Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu 2026

Manya DhingraVerified Author
Updated on - Feb 16, 2026 10:58 PM IST

Tamil Nadu is one of India's most advanced higher education destinations, with over 2,800 colleges and more than 70 universities offering high-quality programmes in engineering, medicine, management, arts & science, law, agriculture, design, and emerging fields like AI, Data Science, Biotechnology, and Renewable Energy. The state is home to some of the country's most reputed institutions, including IIT Madras, Anna University, NIT Tiruchirappalli, CMC Vellore, and PSG College of Technology, known for world-class research, strong industry collaborations, excellent placements, and relatively affordable living costs.

Tamil Nadu has roughly 2,100 private unaided colleges, 400 private aided, and 300 government colleges. Admissions are primarily through national exams like JEE Main, NEET, CUET, CAT, CLAT, GATE and state-level exams like TNEA for engineering based on 12th marks, TNMGRMU for medical allied, TANCET for MBA/MCA. This article gives you a clear, factual overview of the best higher education options in Tamil Nadu for 2026 admissions. 

Particulars

Statistics / Details

Total Colleges2,800+ colleges across Tamil Nadu
Total Universities70+ universities
Major Academic Streams                                                        Engineering, Medicine, Management, Arts & Science, Law, Agriculture, Design, AI, Data Science, Biotechnology, Renewable Energy                                            
Private Unaided Colleges2,100
Private Aided Colleges400
Government Colleges300
Popular Cities for EducationChennai, Coimbatore, Vellore, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, Salem
Top InstitutesIIT Madras, Anna University, NIT Tiruchirappalli, CMC Vellore, PSG College of Technology, VIT Vellore
Engineering Colleges1,500
Management Colleges500
Medical & Allied Health Colleges400
Arts & Science Colleges800

Top 25 Colleges in Tamil Nadu Based on NIRF 2025

The National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) ranks institutions on teaching, learning & resources, research & professional practice, graduation outcomes, outreach & inclusivity, and perception. Below are Tamil Nadu's top 25 colleges/institutes as per NIRF 2025, along with flagship programmes.

College / Institute Name

City

Popular Courses Offered

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras)ChennaiBTech, MTech, MSc, MBA, PhD
Anna UniversityChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA, MCA, PhD
National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli (NIT Trichy)Tiruchirappalli                                BTech, MTech, MBA, MSc, PhD
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT)VelloreBTech, MTech, MBA, MSc, PhD
Amrita Vishwa VidyapeethamCoimbatoreBTech, MTech, MBA, MBBS, PhD
SRM Institute of Science and TechnologyChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA, MBBS, BDS, PhD                                                               
Shanmugha Arts Science Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA)                            ThanjavurBTech, MTech, MBA, Law, PhD
PSG College of TechnologyCoimbatore                                                            BTech, MTech, MBA
Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical SciencesChennaiMBBS, BDS, BTech, MTech, PhD
Sathyabama Institute of Science and TechnologyChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA, BArch, PhD
Kalasalingam Academy of Research and EducationKrishnankoilBTech, MTech, MBA, BArch
Alagappa UniversityKaraikudiBA, BSc, BTech, MBA, PhD
Bharath Institute of Higher Education and ResearchChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA, BArch
Karunya Institute of Technology and SciencesCoimbatoreBTech, MTech, MBA, BTech Agri
Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute of Science and TechnologyChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA
Hindustan Institute of Technology and ScienceChennaiBTech, MTech, MBA, BArch
Avinashilingam Institute for Home Science and Higher Education for WomenCoimbatoreBTech, BSc, MBA, PhD
Thiagarajar College of EngineeringMaduraiBTech, MTech
Coimbatore Institute of TechnologyCoimbatoreBTech, MTech
Kumaraguru College of TechnologyCoimbatoreBTech, MTech, MBA
Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) – Anna UniversityChennaiBTech, MTech
College of Engineering Guindy – Anna UniversityChennaiBTech, MTech
Government College of Technology, CoimbatoreCoimbatoreBTech, MTech
Government College of Technology, TirunelveliTirunelveliBTech, MTech
Government College of Technology, SalemSalemBTech, MTech

Top 25 Affordable Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Affordable engineering colleges in Tamil Nadu offer high-quality education with excellent placements at low tuition fees. Here are the top affordable colleges with their average package.

