CMSC Kottayam-image
CMS College Kottayam: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Kottayam Campus Life
location
Kottayam, Kerala
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 11 January 2026

More About CMSC Kottayam

CMS College Kottayam was established in 1817 and is located in Kottayam, Kerala. It is a top ranked premium college. The CMS College Kottayam has been ranked 92nd by NIRF 2024 under the College category, and 85th by NIRF 2023, also under the College category. This reputed college also achieved 81st position in NIRF 2022 and 93rd in NIRF 2021. India Today Science ranked The CMS College 123rd in 2022, showcasing its standing among science institutions. CMSC Kottayam (an autonomous college affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam) offers 47 UG, PG, and PhD courses to students, provided across 16 departments. CMS College Kottayam offers popular programs like BA, B.Sc, B.Com at the undergraduate level, with specializations in English Language and Literature, Mathematics, Botany, Computer Application, Taxation, and many other streams. Postgraduate offerings include MA, M.Sc, M.Com in fields such as English, Economics, Botany, Chemistry, Finance. Further, The CMS College provides Bachelor of Computer Applications (BCA) and PhD programs. It also features Bachelor of Vocational Studies (B.Voc) in Information Technology and B.Voc Travel, Tourism and Logistics Management as flagship courses, focusing on skill-based and vocational education. The institute is located in a sprawling 30-acre campus, equipped with the latest innovations and facilities to support learning. CMS College Kottayam has a total of 2586 students currently enrolled and 149 dedicated faculty members, maintaining a healthy faculty-student ratio of 1:17. This ensures personalized attention and a conducive learning environment for all students at the college. The CMS College is a reputed institution in Kottayam, Kerala. Located in Kottayam, this historic college primarily accepts Merit-based on qualifying examination scores for most undergraduate and postgraduate admissions. For its advanced PhD programs, candidates need to be qualified in national-level eligibility tests such as UGC-NET or CSIR-NET. The institute offers a comprehensive educational experience through its 47 courses across 16 departments. CMS College Kottayam faculty are highly experienced professionals with years of academic and research expertise.

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Campus Area

30

Faculty Student Ratio

1:17

Year Of Established

1817

About CMS College Kottayam

CMS College Kottayam, established in 1817 in Kottayam, Kerala, is one of India's oldest higher education institutions. It is a private autonomous college affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University and was founded by the Church Missionary Society (CMS), reflecting its Christian missionary heritage.

The college holds an A+ grade accreditation from NAAC and is ranked 86th among Indian colleges in the NIRF 2025 rankings. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across arts, science, commerce, and vocational streams, supported by a strong faculty and student community. CMS College is noted for its academic excellence and historical significance in Kerala's education landscape.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameCMS College Kottayam
Established1817
TypePrivate Autonomous
AffiliationMahatma Gandhi University
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeA+ (Valid till 2029)
NIRF 2025#86 in College Category
CampusUrban, Kottayam, Kerala
CoursesUndergraduate and Postgraduate programs
Popular ProgrammesArts, Science, Commerce, Vocational Studies
Websitehttp://cmscollege.ac.in/

Courses Offered at CMSC Kottayam

Specializations

Bachelor of Science in BiotechnologyBachelor of Science in BotanyBachelor of Science in Chemistry+4

Specializations

Bachelor of Science {Hons.} in BotanyBachelor of Science {Hons.} in ChemistryBachelor of Science {Hons.} in Home Science+3

Specializations

Master of Science in Analytical ChemistryMaster of Science in Applied ChemistryMaster of Science in Applied Physics+8

Specializations

Ph.D in BotanyPh.D in ChemistryPh.D in English+5

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts in Communicative EnglishBachelor of Arts in EconomicsBachelor of Arts in English Language And English Literature+2

Specializations

Bachelor of Arts {Hons.} in EconomicsBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in EnglishBachelor of Arts {Hons.} in History

Specializations

Bachelor of CommerceBachelor of Commerce

Specializations

Bachelor of Commerce {Hons.}

Specializations

Bachelor of Computer Application

Specializations

Bachelor of Vocational Studies in Information TechnologyBachelor of Vocational Studies in Travel and Tourism Management

