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How Difficult is IIT Madras BS Data Science? - Exam Pattern, Passing Marks, Study Plan
An IIT degree blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience, making learners able to solve real-world problems across industries. With IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications programme, students gain the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the data science field.
This Story also Contains
- Program Structure: Courses & Credit Requirements
- Assessment and Exam Pattern
- Passing Marks
- Study Plan and Time Commitment
- The Difficult Level of IIT Madras BS Data Science Program
- How to Succeed in IIT Madras BS Data Science Program?
The programme caters to a wide range of learners, from school students to working professionals and those looking to advance their data science skills. Although IIT Madras BS Data Science is an online programme, it requires time management, understanding of exam patterns, and consistency to achieve success.
It is crucial to understand how difficult is IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications, and what it takes to successfully complete the programme – from weekly study plan to exam patterns and daily time commitment.
Program Structure: Courses & Credit Requirements
The IIT Madras in BS Data Science and Applications programme is structured over four levels: Foundation, Diploma, BSc Degree, and BS Degree; each involves credit-based courses, projects, and exit options.
Level | Credits Required | Courses | Exit Options | Proceed to Next Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Foundation Level | 32 Credits | 8 Courses | Foundation Certificate from CODE, IIT Madras | Diploma Level |
Diploma Level | 27 Credits (Programming) 27 Credits (Data Science) | 6 Courses + 2 Projects (each) | Diploma in Programming or Data Science or both Diplomas | BSc Degree |
BSc Degree Level | 28 Credits (Total 114 Credits) | Core Courses | BSc Degree in Programming and Data Science | BS Degree |
BS Degree Level | 28 Credits (Total 142 Credits) | Core & Elective Courses | BS Degree in Data Science and Applications | - |
The entire programme can be completed between 4 to 8 years, depending on the learner's pace. Students also have the option to exit with a Foundation Certificate, Diploma, BSc Degree, or the full BS Degree.
- Anyone after Class 12th can apply for and clear the Qualifier Process to join the Foundation Level.
- Learners are required to clear all 8 Foundation Level courses to join the Diploma Level.
- Learners after successfully clearing all 8 courses in Foundation Level and all 12 courses + 4 projects in Diploma Level can proceed to the BSc Degree Level.
- Once the learner earned 114 credits and completed the BSc Degree Level will become eligible to enter the BS Degree Level.
Also Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science Completion vs Dropout Trends: What Numbers Tell?
Assessment and Exam Pattern
IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications programme follows an assessment process, which includes quizzes, projects and assignments, and end-term examinations. To clear each level to either exit or proceed to the next level of the programme, students have to qualify for each assessment.
Time and Format of Assessments
| Assessment Type | Frequency | Duration | Format |
|---|---|---|---|
Weekly Assignments | Every week | Varies | Online assignments for weekly course materials |
In-person Invigilated Quizzes | Monthly | 2-4 hours | Quizzes conducted at exam centers, typically MCQs or short-answer questions |
Invigilated End-Term Exams | At the end of each term | 1.5 hours | In-person, end-term exam for each course |
Important Notes:
- The scores obtained in weekly assignments will be counted towards the Total Course Score (T) and will be considered as the eligibility to write the End Term Exam.
- Each in-person quiz will be a single session exam with 4 hours to attempt 4 subjects, 3 hours to attempt 3 subjects and 2 hours to attempt 2 or 1 subject.
- Students are advised to attend at least one of the two quizzes, otherwise, ineligible to write the final exam.
- End-term exams can be conducted only on Sundays at designated exam centres across India.
- International students can sit for in-person exams in Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and UAE or take up remote proctored exams.
Grading and Evaluation
The final grade for each course is considered based on the cumulative performance across the weekly assignments, in-person quizzes, end-term exam, and projects.
To be eligible for the end-term examination, the average weekly graded online assignment score should be more than or equal to 40 out of 100.
Passing criteria for each course
- Total Course Score (T) = Average Quiz Score Q (out of 50) + End Term Score E (out of 50)
- A candidate shall be considered to have passed a course if Total Course Score (T) is more than or equal to 50 out of 100.
Additional Assessments
The IIT Madras BS Data Science and Applications programme also include additional assessments:
- Programming Exam
- Mini-projects
- Vivas
- Take-home Assignments
Also Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science: Salaries, Career Growth for 2024 & 2025 Job Outcomes
Passing Marks
IIT Madras BS Data Science programme follows a grading pattern. Students are awarded the degree under 3 categories:
- Highest Scores: Highest CGPA at each level
- Certificate of Academic Distinction: CGPA greater than 9.5
- Certificate of Merit: CGPA greater than 9.0
In 2023, a total of 8 students scored Highest CGPA across all the levels, ranging between 9.95 and 9.74 CGPA. The number of students who secured the highest CGPA (between 10 and 9.66) across all the levels in 2024 was 6.