College Name

Popular Branches

Annual Fees

Average Package             

College of Engineering Guindy (Anna University)CSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Madras Institute of Technology (MIT) – Anna UniversityAeronautical, CSE, ECE                                  0.5 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, CoimbatoreCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, TirunelveliCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, SalemCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs                                         6–8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, BargurCSE, ECE, EEE0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Alagappa Chettiar Government College of Engineering & Technology     CSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
PSG College of Technology (Govt-aided)CSE, ECE, ME0.9 Lakhs9–11 Lakhs
Coimbatore Institute of Technology (Govt-aided)CSE, ECE, ME0.9 Lakhs8–10 Lakhs
Thiagarajar College of Engineering (Govt-aided)CSE, ECE, EEE0.9 Lakhs7–9 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, SalemCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, DharmapuriCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, ErodeCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, ThanjavurCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, BodinayakanurCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, SrirangamCSE, ECE, EEE0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, BargurCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, KrishnagiriCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, PerambalurCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, TiruppurCSE, ECE, Textile0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, VillupuramCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, DindigulCSE, ECE, ME0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, TheniCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, AranthangiCSE, ECE, EEE0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, KaraikudiCSE, ECE, Civil0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs

Top 25 Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu which Accept Less Than 90 Percentile in TNEA / JEE Main

TNEA (Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions) is based on 12th marks (Physics, Chemistry, Maths aggregate). Many top colleges accept students with lower JEE Main percentiles through TNEA counselling.

College Name

Popular Branches

TNEA Cutoff Marks (out of 200) / JEE Percentile              

Average Package          

PSG College of TechnologyCSE, ECE, ME195–198 / 85–90 Percentile9–11 Lakhs
Coimbatore Institute of TechnologyCSE, ECE, ME194–197 / 85–90 Percentile8–10 Lakhs
Thiagarajar College of EngineeringCSE, ECE, EEE193–196 / 80–90 Percentile7–9 Lakhs
Kumaraguru College of TechnologyCSE, ECE, AI & DS192–195 / 80–90 Percentile7–9 Lakhs
Sri Krishna College of Engineering and TechnologyCSE, ECE, IT190–194 / 80–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
Karpagam College of EngineeringCSE, ECE, ME188–192 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
SNS College of TechnologyCSE, ECE, AI & DS187–191 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
Velammal College of Engineering and TechnologyCSE, ECE, IT186–190 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
KPR Institute of Engineering and TechnologyCSE, ECE, ME185–189 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
Bannari Amman Institute of TechnologyCSE, ECE, AI & DS184–188 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
Kongu Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, ME183–187 / 75–85 Percentile6–8 Lakhs
St. Joseph's College of EngineeringCSE, ECE, IT182–186 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Easwari Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, AI & DS181–185 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
RMK Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, IT180–184 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Panimalar Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, ME179–183 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Vel Tech Multi Tech Dr. Rangarajan Dr. Sakunthala Engineering College                          CSE, ECE, IT178–182 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
S.A. Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, AI & DS                                       177–181 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Sri Sairam Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, ME176–180 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Jeppiaar Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, IT175–179 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Saveetha Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, AI & DS174–178 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Hindusthan College of Engineering and TechnologyCSE, ECE, ME173–177 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
RMD Engineering CollegeCSE, ECE, IT172–176 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Sri Venkateswara College of EngineeringCSE, ECE, ME171–175 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Panimalar Institute of TechnologyCSE, ECE, AI & DS170–174 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs
Velammal Institute of TechnologyCSE, ECE, IT169–173 / 70–80 Percentile5–7 Lakhs

Top Medical Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Admissions to medical colleges in Tamil Nadu are primarily through NEET which is a national level entrance exam. The below table lists the top medical colleges in Tamil Nadu.

College Name

Annual Fees                                                                                    

Average Package                                                                                         

Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore0.6 Lakhs10 Lakhs
Madras Medical College, Chennai0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Stanley Medical College, Chennai0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Kilpauk Medical College, Chennai0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Omandurar0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Thiruvallur0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Tiruvannamalai     0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Villupuram0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Vellore0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Dharmapuri0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Sivagangai0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Thiruvarur0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Ariyalur0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Kallakurichi0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Namakkal0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Dindigul0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Ramanathapuram   0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Pudukkottai0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Thoothukudi0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Tirunelveli0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Theni0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Karur0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Erode0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Krishnagiri0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government Medical College, Nagapattinam0.2 Lakhs8 Lakhs

Top 10 Management Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu has strong management institutions with excellent placements in different sectors. These colleges offer high average packages and have comparatively higher fees. The top 10 management colleges in Tamil Nadu are as follows.

