On August 12, 2024, India’s Union Minister of Education, Dharmendra Pradhan, announced the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) rankings for 2024. According to these rankings, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, excelled and consistently ranked among the top five in four key categories: Overall performance, University ranking, Research Institutions, and Innovation.

About IISc Bengaluru

The Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru, established in 1909, is a top research institution in India. It was founded by J.R.D. Tata and Lady Meherbai Tata. Initially, IISc offered only postgraduate and doctoral programs, not undergraduate degrees, until 2011.

The campus spans 400 acres and houses over 40 research centers. One of its notable achievements is hosting the world’s first research center dedicated to human-computer interaction. IISc has a strong track record, with several Nobel laureates among its alumni and a high global ranking in science and engineering.

NIRF Ranking Parameters

The NIRF rankings are based on five main factors:

1. Teaching, Learning, and Resources (TLR): Evaluates the quality of teaching, learning, and available resources.
2. Research and Professional Practice (RPC): Measures the institution’s research output and professional work.
3. Graduation Outcomes (GO): Considers student success after graduation, including job placements and further studies.
4. Outreach and Inclusivity (OI): Assesses the institution’s inclusiveness and diversity.
5. Perception (PER): Reflects the institution’s reputation among peers and employers.

IISc Bengaluru’s NIRF 2024 Performance

In the 2024 NIRF rankings, IISc Bengaluru achieved:

• Overall: 2nd place with a score of 83.28
• University: 1st place with a score of 83.29
• Research Institutions: 1st place with a score of 84.98
• Innovation: 4th place

Reasons for IISc’s Success

IISc Bengaluru’s high performance is due to:

• Excellent Research and Academic Resources: It offers top-notch facilities and opportunities for research and learning.
• Strong Student Outcomes and Inclusivity: Graduates often pursue further studies, and the institute supports a diverse student body.
• High Reputation: IISc is well-regarded by other institutions and employers.

Placement and Higher Studies

For recent graduates:

• 2021-22: Out of 98 graduates, 4 secured jobs with a median salary of INR 22,50,000, and 89 chose to continue their studies.
• 2022-23: Out of 106 graduates, 4 found jobs with a median salary of INR 30,00,000, and 96 pursued further education.

This indicates that many IISc students prefer continuing their studies, reflecting the institute’s strong academic environment.

Facts About NIRF Rankings 2024

• Purpose: NIRF Rankings assess schools and universities in India based on teaching quality, research, and community engagement.
• Started in 2015: The rankings have been published annually since 2015, organized by the Ministry of Education.
• Categories: Rankings cover Universities, Colleges, Engineering, Management, and Pharmacy institutions.
• Key Factors: Institutions are judged on teaching, research, student success, and inclusivity.
• Ninth Year: This is the ninth year the rankings are being published.
• Ongoing Improvement: The rankings process is updated each year to improve clarity and usefulness, helping institutions enhance their education quality.