ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course: Eligibility, Top Colleges & Career Scope

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course is a well-known vocational training course that trains you with the necessary skills to get a job in the HVAC industry. HVAC systems are used in homes, offices, industries, and even hospitals. Their users are in constant need of refrigeration and air conditioning professionals. This course helps with the further refinement of skills in refrigeration systems, air conditioning systems, and their latest servicing technologies. 

You will acquire technical, problem-solving, and hands-on maintenance abilities. This will prepare you for jobs of HVAC technician, maintenance engineer, and service supervisor. ITI offers refrigeration and air conditioning courses that are recognised in India and abroad. It will enable you to secure well-paying jobs after graduation. Although the starting salary may be low, it increases with expertise in the field. This makes it a safe and remunerative job in the widening refrigeration and air conditioning sector.

Also Read: Top Certificate Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering Colleges in India 2025

The admission process for the 2025-26 academic year has already begun. Most general deadlines fall around the beginning of September 2025, though this may vary across institutions.

Note: The timeline mentioned above is tentative and likely to change. We advise you to keep checking the official website of your respective state to check out the exact dates.

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Highlights

Here’s an overview of ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning:

Also Read: Top MTech Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering Colleges in Andhra Pradesh 2025

If you have finished Class 10 and wish to pursue a technical career, then opting for the ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course is a good choice. This course is specifically designed for students who love dealing with machines, appliances, and electrical systems. If you like hands-on training over purely theoretical learning and want to enter the workforce quickly. 

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Admission Process: Eligibility, Criteria, and How to Apply

Admission into ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning (RAC) generally follows a structured process set by state governments and training boards. Below is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the complete ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning admission process.

Academic Qualifications Required

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning qualifications include passing Class 10 board examination (SSC/CBSE/ICSE/NIOS/etc), having studied Mathematics and Science. Class 12 pass or diploma holders are also eligible in many institutes. 

Minimum Marks and Age Limits

Typically, RAC trade in ITI requires a minimum of 35-40% marks in the qualifying exam. The minimum age is generally 14 years as of August 1 or the first day of the session. The upper limit usually isn’t enforced or may go up to around 40 years with category-based relaxations. 

Work Experience (If Applicable)

No prior work experience is required.

Entrance Exams Required

Admission is mostly merit-based. Specific trades like RAC may require entrance tests in some states. Commonly, state-level centralised merit admission is used. 

Estimated Eligibility Comparison Table: Tier-1 vs Tier-2 vs Tier-3 Institutes

Here is a comparison between various types of institutes for ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning to make a better decision.

Note: Actual criteria can vary by institute and state admission rules. The above table is meant to illustrate typical distinctions in competitive eligibility across college tiers. 

Step-by-Step ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Admissions Guide

Follow this step-by-step guide to fill out the ITI in refrigeration and the air conditioning application form. 

1. Application Form: You must register online/offline on the state ITI portal or the institute’s official website by filling in the required details.
2. Document Upload & Verification: Required documents, such as mark sheets, age proof, and ID are uploaded and later verified by authorities.
3. Merit List/Entrance Exam: In most states, admissions are merit-based using Class 10 marks. In a few cases, an entrance exam may be conducted.
4. Counselling & Seat Allotment: You will be called for counselling, based on merit/entrance rank, to select institutes and confirm trade.
5. GD/PI (if applicable): Group Discussion/Personal Interview is rare but may be included in some private or premier ITIs for final selection.
6. Fee Payment & Admission Confirmation: Once you are selected, you will have to pay the prescribed fee to confirm your admission.

Tip: Keep all documents ready in advance, track state ITI deadlines closely, and apply early to secure admission.

Direct Admission in ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning: Without Entrance Exam

Most ITIs offer direct admission without an entrance exam. Selection is purely based on marks obtained in Class 10. You must meet eligibility norms such as minimum marks and age criteria.

Admission Timeline & Calendar

Have a look at the admission timeline for ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning:

Also Read: Top Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Engineering Colleges in Andhra Pradesh 2025

There isn’t a common ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning entrance exam. Admission procedures differ across Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs). Each ITI sets its own eligibility criteria and selection process. It may involve counseling, merit-based selection, or, in some cases, an entrance test.

Types of ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Courses

Various learning options are made available for ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning courses to address the requirements of students and professionals. The categories vary based on the length of the course, target audience, and method of delivery.  

The key categories are outlined and described below.  

Full-Time ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course  

• Full-time courses are the most conventional learning format and are preferred by the majority. 
• This mode demands the same level of commitment and participation as daily classes. 
• It also includes laboratory sessions and on-the-job training. 
• This course format is most effective if you wish to build a strong foundation in theory and practical skills.  

Part-Time ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course  

• Created for students and working professionals who cannot commit to a strict timetable. 
• Sessions take place either in the evenings or over the holidays.

Executive ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning  

• These courses are aimed at mid-level professionals and technicians who have working experience. 
• The course focuses on advanced competencies such as troubleshooting, system management, and supervision. 
• This will aid you in securing leadership or managerial positions in the HVAC industry.  

