Indian Institute of Science Logo Indian Institute of Science

Address: C.V. Raman Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560012, India
Phone: +91 80 2293 2000
Email: info@iisc.ac.in
Website: www.iisc.ac.in


The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has specific language requirements for applicants, especially for international students, to ensure proficiency in English as the primary language of instruction. Here’s a breakdown of the requirements:

1. English Proficiency Tests for International Students

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants may need to achieve a score of around 80-90 on the iBT (Internet-Based Test) or higher, though exact requirements can vary by program.
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or above is generally recommended.
  • GRE/GMAT (Optional for Some Programs): Some postgraduate programs may also accept GRE or GMAT scores, especially in interdisciplinary fields, though these are typically not mandatory for language proficiency.

2. Indian Applicants

  • Typically, Indian applicants are not required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores if they have completed their prior education in English. IISc programs are conducted in English, so students are expected to have a strong command of the language, as demonstrated by their performance in qualifying exams like GATE, JEE Advanced, NEET, or KVPY (depending on the program).

3. Additional Support

  • Language Support Services: For those who may need it, IISc may offer language support, including academic writing workshops and English communication courses, especially beneficial for students engaged in thesis writing and presentations.

4. Program-Specific Requirements

  • Postgraduate and Research Programs: Some postgraduate or research programs may have additional language requirements, particularly if the field demands extensive written or oral communication. Proficiency in academic and scientific English is expected, given the research-intensive environment.

Overall, IISc requires evidence of strong English proficiency, especially for international students, to ensure they can fully engage with the academic curriculum and research opportunities available.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) in Bangalore is renowned for its research-driven education, especially in science, engineering, design, and interdisciplinary studies. Established in 1909, IISc is India’s premier research institution and consistently ranks among the best universities in India and Asia for scientific research and technological innovation.

Core Specialties and Programs at IISc:

  1. Science Disciplines:

    • Physics: Quantum mechanics, particle physics, condensed matter physics, astrophysics, and more.
    • Chemistry: Organic, inorganic, physical, theoretical, and materials chemistry.
    • Mathematics: Pure and applied mathematics, data science, computational science.
    • Biological Sciences: Molecular biology, genetics, neuroscience, biochemistry, ecology, evolutionary biology, and biotechnology.
    • Earth and Environmental Sciences: Atmospheric sciences, geophysics, oceanography, climate science, and environmental engineering.

  2. Engineering and Technology Disciplines:

    • Electrical Engineering: Signal processing, communications, power systems, microelectronics, and nanotechnology.
    • Computer Science and Automation: Artificial intelligence, machine learning, theoretical computer science, cybersecurity, and software systems.
    • Mechanical Engineering: Fluid mechanics, thermal sciences, robotics, computational mechanics, and materials engineering.
    • Aerospace Engineering: Aerodynamics, propulsion, space technology, flight mechanics, and aerospace materials.
    • Civil Engineering: Structural engineering, geotechnical engineering, transportation, and environmental engineering.
    • Materials Engineering: Nanomaterials, biomaterials, materials for energy applications, and advanced functional materials.
    • Chemical Engineering: Process engineering, environmental engineering, polymer science, biochemical engineering, and catalysis.

  3. Interdisciplinary Research Areas:

    • Nanoscience and Engineering: Nanotechnology applications across electronics, materials science, and bioengineering.
    • Energy Sciences and Engineering: Renewable energy, fuel cells, energy storage, and sustainable technologies.
    • Data Science and Artificial Intelligence: Big data, machine learning, computer vision, and natural language processing.
    • Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Control systems, artificial intelligence in robotics, unmanned aerial vehicles, and sensor systems.
    • Computational Science: High-performance computing, modeling, simulations, and algorithms across scientific disciplines.

  4. Design and Innovation:

    • Product Design and Engineering: Emphasis on product development, design for manufacturing, and technology commercialization.

  5. Humanities and Social Sciences (limited offerings):

    • Courses on the history and philosophy of science, policy studies, and aspects of sustainability and development.

Degrees Offered

  • Undergraduate Programs: Bachelor of Science (Research) in fields like biology, chemistry, environmental science, materials, mathematics, and physics.
  • Postgraduate Programs: Master of Science (MSc), Master of Technology (MTech), and Master of Design (MDes).
  • PhD and Integrated PhD Programs: Offered across all major research fields, with interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities.
  • Professional Courses: Master’s in Management for those focusing on technology management, entrepreneurship, and research leadership.

