top engineering colleges in chennai

Guide to Best Engineering Colleges in Chennai

Published on May 15, 2025
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10 Min read time
top engineering colleges in chennai

Quick Summary

  • The best engineering colleges in Chennai have state-of-the-art programs, where the curriculum is taught theoretically and supplemented by practical work.
  • These institutions have a strong connection to the industry; hence, they extend placement opportunities with reputed organizations that pay very competitive salaries.
  • They have a complete educational experience that includes modern infrastructure, research facilities, and extracurricular programs, which would help overall personal and professional development.

Table of Contents

Top engineering colleges in Chennai: With many students opting for engineering as their career path, the demand for engineering colleges is rising. There are many engineering colleges all over India. What are the top engineering colleges in Chennai? But it is crucial to choose the right college. This would help to set the right path for your professional growth. The students should be aware of the best engineering colleges in Chennai.

The top engineering colleges in India have provided quality technical education with advanced state-of-the-art infrastructure. Some of the best engineering colleges in Chennai give scholarships to the top students. There were around 1.5 lakh engineering seats in Tamil Nadu to be filled in 2022. Even though the competition is high, there are jobs in the market for deserving candidates.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Highlights 2025

The primary details for engineering institutes in Chennai are as follows:

ParticularsInformation
No. of Colleges20+ colleges
Range of Tuition Fees• Less than INR 1 lakh: 1 college • INR 1–2 lakh: 1 college • INR 2–3 lakh: 9 colleges • INR 3–5 lakh: 2 colleges • INR > 5 lakh: 6 colleges
Top Engineering Institutes in ChennaiIIT Madras, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, SSN College of Engineering, Chennai Institute of Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, etc.
Top SpecialisationsComputer Science Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, etc.
Accepted Entrance ExamsTNEA, JEE Main, etc.
Types of CollegesInstitutions are categorized into Government (e.g., IIT Madras), Private (e.g., SRM Institute, SSN College, Chennai Institute of Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College), and other types such as Government-aided or Deemed universities.

This comprehensive overview is intended to provide a clear and detailed snapshot of the key parameters, fee ranges, and institution types, empowering prospective students to make an informed decision about pursuing engineering studies in Chennai.

Top 17 Engineering Colleges in Chennai

The top engineering colleges in Chennai are as follows:

  1. Indian Institute Of Technology–Madras (IIT–Madras)
  2. Panimalar Engineering College
  3. St Joseph’s College Of Engineering
  4. Rajalakshmi Engineering College
  5. Chennai Institute of Technology
  6. College of Engineering, Guindy
  7. Saveetha Engineering College
  8. LICET: Loyola-ICAM College of Engineering and Technology
  9. S.A. Engineering College
  10. DMI College of Engineering
  11. Aalim Muhammed Salegh College Of Engineering
  12. Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering
  13. AARUPADAI VEEDU INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY
  14. Thangavelu Engineering College
  15. Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engineering and Technology
  16. Directorate of Technical Education, Sri Ramanujar Engineering College
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1. Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)

  • Founded: 1959
  • Highlights: Premier technical institution in India; renowned for research, innovation, and global collaborations.
  • Location: Chennai, Tamil Nadu
  • Type: Public
  • Programs: B.Tech, Dual Degree, M.Tech, MSc, MBA, PhD.

2. Panimalar Engineering College

  • Founded: 2000
  • Highlights: Known for academic discipline, modern infrastructure, and high placement rates.
  • Location: Poonamallee, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: B.E., B.Tech, M.E., MBA.

3. St. Joseph’s College of Engineering

  • Founded: 1994
  • Highlights: NBA accredited; strong industry connections and consistent placement records.
  • Location: OMR, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: B.E., B.Tech, M.E., MBA, MCA.

4. Rajalakshmi Engineering College

  • Founded: 1997
  • Highlights: NAAC A+ grade; known for innovation, research centers, and industry partnerships.
  • Location: Thandalam, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG and PG engineering and management programs.