Specializations

Certification in Computerised AccountingCertification in Fashion DesignCertification in Graphics+1

Specializations

Master of Arts in EconomicsMaster of Arts in English Language And LiteratureMaster of Arts in History+2

Overview

CMS College Kottayam, established in 1817 in Kottayam, Kerala, is one of India's oldest higher education institutions. It is a private autonomous college affiliated with Mahatma Gandhi University and was founded by the Church Missionary Society (CMS), reflecting its Christian missionary heritage.

The college holds an A+ grade accreditation from NAAC and is ranked 86th among Indian colleges in the NIRF 2025 rankings. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across arts, science, commerce, and vocational streams, supported by a strong faculty and student community. CMS College is noted for its academic excellence and historical significance in Kerala's education landscape.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameCMS College Kottayam
Established1817
TypePrivate Autonomous
AffiliationMahatma Gandhi University
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeA+ (Valid till 2029)
NIRF 2025#86 in College Category
CampusUrban, Kottayam, Kerala
CoursesUndergraduate and Postgraduate programs
Popular ProgrammesArts, Science, Commerce, Vocational Studies
Websitehttp://cmscollege.ac.in/

Admission Dates 2026

CMS College Kottayam offers admissions primarily based on merit from qualifying examinations such as CBSE 12th, ISC, and Kerala 12th for undergraduate courses. Postgraduate admissions include quotas like cultural and sports quotas with specific application deadlines. The admission process involves online application submission, document verification, merit list publication, and interviews where applicable.

ProgrammeEventDate
UG CoursesApplication Start01 May 2026
UG CoursesApplication Deadline07 June 2026
PG Courses (Cultural Quota)Supporting Documents Submission Deadline11 June 2026, 11:00 AM
PG CoursesApplication StartJuly 2026 (Exact date not specified)
PG CoursesInterview/Admission DatesPublished on college website and notice board (dates vary)

Nearest Attractions at CMSC Kottayam

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Cochin International Airport

86.7 km

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KSRTC Bus Station, Kottayam

2 km

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Kottayam Railway Station

2 km

Admission Process

Admissions at CMS College Kottayam for undergraduate and postgraduate programs are primarily merit-based, with some courses requiring entrance exams or interviews. Candidates apply online through the official college portal, followed by document verification and fee payment to confirm admission.

Undergraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Visit the official CMS College website and read the prospectus carefully.
  2. Complete the online application form, entering personal and academic details accurately.
  3. Choose up to three preferred courses and select a second language if applicable.
  4. Pay the application fee online (₹300 for general candidates, ₹100 for SC/ST candidates).
  5. Submit required documents instructions, including for quota categories if applicable.
  6. Wait for the merit list or rank list publication on the college website and notice board.
  7. Attend the interview or counseling session on the assigned date with original documents.
  8. Pay the course fee to confirm admission and complete enrollment formalities.

Postgraduate Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Check eligibility and course details on the official CMS College website.
  2. Fill out the online application form and pay the application fee.
  3. Upload necessary documents, including degree certificates and entrance exam scores if applicable.
  4. Submit supporting certificates for special quotas (e.g., cultural, sports) by email if applicable.
  5. Monitor the website for rank lists and interview schedules.
  6. Attend the interview or counseling with original documents on the specified date.
  7. Pay the tuition fee to secure admission and complete registration.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
B.A. (Honours)10+2 (related subjects)Merit-based (CBSE/Kerala Board)50%₹3,283
B.Sc. (Honours)10+2 (Science subjects)Merit-based (CBSE/Kerala Board)50%₹3,443 - ₹3,863
B.Com10+2 (Commerce/related)Merit-based (CBSE/Kerala Board)50%₹3,283
BCA10+2 (Science/Commerce/Arts)Merit-based (CBSE/Kerala Board)50%₹3,283
M.A.Graduation in related disciplineMerit-based50%₹4,378
M.Sc.Graduation in related disciplineMerit-based45%₹4,378 - ₹5,638
M.Com.Graduation in CommerceMerit-based50%₹4,378

