Computer Science Admission 2026: Notifications, Dates, Eligibility & Top Colleges

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  • 31 May 2026 — Last date to submit application for IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications (May 2026 batch). (Official notice)
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  • 13 May 2026 — Correction window for SSC Selection Post Phase 14 closes. (Official notice)
  • 11 May 2026 — Correction window opens for SSC Selection Post Phase 14. (Official notice)
  • 14 Apr 2026 — DAVV Admission 2026 opens for various courses including Computer Science. (Official notice)
  • 13 Apr 2026 — Application window opens for SSC Selection Post Phase 14. (Official notice)

India has over 1,760 colleges offering Computer Science Engineering (CSE) programs in 2026, with admissions primarily driven by competitive entrance exams. The 2026 admission cycle brings several key updates for aspiring Computer Science students, from application deadlines to exam notifications across national and state levels.

Date Notification / Event Official Link / Source
January 2026 JEE Main 2026 Application Window Opens (Source: NTA Official Website)
January 05, 2026 PESSAT 2026 Registration Starts (Source: PES University Official Website)
February 4, 2026 UPSC 2026 Application Window Opens (Source: UPSC.gov.in)
February 12, 2026 MHT-CET 2026 Application Deadline (Source: MHT-CET Official Website)
February 15, 2026 BSc Computer Science 2026 (CUET) Application Deadline (Source: Official University Websites)
February 18, 2026 IIT Madras BS Data Science 2026 Application Starts (Source: IIT Madras Official Website)
February 24, 2026 UPSC 2026 Application Deadline (6:00 PM) (Source: UPSC.gov.in)
February 28 – March 03, 2026 UPSC 2026 Application Correction Window (Source: UPSC.gov.in)
April 8, 2026 KIITEE 2026 Phase 1 Registration Closes (Source: KIIT Official Website)
April 11 – April 19, 2026 MHT-CET 2026 Session 1 Exam Dates (Tentative) (Source: MHT-CET Official Website)
April 13, 2026 SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Application Starts (Source: SSC Official Notification)
April 14, 2026 DAVV 2026 (CUET) Application Deadline (Source: DAVV Admission Portal)
April 22, 2026 PU-CET (UG) 2026 Information Submission Closes (Source: Panjab University Official Website)
May 04, 2026 SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Application Deadline (Source: SSC Official Notification)
May 10, 2026 PU-CET (UG) 2026 Exam Date (Source: Panjab University Official Website)
May 11, 2026 CUET UG 2026 Exam Date (Source: NTA Official Website)
May 11 – May 13, 2026 SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Correction Window (Source: SSC Official Notification)
May 14 – May 17, 2026 MHT-CET 2026 Session 2 Exam Dates (Tentative) (Source: MHT-CET Official Website)
May 17, 2026 JEE Advanced 2026 Exam Date (Source: JEE Advanced Official Website)
May 23, 2026 Mumbai University B.SC Computer Science 2026-27 Pre-Registration Extended (Source: Mumbai University Official Website)
May 23, 2026 UGC NET 2026 Application Deadline (Source: NTA Official Website)
May 26, 2026 Mumbai University B.SC Computer Science 2026-27 Merit List 1 Release (Source: Mumbai University Official Website)
May 30, 2026 CUSAT CAT 2026 Application Deadline (Source: CUSAT Official Website)
May 30, 2026 UPES 2026 Application Deadline (for B.Tech, B.Des, BCA, BBA, LL.B, MCA) (Source: UPES Official Website)
May 31, 2026 IIT Madras BS Data Science 2026 Application Deadline (Source: IIT Madras Official Website)
May 31 – June 02, 2026 UPES 2026 Exam Dates (for B.Tech, B.Des, BBA, LL.B) (Source: UPES Official Website)
June 2026 SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Computer Based Examination (Tentative) (Source: SSC Official Notification)
June 22 – June 30, 2026 UGC NET 2026 Exam Dates (Source: NTA Official Website)
July 2026 TNEA 2026 Counselling Starts (Source: TNEA Official Portal)
August 2026 TNEA 2026 Final Admission (Source: TNEA Official Portal)
November 18-21, 2026 SRM University Delhi-NCR International Conference SIIMCES2026 (Source: SRM University Delhi-NCR Official Website)

The 2026 admission cycle for Computer Science programs features a wide array of application windows and entrance exam dates across national, state, and university-specific levels. Students should monitor official websites closely for specific notifications, especially regarding application deadlines and exam schedules.