Distance ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning  

• Gives theory knowledge with the help of printed or electronic study materials. 
• Practical training is limited to workshops and short-term events. 
• This model is especially beneficial if you are located in distant regions and don't have the means to attend scheduled onsite classes.

Online ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

• Taught through online portals, complete with prerecorded classes and other virtual instruments.
• Grants the freedom to study from any location and follow one’s own schedule.
• Short-term workshops or tie-ups cover hands-on training. 

Integrated ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

• Merges ITI with a diploma or other advanced technical programs.
• Enables you to acquire two qualifications in a shorter duration.
• Provides a route to higher studies and wider job opportunities.

Specialised vs. General ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning 

• General ITI courses take into account all refrigeration and AC workings. 
• Specialised courses give deeper attention to cold storage, automobile AC, or industrial plant refrigeration.
• Allows you to choose training that fits your career goals.

Accelerated & Global Variants of the ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course 

• Accelerated courses are brief, timed, and focused, suited for rapid entry into the job market. 
• Global variants observe international regulations for HVAC and also provide global certification. 
• Enhances job opportunities in the overseas market.

Comparing Different ITIs in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Courses

Different ITI courses in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning vary in terms of duration, eligibility, fees, and career prospects. The table below provides a clear comparison to help you choose the right course based on your needs and career goals.

We advise you to choose the ITI course wisely, considering your career goals, flexibility, budget, specialisation, and long-term opportunities.

ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course structure blends theory and practical training. It covers core subjects, specialisations, and workshops to prepare you for technical roles in HVAC, domestic, and industrial sectors.

Standard ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course Duration (Full-time, Part-time, Executive, etc.)

• Full-Time ITI: 6 months - 2 years; intensive classroom and practical training.
• Part-Time ITI: 1 - 3 years; flexible evening or weekend classes for working students.
• Executive ITI: 6 months - 1 year; advanced training for professionals with prior experience.
• Distance / Online ITI: 6 months - 2 years; primarily theoretical learning with periodic practical workshops.

Semester-Wise and Year-Wise Structure

• Full-Time ITI: Divided into semesters or modules, covering fundamentals, practical labs, and advanced refrigeration systems.
• Part-Time ITI: Content spread over multiple years with fewer hours per week, but the same syllabus coverage.
• Executive ITI: Focused on short modules emphasising troubleshooting, management, and technical updates.
• Distance / Online ITI: Theory is delivered online in modules, while practical sessions are conducted during short on-site workshops.

Accelerated & Integrated ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Duration

• Accelerated ITI Courses: 3-12 months, intensive hands-on training for quick industry readiness.
• Integrated ITI Programs: 1.5-3 years, combining ITI certification with diploma-level technical education for dual qualification and advanced career opportunities.

How Duration May Vary by Mode and Institution

• Duration depends on the mode of study (full-time, part-time, online, distance, integrated).
• Institutional factors such as curriculum intensity, practical hours, and the semester system also affect total course length.
• Accelerated courses shorten the duration, while part-time and distance learning extend it to accommodate flexibility.
• Integrated programs may take longer due to the combined ITI and diploma curriculum.

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning courses are designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The syllabus typically covers fundamentals of refrigeration, air conditioning systems, electrical and mechanical basics, along with specialised modules for different industry applications. You can also choose specialisations based on career goals.

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course Syllabus: Semester-wise Overview

The ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning syllabus is covered in under two semesters in most of the ITIs in India. The general topics covered in the two semesters are given below.

Common ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Core Subjects

Listed below are the ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning core subjects:

There are a few specialisations in ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning. You have the option to select the one that aligns with your career objectives and interests.

List of Top ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Specialisations

Listed below are some of the most popular specialisations in the ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course program:

We advise you to choose a specialisation that best matches your interests and career goals. If you’re unsure, reach out to our counsellors for personalised guidance and expert advice on selecting the right ITI in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning path for your future

Many prestigious and reputed universities and colleges offer admission to the ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course programs.

Top Premier Institutes

Listed below are some of the popular premier institutes for pursuing an ITI in the Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course:

Top Government ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Colleges

Listed below are some of the popular government colleges for pursuing an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course:

Top Private ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Colleges

Listed below are some of the top private colleges for pursuing an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course:

Best Online and Distance ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Colleges

Listed below are some of the top ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning online and distance colleges:

Top ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course Colleges Offering Direct Admission in India

Listed below are some of the best colleges for direct admission to an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course:

Top ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Colleges by Location

Tabulated below is a list of location-wise colleges for pursuing an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning course:

Choose your ITI college based on faculty expertise, hands-on training facilities, and placement records. If flexibility matters, consider online or distance options. For affordable, subsidised learning, government ITIs are the best. If you want advanced training and industry tie-ups, private ITIs and premier institutes are worth exploring.

