In the latest JEE Main 2026 trend, Computer Science and Electrical Engineering continue to dominate the preference charts at IIT Delhi. Yet, a closer look at the Joint Implementation Committee (JIC) Report 2025 reveals that several programmes remain less attractive to aspirants. Despite IIT Delhi’s reputation for excellence, not every course garners equal enthusiasm.
While high-demand branches such as CSE, Electrical, and Mathematics & Computing maintain strong traction, newer and specialized programmes struggle to find large takers. Let’s explore why some courses remain on the lower side of the popularity scale.
Why Is the BTech in Design the Least Opted Course at IIT Delhi?
The BTech in Design has officially emerged as the least chosen course at IIT Delhi this year. In 2025, only 3,173 students showed interest, a slight 8.5% rise from 2,925 in 2024. Although the programme combines creativity, design thinking, and technology, it still appeals mainly to a niche audience.
This four-year degree, introduced recently, demands 155 credits and admits only 20 students per batch. The small intake reflects IIT Delhi’s intent to maintain a focused learning environment. However, experts suggest that its low ranking stems from uncertainty about career outcomes, as design-oriented roles in India are still developing compared to the booming software industry.
Interestingly, the programme has gained praise for blending engineering principles with innovation, allowing students to work on projects that intersect art, product design, and sustainability. Yet, it remains an under-the-radar option for most JEE aspirants.
How Did IIT Delhi’s Abu Dhabi Campus Perform in Its First Year?
The opening of IIT Delhi’s Abu Dhabi campus marked a significant expansion milestone. However, the new location’s programmes received moderate response in their debut year.
According to the report:
- Energy Engineering attracted 5,229 students.
- Chemical Engineering saw 5,302 applicants.
- The Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) programme at the Abu Dhabi campus drew 7,321 aspirants, outperforming others because of its global job relevance.
Though these numbers may seem modest, education experts see this as a promising start for the international branch. The overseas location’s gradual recognition and growing interest in global learning experiences are expected to boost numbers in upcoming years.
Are Core Science Courses Losing Appeal Among Students?
Traditional science-based courses such as Chemistry and Biotechnology have shown only marginal increases in interest. In 2025, the Chemistry programme recorded 6,117 applicants, up 8.4% from 5,641 last year. Similarly, Textile Technology saw 9,006 students choosing it, marking a 9.5% rise from 8,225 in 2024.
Meanwhile, Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering attracted 9,930 applicants, a 9.1% increase from 9,100 previously. Though growth is steady, these courses remain overshadowed by more job-driven fields like computing and electronics.
One reason behind this trend is placement opportunities. Graduates from core science branches often pursue research or higher education, unlike CSE or Electrical students, who are absorbed quickly by leading tech firms.
Why Does Aerospace Engineering Still Struggle to Attract Students?
Once considered a dream field for engineering enthusiasts, Aerospace Engineering continues to be among the less sought-after programmes. The five-year course attracted 9,920 students this year, up just 7.4% from 9,230 in 2024. Despite its legacy and association with space research, experts say the limited number of job openings in India’s aerospace sector discourages students. In comparison, software and data-driven industries offer more lucrative packages and global mobility.
Students passionate about aviation or space technology still consider Aerospace Engineering prestigious, but most opt for dual specializations or interdisciplinary branches that expand career options. As a result, the course remains steady yet subdued in its appeal.
Which Courses Continue to Dominate IIT Delhi Admissions?
In contrast, Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) remains the top choice at IIT Delhi. In 2025, 27,697 aspirants selected this course, reflecting a 10.5% increase from 25,064 in 2024. Following CSE, Electrical Engineering attracted 23,503 students, while Mathematics and Computing saw 20,087 applicants. These programmes maintain their stronghold because of high industry relevance, consistent placement records, and global demand for skilled graduates in software, AI, and data analytics.
In 2024, the five-year CSE course saw 16,188 applicants, a 19.59% rise from 13,536 in 2023. Similarly, the five-year Mathematics and Computing programme drew 13,741 students, slightly lower than the four-year version, which continues to dominate preferences.
Course Preference Trends: A Quick Look
| Course Name | Applicants (2024) | Applicants (2025) | Growth (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BTech in Design | 2,925 | 3,173 | 8.5% |
| Chemistry | 5,641 | 6,117 | 8.4% |
| Textile Technology | 8,225 | 9,006 | 9.5% |
| Biotechnology & Biochemical Engg. | 9,100 | 9,930 | 9.1% |
| Aerospace Engineering | 9,230 | 9,920 | 7.4% |
| Computer Science and Engg. | 25,064 | 27,697 | 10.5% |
The table reflects that while niche programmes are slowly growing, mainstream tech courses continue to see exponential demand year after year.
Why Do Students Prefer Tech-Oriented Branches Over Others?
The clear tilt toward technology-based programmes highlights the growing influence of AI, machine learning, data science, and software innovation in shaping student choices. Most students aim for roles that ensure global employability, better salaries, and industry exposure.
On the other hand, research-focused or specialized branches require long-term academic commitment and often lead to slower career progression. As a result, aspirants align their decisions with market trends and placement reports, rather than academic curiosity alone.
What Does This Mean for IIT Delhi’s Academic Future?
Experts believe IIT Delhi’s challenge is to balance innovation and employability. While its design, biotechnology, and aerospace courses represent future-focused education, they require more industry collaboration and awareness to attract top students. The rise of new interdisciplinary programmes, coupled with the expansion to Abu Dhabi, indicates IIT Delhi’s broader strategy to diversify its academic offerings. Over time, exposure, internships, and international opportunities may shift student interest toward these emerging courses.
FAQs About JEE Main 2026 and IIT Delhi Courses
1. Which is the least opted course at IIT Delhi in 2025?
The BTech in Design is the least opted course with 3,173 students.
2. Why is Aerospace Engineering less popular at IIT Delhi?
Limited job opportunities and fewer industry roles make it less appealing.
3. Which IIT Delhi course saw the most applicants in 2025?
Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) topped with 27,697 applicants.
4. How did IIT Delhi’s Abu Dhabi campus perform?
It saw moderate interest, with CSE being the most preferred programme.
5. Are core science courses losing popularity?
Yes, students prefer high-demand tech fields over pure sciences.
6. What was the growth rate for Textile Technology?
Textile Technology grew by 9.5% from 2024 to 2025.
7. How many students applied for Biotechnology and Biochemical Engineering?
9,930 students opted for this course in 2025.
8. What makes CSE so popular among JEE aspirants?
CSE offers global job demand, high salaries, and diverse career options.
9. How many credits are required for the BTech in Design programme?
The BTech in Design course requires 155 credits for completion.
10. What is the new academic focus of IIT Delhi?
IIT Delhi is focusing on interdisciplinary and innovation-led programmes.