College Name

Annual Fees                                                                          

Average Package                                          

Indian Institute of Management Tiruchirappalli (IIM Trichy)20 Lakhs28 Lakhs
Great Lakes Institute of Management, Chennai17 Lakhs18 Lakhs
Department of Management Studies, IIT Madras (DoMS IIT Madras)                                                                       10 Lakhs18–20 Lakhs
Loyola Institute of Business Administration (LIBA)12 Lakhs12–15 Lakhs
Bharathidasan Institute of Management (BIM) Trichy10 Lakhs12–14 Lakhs
Amrita School of Business, Coimbatore8 Lakhs10–12 Lakhs
Anna University – Department of Management Studies0.5 Lakhs8–10 Lakhs
PSG Institute of Management8 Lakhs10–12 Lakhs
Xavier Institute of Business Administration (XIBA)6 Lakhs8–10 Lakhs
School of Management, SRMIST5 Lakhs7–9 Lakhs

Top 10 Law Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Law education in Tamil Nadu is led by School of Excellence in Law (SOEL) and Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU), with strong placements in corporate, litigation, and judiciary. Admission to these colleges takes place through TNDALU, CLAT or merit based admission.

College Name

Annual Fees                                           

Average Package                                  

Entrance Exam

School of Excellence in Law (SOEL), Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University  1.5 Lakhs8–10 LakhsTNDALU Entrance            
Tamil Nadu National Law University (TNNLU)2.5 Lakhs10–12 LakhsCLAT
Government Law College, Tiruchirappalli0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Madurai0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Coimbatore0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Vellore0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Tirunelveli0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Salem0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
Government Law College, Thoothukudi0.3 Lakhs5–7 LakhsMerit
School of Law, SASTRA University2 Lakhs6–8 LakhsCLAT / Merit

Top 20 Government Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Government engineering colleges in Tamil Nadu provide high-quality education at very low fees with good placements. The table below lists the top government colleges in Tamil Nadu with their average package and the top recruiters that hire from these colleges.

College Name

Average Package                                                                      

Top Recruiters

College of Engineering Guindy (Anna University)6–8 LakhsInfosys, TCS, Wipro, L&T
Madras Institute of Technology (MIT)8 LakhsAmazon, Microsoft, TCS, Infosys                                              
Government College of Technology, Coimbatore6–8 LakhsInfosys, TCS, Accenture, L&T
Government College of Technology, Tirunelveli6–8 LakhsTCS, Infosys, Wipro
Government College of Technology, Salem6–8 LakhsInfosys, TCS, Cognizant
Alagappa Chettiar Government College of Engineering & Technology      5–7 LakhsTCS, Wipro, Infosys
Government College of Engineering, Bargur5–7 LakhsInfosys, Wipro
Government College of Engineering, Erode5–7 LakhsTCS, Cognizant
Government College of Engineering, Thanjavur5–7 LakhsInfosys, Accenture
Government College of Engineering, Bodinayakanur5–7 LakhsTCS, Wipro
Government College of Engineering, Krishnagiri5–7 LakhsInfosys, Cognizant
Government College of Engineering, Dharmapuri5–7 LakhsTCS, Wipro
Government College of Engineering, Villupuram5–7 LakhsInfosys, Accenture
Government College of Engineering, Perambalur5–7 LakhsTCS, Cognizant
Government College of Engineering, Tiruppur5–7 LakhsInfosys, Wipro
Government College of Engineering, Karur5–7 LakhsTCS, Accenture
Government College of Engineering, Theni5–7 LakhsInfosys, Cognizant
Government College of Engineering, Dindigul5–7 LakhsTCS, Wipro
Government College of Engineering, Nagapattinam5–7 LakhsInfosys, Accenture
Government College of Engineering, Ramanathapuram5–7 LakhsTCS, Cognizant

Top 20 Private Engineering Colleges in Tamil Nadu

Private colleges in Tamil Nadu offer modern infrastructure, global exposure, and excellent placement records. The below table compares the ROI of these colleges so that candidates can check which college is a better fit for them.

College Name

Annual Fees                                  

Average Package                                     

ROI

PSG College of Technology0.9 Lakhs9–11 LakhsExcellent
Coimbatore Institute of Technology0.9 Lakhs8–10 LakhsExcellent                                               
Thiagarajar College of Engineering0.9 Lakhs7–9 LakhsVery High
Kumaraguru College of Technology1 Lakhs7–9 LakhsVery High
Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
SNS College of Technology1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
Velammal College of Engineering and Technology1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
Bannari Amman Institute of Technology1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
Kongu Engineering College1 Lakhs6–8 LakhsHigh
St. Joseph's College of Engineering1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Easwari Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
RMK Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Panimalar Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Vel Tech Multi Tech Dr. Rangarajan Dr. Sakunthala Engineering College                                            1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
S.A. Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Sri Sairam Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Jeppiaar Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Saveetha Engineering College1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh
Hindusthan College of Engineering and Technology1 Lakhs5–7 LakhsHigh

Affordable Engineering Colleges in Chennai / Coimbatore / Tiruchirappalli

Chennai, Coimbatore, and Tiruchirappalli offer several affordable government and aided engineering colleges with good placement records. These are the top cities when it comes to pursuing engineering in Tamil Nadu