5. Chennai Institute of Technology

  • Founded: 2010
  • Highlights: Strong focus on emerging tech (AI, ML, Robotics); excellent industry tie-ups.
  • Location: Kundrathur, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: B.E., B.Tech, M.E., PhD.

6. College of Engineering, Guindy (Anna University)

  • Founded: 1794
  • Highlights: India’s oldest engineering college; highly reputed for academics and research.
  • Location: Guindy, Chennai
  • Type: Public
  • Programs: UG, PG, and PhD in engineering, IT, and applied sciences.

7. Saveetha Engineering College

  • Founded: 2001
  • Highlights: NAAC A++; strong placement and academic performance.
  • Location: Thandalam, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: B.E., B.Tech, M.E., MBA.

 8. LICET (Loyola-ICAM College of Engineering and Technology)

  • Founded: 2010
  • Highlights: Jesuit institution with French academic partnership (ICAM); values-driven.
  • Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai
  • Type: Private (Christian Minority)
  • Programs: B.E. in various core and emerging areas.

9. S.A. Engineering College

  • Founded: 1998
  • Highlights: ISO certified, NBA accredited; emphasis on placements and training.
  • Location: Thiruverkadu, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG and PG in engineering and business.

10. DMI College of Engineering

  • Founded: 2001
  • Highlights: Managed by DMI Sisters; focuses on quality education and social impact.
  • Location: Palanchur, Chennai
  • Type: Private (Christian Minority)
  • Programs: UG and PG in engineering and management.

11. Aalim Muhammed Salegh College of Engineering

  • Founded: 1990
  • Highlights: AICTE approved; emphasizes technical education for all communities.
  • Location: Avadi, Chennai
  • Type: Private (Muslim Minority)
  • Programs: UG and PG engineering and management programs.

12. Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering

  • Founded: 2001
  • Highlights: Emphasis on industry-readiness and placement support.
  • Location: Tambaram, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG and PG in engineering disciplines.

13. Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology (AVIT)

  • Founded: 1998
  • Highlights: Part of Vinayaka Missions University; focuses on innovation and rural outreach.
  • Location: Paiyanoor, Chennai
  • Type: Deemed to be a University
  • Programs: UG, PG, and doctoral in engineering and technology.

14. Thangavelu Engineering College

  • Founded: 1995
  • Highlights: Committed to basic engineering education and skill development.
  • Location: Rajiv Gandhi Salai, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG courses in engineering streams.

15. Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engineering and Technology

  • Founded: 2010
  • Highlights: Strong mentorship and placement-focused training.
  • Location: Mamallapuram, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG engineering courses.

16. Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE), Tamil Nadu

  • Founded: 1957
  • Highlights: Governs engineering, diploma, and technical education across Tamil Nadu.
  • Location: Guindy, Chennai
  • Type: Government Body
  • Programs: Administrative body; not an academic institution.

17. Sri Ramanujar Engineering College

  • Founded: 2002
  • Highlights: Affordable education with industry skill training.
  • Location: Vandalur, Chennai
  • Type: Private
  • Programs: UG and PG in engineering and technology.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: NIRF Ranking

Institute NameNIRF Ranking
Indian Institute of Technology Madras3
Anna University42
SRM Institute of Science and Technology78
Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology89
Indian Institute of Information Technology, Design and Manufacturing, Kancheepuram (IIITDM)41

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Admissions 2025

The BTech eligibility criteria may vary from one institution to another. However, some broad BTech eligibility criteria are:

  1. The candidates must have completed 12th grade with at least 60% aggregate from a recognized board, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as their core subjects (the pass percentage may vary in different colleges).
  2. Candidates must appear for standard entrance exams like TNEA, JEE Main, etc., along with the college-specific entrance exam for admission purposes, and their Class 12th results.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Eligibility, Fees, and Seats

