturing sectors have seen a sharper decline in salary offers, impacting students from traditional engineering branches. Below is a comparison of salary trends across different sectors:
| Sector | Average Salary in 2022 (INR LPA) | Average Salary in 2024 (INR LPA) | Change (%) |
| Software & IT | 22.0 | 18.5 | -15.9% |
| Core Engineering | 15.5 | 13.2 | -14.8% |
| Consulting & Finance | 18.8 | 16.0 | -14.9% |
| Data Science & AI | 24.5 | 21.8 | -11.0% |
The tech sector has seen the most significant salary reductions, aligning with the hiring freeze in major tech firms.
Implications for JEE Main 2025 Aspirants
Despite the declining salary trends, IIT and NIT graduates can still secure high-paying jobs by adopting strategic approaches. Gaining industry-relevant skills, completing internships, working on real-world projects, and networking with professionals can significantly improve job prospects. Additionally, pursuing higher education or specialized certifications in trending domains can give students a competitive edge in the job market.
1. Need for Skill Development
Given the shifting industry demands, JEE Main 2025 aspirants must focus on developing additional skills such as coding, AI, and data science to remain competitive.
2. Importance of Internships and Projects
A strong resume with internships and projects in trending domains can significantly improve job prospects.
3. Exploring Alternative Career Paths
Students can explore options beyond core engineering, such as entrepreneurship, government jobs, and higher education opportunities in foreign universities.
4. Focus on Networking and Placements
Building professional connections through LinkedIn, alumni networks, and industry events can provide better job opportunities.
Strategies to Enhance Employability
1. Upskilling in High-Demand Domains
Students should learn programming languages like Python, Java, and C++ and explore fields like AI, blockchain, and cybersecurity.
2. Participating in Competitions and Hackathons
Engaging in coding competitions like Google Code Jam, ICPC, and Kaggle competitions can boost skills and attract better job offers.
3. Opting for Higher Studies
Pursuing a master’s degree (MTech/MS) or MBA can open up better career prospects with higher salary packages.
4. Choosing the Right Specialization
Specializations in emerging technologies tend to have better job prospects. Students should research industry trends before selecting their branch in IITs or NITs.
The decline in average starting salaries at IITs and NITs over the last three years highlights the changing dynamics of the job market. While this may seem concerning, students can adapt to these changes by focusing on skill development, internships, networking, and choosing high-demand specializations. By staying updated with industry trends and continuously improving their skills, JEE Main 2025 aspirants can still secure high-paying job offers and promising career opportunities.
JEE Main 2025: Average Starting Salary for Graduates at IITs and NITs drops in last 3 years FAQs
1. Why has the average starting salary for IIT and NIT graduates dropped in the last three years?
The decline in average starting salaries at IITs and NITs can be attributed to factors such as global economic slowdowns, reduced hiring by tech giants, increased competition among graduates, and changing industry demands. Companies are prioritizing cost-cutting and skill-specific hiring, affecting the overall salary trends.
2. How much has the average salary decreased at IITs and NITs in recent years?
While the exact percentage varies by institute and branch, reports indicate that the average starting salary at IITs has declined by approximately 10-15% over the past three years. NITs have also seen a drop, though slightly lower, ranging from 8-12%. However, top-tier IITs and high-demand branches still secure lucrative offers.
3. Will this salary trend impact JEE Main 2025 aspirants’ career prospects?
Although salary trends fluctuate, IITs and NITs continue to provide excellent career opportunities. Candidates should focus on acquiring in-demand skills, pursuing internships, and keeping up with industry trends to improve their employability and secure higher-paying job roles.
4. Which branches and sectors still offer high salaries despite the decline?
Branches like Computer Science Engineering (CSE), Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, and Electronics & Communication Engineering (ECE) continue to fetch higher salaries. Industries such as software development, fintech, AI & ML, and core engineering firms still offer competitive packages, though slightly lower than previous years.
5. What can IIT and NIT graduates do to secure better salaries?
To maximize their earning potential, graduates should focus on skill development in trending technologies, gain hands-on experience through internships, participate in hackathons, and network with industry professionals. Additionally, opting for higher education or specialized certifications can enhance job prospects and salary packages.