College Name

Popular Courses Offered                                                 

Annual Fees                           

Average Package          

College of Engineering Guindy (Anna University)BTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Madras Institute of Technology (MIT)BTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, CoimbatoreBTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
PSG College of Technology (Govt-aided)BTech, MTech0.9 Lakhs9–11 Lakhs
Coimbatore Institute of Technology (Govt-aided)BTech, MTech0.9 Lakhs8–10 Lakhs
Thiagarajar College of Engineering (Govt-aided)BTech, MTech0.9 Lakhs7–9 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, TirunelveliBTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Government College of Technology, SalemBTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs6–8 Lakhs
Alagappa Chettiar Government College of Engineering & Technology                                                      BTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs
Government College of Engineering, BargurBTech, MTech0.5 Lakhs5–7 Lakhs

Admission Process through TNEA (Tamil Nadu Engineering Admissions)

TNEA is the single-window admission process for BTech/BE programmes in Tamil Nadu based on 12th marks (Physics, Chemistry, Maths aggregate out of 200).

  • Step-1 Register for TNEA - Register on tneaonline.org with personal and academic details.
  • Step-2 Upload Documents & Pay Fee - Upload 12th marksheet, community certificate, nativity, etc.
  • Step-3 Random Number Generation & Rank List Publication - TNEA publishes rank list based on cut-off marks.
  • Step-4 Choice Filling & Locking - Fill college & branch preferences in order of priority.
  • Step-5 Seat Allotment - Multiple rounds of counselling based on rank and choices.
  • Step-6 Confirmation & Reporting - Pay fee, verify documents, report to allotted college.

The following table summarises the TNEA admission schedule for 2026 (tentative based on previous patterns).

Event

Date / Details

Notification ReleaseMay 2026
Application StartMay 2026
Application Last DateJune 2026
Random Number GenerationJuly 2026
Rank List PublicationJuly 2026
Choice Filling & LockingJuly 2026
Seat Allotment RoundsAugust 2026
Reporting & Admission Confirmation                                                                                                                       August–September 2026
Courses OfferedBTech, BE
Basis of Admission12th marks (PCM aggregate)
Conducting AuthorityDirectorate of Technical Education, Tamil Nadu                                                                                   
Official Websitetneaonline.org

Admission Process through CUET 

The Common University Entrance Examination (CUET) is the most popular exam for admission to undergraduate courses in some prominent universities. The admission process through CUET is as follows.

  • Step-1 Register for CUET and Select Subjects - Candidates must first register for CUET on the official NTA portal. While filling the application form, students should carefully choose subjects according to the course-wise subject mapping prescribed by their preferred universities. Selecting incorrect subjects can lead to rejection during counselling, so this step is crucial.
  • Step-2 Appear for the CUET Exam - CUET is conducted in computer-based mode (CBT) at designated exam centres. The exam tests candidates on selected domain subjects, language papers, and/or the General Test, depending on the course requirements.
  • Step-3 Check Results and Download Scorecard - After the exam, NTA releases CUET results online. Candidates must download and save their CUET scorecard, which is mandatory for applying to participating universities.
  • Step-4 Apply to Universities Using CUET Scores - CUET scores do not automatically guarantee admission. 
  • Step-5 Merit Lists and Counselling - Universities prepare course-wise merit lists based on CUET scores, category, and eligibility criteria. Shortlisted candidates are invited to participate in online or offline counselling rounds conducted by the respective universities.
  • Step-6 Seat Allotment and Admission Confirmation - Based on merit rank and preferences, seats are allotted to candidates. Students must then verify documents, pay the admission fee, and confirm their seat within the specified deadline to secure admission.

The table below outlines the CUET schedule 2026 highlighting the important dates and details

Event

Date

CUET Registration StartJanuary 2026                                                                                                                                                
CUET Registration Last DateFebruary 04, 2026
Last Date to Pay Application Fee                                                                                                             February 07, 2026
Application Correction WindowFebruary 09 - February 11, 2026                                                                                                                  
CUET Admit Card ReleaseMay 2026
CUET Exam DatesMay 11 - May 31, 2026
CUET Result DeclarationJune 2026
CUET Counselling ProcessJune - July 2026
Exam ModeComputer Based Test (CBT)
Official Websitecuet.nta.nic.in

Admission Process through JEE Mains 

The Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Mains is a crucial examination for engineering students. Admission to engineering colleges is based on JoSAA counselling. Here is a step by step process explaining the same.