Documents Required

  • 10th and 12th Mark Sheets
  • Graduation Mark Sheets and Degree Certificate (for PG admissions)
  • Entrance Exam Scorecard (if applicable)
  • Proof of Identity (Aadhaar card or equivalent)
  • Passport-size Photographs
  • Category/Community Certificate (if applicable)
  • Transfer Certificate from previous institution
  • Migration Certificate (for students from other universities)
  • Medical Fitness Certificate (if required)

Campus Facilities at CMSC Kottayam

Academic Spaces

Auditorium (Great Hall)

Classrooms

Seminar Halls

Basic Services

ATM Counter

Bank Branch (State Bank of Travancore)

Co-operative Store

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) Regional Study Centre

Post Office (Kottayam North Post Office)

Reprographic Facilities

Food Options

College Canteen

Hostel Facilities

Askwith Hostel (Men's / Sports Students)

Ella Hostel (PG Women's)

Lea Hostel (Women's)

IT Facilities

Computer Centre

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Laboratories

Biotechnology Department Laboratories

Chemistry Department Laboratories

Computer Labs

Language Lab

Science Laboratories (General)

Library

Collins Central Library

Departmental Libraries

Medical Facilities

Medical Centre/First Aid

Recreational Areas

Common Rooms

Gardens and Greenery

Safety & Security

CCTV Surveillance

Secure Environment (General)

Sports & Fitness

Gymnasium

Sports Complex

Student Help Desks

Career Guidance Counseling Cell

Grievances Cell (Implied)

Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC)

Parent-Teacher Association (PTA)

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Placements 2025

CMS College Kottayam's placement cell facilitated campus recruitment for both undergraduate and postgraduate students, with a placement rate ranging from 20% to 40% and some cohorts reaching up to 60%. The highest package offered was ₹14.6 LPA, while the average package ranged between ₹3 LPA. Top recruiters included Infosys, Wipro, TCS, Accenture, KPMG, and ESAF.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹14.6 LPA
Average Package₹3 LPA
Median Package₹2.5 LPA (UG), ₹3 LPA (PG)
Placement Rate20-40% (up to 60% in some cohorts)
Students PlacedApprox. 380/519 (UG), 252/287 (PG)
Companies Visited40+

Top Recruiters

IT: Infosys, Wipro, TCS, Accenture, Cognizant, HCL, Byjus, Sutherland

Consulting: KPMG, Deloitte, ESAF

Core: MRF, Syngene, Zifo

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
Undergraduate (3-year)₹14.6 LPA₹2.5 LPA~73%
Postgraduate (2-year)₹14.6 LPA₹3 LPA~88%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Gopika A

5

Beautiful college campus. 🤩☘️🍁 Cms college kottayam was founded by the Church Missionary Society of England. Cms college was established in 1815. One of the best college in kerela. College inside is full of trees and flowers. It's maintaining very well. Cms college is located in kottayam district. Auto-rishaw, bus service's are available. College is an nature beautiful. Some of the films are played here. Like classmates, bodyguard etc.... The college is a historical place. College situated in heart of kottayam city. The college is autonomous and college is affiliated by Mahatma Gandhi University. College building's are situated in many areas. College have Good canteen, boys and girls hostels, library, labs etc... Mind blowing Nature beauty. College maintaning very well. College offers undergraduate and postgraduate.

Aswin Suresh

5

Personally it was a nice experience. The college and its ambience are good and also it gives a calm and quiet surroundings

subin981 “Koshy's associates”

5

The first college to be established in 1800. There are building's like great hall etc which still stands now. They have various disciplines of Arts and science. Many a lot who have passed out / Alumni have reached great heights. Have even produced President of India late Sri K R Narayan etc eminent personalities.