Computer Science Admission 2026: Important Dates & Notifications

Computer Science (CS) admission for the 2026 academic year involves tracking over 20 major national, state, and institute-level entrance exams. Students must monitor these key dates to ensure timely applications for B.Tech, B.SC, and M.SC CS programs across India.

Event Date Official Link
JEE Main 2026 Application Start (Session 1) Expected: January 2026 NTA.ac.in
JEE Main 2026 Application Deadline (Session 1) Expected: February 2026 NTA.ac.in
UPSC Civil Services 2026 Application Start February 4, 2026 UPSC.gov.in
BSc Computer Science 2026 Application Deadline (CUET-based) February 15, 2026 Refer to official university websites
IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications Application Start February 18, 2026 onlinedegree.iitm.ac.in
UPSC Civil Services 2026 Application Deadline February 24, 2026 (6:00 PM) UPSC.gov.in
UPSC Civil Services 2026 Correction Window February 28 – March 03, 2026 UPSC.gov.in
NEST 2026 Application Deadline (BSc Computer Science) April 6, 2026 nestexam.in
KIITEE 2026 Phase 1 Registration Closes April 8, 2026 kiitee.KIIT.ac.in
MHT-CET 2026 Exam Date (Session 1, Tentative) April 11 – April 19, 2026 cetcell.mahacet.org
SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Application Start April 13, 2026 SSC.gov.in
DAVV CUET 2026 Application Deadline April 14, 2026 davv.ac.in
PU-CET (UG) 2026 Information Submission Closes April 22, 2026 puchd.ac.in
UPES B.SC. 2026 Application Deadline April 29, 2026 upes.ac.in
SSC Selection Post Phase-XIV 2026 Application Deadline May 04, 2026 SSC.gov.in
PU-CET (UG) 2026 Exam Date May 10, 2026 puchd.ac.in
CUET UG 2026 Exam Date May 11, 2026 CUET.samarth.ac.in
MHT-CET 2026 Exam Date (Session 2, Tentative) May 14 – May 17, 2026 cetcell.mahacet.org
JEE Advanced 2026 Exam Date May 17, 2026 jeeadv.ac.in
UPES MBA 2026 Application Deadline May 18, 2026 upes.ac.in
UGC NET 2026 Application Deadline (June Session) May 23, 2026 ugcnet.NTA.ac.in
Mumbai University B.SC Computer Science 2026-27 Pre-Registration Extended Till May 23, 2026 mu.ac.in
Mumbai University B.SC Computer Science 2026-27 Merit List 1 May 26, 2026 mu.ac.in
UPES B.Tech, B.Des, BCA, MCA, BBA, LL.B. 2026 Application Deadline May 30, 2026 upes.ac.in
IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications Application Deadline May 31, 2026 onlinedegree.iitm.ac.in
UGC NET 2026 Exam Dates (June Session) June 22 – June 30, 2026 ugcnet.NTA.ac.in
TNEA 2026 Counselling Start (B.E./B.Tech) July 2026 tneaonline.org
TNEA 2026 Final Admission (B.E./B.Tech) August 2026 tneaonline.org

Staying updated on these dates is vital for students planning their computer science admission in 2026, as missing deadlines can impact their academic year. For broader science admission details, students can also refer to the Science Admission 2026: Notifications, Dates, Eligibility & Top Colleges guide.

Computer Science Admission 2026: Eligibility Criteria

Computer Science admission in 2026 primarily requires Class 12 PCM scores and qualifying marks in national or state-level entrance exams. For broader science admission 2026, over 1,760 engineering colleges in India offer CSE programs, each with specific academic and entrance exam criteria.