Key Research and Innovation Centers

IISc is home to multiple cutting-edge research centers, including the Robert Bosch Centre for Cyber-Physical Systems, Centre for Brain Research, and Supercomputer Education and Research Centre (SERC), which support interdisciplinary innovation and real-world applications in technology and health sciences.

The Indian Institute of Science’s strong emphasis on research and real-world problem-solving has made it a major contributor to scientific and technological advancements in India and globally, especially in STEM fields.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) hosts numerous distinguished professors who are leaders in their respective fields. These professors contribute significantly to advancing research in science and engineering, mentoring students, and collaborating on impactful global research. Here are some notable professors:

1. Prof. Govindan Rangarajan – Mathematics

  • Specialization: Nonlinear Dynamics, Machine Learning, and Network Theory
  • Position: Director of IISc and Professor in the Department of Mathematics
  • Contributions: Known for his work in data science and network theory, Prof. Rangarajan is highly regarded in both theoretical and applied mathematics, collaborating across interdisciplinary fields.

2. Prof. Utpal Nath – Molecular Reproduction, Development, and Genetics

  • Specialization: Plant Biology and Genetic Engineering
  • Contributions: His pioneering research focuses on plant development and genetic engineering, contributing to agricultural biotechnology advancements and helping develop resilient crop varieties.

3. Prof. S. K. Satheesh – Atmospheric and Climate Sciences

  • Specialization: Climate Science, Aerosol Physics, and Environmental Engineering
  • Position: Chair of the Divecha Centre for Climate Change at IISc
  • Contributions: A highly influential climate scientist, Prof. Satheesh has conducted extensive research on aerosol behavior and climate change, particularly in the South Asian region.

4. Prof. Arindam Ghosh – Physics

  • Specialization: Quantum Materials, Nanoscience, and Condensed Matter Physics
  • Contributions: Known for his work on two-dimensional materials like graphene and its applications, Prof. Ghosh has significantly contributed to the field of quantum devices and nanoelectronics.

5. Prof. Debdeep Mukhopadhyay – Computer Science and Automation

  • Specialization: Cybersecurity, Cryptographic Hardware, and Embedded Systems
  • Contributions: An expert in cybersecurity and cryptography, Prof. Mukhopadhyay’s work has applications in secure computing, particularly in embedded systems security, which is critical for defense and financial technology sectors.

6. Prof. Navakanta Bhat – Electrical Communication Engineering

  • Specialization: Nanoelectronics, Biosensors, and Semiconductor Devices
  • Position: Dean of Interdisciplinary Sciences, also heads the Centre for Nano Science and Engineering (CeNSE) at IISc
  • Contributions: Prof. Bhat's research is influential in semiconductor technologies and biosensing applications, contributing to medical diagnostics and national semiconductor initiatives.

7. Prof. K. VijayRaghavan – Biology (Emeritus)

  • Specialization: Developmental Biology and Genetics
  • Contributions: Former Director of IISc and a former Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India, Prof. VijayRaghavan is a renowned scientist in developmental biology and played a crucial role in shaping India’s scientific policies.

8. Prof. T. Govindaraju – Organic Chemistry

  • Specialization: Chemical Biology, Alzheimer's Research, and Biomolecular Engineering
  • Contributions: Prof. Govindaraju has made significant contributions to research on Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions, creating biomolecules that may lead to novel treatments.

9. Prof. Jayant Haritsa – Computational and Data Sciences

  • Specialization: Database Systems, Data Mining, and Information Management
  • Contributions: A highly cited researcher in database systems, Prof. Haritsa has made strides in query optimization and data management, helping to advance data sciences.

10. Prof. R. Srikanth – Centre for High Energy Physics

  • Specialization: Quantum Mechanics and Field Theory
  • Contributions: His research on quantum computing and particle physics contributes to global efforts in understanding quantum phenomena and its applications.

These professors not only contribute to scientific advancements but also play a vital role in mentoring the next generation of researchers and scientists, enhancing IISc’s reputation globally in diverse fields like physics, engineering, biology, climate science, and computer science.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) does not have any faculty or alumni who have won a Nobel Prize as of now. However, IISc remains one of India’s top institutions for scientific research and is internationally recognized for its high-impact research, contributions to science and technology, and significant role in fostering innovation and scientific talent in India.