Romy George

5

A Campus that everybody wishes to have...⠀ *Since 1815⠀ India's oldest exisiting College... More than a college 🤩 ⠀ *The campus got a beautiful environment and the Its ambience is indescribable. ⠀ *College have 23 departments and have nearly 50 courses. ⠀ *One of colleges in Kerala which give importance and support to arts and other sports activities. Best coaching too. ⠀ *CMS is an autonomous College and is affiliated to Mahatma Gandhi University. (NAAC re- accredited with A+).⠀ *Good canteen, boys and girls hostel, library, Labs etc. campus placements are also there...

Rankings & Accreditations

CMS College Kottayam is ranked 86th among colleges in India by NIRF 2025, showing an improvement from its 92nd position in 2024. It holds a strong reputation regionally but does not appear in QS or THE global rankings. The college has a NAAC A+ accreditation reflecting high academic standards.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
College#8655.58/100

NIRF 2024

CategoryRankScore
College#9252.36/100

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
India TodayNot in top national list2025
OutlookNot listed2025
QSNot ranked2025
THENot ranked2025

Accreditations

  • NAAC: A+ (Valid till 2028)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

CMS College Kottayam offers a range of scholarships primarily through government-funded schemes and management-funded awards. The college facilitates access to scholarships based on merit, financial need, and reservation categories, with tuition fees ranging from ₹2,500 to ₹25,000 per year. Students can avail scholarships such as INSPIRE, Kerala State Higher Education Scholarship, Central Sector Scholarship, and various management scholarships.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
Ardratha FellowshipMerit-based, college criteria₹10,000/year
Askwith ScholarshipMerit and need-based₹8,000/year
Koshy Mathew ScholarshipAcademic excellence and financial need₹7,000/year
George M Thomas EndowmentMerit-based₹5,000/year
Freeships to StudentsFinancially needy studentsFull tuition fee waiver

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
INSPIRE ScholarshipTalented youth aged 17-22₹80,000/yearNSP
Kerala State Higher Education ScholarshipState residents with financial need₹10,000 - ₹20,000/yearState Portal
Post Matric ScholarshipReserved categories and minoritiesVaries, up to ₹15,000/yearNSP
Central Sector ScholarshipGeneral category students with merit₹10,000 - ₹20,000/yearNSP
District Merit ScholarshipMeritorious students from district₹5,000 - ₹10,000/yearState Portal
Muslim Nadar Girls ScholarshipGirls from Muslim Nadar community₹8,000/yearState Portal
Blind/PH ScholarshipPhysically handicapped students₹10,000/yearNSP

External Scholarships

  • Post Matric Scholarship for Students with Disabilities: ₹15,000/year for students with disabilities under central schemes
  • Merit Scholarship for Children of School Teachers: ₹5,000/year for children of school teachers
  • Hindi Scholarship: ₹7,000/year for students promoting Hindi language
  • Suvarna Jubilee Merit Scholarship: ₹10,000/year for outstanding academic performers

Comparison

CMS College Kottayam is compared with Maharaja's College Ernakulam and St. Joseph’s College Devagiri as all three are prominent autonomous colleges in Kerala with strong academic reputations, NAAC accreditation, and consistent presence in the NIRF college rankings, making them peer institutions for students seeking quality higher education in arts and sciences within the state.

ParameterCMS College KottayamMaharaja's College ErnakulamSt. Joseph’s College Devagiri
TypePrivateGovernmentGovernment Aided
Established181718751956
NIRF 2025#86#75#74
NAACA+A+A+
Fee (Total)₹3.4 L (approx.)₹0.5 L (approx.)₹0.6 L (approx.)
Highest Package₹6 LPA₹5 LPA₹5.5 LPA
Average Package₹3.3 LPA₹2.5 LPA₹2.8 LPA

Key Strengths

  • CMS College Kottayam: Oldest college in South India with a strong legacy, autonomous status, and diverse UG and PG programs with robust industry connections for placements.
  • Maharaja's College Ernakulam: Prestigious government institution with a rich heritage, extensive research facilities, and strong academic programs in arts and sciences.
  • St. Joseph’s College Devagiri: Renowned for quality education, research output, and consistent high NIRF ranking among Kerala colleges with strong alumni network.