Requirement Details
**Academic Qualification (10+2)**
Class 12th Pass Mandatory for all undergraduate Computer Science programs (B.Tech, B.E., B.SC. CS).
Core Subjects Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics (PCM) are compulsory in Class 12 for B.Tech/B.E. CSE.
Minimum Marks (General) Typically 45-50% aggregate in Class 12 PCM for B.Tech/B.E. CSE programs.
Minimum Marks (Private Colleges) Some private colleges, like Chandigarh University, require a minimum of 60-70% in Class 12 with Physics and Math.
Minimum Marks (Specific Programs) UPES B.Tech. (Mathematics and Computing) requires 70% in Class X and XII, with 70% in PCM.
Minimum Marks (B.SC. CS) Generally 50% in Class 12 with PCM for B.SC. Computer Science courses.
IIT Madras BS in Data Science Candidates must have passed 10+2 or equivalent, irrespective of age or academic background.
**Entrance Examination Qualification**
National/State Level Exams Qualifying scores in exams like JEE Main, CUET UG, BITSAT, VITEEE, SRMJEEE, KCET, COMEDK are .
IIT Admissions Candidates must be among the top 2.5 lakh JEE Main qualifiers to be eligible for JEE Advanced.
NIT/IIIT Admissions JEE Main ranks are used for admission through JoSAA counselling.
Central University Admissions CUET UG scores are mandatory for B.SC. Computer Science in central universities like DU and BHU.
M.Tech CSE Admissions A valid GATE score is required for M.Tech admissions in premier institutes like IITs and NITs.
**Age Criteria**
Undergraduate Programs No specific upper age limit for most B.Tech/B.SC. Computer Science programs in 2026.
UGC NET JRF Upper age limit of 30 years, with 5 years relaxation for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD categories.
UGC NET Assistant Professor No upper age limit for Assistant Professorship and PhD admissions.
**Other Specific Requirements**
Provisional Admission (PG) Final year graduation students can apply for PG courses (e.g., M.Tech) provisionally, subject to minimum 50% aggregate.
Management Quota Private universities may have separate eligibility criteria and higher fees for management quota seats.
International Admissions SRM University offers international admissions with distinct eligibility and application procedures for 2026-27.
Academic Background (M.SC. IT) Graduation with Computer Science/IT or Mathematics/Statistics/Business Math at Graduation/10+2 level is required by UPES.

Meeting these varied eligibility criteria is for securing a seat in top Computer Science programs across India for the 2026 academic session.

Computer Science Admission 2026: Entrance Exams Accepted

Computer Science admission for the 2026-27 academic session is determined by over 20 national, state, and institute-level entrance examinations. These exams are for B.Tech CSE, B.SC Computer Science, M.Tech CSE, and MCA programs offered by 1,760+ engineering colleges and central universities.

Exam Conducting Body Level Official Link
JEE Main National Testing Agency (NTA) National (UG Engineering) NTA.ac.in
JEE Advanced One of the 7 IITs (rotated annually) National (UG Engineering for IITs) jeeadv.ac.in
CUET UG National Testing Agency (NTA) National (UG for Central Universities) CUET.samarth.ac.in
BITSAT Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS) Pilani Institute (UG Engineering) bitsadmission.com
VITEEE Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Institute (UG Engineering) VIT.ac.in
SRMJEEE SRM Institute of Science and Technology Institute (UG Engineering) srmist.edu.in
LPUNEST Lovely Professional University (LPU) Institute (UG Engineering) LPU.in
KCET Karnataka Examinations Authority (KEA) State (UG Engineering for Karnataka) kea.kar.nic.in
COMEDK UGET Consortium of Medical, Engineering and Dental Colleges of Karnataka (COMEDK) State (UG Engineering for Karnataka Private Colleges) COMEDK.org
MHT-CET State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra State (UG Engineering for Maharashtra) cetcell.mahacet.org
TS EAMCET JNTUH on behalf of TSCHE State (UG Engineering for Telangana) eamcet.tsche.ac.in
UPESEAT UPES Institute (UG Engineering) upes.ac.in
CUSAT CAT Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) University (UG/PG) admissions.cusat.ac.in
GATE Computer Science IIT Guwahati (for 2026) National (PG Engineering) GATE.iitg.ac.in
IIT JAM One of the IITs (rotated annually) National (PG Science) jam.iitm.ac.in
CUET PG National Testing Agency (NTA) National (PG for Central Universities) pgcuet.samarth.ac.in
MAH MCA CET State Common Entrance Test Cell, Maharashtra State (PG MCA for Maharashtra) cetcell.mahacet.org
NEST NISER Bhubaneswar & UM-DAE CEBS Mumbai National (UG Science) nestexam.in
IISER Entrance Exam One of the IISERs (rotated annually) National (UG Science) iiseradmission.in
SAT India College Board International/National (UG) collegeboard.org
PU-CET (UG) Panjab University University (UG Science) cetug.puchd.ac.in
SAAT Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan (SOA) Institute (UG/PG) SOA.ac.in
PESSAT PES University Institute (UG/PG) pes.edu/pessat