  • Step-1 Register for JEE Main - Candidates must first register for JEE Main on the official NTA portal. While filling out the application form, students need to enter personal and academic details, choose the exam session, select preferred exam cities, and upload the required documents. Timely and accurate form submission is essential to avoid rejection.
  • Step-2 Appear for the JEE Main Exam - JEE Main is conducted in computer-based mode (CBT) at designated exam centres. Paper 1 is conducted for BE/BTech, while Paper 2A and 2B are for BArch and BPlan. The exam tests candidates on Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics.
  • Step-3 Check Results and Download Scorecard - After the exam, NTA releases the JEE Main results online. Candidates must download and save their JEE Main scorecard, which contains percentile scores and All India Rank (AIR) required for counselling and admissions.
  • Step-4 Apply for Counselling Using JEE Main Scores - JEE Main scores do not automatically ensure admission. Candidates must apply through counselling processes such as JoSAA counselling for NITs, IIITs, and GFTIs. 
  • Step-5 Counselling and Seat Allotment - Counselling authorities prepare merit lists based on JEE Main rank, category, and preferences. Through JoSAA, candidates are allotted seats in multiple rounds depending on availability and choices filled.
  • Step-6 Admission Confirmation and Reporting - Once a seat is allotted, candidates must verify documents, pay the admission fee, and confirm the seat within the given deadline. Final admission is confirmed after reporting to the allotted institute or completing online verification.

The following table summarises the JEE Mains examination schedule for 2026. Candidates can go through the schedule and prepare accordingly.

Event

Date

Notification ReleaseOctober 31, 2025
Application Start - Session 1October 31, 2025
Application Last Date - Session 1                                                                                                                             November 27, 2025
City Intimation Slip - Session 1January 08, 2026                                                                                                                          
Exam Dates - Paper 1 (BE/BTech)January 21, 22, 23, 24, 28, 2026
Exam Date - Paper 2A & 2B (BArch / BPlan)January 29, 2026
Application Start - Session 2January 31, 2026
Application Last Date - Session 2February 2026
Exam Dates - Session 2April 02 to April 09, 2026
Courses OfferedBE/BTech, BArch, BPlan
Exam ModeComputer Based Test (CBT)
Conducting AuthorityNational Testing Agency
Official Websitejeemain.nta.ac.in

Best Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Region Wise 2026

Tamil Nadu's top colleges are concentrated in Chennai, Coimbatore, Tiruchirappalli, Madurai, and Vellore.

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Chennai Region 2026

  1. IIT Madras
  2. Anna University
  3. SRM Institute of Science and Technology
  4. Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science
  5. Sathyabama Institute of Science and Technology
  6. Madras Institute of Technology (MIT)
  7. College of Engineering Guindy
  8. Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
  9. Vel Tech Rangarajan Dr. Sagunthala R&D Institute
  10. Bharath Institute of Higher Education and Research

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Coimbatore Region 2026

  1. PSG College of Technology
  2. Coimbatore Institute of Technology
  3. Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham
  4. Kumaraguru College of Technology
  5. Karunya Institute of Technology and Sciences
  6. Sri Krishna College of Engineering and Technology
  7. KPR Institute of Engineering and Technology
  8. Bannari Amman Institute of Technology
  9. Kongu Engineering College
  10. Government College of Technology, Coimbatore

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Tiruchirappalli Region 2026

  1. NIT Tiruchirappalli
  2. Bharathidasan Institute of Management
  3. National Institute of Technology (NIT Trichy)
  4. Bishop Heber College (for Arts & Science)
  5. Government Engineering College, Trichy

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Madurai Region 2026

  1. Thiagarajar College of Engineering
  2. Thiagarajar School of Management
  3. Madurai Medical College
  4. Fatima College (for Women)
  5. American College

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu - Vellore Region 2026

  1. VIT Vellore
  2. Christian Medical College (CMC), Vellore
  3. Thanthai Periyar Government Institute of Technology
  4. Voorhees College (for Arts & Science)

Top Colleges in Tamil Nadu 2026 - FAQs

Ques. What are some of the top colleges in Tamil Nadu?

Ans. Some of the top colleges in Tamil Nadu 2026 are IIT Madras, Anna University, NIT Trichy, VIT Vellore, SRMIST, PSG College of Technology, SASTRA, CMC Vellore, Amrita Coimbatore, and Saveetha Institute.

Ques. How many colleges are there in Tamil Nadu?

Ans. There are approximately 2,800 colleges in Tamil Nadu. Nearly 2,100 are private unaided, 400 private aided, and 300 government.

Ques. What are the most popular engineering branches in Tamil Nadu?

Ans. Computer Science & Engineering, Electronics & Communication, Mechanical, Information Technology, AI & Data Science, Electrical & Electronics are some of the most opted branches in engineering in Tamil Nadu

Ques. Why are IIT Madras, NIT Trichy, and Anna University preferred?

Ans. These institutions offer world-class faculty, research opportunities, excellent placements with average 12–21 Lakhs, global recognition, and very low fees (2 Lakhs/year for IIT/NIT).

