IIT Branch Change Rules 2025: Complete Eligibility and Process Guide

Introduction

Getting into an IIT is a dream come true for lakhs of students across India. But what if you land in a branch that doesn’t quite match your interests or long-term goals? That’s where the IIT branch change process comes in. Every year, hundreds of students explore this option to move into a stream they are more passionate about, often aiming for popular branches like Computer Science, Electrical, or Mechanical.

But how does the system work? What are the rules, eligibility requirements, and chances of success in 2025?

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about IIT Branch Change Rules 2025—from eligibility and CGPA requirements to the step-by-step process, challenges, and smart tips to increase your chances.

Why Do Students Opt for a Branch Change in IIT?

Students usually enter IITs after cracking JEE Advanced, one of the toughest exams in the world. But the allocation of branches is based on rank and seat availability, which means many don’t get their first preference.

Here are the most common reasons for branch change:

• Interest Mismatch: A student might discover that their passion lies in coding, not civil engineering.
  
• Better Career Opportunities: Streams like Computer Science, AI/ML, and ECE often offer higher placement packages.
  
• Future Scope: Some branches have stronger research opportunities or global relevance.
  
• Peer Influence: Students see friends doing well in high-demand branches and get motivated to switch.
  

Example: A student admitted to Civil Engineering at IIT Bombay with a good CGPA in the first year may attempt to switch to Computer Science or Electrical Engineering, provided they meet the eligibility requirements.

IIT Branch Change Rules 2025: Complete Overview

Branch change is not automatic—it follows a structured set of rules decided by the Senate of each IIT. While minor variations exist between IITs, the core guidelines remain the same across the system.

Key highlights of the rules:

• Branch change is considered only after the completion of the first year.
  
• Students must meet the CGPA threshold set by their IIT.
  
• The new branch must have vacant seats (cannot exceed the sanctioned strength).
  
• Reservation policies (SC/ST/PwD) are applicable.
  
• Once a branch change is allotted, it becomes final and binding.
  

In short, the process balances student interest with academic merit and logistical feasibility.

IIT Branch Change Eligibility Criteria

Not every student is eligible for a branch change. Here’s what you need to know for 2025:

1. CGPA Requirement

• Most IITs require a minimum CGPA of 8.0 or higher at the end of the first year.
• Some IITs relax this to 7.5 for SC/ST students.
• A few IITs (like IIT Delhi) also allow the top 10% of performers in each department to apply, even if they fall slightly short of the CGPA benchmark.
  
• No Backlogs – Students must pass all first-year courses without any arrears.

2. Seat Availability

• You can only move into a branch if there are vacant seats.
• The intake cannot exceed the approved strength of that department.
  

3. Reservation & Relaxations

• SC/ST/PwD students may get relaxations in the CGPA requirement.
• However, the merit order within their category still matters.
  

Examples:

• At IIT Bombay, the CGPA cutoff for Computer Science in 2024 was close to 9.8, making it extremely competitive.
  
• At IIT Kharagpur, students with a CGPA of 8.5+ successfully moved into Mechanical and ECE.
  

Bottom line: Scoring consistently well in the first year is the most critical factor for eligibility.

Step-by-Step IIT Branch Change Process 2025

Changing your branch in IIT is similar to a mini-counseling round. Here’s how the process unfolds:

1. Application Notification:
   • After the second semester, IITs announce the branch change window.
     
2. Filling Preferences:
   • Students list their desired branches in order of preference.
     
3. Verification of Eligibility:
   • The academic office checks CGPA, backlog status, and reservation category.
     
4. Seat Allocation:
   • Based on CGPA merit + availability, students are allotted new branches.
     
5. Final Confirmation:
   • Once allotted, a branch change is permanent. Students cannot revert to the previous branch.
     

Pro Tip: Always fill multiple preferences, not just Computer Science, to increase your chances.

Challenges and Limitations of Branch Change

While the branch change option sounds attractive, it comes with its own set of hurdles:

• High Competition for CS/AI: Only a handful of seats open up each year.
• CGPA Pressure: Students must maintain 8.5–9.5 CGPA, which is tough given the IIT grading.
• Limited Seats: Many popular branches have little to no vacancy.
• Stress Factor: Peer pressure and expectations often add to first-year stress.
• Risk of Over-Focus: Students chasing a high CGPA might neglect extracurriculars or real learning.
  

Tips to Increase Your Chances of Successful Branch Change

Want to maximize your odds in 2025? Here’s what works:

• Prioritize Academics: Focus on scoring high in the first year.
• Smart Time Management: Balance assignments, tests, and rest.
• Seek Mentorship: Learn from seniors who have successfully changed branches.
• Choose Realistic Preferences: Don’t only aim for CS; consider ECE, Mechanical, and Data Science.
• Avoid Backlogs at All Costs: Even a single failed subject can disqualify you.
• Stay Consistent: Don’t rely on last-minute cramming; maintain steady performance.
  

How Career Plan B Helps

At Career Plan B, we simplify counselling with expert guidance:

• One-on-One Counselling Support – Personalized guidance for your career path.
• Psychometric Assessments: Identify your strengths and interests to make informed decisions.
• Career Roadmaps – Clear strategies based on your interests and strengths.
• Backup Strategies – Alternative options so you never miss opportunities.

Book your free counselling session with Career Plan B today and secure your path to success.

FAQs 

• What is the minimum CGPA required for a branch change at IIT?
  Most IITs require a CGPA of 8.0 or above, though top branches may need much higher.
• Can I change to any branch, including Computer Science?
  Yes, but only if you meet the CGPA cutoff and seats are available.
• Are there reserved category relaxations in the branch change?
  Yes, SC/ST/PwD students often have relaxed CGPA requirements.
• Is a branch change available after the 2nd year?
  No, branch change is usually allowed only after the first year.
• How many students successfully change branches each year?
  Depends on IIT and vacancies, but typically 5–15% of the batch manage to switch.
• Do all IITs have the same branch change rules?
  Broadly, yes, but CGPA cutoffs and conditions vary slightly.
• What happens if I fail to maintain the required CGPA after applying?
  You won’t be considered for a branch change. Consistency is key.

Conclusion

Branch change in IIT is a golden opportunity for students who feel mismatched with their current stream. While the rules are clear, the process is highly competitive, especially for top branches like Computer Science and AI.

If you’re aiming for a switch in 2025, your best bet is to prioritize academics, stay consistent, and choose preferences wisely. Remember, though, that success in IIT doesn’t depend solely on your branch—it depends on your passion, dedication, and how you use the resources available.