Below is an indicative table summarizing approximate details for fees, seat intake, and eligibility criteria for the engineering programs at the listed institutes. Kindly note that these figures are approximate, may vary by branch, category, and year, and are subject to change. Please refer to the institute’s official admission guidelines and website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Institute NameApprox. FeesSeat IntakeEligibility Criteria
IIT Madras₹1.8 L/year1000+JEE Advanced + 10+2 (PCM)
Panimalar Engineering College₹2.5–3 L (total)~120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
St. Joseph’s College of Engineering₹2.5–3.5 L (total)~120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Rajalakshmi Engineering College₹4–6 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA/TANCET + 10+2
Chennai Institute of Technology₹4–6 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
College of Engineering, Guindy₹15K–25K/year~2000+ overallTNEA (cutoff-based) + 10+2
Saveetha Engineering College₹4–6 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
LICET (Loyola-ICAM College of Engg.)₹3–5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
S.A. Engineering College₹2.5–4 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
DMI College of Engineering₹2–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Aalim Muhammed Salegh College₹2–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering₹2.5–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology₹4–5.5 L (total)~60–120/branchVMU Entrance / 10+2
Thangavelu Engineering College₹2–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engg.₹2.5–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)
Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE)N/AN/AAdministrative body
Sri Ramanujar Engineering College₹2–3.5 L (total)~60–120/branchTNEA + 10+2 (PCM)

Disclaimer: The above information is a guide and may differ depending on the program, branch, and admission year.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Entrance Exams

Candidates for the best government and private engineering colleges in Chennai are selected through the entrance exams below:

Institute NameEntrance Exam
IIT MadrasJEE Advanced (via JoSAA)
Panimalar Engineering CollegeTNEA (based on 10+2 PCM marks)
St. Joseph’s College of EngineeringTNEA
Rajalakshmi Engineering CollegeTNEA / TANCET (for PG)
Chennai Institute of TechnologyTNEA
College of Engineering, Guindy (Anna University)TNEA
Saveetha Engineering CollegeTNEA
LICET (Loyola-ICAM College of Engineering & Technology)TNEA
S.A. Engineering CollegeTNEA
DMI College of EngineeringTNEA
Aalim Muhammed Salegh College of EngineeringTNEA
Dhanalakshmi College of EngineeringTNEA
Aarupadai Veedu Institute of TechnologyVMU Entrance Test or Direct Admission
Thangavelu Engineering CollegeTNEA
Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engineering and TechnologyTNEA
Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE)Not applicable (regulatory body)
Sri Ramanujar Engineering CollegeTNEA

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Specialisations Offered

SpecializationNo. of CollegesExample Colleges
Computer Science Engineering12SSN College of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology, Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Panimalar Engineering College, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering, LICET, Chennai Institute of Technology, DMI College of Engineering, Aalim Muhammed Salegh College, Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering, Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology
Civil Engineering3IIT Madras, SRM Institute of Science and Technology (SRM IST), College of Engineering, Guindy
Electrical Engineering2Sri Sairam Engineering College, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering
Electronics Engineering2Sri Sairam Engineering College, St. Joseph’s College of Engineering
Cyber Security1Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and Technology

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Fees & Salary

Below is a summary table highlighting the approximate tuition fees and average salary packages offered by some of the best engineering colleges in Chennai. These figures serve as a general guide for prospective students interested in engineering courses in Chennai and represent data from top engineering colleges. Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the course, branch, admission category, and market conditions.

Institute NameApprox. Fees (B.Tech Total)Avg. Salary Package
IIT Madras₹7.2–8 L₹15–20 LPA (top); ₹12 LPA (avg)
Panimalar Engineering College₹2.5–3 L₹3.5–4.5 LPA
St. Joseph’s College of Engineering₹2.5–3.5 L₹3.5–5 LPA
Rajalakshmi Engineering College₹4–6 L₹4–5.5 LPA
Chennai Institute of Technology₹4–6 L₹5–6 LPA
College of Engineering, Guindy₹60K–1 L (Govt. quota)₹6–7 LPA (avg); ₹10–15 LPA (top)
Saveetha Engineering College₹4–6 L₹3.5–4.5 LPA
LICET (Loyola-ICAM)₹3–5 L₹3.5–4.5 LPA
S.A. Engineering College₹2.5–4 L₹3–4.5 LPA
DMI College of Engineering₹2–3.5 L₹2.5–3.5 LPA
Aalim Muhammed Salegh College₹2–3.5 L₹2.5–3 LPA
Dhanalakshmi College of Engineering₹2.5–3.5 L₹2.8–3.5 LPA
Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology₹4–5.5 L₹3–4.5 LPA
Thangavelu Engineering College₹2–3.5 L₹2.5–3 LPA
Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engg. & Tech₹2.5–3.5 L₹2.8–3.5 LPA
Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE)N/AN/A
Sri Ramanujar Engineering College₹2–3.5 L₹60K–1 L (Govt.. quota)