Ques. What are some top private engineering colleges in Tamil Nadu?

Ans. VIT Vellore, SRM Chennai, SASTRA Thanjavur, Amrita Coimbatore, PSG Coimbatore, Kumaraguru Coimbatore, Thiagarajar Madurai are the best private colleges in Tamil Nadu



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Showing 2240 Colleges in Tamil Nadu

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  • RatingKanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
  • RatingPrivate
  • Batch NAAC
    ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
    Bishop Agniswamy College of Education is a Private Institute, located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. Established in 2005, Bishop Agniswamy College of Education offers 2 programs such as M.Ed, B.Ed in multiple specializations. Read More
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    • Shortlisted by  3+  students
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    WCC Chennai is a Private Aided Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1915, WCC Chennai offers 10 programs such as BSc, M.Com, MSc, MA, BSc+MSc in multiple specializations. WCC Chennai fees range from INR 13,915 - INR 3,89,000. Read More
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    • Shortlisted by  411+  students
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    • RatingKanchipuram, Tamil Nadu
    • RatingPrivate
    • Batch NCTE
      ...+2 NAAC , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
      Subham College of Education is a Private Institute, located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. Established in 2005, Subham College of Education offers 2 programs such as M.Ed, B.Ed in multiple specializations. Read More
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      • Shortlisted by  14+  students
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      • 4.6Rating
        (26 Reviews)
      • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
      • RatingPrivate
      • Batch NAAC
        ...+2 AICTE , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
      • exam

        TANCET Exams

        ...+2 CBSE 12th , Tamilnadu 12th
      Sri Ramakrishna College Of Arts & Science For Women is a Private Institute, located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1991, Sri Ramakrishna College Of Arts & Science For Women offers 9 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MBA, MSc in multiple specializations. Read More
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      • Shortlisted by  125+  students
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      • RatingChennai, Tamil Nadu
      • RatingPrivate
      • Batch NCTE
      • Rupee

        37,500

      CSI Bishop Newbigin College of Education is a Private Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 2008, CSI Bishop Newbigin College of Education offers 1 programs such as B.Ed in multiple specializations. CSI Bishop Newbigin College of Education fees range from INR 37,500. Read More
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      • Shortlisted by  47+  students
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        NIMCET Exams

        ...+6 CBSE 12th , XAT , CMAT , Tamilnadu 12th , MAT , TANCET MBA
      Nesamony Memorial Christian College is a Private Institute, located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1964, Nesamony Memorial Christian College offers 11 programs such as MCA, BSc, MBA, MSc, MA in multiple specializations. Read More
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      • 4.2Rating
        (4 Reviews)
      • RatingChennai, Tamil Nadu
      • RatingDeemed University
      • Batch UGC
        ...+1 AICTE
      • Rupee

        20,000 - 19,50,000

      Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research is a Deemed University Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1983, Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research offers 17 programs such as MBBS, MCA, BSc, MPT, M.Com in multiple specializations. Meenakshi Academy of Higher Education and Research fees range from INR 20,000 - INR 19,50,000. Read More
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      • 3.0Rating
        (1 Reviews)
      • RatingKanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
      • RatingPrivate
      • Batch NAAC
        ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
        Scott Christian College is a Private Institute, located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1893, Scott Christian College offers 14 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MBA, PhD in multiple specializations. Read More
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        • Shortlisted by  109+  students
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        • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
        • RatingPrivate
        • Batch AICTE
          ...+1 PCI
        • Rupee

          43,000

        • exam

          NEET Exams

          ...+2 CBSE 12th , Tamilnadu 12th
        P.S.G College of Pharmacy is a Private Institute, located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Established in 2001, P.S.G College of Pharmacy offers 5 programs such as M.Pharm, B.Pharm, PhD, Diploma, Pharm.D in multiple specializations. P.S.G College of Pharmacy fees range from INR 43,000. Read More
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        • 3.8Rating
          (23 Reviews)
        • RatingKanyakumari, Tamil Nadu
        • RatingDeemed to be University
        • Batch AIU
          ...+6 MHRD , UGC , NAAC , AICTE , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) , IAU
        • Rupee

          30,000 - 5,00,000

        • exam

          CBSE 12th Exams

          ...+1 Tamilnadu 12th
        Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, Kumaracoil is a Deemed to be University Institute, located in Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1989, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, Kumaracoil offers 14 programs such as MCA, BSc, MBA, B.Tech, M.E. in multiple specializations. Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, Kumaracoil fees range from INR 30,000 - INR 5,00,000. Read More
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        • 3.2Rating
          (4 Reviews)
        • RatingErode, Tamil Nadu
        • RatingPrivate
        • Batch NAAC
          ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
        • Rupee

