Introduction to IISERs
The Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISERs) are premier educational and research institutions located throughout India. These centrally funded institutes were established by the Government of India (GOI) under the Ministry of Education (MOE) with a focus on promoting research at the undergraduate level. Seven IISERs are currently operational, each contributing to the national goal of excellence in basic sciences.
Location and Establishment
These institutes are strategically located across various states, including IISER Kolkata in West Bengal, IISER Pune in Maharashtra, IISER Mohali in Punjab, IISER Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh, IISER Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala, IISER Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh, and IISER Berhampur in Odisha. Recognizing their significance, the Parliament of India declared all IISERs as Institutes of National Importance in 2012. This designation further solidified their status as leading institutions alongside the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore and other sister institutions.
Admission and Competition
Compared to other national institutes like AIIMS and IITs, IISERs are generally considered to be slightly easier to get into due to lower competition. However, with increasing awareness among students about research opportunities, the competition is gradually rising, particularly in popular fields.
Current Admissions and Trends
The ease of admission to IISERs should not be a reason for complacency. As the bar for admission continues to rise, students need to remain competitive. The awareness and interest in research are growing, leading to an increase in the number of applicants, especially in disciplines like biology, which remains one of the most popular choices among students at the undergraduate level.
Preferred Undergraduate Subjects
Choosing the right undergraduate subject at any IISER can be a highly specialized and personal decision. The choice of major depends on the specific IISER, the offerings of that particular institute, and the student's own interests and career aspirations. However, there are some trends and popular choices that can provide insight into the preferences of IISER students.
Current Trends and Subject Preferences
Over the last few years, particularly at IISER Bhopal (IISER BPR), biology has emerged as a highly preferred major. This trend can largely be attributed to the growing emphasis on life sciences and biotechnology in modern research and development. Students who show a strong inclination towards biological sciences, along with a passion for research and problem-solving, tend to excel in these programs.
Conclusion and Further Information
For students interested in pursuing research at the undergraduate level, IISERs offer a unique and unparalleled educational experience. From cutting-edge research facilities to experienced faculty, these institutions provide a solid foundation for students aspiring to make a significant impact in the field of science. To learn more about IISERs or for a free demo of our course, visit our website.