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai: Recruiters

Below is a table summarizing placement details for some top engineering colleges. The table highlights the average placement package and a selection of leading recruiters. This information serves as a reference for prospective students interested in engineering courses in Chennai and other regions, and it reflects the performance of some of the best engineering colleges. Please note that the figures are indicative and may vary over time; kindly refer to the official placement reports or the respective institute’s website for the most current details.

Institute NameTop RecruitersHighest Package Offered
IIT MadrasGoogle, Microsoft, Apple, Qualcomm, Goldman Sachs₹50–80 LPA (Domestic), ₹1+ Cr (International)
Panimalar Engineering CollegeTCS, Infosys, Wipro, Cognizant, HCL₹6–10 LPA
St. Joseph’s College of EngineeringAccenture, TCS, Infosys, Zoho, Amazon (support roles)₹8–10 LPA
Rajalakshmi Engineering CollegeAmazon, TCS Digital, Cognizant, Zoho, Infosys₹10–14 LPA
Chennai Institute of TechnologyZoho, Virtusa, Infosys, CTS, Amazon (Tech Ops)₹10–12 LPA
College of Engineering, GuindyMicrosoft, Amazon, Google, Deloitte, ZS Associates₹20–30 LPA
Saveetha Engineering CollegeInfosys, Wipro, Capgemini, Zoho, TCS₹6–8 LPA
LICET (Loyola-ICAM)Infosys, Zoho, Tata Elxsi, L&T Tech, Renault Nissan₹6–8 LPA
S.A. Engineering CollegeWipro, TCS, HCL, Infosys, Capgemini₹5–6 LPA
DMI College of EngineeringInfosys, CTS, Wipro, L&T Infotech₹3.5–5 LPA
Aalim Muhammed Salegh CollegeTCS, Infosys, HCL, Wipro (Off-campus mainly)₹3.5–4.5 LPA
Dhanalakshmi College of EngineeringInfosys, CTS, Wipro, HCL₹4–5 LPA
Aarupadai Veedu Institute of TechnologyCognizant, Capgemini, Tech Mahindra, Zoho₹6–7 LPA
Thangavelu Engineering CollegeInfosys, CTS, Zoho (limited roles), HCL₹4–5 LPA
Dhanalakshmi Srinivasan College of Engg.Infosys, CTS, Wipro, Tech Mahindra₹4–5 LPA
Directorate of Technical Education (DoTE)N/A (Govt body, not a placement cell)N/A
Sri Ramanujar Engineering CollegeInfosys, CTS, HCL, Wipro (limited placements)₹3.5–4.5 LPA

Highlights:

  • IIT Madras and CEG (Guindy) rank top with recruiter brand names and salary packages.
  • Mid-tier private colleges like Rajalakshmi, CIT, and LICET usually have companies like Zoho and TCS Digital offer their students ₹8–14 LPA.
  • All colleges usually have companies for IT services, and these colleges typically get the highest average package of ₹4–7 LPA.
  • Colleges with good training and placement cells, like Panimalar, Saveetha, and St. Joseph’s, have good placement consistency, even if the packages are relatively low.

Top Engineering Colleges in Chennai for Aspiring Engineers

There are several engineering colleges in Chennai, but if you want to apply to the best engineering colleges in Chennai, this is your guide. The engineering colleges listed above can help an aspirant become an engineer.