Lets have a look at ITI AC mechanic course fees and scholarship options:

Fee Range for Different ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Courses

The ITI AC mechanic course fees vary depending on the type of institute, mode of study, and specialisation:

• Government ITIs: INR 10,000 - 25,000 (subsidised, affordable for students).
• Private ITIs: INR 20,000 - 60,000 depending on the institute and specialisation.
• Online / Distance ITIs: INR 10,000 - 35,000 (includes theory online with occasional practical workshops).
• Integrated / Accelerated Courses: INR 30,000 - 80,000 (combines ITI certification with advanced training or dual qualifications).

Scholarships Options

Students enrolling in ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning courses can avail of various scholarships:

• Government Scholarships: Merit-based and need-based scholarships from state and central technical education boards.
• Private Institute Scholarships: Fee waivers or discounts for top performers or economically weaker students.
• Vocational and Skill Development Scholarships: Offered under national skill development schemes for technical trades.
• Merit-Cum-Means Scholarships: Available in some colleges for students demonstrating both academic excellence and financial need.

Pursuing RAC trade in ITI provides you with a multitude of job opportunities in the technical and operational sectors.

Popular Job Roles After ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning

ITI Refrigeration and Air Conditioning job opportunities are as follows.

• AC and Refrigeration Technician
• HVAC Installer and Maintenance Engineer
• Cold Storage Technician
• Industrial Refrigeration Technician
• Automobile AC Technician
• Service Engineer in domestic and commercial AC companies
• Supervisor or Team Lead in HVAC projects

Industry-Wise and Sector-Wise Opportunities

ITI Refrigeration and AC graduates can work in diverse sectors:

• Residential & Commercial HVAC: Maintenance and installation of AC systems in homes, offices, and malls.
• Industrial Refrigeration: Cold storage facilities, food processing units, chemical and pharmaceutical industries.
• Automobile Sector: Vehicle AC system maintenance and installation.
• Service & Repair Sector: Independent service centers or company service networks.
• Overseas Opportunities: Demand for HVAC technicians in countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Europe.

Also Read: List of Jobs Available After ITI Refrigeration and Airconditioning Trade: Average Salary, Top Recruiters, Career Scope

The average ROI after completing an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning is quite favorable, as the course requires relatively low fees compared to other technical programs. With starting salaries ranging from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 per month in India, and higher pay abroad, you can recover your investment within one to two years. 

As experience grows, opportunities in HVAC companies, maintenance services, and industrial setups expand, ensuring steady income growth and strong long-term career stability.

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Placement Trends and Average Salary Packages

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning graduates see consistent placement trends, as HVAC professionals are in demand across residential, commercial, and industrial sectors. Many secure jobs with appliance companies, service providers, and large cold storage or healthcare facilities. Placement rates are especially strong in urban regions where cooling systems are widely used. 

The average starting salary after pursuing RAC trade in ITI ranges from INR 15,000 to INR 25,000 per month. You will see growth up to INR 40,000-50,000 per month after gaining a few years of experience. Skilled technicians abroad earn even higher packages.

How to Choose the Right ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Course for You

Selecting the right ITI course is crucial for building a successful career in refrigeration and air conditioning. The choice depends on your career goals, learning preferences, budget, and institute's reputation.

Factors to Consider: Mode, Specialisation, Budget, College Reputation

• Mode of Study: Decide between full-time, part-time, online, distance, or hybrid learning depending on your availability and learning style.
• Specialisation: Choose courses focusing on domestic AC, industrial refrigeration, cold storage, automobile AC, or advanced HVAC systems according to your career interests.
• Budget / Fees: Compare government, private, online, and integrated course fees to ensure affordability. Consider scholarships and financial aid options.
• College Reputation: Evaluate institutions for infrastructure, practical lab facilities, faculty experience, placement records, and industry tie-ups.
• Location & Accessibility: Consider proximity to practical training centers, workshops, and industry hubs.

ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Admission Checklist

• Check eligibility criteria and prerequisites (10th pass or higher).
• Evaluate course duration and flexibility based on your schedule.
• Compare syllabus, practical exposure, and specialisations offered.
• Look for placement assistance, internships, and industry collaborations.
• Review student reviews, success stories, and alumni feedback.
• Consider future career scope, including domestic and overseas opportunities.

Choose a course that matches your career goals and budget. However, we would also advise you to never compromise on practical training and placements.

After completing an ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, you can enhance your career prospects by pursuing higher education or professional certifications.

PhD, Executive ITI in Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, Dual Degrees

• Executive ITI Programs: Short-term advanced courses for skill upgradation and managerial roles in the HVAC industry.
• Dual Degrees / Integrated Programs: Combine ITI with diploma or degree-level education for broader career opportunities.
• PhD / Research Opportunities: Specialised research in HVAC, industrial refrigeration, energy efficiency, or sustainable cooling technologies for academic or R&D careers.

Professional Certifications

• HVAC Certification: Industry-recognised courses for technicians and engineers to validate their technical skills.
• Refrigeration Handling Certification: Compliance-focused programs for safe handling of refrigerants and chemicals.
• Energy Efficiency & Green Technology Courses: Certification programs in sustainable HVAC and eco-friendly cooling solutions.
• Automobile AC Certification: Specialised courses for automotive air conditioning systems.

International Certifications: Aligns with global HVAC standards, enhancing employability overseas.