JoSAA counselling 2026 opens with new IITs, IISc BTech programmes in AI, aerospace, computing

Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee has started the JoSAA 2026 counselling on the official website and this year, students participating in the counselling have more options to consider as several IITs and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru have expanded their undergraduate offerings with new-age BTech programmes.

The newly introduced courses reflect the growing demand for skills in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, healthcare technology, aerospace engineering and advanced computing.

As engineering education continues to evolve, institutes are increasingly moving towards interdisciplinary programmes that combine traditional engineering foundations with emerging technologies. For JEE Advanced qualifiers, these new courses could open pathways to careers in some of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy.

While Computer Science and other established branches remain popular, many students are now exploring specialised programmes that align with future industry trends. The latest additions by IITs and IISc are expected to attract candidates looking beyond conventional engineering disciplines.

Also read IIT Kanpur launches JoSAA counselling 2026 helpdesk; open house for JEE qualifiers on June 9

IITs introduce industry-focused programmes

Several IITs have added courses tailored to emerging technology sectors. IIT Madras, for instance, offers programmes such as Computational Engineering and Mechanics and Instrumentation and Biomedical Engineering, both of which bring together engineering principles, data-driven technologies and real-world applications.

IIT Delhi has expanded its portfolio with Energy Engineering and Design, while IIT Hyderabad offers specialised programmes in Artificial Intelligence, IC Design and Technology, Biomedical Engineering, and Biotechnology and Bioinformatics. These courses are aimed at preparing students for industries where innovation and technology are rapidly reshaping job roles.

IISc Bengaluru adds three new courses

IISc Bengaluru has also broadened its undergraduate programme list with the launch of three new BTech courses: Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Mathematics and Computing. Admissions to these programmes will be carried out through JEE Advanced 2026 ranks and JoSAA counselling.

The new courses build on IISc's strong research ecosystem and are designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on exposure. Aerospace Engineering focuses on aircraft and space technologies, while Materials Science and Engineering explores advanced materials used in sectors such as electronics, manufacturing and energy. Mathematics and Computing combines mathematical concepts with computational techniques, a combination increasingly valued across technology-driven industries.

Also read IIT Mandi launches India's first IIT BTech in quantum science, adds two new data-driven programmes

More specialised options for aspirants

Other IITs have also introduced programmes in niche and emerging areas. IIT Mandi has launched courses in General Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Microelectronics and VLSI. IIT Indore now offers Space Sciences and Engineering, IIT Ropar has introduced Digital Agriculture, and IIT Patna has added a dedicated programme in Cyber Security.

With the number of specialised programmes growing every year, students are being encouraged to evaluate course structures, curriculum design, future career prospects and institute strengths before finalising their JoSAA preferences. Since many of these programmes are relatively new, placement trends and cutoff data may be limited, making it important to understand the long-term opportunities each course offers rather than relying solely on historical admission trends.