When it comes to placements, IIT Bombay and IIT Madras often come up in direct comparison, especially for undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students. IIT Bombay is known for higher UG salary packages, while IIT Madras has been consistent in securing strong PG outcomes. Students and parents trying to decide between the two institutions usually look at placement reports, average packages, and recruiter profiles before making a choice.
I am writing about this topic because many students preparing for JEE Advanced, and even current IIT aspirants, struggle to understand how placement outcomes vary between IITs. While brand value matters, the actual placement performance across UG and PG levels can differ widely. IIT Bombay attracts more high-paying global offers for undergraduates, while IIT Madras shines with its postgraduate placements, especially in core engineering and research-driven sectors. By looking closely at available data, we can see how these differences play out and what they mean for students who are choosing between these top institutes. This comparison is important because it helps families and aspirants take decisions based not just on reputation but on actual opportunities.
Placement Highlights: IIT Bombay vs IIT Madras
Here is a general comparison of recent placement trends based on official data and media reports:
| Category | IIT Bombay | IIT Madras |
|---|---|---|
| UG Average Salary | Higher, with several crore-plus global offers | Competitive, but slightly lower than Bombay |
| PG Average Salary | Good, but not as consistent as UG | Strong and steady, especially in M.Tech and PhD |
| Top Recruiters | Google, Microsoft, Apple, Samsung, McKinsey | Texas Instruments, Qualcomm, HUL, Tata Steel, research labs |
| International Offers | Higher number of global offers | Fewer, more focus on domestic and research-oriented roles |
Why IIT Bombay Stands Out for UG
IIT Bombay has built strong links with global recruiters, especially in tech, consulting, and finance. UG students here often receive international offers from companies like Google, Apple, and Samsung. The competitive coding culture, alumni base in Silicon Valley, and Mumbai’s corporate proximity help attract high-paying roles.
Why IIT Madras Excels in PG
IIT Madras, on the other hand, has a strong record for postgraduate placements. M.Tech and PhD students here are often absorbed by core industries, R&D labs, and academic institutions. The institute’s focus on research-driven projects, industrial collaboration through its research park, and government-linked projects makes PG outcomes strong and stable.
What Students Should Consider
- UG Aspirants: If your goal is to land a high-paying corporate or international job right after B.Tech, IIT Bombay may offer an edge.
- PG Aspirants: If you are planning for M.Tech or PhD and want strong opportunities in research, academia, or core industries, IIT Madras could be a better choice.
- Long-Term Goals: Beyond salary, both institutes offer excellent alumni networks, academic resources, and opportunities for higher studies abroad.