          1,630 - 3,390

        • exam

          CBSE 12th Exams

          ...+1 Tamilnadu 12th
        Vellalar College for Women is a Private Institute, located in Erode, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1970, Vellalar College for Women offers 9 programs such as MCA, BSc, Certificate, MSc, MA in multiple specializations. Vellalar College for Women fees range from INR 1,630 - INR 3,390. Read More
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        • Shortlisted by  168+  students
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        • 4.2Rating
          (6 Reviews)
        • RatingChennai, Tamil Nadu
        • RatingPrivate
        • Batch NAAC
          ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
        Anna Adarsh College for Women (AACW), Chennai is a Private Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1985, Anna Adarsh College for Women (AACW), Chennai offers 9 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MSc, MA in multiple specializations. Anna Adarsh College for Women (AACW), Chennai fees range from INR 11,300 - INR 86,000. Read More
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        • Shortlisted by  258+  students
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        • 4.5Rating
          (6 Reviews)
        • RatingVillupuram, Tamil Nadu
        • RatingGovernment
        • Batch NAAC
          ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          Bharathi Women's Arts & Science College is a Government Institute, located in Villupuram, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1964, Bharathi Women's Arts & Science College offers 8 programs such as BSc, M.Com, MSc, MA, BBA in multiple specializations. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  93+  students
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          • Rupee

            10,000 - 14,00,000

          • exam

            UCEED Exams

            ...+6 CEED , GATE , NIMCET , NATA , CBSE 12th , LSAT-India
          B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology is a Private Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1999, B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology offers 19 programs such as M.Com, LLM, BBA+LLB, B.Com, M.Arch in multiple specializations. B.S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology fees range from INR 10,000 - INR 14,00,000. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  128+  students
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          • 4.4Rating
            (13 Reviews)
          • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate Aided
          • Batch NBA
            ...+2 NAAC , AICTE
          • Rupee

            23,360 - 2,00,000

          • Symbol
            5 Lacs

            Avg Package

          • exam

            TNEA Exams

            ...+6 CBSE 12th , TANCET , XAT , CMAT , MAT , GATE

          Coimbatore Institute of Technology specialties

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          • Shortlisted by  1022+  students
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          • 3.8Rating
            (5 Reviews)
          • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch NAAC
            ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          • exam

            GMAT Exams

            ...+6 NIMCET , CBSE 12th , TANCET , XAT , CMAT , Tamilnadu 12th
          Dr. S.N.S. Rajalakshmi College Of Arts And Science is a Private Institute, located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1999, Dr. S.N.S. Rajalakshmi College Of Arts And Science offers 12 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MBA, MSc in multiple specializations. Read More
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          • 4.0Rating
            (1 Reviews)
          • RatingTiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPublic
          • Batch AICTE
            ...+1 ACBSP
          BIM Trichy is a Public Institute, located in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1984, BIM Trichy offers 1 programs such as MBA in multiple specializations. BIM Trichy fees range from INR 6,40,850 - INR 7,07,870. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  176+  students
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          • Rupee

            27,000 - 37,000

          • exam

            CBSE 12th Exams

            ...+5 XAT , CMAT , Tamilnadu 12th , MAT , CAT
          Fatima College is a Private Aided Institute, located in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1953, Fatima College offers 15 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MBA, Certificate in multiple specializations. Fatima College fees range from INR 27,000 - INR 37,000. Read More
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          • 4.3Rating
            (44 Reviews)
          • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate Unaided
          • Batch NBA
            ...+2 NAAC , AICTE
          • Rupee

            35,000 - 2,00,000

          • Symbol
            28 Lacs

            Highest Package

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            CSIR NET Exams

            ...+6 GMAT , JEST , NIMCET , TNEA , CBSE 12th , TANCET

          Kumaraguru College of Technology specialties

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          • Shortlisted by  3162+  students
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            CBSE 12th Exams

            ...+1 Tamilnadu 12th
          Government Arts College (GAM), Udumalpet is a Government Institute, located in Udumalpet, Tamil Nadu. Established in , Government Arts College (GAM), Udumalpet offers 8 programs such as BSc, M.Com, PhD, MA, MSc in multiple specializations. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  485+  students
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          • 4.3Rating
            (3 Reviews)
          • RatingMadurai, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch AIU
            ...+3 AICTE, NBA, NAAC , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) , National Board of Accreditation (NBA)
          • Rupee

            90,000 - 6,32,000

          • Symbol
            7 Lacs

            Avg Package

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            UGC NET Exams

            ...+3 CMAT , MAT , CAT

          Thiagarajar School of Management specialties

          • Shortlist Students
          • Shortlisted by  2816+  students
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          • 3.6Rating
            (15 Reviews)
          • RatingChennai, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch NAAC
            ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          • Rupee