Campus & Infrastructure

CMS College Kottayam is located in the heart of Kottayam town, Kerala, spread over approximately 30 to 33 acres. The campus blends historic architecture with modern facilities, featuring lush greenery and a serene academic environment.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area30-33 acres
LocationKottayam, Kerala
Nearest RailwayKottayam Railway Station (approx. 2 km)
Nearest AirportCochin International Airport (approx. 85 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: 69,000+ books, 63 journals, 40 periodicals, 3,800+ e-journals, 80,000+ e-books; built-up area 21,786 sq. ft.
  • Labs: 18 specialized laboratories, 7 computer labs, 1 language lab
  • Classrooms: 67 classrooms equipped with LCD projectors and smart boards

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
Boys33₹Not specified
Girls178₹Not specified

Other Facilities

  • Auditorium with 500 seating capacity
  • Sports facilities including cricket stadium, football stadium, hockey field, swimming pool, volleyball court, badminton courts, basketball courts
  • Gymnasium
  • Canteen providing affordable nutritious food
  • Co-operative store with subsidized books and stationery
  • State Bank of Travancore branch and ATM on campus
  • Post office within campus
  • Wi-Fi available in all departments and library
  • Medical centre
  • Seminar halls and conference rooms

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility criteria for undergraduate admission at CMS College Kottayam?

Candidates must have completed 10+2 from a recognized board with a minimum of 50% marks, varying by course. Some programs require entrance exams like JEE Main for engineering or NEET for medical-related courses.

How can I apply for postgraduate courses at CMS College Kottayam?

Applicants need a relevant bachelor's degree with at least 50% marks. Entrance exams such as CAT, MAT, or GATE are required for MBA, M.Tech, and other specific programs. Applications are submitted online through the college portal.

What is the fee structure for undergraduate programs at CMS College?

The fee varies by course but generally ranges from ₹20,000 to ₹50,000 per year. Application fees are ₹300 for general candidates and ₹100 for SC/ST candidates, payable online during admission.

Are scholarships available at CMS College Kottayam?

Yes, CMS College offers scholarships based on merit and category. Students can also apply for government scholarships and education loans through affiliated banks on campus.

What companies recruit from CMS College and what is the placement rate?

CMS College has a placement rate of around 90%, with over 1,600 students placed in the last three years. Recruiters include top firms from IT, finance, and manufacturing sectors, though specific company names vary annually.

What is the average and highest salary package offered to CMS College graduates?

While exact figures vary by year and department, average packages range from ₹3 to ₹5 lakh per annum, with top packages reaching up to ₹8 lakh per annum in select streams.

How is the curriculum structured at CMS College Kottayam?

The college offers 17 undergraduate and 18 postgraduate departments with a curriculum aligned to Mahatma Gandhi University standards, including vocational and research-oriented courses.

What research facilities are available at CMS College?

CMS College has six research centers offering PhD programs in Botany, Zoology, Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, English, and Commerce, supported by well-equipped labs and libraries.

What are the hostel facilities at CMS College Kottayam?

There are three hostels: Lea Hostel for undergraduate women, Ella Hostel for postgraduate women (120 capacity), and Askwith Hostel for men (mainly PG and sports quota). Monthly mess fees range from ₹3,500 to ₹4,000.

How is the food quality in the CMS College hostels?

Food quality receives mixed reviews; some students find it satisfactory while others suggest improvements. The mess maintains hygiene and offers nutritious meals at reasonable prices.

What extracurricular clubs and activities are available on campus?

CMS College hosts various clubs including bird watching, music, and UPSC preparation clubs. The college also organizes annual fests and sports tournaments regularly.

Is there Wi-Fi and IT infrastructure available for students?

The campus provides Wi-Fi with some restrictions, multiple computer labs, smart classrooms with LCD projectors, and IT-enabled seminar halls to support academic activities.

What is the campus safety and security situation at CMS College?

The campus is located in the heart of Kottayam town with a calm and secure environment. Hostel curfews and strict regulations ensure student safety.