Students should research specific exam syllabi and application timelines for their target Computer Science programs to ensure timely preparation.

How to Apply Computer Science Admission 2026: Step-by-Step

The application process for Computer Science (CS) admission in 2026 typically runs from January to May. Students must national, state, and institute-level entrance exams, followed by counselling rounds and document verification.

Top Universities in India for Computer Science Admission 2026

India offers Computer Science Engineering (CSE) programs across 1,760+ colleges, with premier institutions like the IITs and NITs consistently ranking high. For the 2026 academic session, these universities will continue to be highly sought after, with admissions primarily driven by national and institute-level entrance examinations.

Rank University / College Type Location Key for CS Admission 2026
1 IIT Madras Government (Institute of National Importance) Chennai, Tamil Nadu Offers BS in Data Science and Applications; admission open for BS in Aeronautics and Space Technology. Primarily admits through JEE Advanced.
2 BITS Pilani Private (Deemed University) Pilani, Rajasthan Known for its rigorous B.Tech CSE program. Admissions are primarily through BITSAT.
3 Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) Private (Deemed University) Vellore, Tamil Nadu Offers a wide range of computer science programs. Admission is through the institute’s own VITEEE exam.
4 Delhi University (DU) Central University New Delhi, Delhi Offers B.SC. (Hons) in Computer Science through CUET UG and M.SC. Computer Science via PG CSAS.
5 National Institutes of Technology (NITs) Government (Institutes of National Importance) Various locations (e.g., Warangal, Trichy, Surathkal) Admit students to B.Tech CSE programs based on JEE Main scores, followed by JoSAA counselling.
6 IIIT Hyderabad Private (Deemed University) Hyderabad, Telangana Highly regarded for Computer Science and Information Technology. Admissions are based on JEE Main scores but through its own counselling, not JoSAA.
7 Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT) Private (Deemed University) Bhubaneswar, Odisha Offers B.Tech CSE programs. Admission is through the institute’s KIITEE entrance exam.
8 Lovely Professional University (LPU) Private University Phagwara, Punjab Admissions for Computer Science Engineering (CSE) programs are open for 2026 intake, primarily through LPUNEST.
9 Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) State University Kochi, Kerala Offers various computer science courses. Admission is based on the CUSAT CAT exam for Class 12th qualified candidates.
10 Mumbai University State University Mumbai, Maharashtra Offers B.SC Computer Science programs. Pre-registration for the 2026-27 session was extended till May 23, 2026.

These institutions represent a diverse range of academic environments, from government-funded IITs to prominent private universities. Students planning for 2026 admissions should carefully review each university’s specific entrance exam requirements and application deadlines.

Specialisation-wise Top Universities for

Computer Science specialisations in India attract over 1.2 lakh applicants annually for 2026 admissions, with B.Tech CSE alone accounting for 78% of all engineering course applications.

