IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam 2025: Everything You Need to Know

IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam 2025: Everything You Need to Know

Edited By Lankalapalli Harsha | Updated on Aug 28, 2025 12:23 PM IST | #IIT Madras (IITM)

The IIT Madras Qualifier Exam is the essential first step for candidates aspiring to join the BS in Electronic Systems at IIT Madras. The exam is designed to evaluate the academic readiness of learners before they move into the rigorous foundation-level courses. It ensures fairness, credibility and sets the stage for a structured entry into the programme.

This Story also Contains
  1. IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam
  2. Qualifier Exam 2025 Important Dates
  3. Assignment Eligibility Criteria
  4. Exam Format and Passing Criteria
  5. Validity of the Qualifier Exam Result
  6. Foundation Level Course Load After Passing
  7. Entry Pathways into BS in Electronic Systems
  8. Re-attempt Policy
  9. Importance of IIT Madras Qualifier Exam
IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam 2025: Everything You Need to Know
IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam 2025

Focusing on electronics, embedded systems, control engineering, and circuits, the exam assesses whether students possess the foundational knowledge required to succeed in this innovative online degree. By emphasising both conceptual clarity and practical readiness, the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam helps students build confidence and discipline during their preparation phase.

Only those who pass are permitted to join the Foundation level, which maintains the academic standards of IIT Madras while giving motivated learners a strong head start in the rapidly growing field of electronic systems.

IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam

The qualifier exam for IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems is an in-person examination, held at designated exam centres across India to maintain credibility and academic integrity. Applicants go through a four-week preparatory phase involving lecture videos, live sessions, and assignments. Those who meet the assignment eligibility criteria can sit for the exam.

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IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Process at a Glance

ParticularsDetails

Coursework Duration

Four weeks

Preparation

Lecture videos, live sessions, assignments in four foundation subjects

Courses Covered

English I; Mathematics for Electronics I; Electronic Systems Thinking & Circuits; Introduction to C Programming

Application Fee

Regular: Rs 3,000

SC/ST/PwD (≥ 40 % disability): Rs 1,500

SC/ST+PwD: Rs 750

Assignment Evaluation

Average of best two out of first three per course


Before the IIT Madras BS Electronic Systems qualifier exam, candidates need to undergo 4 weeks of coursework, which includes lectures, assignments, and live sessions in the subjects – English I; Mathematics for Electronics I; Electronic Systems Thinking & Circuits; Introduction to C Programming. Assignments are mandatory each week, and eligibility for the exam depends on minimum assignment performance.

Qualifier Exam 2025 Important Dates

ParticularsDates

Applications Close for Sept 2025 Term

4 September 2025

Qualifier Week 1 Starts

20 September 2025

Qualifier Exam (1-1)

26 October 2025


Further re-attempt schedules follow the established pattern as per ongoing term timelines.

Assignment Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam, applicants must attain the minimum average assignment score in each of the four preparatory courses.

CategoryMinimum Average Assignment Score

General Learners

40 per cent

OBC-NCL / EWS

35 per cent

SC / ST / PwD (≥ 40 % disability)

30 per cent


Only those meeting these criteria across all four courses will receive hall tickets for the qualifier exam. There are no relaxations once learners proceed into the programme.

Exam Format and Passing Criteria

The in-person qualifier exam lasts four hours and examines all four foundational courses. Candidates must pass both per-course and overall threshold marks:

CategoryMinimum Score per CourseMinimum Average Score (all courses)

General

40 per cent

50 per cent

OBC-NCL / EWS

35 per cent

45 per cent

SC / ST / PwD (≥ 40 % disability)

30 per cent

40 per cent


Passing grants access to the Foundation Level courses of the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems.

Validity of the Qualifier Exam Result

The IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam results remain valid for a limited period depending on the candidate’s status.

Candidate Type

Validity Period

Class 12 Completed

Three terms (one year)

Students awaiting Class 12 results

Six terms (two years)


For those who have already appeared for or cleared Class 12, the results are valid for three terms, equivalent to one year. For candidates who are yet to appear for their Class 12 exam, the results carry an extended validity of six terms, or two years. This flexibility allows candidates to plan their programme entry without haste.

Foundation Level Course Load After Passing

Students are allowed the number of courses in the first term based on their average IIT Madras BS Electronic Systems Qualifier Exam score (M).

