Likhith · October 24, 2025 
Introduction
In the 2025 NIRF Engineering Rankings, South India boasts two exceptional institutions that consistently attract top talent: NIT Calicut and NIT Surathkal. These institutes are more than just educational establishments; they represent a hub of innovation, research, and academic excellence.
Choosing the right engineering college is a critical decision for students aspiring to build a strong career in technology. While both NIT Calicut and NIT Surathkal offer stellar education, their rankings, campus environment, placements, and research output differ.
In this blog, we will analyze both institutions in detail, covering their academic strengths, campus life, placement statistics, and NIRF rankings. By the end, you’ll have a clear picture to make an informed choice. Did you know that NIT Surathkal ranks higher than NIT Calicut in NIRF 2025? Let’s dive in to understand why.
NIT Calicut: An Overview
Established in 1961, NIT Calicut is situated in the scenic city of Kozhikode, Kerala. Known for its serene campus and focus on academic excellence, it has carved a niche in engineering education over the decades.
1. Academic Programs
NIT Calicut offers a diverse array of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across multiple engineering disciplines, including Computer Science, Electronics, Mechanical, Civil, and more. The curriculum is designed to balance theoretical learning with practical applications.
2. Infrastructure and Facilities
The campus spans lush greenery and features state-of-the-art laboratories, a well-stocked library, modern classrooms, and hostel facilities. Sports enthusiasts have access to multiple fields, courts, and indoor facilities, promoting holistic student development.
3. Research and Innovation
NIT Calicut emphasizes research and innovation. Faculty and students collaborate on projects, publishing research papers in reputed journals and filing patents. The institute also encourages participation in competitions and technological exhibitions.
4. Industry Collaborations
Strong industry ties facilitate internships, live projects, and placement opportunities. Leading tech firms frequently visit the campus, giving students exposure to real-world challenges and professional networks.
NIT Surathkal: An Overview
NIT Surathkal, established in 1960, is located in the coastal city of Surathkal, Karnataka. Known for its academic rigor and strong industry linkages, it consistently ranks among the top engineering colleges in India.
1. Academic Programs
Similar to NIT Calicut, NIT Surathkal offers a wide range of undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs. Specialized courses in cutting-edge fields like Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, and Electronics ensure students remain future-ready.
2. Infrastructure and Facilities
The campus boasts modern classrooms, advanced research centers, expansive libraries, and well-maintained hostels. Its coastal location offers a refreshing environment, ideal for both learning and recreation.
3. Research and Innovation
Research output at NIT Surathkal is robust, reflected in numerous publications, patents, and collaborations with international institutions. Students are encouraged to participate in conferences and develop solutions to global engineering challenges.
4. Industry Collaborations
The institute enjoys strong relationships with industries, ensuring high-quality internships and placements. Corporations frequently engage with students through workshops, seminars, and recruitment drives.
NIRF 2025 Rankings: A Comparative Analysis
The NIRF Engineering Rankings 2025 provide an in-depth look into the performance of institutions across India. Here’s how NIT Calicut and NIT Surathkal compare:
| Parameter | NIT Calicut | NIT Surathkal |
|---|---|---|
| Overall NIRF Rank 2025 | 21 | 17 |
| Teaching, Learning & Resources (TLR) | 74.5 | 80.2 |
| Research & Professional Practices (RPC) | 56.4 | 68.1 |
| Graduation Outcomes (GO) | 72.3 | 75.5 |
| Outreach & Inclusivity (OI) | 68.9 | 70.3 |
| Perception | 60.2 | 65.7 |
Key Insights
- Teaching & Learning: Both institutions have strong faculty and curriculum design, though NIT Surathkal edges ahead due to modern teaching practices and higher faculty-student ratios.
- Research Output: NIT Surathkal shows significantly higher research and professional practice scores, making it a better option for students aiming for academic and research-oriented careers.
- Graduation Outcomes: Both NITs boast impressive placement and graduation rates, reflecting strong academic guidance and student performance.
- Perception: Public perception favors NIT Surathkal slightly more, influenced by industry partnerships and alumni success stories.
Placement Records and Industry Connections
NIT Calicut
- Placements: Top companies like TCS, Infosys, Microsoft, and Amazon visit the campus, maintaining a high placement rate.
- Internships: The institute collaborates with industries for summer internships and live projects, providing real-world exposure.
NIT Surathkal
- Placements: Consistently ranks high in placement statistics, with reputed companies offering lucrative packages.
- Internships: The strong industry network ensures students get hands-on experience in leading firms, enhancing their employability.
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- Backup Strategies – Alternative options to ensure opportunities are never missed.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Which institution has better placement records?
Both institutes have strong placement records, but NIT Surathkal has a slight edge in terms of higher placement percentages. - What are the average salary packages offered?
NIT Surathkal generally reports higher average salary packages compared to NIT Calicut. - Which institution has better infrastructure?
Both offer excellent infrastructure, though NIT Surathkal’s coastal campus provides a unique environment for students. - How do the campuses differ in terms of student life?
NIT Calicut offers a serene, green campus, while NIT Surathkal provides a lively coastal experience with strong student engagement. - Which institution has higher research output?
NIT Surathkal has a higher research output, reflected in its superior NIRF score in Research and Professional Practices. - Are there differences in faculty quality?
Both have highly qualified faculty, though NIT Surathkal’s professors are slightly more recognized nationally and internationally. - Which is better for higher studies?
NIT Surathkal is ideal for students planning higher studies due to its research orientation and academic collaborations. - How do extracurricular activities compare?
Both NITs host vibrant cultural and technical events, but NIT Surathkal’s combination of coastal charm and active fests makes it slightly more engaging.
Conclusion
Both NIT Calicut and NIT Surathkal are premier South Indian engineering institutions, each offering unique advantages. While NIT Surathkal leads in the 2025 NIRF rankings, research output, and placements, NIT Calicut provides a peaceful environment conducive to focused learning.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your personal preferences, career goals, and the type of campus experience you seek. By evaluating academic strengths, placements, campus life, and research opportunities, students can make an informed decision that aligns with their aspirations.
