IIT-Bombay offers early leave option after 3 years for Engineering students

IIT-Bombay, one of India's premier educational institutions, is aligning its academic practices with the National Education Policy 2020 (NEP 2020). It has introduced flexible learning and multiple entry and exit options for students.

One notable update is the early leave option for students pursuing a BTech degree who find it challenging to complete the standard four-year curriculum. After three years of study, they can opt for early leave and receive a BSc (Engineering) degree if they meet 60% of the overall credit requirements.

According to the latest reports, fifteen students have already utilised the early leave option, and they are also eligible to participate in placements. The NEP 2020 recommends implementing multiple entry and exit points for academic programmes. But lateral entry into IIT-Bombay is currently not feasible due to the stringent admission criteria for JEE (Advanced).

Nevertheless, the institute has embraced NEP's principles. Under this, it has started offering certificate, diploma, and degree options for exits after the first, second, or third years. Interestingly, unlike many state universities that offer exit options annually, IIT-Bombay has chosen to provide the exit opportunity only after the completion of the third year.

The institute recognises that some students may face difficulties or seek to explore alternative paths after three years of study. Therefore, the early leave option with a BSc (Engineering) degree aims to accommodate their needs while ensuring a recognised qualification.

The decision to eliminate the branch change option was made following a campus suicide incident and other activities. It previously allowed students to switch to different engineering branches after the first year. To compensate for this change, IIT-Bombay has increased enrollment in minor programmes. These minor programmes also serve as electives.

The institute will also offer a blend of core courses and a wide range of electives. It will increase interdisciplinary learning and promote new disciplines such as the School of Management and the School for Entrepreneurship. Additionally, IIT-Bombay has emphasised collaboration with foreign universities.