Can we apply to US universities if the passport has an ECR status? There is a difference in the DOB on 10th class marksheet and the DOB in passport. Neither of the date can be changed so I can only get a passport with ECR status.

Ans: It's difficult to definitively say which option is "better" without knowing your priorities. Both VIT-AP (Category 3) and Manipal Bangalore (Information Technology) are reputable institutions, but they have different strengths.

Ans: Rishik, With 80% in board exams and 120 marks in MET 2025, securing Electronics and Communication Engineering (ECE) at MIT Manipal’s main campus is unlikely based on historical data. The 2024 ECE cutoff at MIT Manipal closed at ranks 5,909–6,349, while a MET score of 120 typically corresponds to ranks ~8,000–12,000. Although your board percentage contributes to the normalized rank (50% MET + 50% boards), the combined score still falls short of the competitive threshold for ECE at the main campus. However, MIT Bengaluru and MIT Jaipur offer feasible alternatives, with ECE cutoffs historically closing around 14,000–18,000 and 26,000–30,000, respectively. These campuses provide similar curricula and 70–80% placement rates in core electronics roles via recruiters like Qualcomm and Bosch. For assured admission, prioritize ECE at MIT Bengaluru/Jaipur during counselling or explore Electronics & Computer Engineering at newer campuses. If set on Manipal’s main campus, consider Mechanical Engineering (cutoff: 18,000–23,000) or Civil Engineering (33,000–35,000) and supplement with coding skills for IT transitions. All the BEST for your Admission & a Prosperous Future!

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Ans: Yes, taking admission in Jadavpur University (JU) for engineering is generally considered a good choice. JU is a highly-regarded university with a strong engineering program and good placement records. While it has a reputation for political activism, it's not necessarily disruptive to academics for those not involved.

Ans: For Category 1 admissions, CSE (AI/ML) at VIT Bhopal is generally considered a better choice than Chemical Engineering at Nirma University. VIT Bhopal's CSE program, particularly with a focus on AI/ML, is often highly regarded and attracts strong placement opportunities. Additionally, VIT Bhopal's CSE program generally has a higher reputation and ranking compared to Nirma's Chemical Engineering program.

Ans: For your M.Tech (PG) choice between SRM Kattankulathur (CSE, Full Stack) and VIT Bhopal (AI & DS), SRM Kattankulathur is generally considered a better choice, particularly if you are focused on the full-stack development aspect.
Here's why:
SRM Kattankulathur's CSE Program:
SRM's main campus (Kattankulathur) has a well-established CSE program with strong placement records, especially for CSE-related specializations like full-stack.
VIT Bhopal's AI & DS Program:
While VIT Bhopal is a reputable campus, its AI & DS program is relatively newer and may not have the same established reputation and placement history as SRM's CSE.
Focus on Full-Stack:
If your career goal is to be a full-stack developer, SRM's CSE (with its emphasis on full-stack) would provide a more direct path to your desired specialization.
Overall Ranking and Reputation:
VIT has a higher NIRF ranking than SRM, but SRM's main campus (Kattankulathur) is still a strong institution with a reputable CSE program.
Placements:
SRM's main campus typically has better placement records for CSE compared to other SRM campuses, and it's generally known for having good placements.
In summary, if your primary goal is to become a full-stack developer, SRM Kattankulathur's CSE program would be a more direct and likely better choice, despite VIT Bhopal's higher overall NIRF ranking.

Ans: With a SAGES rank of 152 in Manipal, you have a high probability of securing a seat in Computer Science Engineering (CSE) at Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT Manipal). Your rank is very competitive and likely within the top few hundred, which usually gets CSE seats

Ans: For a better future and placement prospects, NIT Rourkela (Biotech) is generally considered the stronger option. While NIT Patna (Chemical) and Manipal University Jaipur (ECE) have their merits, NIT Rourkela and NIT Patna generally have better placement statistics overall. Bennett University (CSE) could be a good choice if you prioritize a more modern and tech-focused curriculum, but its placement record may be less established compared to NIT Rourkela.

Ans: With a VITEEE rank of 71,000, your chances of securing a Category 1 or 2 seat in CSE or ECE at VIT are slim. Category 1 cutoffs for CSE and ECE are significantly lower (better) than your rank, and Category 2 cutoffs are also unlikely. While you might have a chance in Category 3 or 4 for ECE or other branches at VIT Bhopal or VIT-AP, your chances of getting into CSE or ECE at VIT Vellore or Chennai are low.

Ans: With a JEE Main percentile of 95.26, your son can likely get admission to several NITs, potentially including those with a strong reputation. He'll likely be able to choose from a range of branches, including Computer Science (CSE), Electronics & Communication (ECE), and Electrical Engineering (EEE). Specific NIT choices and branch availability will depend on his category and the specific preferences he expresses during counseling.