Affiliated bodies recognize these colleges and have provided the best engineering colleges in Chennai with state-of-the-art infrastructure for the students to excel in their courses. Best engineering colleges in Chennai: These engineering colleges are popular for providing good placement to students. Most of these colleges are mentioned in the NIRF rankings.

Best engineering colleges in Chennai: So, what are you waiting for? Enrol in any of them to future-proof your career!

Evaluate numerous career choices to choose the right career path for yourself. Dive into our guide on Career Advice.

Conclusion

Chennai is a prominent centre for high-quality engineering education, with several renowned institutions like IIT Madras, Anna University, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology. These schools boast exceptional facilities, experienced staff, and impressive job prospects, guaranteeing students a strong foundation for their professional lives. Whether your interests lie in computing, mechanical engineering, or cutting-edge areas like AI and robotics, Chennai’s leading engineering colleges provide an ideal setting to transform your aspirations into accomplishments. Begin your exploration today and embark on the initial stage towards a promising engineering career!

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What entrance exams do I need to take for admission to the top 10 best engineering colleges in Chennai?

The top engineering colleges in Chennai typically require the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Main for admission. Some may also accept scores from the state-level engineering entrance exam, the Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions (TNEA).

Can students from other states apply for admission to the top engineering colleges in Chennai?

Yes, students from other states can apply for admission to the top engineering colleges in Chennai.

Are any internship opportunities available for engineering students in the top colleges in Chennai?

There are currently no internship opportunities for engineering students in the top colleges in Chennai.

What extracurricular activities are available for students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

The most popular extracurricular activities offered at the top engineering colleges in Chennai include sports teams, coding clubs, robotics competitions, entrepreneurship workshops, and cultural festivals.

Are any research opportunities available for engineering students in top colleges in Chennai?

Several research opportunities are available for engineering students in top colleges in Chennai. Many of the leading engineering institutes in the city, such as the Indian Institute of Technology Madras, Anna University, and the Madras Institute of Technology, offer research programmes and projects for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

What is the industry exposure like for students pursuing engineering from top colleges in Chennai?

Engineering students from top colleges in Chennai generally have good industry exposure. Many of the city’s leading engineering institutes have strong industry connections and offer internship opportunities that allow students to gain practical experience.

How are the hostel and accommodation facilities for students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

The accommodation facilities for students in the best engineering colleges in Chennai are generally of a high standard. Most colleges provide on-campus hostels with dormitory-style rooms, common areas, and amenities like dining halls. The rooms are typically well-equipped and maintained. Off-campus private accommodations are also available nearby, though quality may vary.

What support system is available for students who need academic or emotional support in the best engineering colleges in Chennai?

Most leading engineering colleges in Chennai offer comprehensive support systems for students, including academic tutoring, career counselling, and mental health services. Counsellors and mentors can provide emotional support and guidance on personal issues. Students can access peer-to-peer support networks and resources through student societies and organisations.

What is the number of engineering colleges in Chennai?

Chennai has approximately 176 engineering colleges which include private sector colleges as well as diligently work colleges.

Which top engineering colleges in Chennai accept the JEE Main score?

Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science and BSAU are two top engineering colleges in Chennai where you can get admission through your JEE Main score.

Which private college has the best placement in Chennai?

SRM Institute of Science and Technology in Chennai also has an outstanding placement record. Leading companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Cognizant recruited students.

Which best engineering colleges in Chennai accept GATE scores?

The best engineering colleges in Chennai that accept GATE scores are IIT Madras, SRM University, MIT Chennai, and SSN College of Engineering.

Differentiate between BE degree and BTech degree?

Bachelors of Engineering is typically more theoretical in terms of engineering knowledge, while Bachelors of Technology relates more to skills learning.

Authored by, Amay Mathur | Senior Editor

Amay Mathur is a business news reporter at Chegg.com. He previously worked for PCMag, Business Insider, The Messenger, and ZDNET as a reporter and copyeditor. His areas of coverage encompass tech, business, strategy, finance, and even space. He is a Columbia University graduate.

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