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IIT Madras Qualifier Exam 2025: Everything You Need to Know to Join BS in Data Science Program
The IIT Madras Qualifier Exam is the crucial first step for students aspiring to earn a degree from IIT Madras. This exam is a gateway to the BS Degree in Data Science and Applications at IIT Madras, ensuring that candidates are academically prepared before moving ahead in their journey. The exam serves as a readiness filter, assessing whether learners can cope with the rigour of IIT-level courses.
This Story also Contains
- What is the IIT Madras Qualifier Exam?
- IIT Madras Qualifier Exam 2025 Important Dates
- IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Eligibility
- IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Pattern
- IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Passing Criteria
- Course Load After Qualifying
- Re-Attempt Policy for Qualifier Exam
- Why the IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Matters?
- JEE Based Entry
- IIT Madras BS Data Science Programme Report 2025
From 2021 - 2025, IIT Madras BS Data Science and Applications has received 168,740 applications. The latest term, January 2025, witnessed 5,456 applications, of which, 1,381 students started the foundation level. Currently, the programme has 38,534 active learners.
Students who wish to pursue the Online BS in Data Science and Applications or the Online BS in Electronic Systems must clear this exam. With a four-week preparation process involving lectures and assignments, followed by a rigorous exam, IIT Madras ensures that only well-prepared learners progress to the Foundation Level courses.
What is the IIT Madras Qualifier Exam?
The Qualifier Exam is conducted in person at designated exam centres across India. It is a proctored test, meaning that candidates are closely monitored to ensure fairness and transparency in the examination process. This makes the exam credible and maintains the academic standards of IIT Madras.
IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Process at a Glance
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
Coursework Duration | 4 weeks |
Preparation | 4 weeks of coursework – Lecture videos, assignments, live sessions of the four foundational level courses |
Courses |
|
Application Fees |
|
Assignments | Weekly submissions required; average of best 2 out of 3 scores counted |
Minimum Average Assignment Score Required |
|
The test evaluates a candidate’s knowledge in four important subjects – English I, Mathematics for Data Science I, Statistics for Data Science I, and Computational Thinking. At the end of the 4 weeks, a qualifier exam will be conducted for eligible candidates based on the content covered in the 4 weeks of study.
Only those who clear the Qualifier Exam are allowed to register for the Foundation Level courses of the IIT Madras Online BS programme. This ensures that students who enter the programme are academically ready and committed.
IIT Madras Qualifier Exam 2025 Important Dates
Application for the September 2025 batch is open. The last date to apply for Qualifier Application is September 4, 2025. The Qualifier Phase Week 1 starts on September 19, 2025 and Qualifier Exam 1-1 will be on October 26, 2025.
| Particular | for May 2025 Batch | for September 2025 Batch |
|---|---|---|
Qualifier Application Form Opens | Tuesday, February 18, 2025 | Friday, June 6, 2025 |
Qualifier Application Form Closes | Tuesday, May 20, 2025 | Thursday, September 4, 2025 |
Qualifier Phase Week 1 Starts | Friday, May 30, 2025 | Friday, September 19, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 1-1 | Sunday, July 13, 2025 | Sunday, October 26, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 1-1 : Results | Thursday, July 17, 2025 | Thursday, October 30, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 1-1, if passed, Course registration opens | Thursday, July 17, 2025 | Thursday, October 30, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 1-1, if passed, Course registration closes | Friday, July 18, 2025 | Friday, October 31, 2025 |
Qualifier 1-2: Re-attempt Form Opens | Thursday, July 17, 2025 | Thursday, October 30, 2025 |
Qualifier 1-2: Re-attempt Form Closes | Friday, July 18, 2025 | Friday, October 31, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 2-1; Qualifier Exam 1-2 | Sunday, August 3, 2025 | Sunday, November 23, 2025 |
Results for Qualifier Exam 2-1; Qualifier Exam 1-2 | Wednesday, August 13, 2025 | Monday, December 1, 2025 |
Qualifier 2-2; Reattempt form Opens | Wednesday, August 13, 2025 | Monday, December 1, 2025 |
Qualifier 2-2; Reattempt form Closes | Thursday, August 14, 2025 | Tuesday, December 2, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 2-2: Reattempt | Sunday, August 31, 2025 | Sunday, December 21, 2025 |
Qualifier Exam 2-2: Results | Friday, September 5, 2025 | Monday, December 29, 2025 |
Registration Opens (if cleared re-attempt) | Course registration open in next term for those who passed Qualifier and have not registered for courses yet | Course registration open in next term for those who passed Qualifier and have not registered for courses yet |
Also Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications: Worth Pursuing or Just Hype?
IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Eligibility
In each course of the qualifier exam, the average of the best 2 out of the first 3 assignment scores will be calculated. Only those candidates who get the minimum required average assignment scores in all four courses will be eligible to appear for the Qualifier Exam.
| Eligibility Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
Required Assignment Scores | A minimum average score across assignments for each course |
Passing Average Assignment Score | General: 40% SC/ST/PwD: 30% OBC-NCL/EWS: 35% |
Minimum Number of Assignments | The average of the best 2 out of the first 3 assignment scores will be considered. |
Coursework Requirements | Complete assignments for each course to be eligible for the Qualifier Exam. |
IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Pattern
The qualifier exam pathway ensures that candidates from different academic backgrounds, including current school students, can apply for the Foundation level of the IIT Madras BS Data Science programme.
| Exam Type | Details |
|---|---|
Exam Duration | 4 hours |
Exam Content | Covers all four courses: English I, Mathematics for Data Science I, Statistics for Data Science I, Computational Thinking |
Exam Format | Written, in-person exam with a focus on the coursework material |
Exam Assessment | Separate scoring for each course with a minimum required score for each course |
Also Read: How Entry & Exit Option Works in IIT Madras BS Electronic Systems?
IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Passing Criteria
The exam is conducted offline at designated exam centres, covering all four courses from the preparatory period.
| Category | Minimum Score in Each Course | Minimum Average Score |
|---|---|---|
General Category | 40% | 50% |
OBC-NCL and EWS | 35% | 45% |
SC/ST/PwD (40% disability) | 30% | 40% |
Passing the exam is mandatory to join the Foundation Level of the IIT Madras BS Data Science programme.
Validity of Qualifier Exam Scores
Candidate Type | Result Validity |
|---|---|
Class 12 Completed | 3 terms (1 year) |
Class 11 Students | 6 terms (2 years) |
The exam result is valid only for a specific duration.
- For students who have already completed Class 12, the eligibility is three terms (one year).
- For students yet to appear for Class 12, the validity is six terms (two years).
This gives flexibility to learners in planning their studies and progressing in the course.
Also Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science Completion vs Dropout Trends: What Numbers Tell?
Course Load After Qualifying
The number of courses students can register for the Foundation Level depends on their average score (M) in the exam.
Average Qualifier Exam Score (M) | Number of Courses Allowed for Registration |
|---|---|
Minimum required <= M < 50% | Up to 2 courses |
50% ≤ M < 70% | Up to 3 courses |
M ≥ 70% | Up to 4 courses |
This means, if the score is less than 50%, the student is allowed to register for up to 2 courses. Those who score between 50% and 70% can register up to 3 courses, while students with 70% or higher can register for up to 4 courses. This system helps students gradually take on courses based on their performance in the Qualifier Exam.
Re-Attempt Policy for Qualifier Exam
If any student is eligible but fails or misses the exam, he or she may re-attempt it within the same term. Learners do not need to repeat the assignments. However, they must apply again and pay the re-attempt fee.
| Re-attempt Option | Details |
|---|---|
Eligibility for Re-attempt | Available for candidates who were eligible but failed or were absent for the exam. |
Re-attempt Fee | General/OBC: Rs 1500 SC / ST / PwD: Rs 750 SC / ST & PwD: Rs 375 |
Re-attempt Process | Must apply for a re-attempt without repeating coursework. |
Re-Attempt Fees
- General, OBC-NCL, EWS – Rs 2,000
- SC, ST, PwD (≥ 40% disability) – Rs 1,000
- SC, ST with PwD (≥ 40% disability) – Rs 500
If a learner is ineligible due to poor assignment performance, he or she must reapply in the next semester as a fresh applicant. In that case, he or she needs to complete the assignments again and pay the full fee.