Top institutions now offer niche specialisations like AI & ML, Cybersecurity, and Data Science under the CSE umbrella, each with dedicated intake and placement tracking.

Specialisation / Stream Top Universities / Colleges
B.Tech Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) IITs (Bombay, Delhi, Madras), NITs (Trichy, Surathkal, Warangal), IIIT Hyderabad NIRF 2025 Rank #1–#10; admission via JEE Main (NITs/IIITs) and JEE Advanced (IITs); placement figures vary by institution and year
B.Tech CSE with AI & Machine Learning VIT Vellore, SRM Kattankulathur, Thapar University, Chandigarh University Admission through VITEEE, SRMJEEE, or JEE Main; dedicated AI labs; placement figures vary by institution and year
B.Tech CSE with Cybersecurity DAVV Indore, KIIT Bhubaneswar, LPU Jalandhar Admission via CUET, KIITEE, or LPUNEST; industry partnerships with Kaspersky, Quick Heal; fees vary by institution
B.Tech CSE with Data Science UPES Dehradun, SASTRA University, Siksha ‘O’ Anusandhan Specialised curriculum with Python, R, Big Data; admission via JEE Main or institute exams; placement figures vary by institution and year
BS in Data Science and Applications IIT Madras (Online via CEP) Eligibility: 10+2 pass; admission by qualifier form; 4-year UGC-recognized degree; ideal for working professionals
B.SC Computer Science Delhi University (DU), Mumbai University, Christ University Admission via CUET UG; fees and placement figures vary by institution and year; pathway to MCA or M.SC
M.Tech Computer Science and Engineering IITs, NITs, IIIT Hyderabad, BITS Pilani Admission via GATE CS 2026; fees and placement figures vary by institution and year
M.SC Computer Science Delhi University, Banaras Hindu University, Christ University Admission via PG CSAS or CUET PG; fees and placement figures vary by institution and year

Over 60% of top-ranked universities now offer AI-integrated CSE degrees, reflecting industry demand, IITs and private institutes like VIT lead in both placements and curriculum innovation.

Top Private Universities for

India has 50+ private universities offering Computer Science programs for 2026 admissions, with NIRF-ranked institutions like BITS Pilani, VIT Vellore, and Shiv Nadar University leading placements and curriculum innovation.

University Location Approvals & Accreditation Notable Programs
BITS Pilani Pilani, Rajasthan Private Institute (Deemed University), UGC-approved, NAAC A+ accredited B.E. In Computer Science, M.SC. Computer Science – known for flexible curriculum and strong industry placements
Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT Vellore) Vellore, Tamil Nadu Private University, UGC-approved, NAAC A+ accredited, Highly ranked for Engineering B.Tech Computer Science Engineering – specializations in AI, Data Science, and Cybersecurity
Shiv Nadar University Dadri, Uttar Pradesh Private University, UGC-approved, NAAC A accredited B.Tech Computer Science Engineering – research-driven curriculum with interdisciplinary focus
Chandigarh University Chandigarh, Punjab (CU UP campus) Private University, UGC-approved, NAAC A+ accredited, ABET-accredited B.E. CSE program B.E. Computer Science Engineering – offers AI, ML, and Software Development tracks
SRM Institute of Science and Technology Chennai, Tamil Nadu Deemed University, UGC-approved, NAAC A+ accredited, NIRF Rank #19 (Engineering 2025) B.Tech CSE – global partnerships with Iowa State University for 2+2 B.Tech (CSE) Global program
Amity University Noida, Uttar Pradesh Private University, UGC-approved, NAAC A accredited B.Tech Computer Science – industry-integrated curriculum with global exposure options
Galgotias University Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh Private University, UGC-approved, NAAC A accredited B.Tech Computer Science Engineering – strong industry linkages and on-campus placement drives
ST. Andrews Institute of Technology & Management (SAITM) Gurgaon, Delhi NCR Private College, Affiliated with MDU (Maharshi Dayanand University), AICTE-approved B.Tech CSE with specializations in AI/ML and Data Science – modern infrastructure and strong placements

BITS Pilani and VIT Vellore consistently rank among the top private choices for Computer Science in 2026, offering strong academic frameworks, international collaborations, and placement records with strong placement records.