CGPA Distribution Analysis (2023)
In 2023, the distribution of CGPA scores among students fell between 9.95 and 9 across all the levels.
Foundation and Diploma - 2023
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 9.95 - 9.91 | 4 |
Certificate of Academic Distinction (CGPA > 9.5) | 9.88 - 9.51 | 22 |
Certificate of Merit (CGPA > 9.0) | 9.49 - 9 | 53 |
The data highlights the distribution of CGPA scores at the Foundation and Diploma levels ranges between 9.95 and 9, with 4 students receiving the highest score (9.95 - 9.91). 22 students scored between 9.88 and 9.51, earning the Certificate of Academic Distinction. Additionally, 53 students have a CGPA between 9.49 and 9, receiving the Certificate of Merit.
Direct Diploma - 2023
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 9.94 - 9.91 | 3 |
This means 3 students achieved a CGPA ranging from 9.94 to 9.91, marking the highest scores within the Direct Diploma.
BS Degree - 2023
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 9.74 | 1 |
At the BS degree level, the highest score was achieved by only 1 student, with a CGPA of 9.74. This represents outstanding academic performance at this level.
CGPA Distribution Analysis (2024)
In 2024, the distribution of CGPA scores among students across all the levels fell between 10 and 9. This represents higher CGPA scores earned by students when compared to last year.
Foundation and Diploma - 2024
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 10 - 9.95 | 3 |
Certificate of Academic Distinction (CGPA > 9.5) | 9.86 - 9.51 | 33 |
Certificate of Merit (CGPA > 9.0) | 9.49 - 9 | 67 |
In the Foundation and Diploma programmes, 3 students scored a highest CGPA between 10 and 9.95. 33 students with CGPA greater than 9.5 or between 9.86 and 9.51 earned the Certificate of Academic Distinction. Additionally, 67 received the Certificate of Merit for achieving a CGPA above 9.0 (between 9.49 and 9).
Direct Diploma - 2024
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 9.74 - 9.66 | 2 |
The data shows that 2 students in the Direct Diploma programme received a CGPA between 9.74 and 9.66, representing the highest scores at this programme level.
BS Degree - 2024
| Metric | CGPA | No. of Students |
|---|---|---|
Highest Score | 9.82 | 1 |
Certificate of Academic Distinction | 9.77 - 9.53 | 5 |
Certificate of Merit | 9.47 - 9.02 | 30 |
In the BS Degree programme, only 1 student scored the highest CGPA of 9.82. 5 students earned the Certificate of Academic Distinction for scoring between 9.77 and 9.53 CGPA. Additionally, 30 students received the Certificate of Merit for attaining a CGPA above 9.0 (between 9.47 and 9.02).
Study Plan and Time Commitment
The IIT Madras BS Data Science and Applications programme follows a structured study plan for each level and courses. As the programme is flexible and delivered virtually, students require significant time commitment based on the number of courses. Here is the overview of the study hours expected at each level:
Level-Wise Time Commitment
| Level | Core Topics | Time Commitment (per course/week) |
|---|---|---|
Foundation Level | Mathematics for Data Science, Statistics, Computational Thinking, Python Programming | 10 hours |
Diploma Level (Programming) | Database Management, Programming with Python, Modern Application Development, System Commands | 15 hours |
Diploma Level (Data Science) | Machine Learning Foundations, Business Data Management, Machine Learning Practice, Tools in Data Science | 15 hours |
BSc Degree Level | Specialised topics in Data Science and Programming | 15 hours |
BS Degree Level | Software Engineering, Software Testing, Artificial Intelligence, Deep Learning, | 15 hours |
Daily Time Commitment:
- For Foundation Level: 1.67 hour per day
- For Diploma and Degree Levels: 2.5 hours per day
The Difficult Level of IIT Madras BS Data Science Program
Many students enrol in the IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications alongside another degree or are working full time. This creates heavy workload and difficulty in balancing multiple responsibilities.
Students, especially those from non-technical backgrounds and who lack strong maths and statistics skills, can face challenges and find this programme difficult.
Subjects Where Students may Face Challenges:
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Machine Learning
- Programming
- Database Management System (DBMS)
How to Succeed in IIT Madras BS Data Science Program?
IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications is a degree programme that provides rigorous learning in the data science field. To earn the BS Degree, students should successfully complete all four levels, with required credits.
Efforts Commitment
Although IIT Madras BS Data Science is an online programme, students require a well-structured study plan, consistency in completing assignments and quizzes, and strategic focus on core subjects.