Key Contributions and Recognitions

  • High Research Output: IISc consistently ranks highly in global research output and citations. In the QS World University Rankings, it has been recognized as one of the top institutions globally for citations per faculty, which reflects its influence in the research community.
  • Fields of Global Impact: IISc conducts pioneering research in areas that overlap with Nobel-winning fields, such as quantum physics, material science, climate studies, biology, and nanotechnology.
  • Influence in Policy and Industry: Many IISc faculty members and alumni play significant roles in science policy, technology innovation, and industry leadership both in India and globally, contributing to the advancement of science and technology.

Though IISc has yet to produce a Nobel laureate, its faculty and alumni are highly regarded in the international academic community and have received numerous prestigious awards and honors, such as the Shanti Swarup Bhatnagar Prize, Padma Awards, and fellowships in global scientific academies.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) was founded in 1909 as a result of the joint efforts of Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the Government of India, and the Maharaja of Mysore. In 1886, Jamsetji Tata conceived of a university of science that will work for the benefit of India, and in 1898 created an endowment for establishing such an institution. The Government of India then took up the effort, and, in consultation with scientists in England and in India, decided to locate the Institute in Bangalore, where the Maharaja of Mysore, Shri Krishnaraja Wodeyar IV, donated 372 acres of land. The Institute was formally vested in 1909, the foundation stone was laid in 1911, and the first batch of students started their studies in the same year. Over the 105 years since its establishment, IISc has become the premier institute for advanced scientific and technological research and education in India. Beginning with 2 departments and 21 students in 1911, today IISc has over 40 departments, units, or centres, 4000 students, and about 500 academic and scientific staff, supported by 600 administrative personnel.

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) is renowned for several reasons, making it a prestigious institution in India and globally:

1. Pioneering Research and Innovation

  • Top Research Institution: IISc consistently ranks as the premier research institution in India, known for cutting-edge research in science, engineering, and technology.
  • High Research Output: With a strong emphasis on research, IISc contributes significantly to scientific publications, citations, and patents, particularly in areas like nanotechnology, computational science, and biotechnology.
  • Innovation Centers: It houses specialized research centers, such as the Robert Bosch Centre for Cyber-Physical Systems and the Centre for Brain Research, driving interdisciplinary advancements in technology, artificial intelligence, health sciences, and more.

2. Strong Global and Industry Collaborations

  • International Partnerships: IISc collaborates with prestigious universities worldwide, including MIT, Cambridge, and ETH Zurich, facilitating student exchanges, research projects, and joint publications.
  • Industry Alliances: Many of IISc’s projects are in collaboration with major corporations like Intel, IBM, and Bosch, which further enhances the institution's impact and relevance in technology and industry advancements.

3. Notable Alumni and Faculty Contributions

  • Influential Alumni: IISc has produced a significant number of scientists, engineers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers who hold key positions in academia, industry, and government both in India and abroad.
  • Distinguished Faculty: The faculty includes top scientists and researchers, many of whom are internationally recognized and have been awarded fellowships in prominent scientific academies and research awards.

4. Focus on STEM Excellence

  • Specialization in STEM Fields: IISc’s programs emphasize deep expertise in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) areas, with innovative course structures that blend theoretical learning with research experience.
  • Interdisciplinary Studies: It offers interdisciplinary courses and research opportunities that address real-world challenges, particularly in areas like energy, environment, health sciences, and computational sciences.

5. National and International Rankings

  • IISc frequently tops Indian rankings and is highly regarded in global rankings for its research impact, often competing with international institutions in areas like physical sciences, engineering, and computer science.
  • It was ranked as the world’s top university for research citations per faculty in the QS World University Rankings 2022, underscoring its substantial influence in global research.

6. Government Support and Recognition

  • Institute of National Importance: Designated as an Institute of National Importance by the Indian government, IISc has access to extensive government funding and resources for research and development.
  • Excellence Programs: It benefits from national initiatives like the Institutes of Eminence scheme, which provides additional funding for infrastructure, research, and faculty, positioning IISc as a global research powerhouse.

IISc’s dedication to research excellence, international collaboration, and impactful innovation has solidified its reputation as one of Asia’s leading research universities and as a key contributor to India’s scientific and technological progress.