State-wise Top 5 Universities for

For the 2026 academic session, admissions to top Computer Science programs are driven by JEE Main, CUET UG, and institute-specific exams. Government and private institutions across 12 states offer B.Tech and B.SC CSE programs with seat allocation based on national and state-level counselling.

Key Takeaways

  • IITs in Delhi, Bombay, Madras, and Kanpur remain the top choices for B.Tech CSE, with JEE Advanced 2025 cutoffs requiring an AIR below 210 (General category).
  • State-level admissions in Tamil Nadu (TNEA) and Maharashtra (MHT-CET) offer merit-based entry to top government engineering colleges based on Class 12 PCM scores.
  • Private universities like VIT, SRM, LPU, and Chandigarh University admit through VITEEE, SRMJEEE, LPUNEST, and CUCET, with applications open until May 31, 2026.

Check eligibility and apply at best colleges for BSc Computer Science before application deadlines end in May 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the top entrance exams for Computer Science admission 2026 in India?

The top entrance exams for Computer Science admission 2026 include JEE Main, JEE Advanced, BITSAT 2026, MHT-CET, KCET, WBJEE, and CUET UG. Admission to top CSE programs at IITs, NITs, and private institutes is based on these exams. JEE Main 2026 is scheduled for January and April sessions, with application forms released in November 2025.

What is the eligibility criteria for B.Tech Computer Science 2026?

Candidates must have passed Class 12 with Physics, Mathematics, and English or Computer Science, and secured at least 60% aggregate marks (55% for reserved categories). Refer to the official JEE Main 2026 information bulletin for exact age criteria. IIT Madras BS in Data Science also accepts Class 12 passouts with no age limit.

When is the last date to apply for IIT Madras BS in Data Science 2026?

The last date to apply for IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications for the May 2026 batch is May 31, 2026. The qualifier application form opened on February 18, 2026, and candidates can apply online via the official IIT Madras Continuing Education portal.

Which colleges accept CUET UG scores for Computer Science admission 2026?

Central Universities like DU, BHU, and JNU accept CUET UG scores for B.SC Computer Science admission 2026. Delhi University offers B.SC (Hons) Computer Science at colleges like Miranda House and Hindu College. CUET UG 2026 application window opens in February 2026, with exams in May 2026.

How to get admission in CSE without JEE Main 2026?

Students can get CSE admission through state-level exams like MHT-CET, KCET, or institute-level tests like BITSAT 2026, SRMJEEE, or VITEEE. IIT Madras offers BS in Data Science based on a qualifier test, not JEE. Christ University and Amity also offer direct admission based on Class 12 marks with entrance tests like Christ University Entrance Exam.

What is the average fee for B.Tech Computer Science in top colleges 2026?

The average fee for B.Tech Computer Science in top government colleges like IITs and NITs ranges from ₹2.5 lakh to ₹8.5 lakh for the full course. Private colleges like VIT Vellore and SRM charge ₹12–15 lakh, while BITS Pilani fees are ₹1.2 crore for 4 years (as per 2025 data).

Is CUSAT CAT 2026 conducted for Computer Science admission?

Yes, CUSAT CAT 2026 is conducted for B.Tech admissions including Computer Science at Cochin University and affiliated colleges like Model Engineering College, Kochi. The exam is computer-based, held in June 2026, with application forms available from March 2026 on cusat.nic.in.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is sourced from official websites, NIRF rankings, and publicly available data. Fees, placement figures, and other details may vary. Please verify with the official institution website for the most current information.

Nishit Kumar
Written by

Nishit Kumar is a senior EdTech industry leader with over a decade of experience in building and scaling education platforms. He was instrumental in building Collegedunia from the ground up, shaping its product, content, and growth strategy. At FindMyCollege, Nishit oversees content and editorial strategy, guiding topic selection, content frameworks to ensure accuracy, relevance, and student-first value across the website.

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