IIT Branch Salary: What Engineers Earn in Top Specializations

When you pick an IIT branch, a specific engineering discipline offered at India’s top engineering institutes like IIT Bombay, Delhi, or Madras. Also known as engineering specialization, it determines not just what you’ll study, but how much you’ll earn after graduation. Not all IIT branches are equal when it comes to pay. Some lead straight to six-figure starting salaries, while others take longer to catch up. The difference isn’t just about prestige—it’s about market demand, industry growth, and the kind of skills companies are willing to pay a premium for.

For example, Computer Science and Engineering, the branch focused on software, AI, and systems design. Also known as CSE, it consistently leads in salary offers at IITs, with top graduates landing offers above ₹40 lakh per year in 2025. Meanwhile, Electrical Engineering, a branch that covers power systems, electronics, and automation. Also known as EE, often sees strong salaries too, especially for roles in semiconductor firms or renewable energy startups. But branches like Civil Engineering, focused on infrastructure, construction, and urban planning. Also known as CE, typically start lower—often under ₹10 lakh—unless you move into project management or government roles later. Your branch doesn’t lock you in forever, but it gives you a powerful head start. Companies recruiting at IITs don’t just look at your grades—they look at your branch. A CSE grad is often seen as ready to code on day one. A Mechanical Engineering grad might need extra training before being hired for a robotics role.

What you learn in your branch directly connects to real jobs. If you study Computer Science, you’re training for roles at Google, Microsoft, or Indian tech giants like Flipkart and Paytm. If you pick Electronics and Communication, you might end up at Qualcomm, Intel, or defense labs. Even Mechanical Engineering has high-paying niches now—like electric vehicle design or automation systems. The key is matching your branch to where the money is flowing. And it’s not just about the first job. Many IIT grads in CSE and Data Science double or triple their salary within three years. Others climb slower but steady, especially in public sector or research roles.

There’s also a hidden factor: location. Most high-paying offers come from metro cities or global companies with offices in India. But some branches like Petroleum Engineering or Nuclear Engineering have fewer openings but pay extremely well when they do appear. And don’t forget internships—students in high-demand branches often get paid internships that turn into full-time jobs before they even graduate.

Below, you’ll find real stories and salary data from recent graduates. You’ll see which branches are pulling ahead in 2025, what skills boost your pay even within the same branch, and how some students beat the system by combining their IIT degree with side projects or certifications. This isn’t about choosing the "best" branch—it’s about choosing the one that aligns with where the opportunities are growing fastest.