            19,450 - 45,500

          • exam

            CBSE 12th Exams

            ...+1 Tamilnadu 12th
          Guru Nanak College (GNC), Chennai is a Private Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1971, Guru Nanak College (GNC), Chennai offers 13 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MBA, PhD in multiple specializations. Guru Nanak College (GNC), Chennai fees range from INR 19,450 - INR 45,500. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  1098+  students
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          • 4.7Rating
            (23 Reviews)
          • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch UGC
            ...+2 NAAC , AICTE
          • Rupee

            17,500 - 2,50,000

          • exam

            TNEA Exams

            ...+4 CBSE 12th , TANCET , GATE , TANCET MBA
          SKCT Coimbatore is a Private Institute, located in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Established in 2009, SKCT Coimbatore offers 5 programs such as MCA, MBA, B.Tech, B.Tech+M.Tech, M.Tech in multiple specializations. SKCT Coimbatore fees range from INR 17,500 - INR 2,50,000. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  1184+  students
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          • 5.0Rating
            (1 Reviews)
          • RatingErode, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch NBA
            ...+4 NAAC , Govt of Tamilnadu , AICTE , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          • Rupee

            45,000 - 4,08,000

          • exam

            NEET Exams

            ...+2 CBSE 12th , Tamilnadu 12th
          Nandha College of Pharmacy is a Private Institute, located in Erode, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1992, Nandha College of Pharmacy offers 3 programs such as D Pharma, M.Pharm, B.Pharm in multiple specializations. Nandha College of Pharmacy fees range from INR 45,000 - INR 4,08,000. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  250+  students
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          • 4.3Rating
            (6 Reviews)
          • RatingCoimbatore, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate Unaided
          • Batch AICTE
          • Rupee

            2,00,000

          • Symbol
            7 Lacs

            Avg Package

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            GATE (Sponsored Category) Exams

            ...+5 TNEA , CBSE 12th , Tamilnadu 12th , GATE , GATE (Non-sponsored Category)

          PSG Institute of Technology and Applied Research specialties

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          • Shortlisted by  117+  students
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          • 4.3Rating
            (10 Reviews)
          • RatingPollachi, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch UGC
            ...+3 NAAC , AICTE , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          • Rupee

            614 - 2,645

          • Symbol
            10 Lacs

            Avg Package

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            Tamilnadu 12th Exams

            ...+3 CBSE 12th , JEE Main , NIMCET
          Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College is a Private Institute, located in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1957, Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College offers 15 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, MIB, Certificate in multiple specializations. Nallamuthu Gounder Mahalingam College fees range from INR 614 - INR 2,645. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  219+  students
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          • 4.5Rating
            (4 Reviews)
          • RatingSivakasi, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch NBA
            ...+4 ISO , NAAC , AICTE , National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
          • Rupee

            25,000 - 2,00,000

          • Symbol
            3.2 Lacs

            Avg Package

          • Symbol

            #151-200 NIRF Ranking

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            GMAT Exams

            ...+6 NIMCET , TNEA , CBSE 12th , TANCET , XAT , CMAT

          Mepco Schlenk Engineering College specialties

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          • Shortlisted by  164+  students
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          • 3.0Rating
            (1 Reviews)
          • RatingThanjavur, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingGovernment Aided
          • Batch NAAC
            ...+1 AICTE
          • Rupee

            4,000 - 14,000

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            CBSE 12th Exams

            ...+1 Tamilnadu 12th
          RSGC Thanjavur is a Government Aided Institute, located in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1955, RSGC Thanjavur offers 7 programs such as BSc, MSc, MA, BBA, M.Phil in multiple specializations. RSGC Thanjavur fees range from INR 4,000 - INR 14,000. Read More
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          • Shortlisted by  635+  students
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          • 3.5Rating
            (2 Reviews)
          • RatingChennai, Tamil Nadu
          • RatingPrivate
          • Batch NAAC
            ...+1 National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC)
            Srimathi D.N. Bhat Vaishnav College For Women is a Private Institute, located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1968, Srimathi D.N. Bhat Vaishnav College For Women offers 7 programs such as BSc, M.Com, MSc, MA, BBA in multiple specializations. Read More
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            • Shortlisted by  32+  students
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            • 4.2Rating
              (4 Reviews)
            • RatingTiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu
            • RatingPrivate Aided
            • Batch NAAC
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              CBSE 12th Exams

              ...+5 XAT , CMAT , Tamilnadu 12th , MAT , CAT
            Seethalakshmi Ramaswami College is a Private Aided Institute, located in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu. Established in 1951, Seethalakshmi Ramaswami College offers 13 programs such as MCA, BSc, M.Com, PhD, MSc in multiple specializations. Read More
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            • Shortlisted by  371+  students

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