That’s the highest among all AI and Data Science programmes across NITs. And yes, competition remains fierce. But here’s something to consider: the cutoff showed a minor decline compared to JoSAA 2024.
NIT Warangal: How Cutoffs Changed?
Other state open category seats in the JoSAA 2024 counselling had a closing rank of 2948. In JoSAA 2025? It moved to 2952. A drop of just four points. Minimal, but still a shift.
This slight change indicates that demand patterns are stabilising. More aspirants understand the value of AI and Data Science specialisations. And NIT Warangal remains the most sought-after destination.
JEE Main 2026: AI and Data Science Cutoffs Across NITs
Not all NITs demand sky-high ranks. Some offer solid programmes with comparatively relaxed cutoffs.
The following is a snapshot of the closing ranks for BTech AI and data science-related programs in top NITs (Other State, Open, Gender-Neutral category):
| NIT | Programme | Closing Rank |
| NIT Warangal | BTech CSE (AI & Data Science) | 2952 |
| NIT Karnataka, Surathkal | BTech Computational and Data Science | 3471 |
| MNIT Jaipur | BTech AI and Data Engineering | 6491 |
| NIT Delhi | BTech AI and Data Science | 6896 |
| NIT Kurukshetra | BTech AI and Data Science | 8510 |
| NIT Jalandhar | BTech Data Science and Engineering | 14814 |
| MANIT Bhopal | BTech-MTech Mathematics and Data Science (5-Year Dual Degree) | 14961 |
| NIT Patna | BTech AI and Data Science | 16537 |
| NIT Patna | BTech-MTech CSE with Specialisation in DS (5-Year Dual Degree) | 17439 |
NIT Patna offers the most relaxed entry. Its 5-year dual degree in CSE with Data Science specialisation closed at 17439 in JoSAA 2025. Good alternative when your rank falls within that range.
What Does This Mean for JEE Main 2026 Aspirants?
Cutoffs fluctuate. Slightly. Every year.
- The availability of seats,
- The number of applicants applying,
- The level of difficulty, and
- Preferences all contribute to it.
However, there is one constant: NIT Warangal is the best destination to choose in terms of AI and Data Science applications.
For NIT Warangal, target a rank below 3000. Other leading NITs, such as Surathkal or MNIT Jaipur, with a rank below 7000, give you a high chance. And assuming that you are looking at newer or smaller NITs, ranks between 8000 and 17000 still leave several doors open.
Use JEE Main rank predictors. Check previous year trends. Plan your choices smartly during the JEE Main 2026 counselling.
FAQs on NIT AI and Data Science Cutoffs
Q1. Which NIT has the highest cutoff for AI and Data Science?
NIT Warangal. The JoSAA 2025 closing rank was 2952 for the other state open category. It’s the most competitive AI and Data Science programme across all NITs.
Q2. What rank do I need for NIT Surathkal’s Data Science programme?
In the case of NIT Karnataka Surathkal B.Tech., Computational and Data Science, the JoSAA 2025 final closing rank was 3471. Aim for a rank below 3500 to be safe.
Q3. Do cutoffs for AI and Data Science increase every year?
Not necessarily. NIT Warangal fell slightly from 2948 (2024) to 2952 (2025). Trends change depending on several factors.
Q4. Which NIT offers the easiest entry for AI and Data Science?
NIT Patna. Its dual degree course in CSE with a specialisation in Data Science closed at rank 17439 in JoSAA 2025. Still a quality programme with easier entry.
Q5. Should I prefer AI and Data Science over regular CSE at NITs?
Depends on your interest. In case you are enthusiastic about machine learning and data analytics, go for it. Otherwise, regular CSE offers broader flexibility.