Core Subjects
| Level | Core Subjects |
|---|---|
Foundation | Mathematics for Data Science, Statistics for Data Science, Computational Thinking, English |
Diploma (DP and DDS) | DBMS, Programming Concepts using Java, Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms using Python, ML Techniques, Business Analytics |
BSc Degree | Specialised topics on programming and data science |
BS Degree | Software Engineering, Testing, AI, Deep Learning, and Elective courses |
The Foundation Level courses emphasise essential knowledge in mathematics, statistics, and programming. Focusing on these subjects early will help build a solid foundation for more advanced topics.
Regular Revision and Practice: Students need to participate in in-person invigilated quizzes and assignments for each course. This will help them with hands-on practice, particularly in programming and machine learning.
Prioritise Projects and Practical Application: The Diploma Level involves multiple projects. Prioritising these hands-on projects and practical applications will help apply theory into real-world scenarios.
Diploma Projects
| Diploma in Programming | Diploma in Data Science |
|---|---|
Modern Application Development I | Business Data Management |
Modern Application Development II | Machine Learning Practice |
Time Management and Planning: The programme requires 10-15 hours per course/week. Breaking down the study hours for each course per week will help learners manage their learning and other commitments.
Also Read: IIT Madras BS Data Science Student Review
Bottom Line
Succeeding in the IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications programme requires strategic planning, consistent time management, and efforts. Students can expect a typical time spend of 10-15 hours per week for each course of the programme, depending on the level of study.
Prioritising weekly assignments, dedicating weekends for in-depth study sessions, and focusing on hands-on projects can be helpful in successfully completing the IIT Madras Data Science programme.
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Questions related to IIT Madras (IITM)
On Question asked by student community
Have a question related to IIT Madras (IITM) ?
Hello Aspirant,
When applying to BS in Medical Sciences and Engineering at IIT Madras via the IAT (IISER Aptitude Test) for the OBC-NCL Female category, the suggested ranks and marks can differ every year depending on the level of difficulty or how many took the exam. However, based on the trends from year-to-year:
- Safe Rank: Within the overall OBC-NCL Female rank of the top 850–1000 would be classified as a competitive rank.
- Safe Marks: With a mark of around 120–140 marks out of 180 will increase your chances very significantly.
Hello aspirant,
To get admission in the Dual Degree Aerospace Engineering (B.Tech + M.Tech) program at IIT Madras through JEE Advanced under the female quota, you should aim for a rank around 6000 to 6300 based on the previous year’s trends. In 2025, the closing rank for female supernumerary seats for this program was approximately 6279. It’s always advisable to aim for a better rank to increase your chances of getting into this prestigious program. Keep an eye on the official JoSAA counselling schedule for updated cutoffs.
All the best for your preparation and future!
Hello,
Yes, If you work hard and study regularly, you can definitely crack JEE Main and JEE Advanced.
IIT Madras is tough, but many students from state boards have made it with good preparation. Focus on understanding concepts well, practice lots of questions, and solve previous years’ papers.
Also, try to join a good coaching or online classes if possible. Believe in yourself and stay consistent. You have a good chance!
Hope it helps !
With a preparatory rank of 3935, your chances of getting a seat at IIT Madras are unlikely. While a preparatory rank can sometimes lead to admission in less competitive IITs or specific courses, 3935 is a high rank within the preparatory category, and IIT Madras is one of the most sought-after IITs.
Preparatory Courses:
IITs offer preparatory courses for SC, ST, and PwD students who didn't qualify for regular IIT programs but have a qualifying rank in JEE Advanced.
Limited Seats:
The number of seats in preparatory courses is limited, and the competition for these seats can be high, especially for the most prestigious IITs.
Rank Significance:
A rank of 3935 within the preparatory category means you're among the lower-ranked candidates within that group, and IIT Madras is highly selective even within the preparatory program.
Factors Influencing Admission:
Besides rank, other factors like category, branch preferences, and the specific IIT's admission policies can influence seat allocation.
Alternative Options:
If you don't get a seat at IIT Madras, explore other IITs with more lenient admission criteria or consider NITs or other engineering colleges where you might have better chances.
Hello Aspirant,
If you get admitted into the B.S. program at IIT Madras this year and this year happens to be your first JEE Advanced attempt, then yes, you will remain eligible to take JEE Advanced again next year if you satisfy the other eligibility norms laid down by the conducting authorities of the exam. The important thing is that the candidate gets two chances at JEE Advanced at the most, and these chances have to come within two successive years from the year when they first appeared for the test. Since you are trying for the first time, you have one chance remaining for the next year.
But once you are admitted into an IIT undergraduate course, you cannot sit for JEE Advanced again to get into the same course. But if you are interested in a different course or a double degree (such as B.Tech + M.Tech), you may want to look up the particular rules from the JEE Advanced official website or the IITs.
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