Several colleges and universities across India use Olympiad scores in their undergraduate admission criteria, offering students an alternative route to secure a spot in their programmes. These institutions recognise the value of Olympiads — competitive exams that test students’ knowledge and skills in subjects including mathematics, science, and languages — believing they offer a reliable indicator of academic excellence and problem-solving abilities.
The Indian Association of Physics Teachers (IAPT) and Homi Bhabha Centre for Science Education (HBCSE) are allowed to conduct the Olympiad at the national level. The selected students are trained at HBCSE to represent India on international platforms.
Here’s a list of some of the Indian universities and colleges that have adopted this progressive approach:
Some IITs now accept scores from Olympiads, particularly in subjects like mathematics, physics, and chemistry, as part of their undergraduate admissions process. Students who excel in Olympiads in these fields may be given preference or directly considered for admission. IIT Kanpur recently announced that they will admit students to BTech and BS programmes through Olympiads. The admission through Olympiads in BTech-BS programmes at IIT Kanpur will be made in five departments from the 2025-26 academic year.
Several departments in DU, especially in fields like physics, chemistry, and mathematics, consider Olympiad scores as part of the admission process. The university aims to identify students who have demonstrated outstanding knowledge and talent in their chosen disciplines.
Known for its emphasis on research and innovation, IISc allows Olympiad winners to apply for its undergraduate programs, particularly in areas such as science and engineering. Students who have excelled in Olympiad exams are given a competitive edge.
This mode is for admissions to undergraduate and dual degree programmes, for applicants who have the distinction of being selected for Olympiads at the national level. In appreciation of their distinction, applicants in this mode will be shortlisted and called directly for an interview. The decision on final offer of admission will be based on the interview performance.
BITS Pilani has started accepting Olympiad scores in subjects such as physics, chemistry, and mathematics. This provides an additional pathway for talented students who may not have appeared for the traditional entrance exams like BITSAT.
Some NITs are exploring the use of Olympiad scores in specific courses, particularly in mathematics and physics. Top Olympiad performers may be considered for direct admission or given special recognition during the selection process. NITs including NIT Puducherry, NIT Nagaland, and NIT Sikkim use Olympiad scores to admit students to their UG programmes.
Shiv Nadar University recognizes the value of Olympiad achievements in its admissions process. The university has been accepting Olympiad scores as part of its evaluation of applicants, particularly for courses in engineering, science, and technology.
JGU considers Olympiad scores in its admission criteria for undergraduate programs, especially in fields like law, business, and sciences. Students with exceptional performance in international Olympiads may gain an advantage during the selection process.
Known for its focus on liberal arts, Ashoka University also accepts Olympiad scores, particularly in subjects related to mathematics, science, and social sciences. Olympiad performers are encouraged to apply as the university seeks out academically gifted students.
By accepting Olympiad scores, these universities and colleges are diversifying their selection criteria, giving talented students an opportunity to showcase their unique skills and achievements. This shift aims to identify students with exceptional intellectual capabilities and provide an additional pathway to higher education for those who may not fit traditional admission molds.
Do check the admission criteria on the official websites of these institutes before applying.