Are part-time jobs or internships available for CMS College students?

While the college encourages internships through its placement cell, part-time job opportunities on campus are limited. Students often seek internships with local businesses or through college collaborations.

What is the dress code policy at CMS College?

CMS College does not enforce a strict dress code but encourages students to dress modestly and appropriately for academic and official events.

How does CMS College compare to other colleges in Kerala in terms of reputation?

CMS College is one of the oldest and most prestigious colleges in Kerala, ranked 92nd nationally by NIRF in 2024, known for its heritage, academic excellence, and research contributions.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for courses at CMS College?

With moderate fees and a strong placement record, CMS College offers a good ROI, especially in science and commerce streams where average packages range between ₹3-5 lakh per annum.

Does CMS College have a strong alumni network?

CMS College has a well-established alumni network with many graduates holding prominent positions in academia, industry, and public service, contributing to mentoring and placement support.

How accessible is CMS College for daily commuting students?

The college is centrally located in Kottayam town with good public transport connectivity. Many students prefer day-scholar options due to proximity and available local transport.

Are laptops mandatory for students at CMS College?

Laptops are not mandatory but highly recommended, especially for courses involving computer applications, research, and project work, as the college provides good IT infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

    CMS College Kottayam is good for engineering with a placement percentage of 92% and an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA, focusing on placements in IT and manufacturing sectors. The college offers a B.E. in Computer Science and Engineering with a course duration of 4 years, starting in the academic year 2025-2026. CMS College Kottayam has improved its ranking to 86th in the NIRF ranking for 2025, up from 92nd in the previous year.
    CMS College Kottayam is known for its strong BSc botany program and is ranked 86th in the college category in the NIRF ranking 2025. Established in 1817, it is the oldest college in South India and offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
    CMS College Kottayam is ranked 86th in the college category in the NIRF ranking 2025. The college has improved its position by 6 ranks from the previous year. CMS College Kottayam is ranked 10th in the state category in the NIRF ranking 2025.
    Students at CMS College Kottayam rate it 4.5/5 for placements, highlighting the college's strong industry connections and high placement rates of 95% for M.Sc. Organic Farming graduates securing jobs within 6 months. They rate it 4/5 for faculty, noting the experienced and dedicated teaching staff but mentioning that class sizes can be large, sometimes exceeding 50 students. For campus facilities, students rate it 4.2/5, praising the modern infrastructure and well-equipped laboratories but suggesting that the library could be better stocked with more recent publications.
    The admission process at CMS College Kottayam requires a valid score in the CBSE 12th or Kerala 12th exam followed by document verification. The course fees for M.A. in Sociology range from Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 per year for the 2025-2026 academic year. Selected candidates must complete the document verification process to finalize their admission.
    The campus life at CMS College Kottayam offers well-equipped hostels with amenities like a basketball court, tennis court, and football ground, along with a supportive learning environment through various clubs and departments such as the B.A. Communication English department. The college environment is vibrant and inclusive, fostering a strong sense of community among students.
    The eligibility for CMS College Kottayam requires a minimum of 55% in the CBSE 12th or Kerala 12th exam. For admission to M.A. in Sociology, candidates must secure a valid score in the respective qualifying exam. The specific course fees and details are available in the college brochures and can be accessed through the official CMS College Kottayam website.
    The entrance exams accepted at CMS College Kottayam are CBSE 12th and Kerala 12th with a cutoff percentile of 60% for B.Sc. programs. No entrance exams are required for BCA programs, which admit candidates based on merit. The final selection for B.Sc. programs is based on the candidate's performance in the specified exams.
    The important admission dates for CMS College Kottayam are: application starts on January 15, 2025, exam is conducted on March 10, 2025, and results are announced on April 1, 2025.
    The placement at CMS College Kottayam shows 85% students placed with an average package of Rs 4.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 10 LPA. Notable recruiters include Infosys, Wipro, and Tech Mahindra.
    The placement at CMS College Kottayam shows 92% students placed with an average package of Rs 3.5 LPA and a highest package of Rs 6.5 LPA.
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