Number of IITs: How Many Institutes Exist and Why It Matters

Ever wondered exactly how many Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) are running today? The short answer is 23, but the story behind that number is worth a look. Knowing the count helps you grasp where seats are, which states get campuses, and how competition spreads.

Current Count of IITs Across India

The first IIT kicked off in Kharagpur back in 1951. After that, the government added more campuses roughly every decade. By 2020 the list hit 22, and the latest addition in 2022 brought the total to 23. These institutes sit in places like Delhi, Madras, Bombay, Kanpur, Guwahati, and even the hills of Meghalaya.

Each IIT runs its own intake, usually between 200 and 500 fresh engineers per year. When you add up all 23 campuses, the national IIT seat pool hovers around 12,000–13,000 seats for JEE‑Advanced qualifiers. That’s a big jump from the original 7,000 seats back in the 1990s.

What the Growing IIT Network Means for Students

More campuses mean two clear benefits. First, you get more geographic options. If you’re from the Northeast, you no longer need to move 2,000 kilometres to study at an IIT – you can aim for IIT Guwahati or the newer IIT in Meghalaya.

Second, the extra seats dilute the ultra‑high competition a bit. While cracking JEE‑Advanced is still tough, the odds improve when you have more institutes taking students.

That said, every IIT maintains a high standard. Faculty, research labs, and industry ties stay strong across the board. So you don’t sacrifice quality for quantity.

If you’re planning to apply, treat each IIT as a separate target. Look at the specific branch strengths – some campuses excel in Computer Science, others in Chemical or Mechanical Engineering. Align your strengths with the campus reputation.

Future plans suggest the count could rise to 30 in the next decade, as the government earmarks new locations in under‑served states. Keep an eye on official announcements, because a new IIT means fresh opportunities and fresh competition.Bottom line: the current number of IITs – 23 – reflects a steady expansion that broadens access without lowering the bar. Use this knowledge to map out where you want to study, what branches fit you best, and how to prep for the exam that gets you in.