Average Score (M)Number of Courses Allowed

Minimum to < 50 per cent

Up to 2 courses

50 ≤ M < 70 per cent

Up to 3 courses

M ≥ 70 per cent

Up to 4 courses


Those who score just above the minimum requirement but below 50 percent can register for up to two courses, while learners with scores between 50 and 70 percent can register for up to three courses. Candidates with 70 percent or higher are permitted to register for up to four courses. This ensures learners take on workloads aligned with their preparation level.

Entry Pathways into BS in Electronic Systems

The Foundation Level of the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems offers multiple pathways for eligible students to begin their academic journey. Whether through a dedicated qualifier exam, performance in JEE Advanced, or via the international entry route, each pathway is structured to suit different applicant profiles. Candidates can select the most suitable route based on their qualifications and career aspirations.

1. Qualifier Exam Route

This is the standard route available to all interested candidates.

  • Candidates must complete four weeks of online coursework.
  • After completing the coursework, candidates are required to appear for the Qualifier Exam.
  • Based on performance in the Qualifier Exam, candidates become eligible to register for Foundation Level courses.
  • The Foundation Level courses include Mathematics, Physics, Electronics, and Digital Systems, among others.
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This route helps identify candidates who are self-motivated and capable of managing online coursework.

2. JEE-Based Entry

This route is specifically for students who have recently appeared in the most recent Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced.

  • Candidates who qualify via this route are granted direct admission to the Foundation Level without the need to appear for the Qualifier Exam.
  • An application fee of Rs. 3,000 is applicable.
  • Candidates must verify their JEE Advanced credentials during the application process.
  • Once verified, candidates can directly register for Foundation Level courses such as Mathematics, Physics, Electronics and Digital Systems.
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This route benefits candidates who have already demonstrated academic rigour through national-level competitive examinations.

3. Entry for International Students

International students are offered a dedicated pathway for admission to the Foundation Level.

  • Candidates who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent qualification are eligible.
  • The application fee for international students is USD 60.
  • Admission is granted directly to the Foundation Level without the Qualifier Exam.
  • The coursework is aligned with the curriculum followed by Indian students.
  • The mode of delivery is fully online, while examinations are in-person and proctored at designated centres abroad.

This route has been designed to provide international students access to the programme while maintaining academic parity with domestic candidates.

Re-attempt Policy

Learners who are eligible but fail or miss the exam may re-attempt within the same term without repeating the preparatory coursework:

CategoryRe-attempt Fee

General / OBC-NCL / EWS

Rs 2,000

SC / ST / PwD (≥ 40 % disability)

Rs 1,000

SC / ST with PwD (≥ 40 % disability)

Rs 500


If unsuccessful or ineligible, fresh application and coursework re-attempt are required the next term. The best of two qualifier attempts will be considered if both are taken.

Importance of IIT Madras Qualifier Exam

The Qualifier Exam is more than an entrance step, ensuring only students who understand the fundamentals of electronics and embedded systems move forward. It preserves academic standards and commitment, while offering flexibility and support throughout the process.

Also Read: IIT Madras Qualifier Exam 2025 – Everything You Need To Know To Join BS Data Science

Final Thought

IIT Madras has crafted a transparent, fair, and preparatory-focused qualifier process for the BS in Electronic Systems programme. With structured assignments, clear eligibility, re-attempt paths, and flexibility in course load and entry timing, it ensures that only dedicated learners proceed. If you aim to earn a BS in Electronic Systems from IIT Madras, your journey begins with thorough preparation and success in this qualifier exam.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How challenging is the IIT Madras qualifier exam?

The qualifier exam assesses fundamental understanding in English, Mathematics for Electronics, Circuits, and C programming. It is manageable with consistent effort during the four-week preparatory phase.

2. Can I re-attempt the IIT Madras qualifier exam?

Yes. Eligible candidates may re-attempt once within the same term by paying the re-attempt fee.

3. Is the IIT Madras qualifier exam online?

No. It is a proctored, in-person exam held at designated centres across India to uphold academic credibility.

4. How long does the IIT Madras qualifier exam result remain valid?

For Class 12 pass out students, the result is valid for one year (three semesters). For those due for class 12 exam, it remains valid for two years.

5. What happens once I pass the IIT Madras BS in Electronic Systems exam?

You may register for Foundation Level courses in the term of your choosing, with the number of courses dictated by your average qualifier score.

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Questions related to IIT Madras (IITM)

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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