Why the IIT Madras Qualifier Exam Matters?
The IIT Madras qualifier exam is not just about entry. It helps candidates build strong basics, test their commitment and prepare for the intensity of an IIT course. The exam also ensures that only determined learners progress, maintaining the academic quality of the IIT Madras Online degree. For students across India and abroad, this exam is the first step towards earning an IIT degree flexibly.
JEE Based Entry
Candidates who are eligible to appear for the most recent JEE Advanced can directly get admission to the Foundation Level.
Here are the steps to entry through JEE:
- Students must complete the application form and pay the admission fee of Rs 3,000
- After the verification of learners’ proof for JEE advanced, they are eligible to directly start the foundation level courses.
- They have to register for courses – English 1, Maths 1, Statistics 1, Computational Thinking – by paying the course fees.
- They can register to 1 /2 /3 /4 courses depending on the time they would have to study.
- The institute will inform the candidates when they can register for courses; only after they can register for courses, and get access to content.
Note: Candidates can also pursue the IIT Madras BS Data Science and Applications programme alongside another college degree.
IIT Madras BS Data Science Programme Report 2025
With 168,740 applicants, 63,143 students qualified for admission to the foundation level. Of those, 52,144 students started the programme. The number of students who are currently active is 38,534, accounting for 73% of students who started the programme.
Level-Wise Active Students and Exits
| Level | Active Students | Highest Level completed | Original certificates awarded to those who have chosen to exit |
|---|---|---|---|
Foundation | 24,616 | 14,900 | NA |
Diploma | 12,781 | DP - 440, DDS - 831, Both Diplomas - 823 | 321 |
Degree | BSc - 752 | BSc - 507 BS - 197 | BSc - 165 BS - 130 |
Total | 38,534 | 16,994 | 616 |
This means, the number of students who have completed each level is 16,994 and those who have exited at each level is 616.
Exit Options:
- Learners can exit with a Foundation Certificate from Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), IIT Madras.
- After clearing all 8 Foundation Level courses, learners can proceed to the Diploma level. They can either proceed to the BSc Degree level or exit with a Diploma in Programming, Diploma in Data Science or both Diplomas.
- After successfully completing 114 credits (including credits earned in all previous levels), learners can proceed to the BS Degree Level or exit with a BSc Degree in Programming & Data Science from IIT Madras.
- Once successfully completing 142 credits and the course requirements, learners can exit with a BS Degree in Data Science and Applications from IIT Madras.
Final Thoughts
The IIT Madras Qualifier Exam plays a crucial role in shaping one’s journey into the online BS Degree in Data Science and Applications. With a structured preparation, mandatory assignments, and a clear set of eligibility requirements, the process ensures that only those who are ready and committed move ahead. If you are aiming for a prestigious IIT degree online, your first step is to prepare and succeed in this exam.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What happens if I do not clear the Qualifier Exam?
A:
If you fail the exam but are eligible, you may re-attempt it. If you fail again, you will need to apply afresh in a later term.
Q: How long is the Qualifier Exam valid for?
A:
If you have already completed Class 12, your score is valid for one year. If you are yet to complete Class 12, the score remains valid for two years.
Q: Is the Qualifier Exam conducted online?
A:
No. The exam is conducted offline at designated exam centres across different cities in India. It is a proctored, in-person examination.
Q: How many times can I attempt the Qualifier Exam?
A:
If you are eligible, you may re-attempt once in the same term by paying a re-attempt fee. If you are ineligible due to poor assignment scores, you need to apply again in the next semester as a fresh candidate.
Q: How difficult is the IIT Madras Qualifier Exam?
A:
The exam is designed to test basic understanding of English, Mathematics, Statistics, and Computational Thinking. It is not as tough as JEE but requires consistent effort during the four-week preparation process.
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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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