IISER Berhampur is a premier Institute of National Importance established in 2016 in Ganjam, Odisha. It is renowned for its integrated BS-MS dual degree program across five science disciplines, fostering cutting-edge research and comprehensive scientific education. The institute emphasizes a strong academic environment on its upcoming 200-acre permanent campus.
About Indian Institute of Science Education and Research - [IISER] Berhampur
The Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Berhampur (IISER Berhampur) was established in 2016 in Berhampur, Odisha. It is a central government autonomous institute founded by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, as part of the IISER network dedicated to advancing science education and research.
IISER Berhampur holds recognition as a premier science education institute offering integrated BS-MS, Ph.D., and Integrated Ph.D. programmes in various science disciplines. While it does not have a NIRF rank listed for 2025, it is known for its strong research focus and interdisciplinary academic environment, with active student participation in national and international scientific competitions.
Key Highlights
Admission Dates 2026
IISER Berhampur offers admissions primarily for PhD and integrated BS-MS programs. PhD admissions for the January 2026 session require candidates to have valid national-level exam scores like NET/GATE/CSIR-JRF, with applications opening in October 2025. The institute also conducts the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) 2026 for admission to the five-year BS-MS dual degree programs, with the exam scheduled for May 2026.
Admission Process
Admission to IISER Berhampur's undergraduate BS-MS program is primarily through three channels: the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT), JEE Advanced rank, and KVPY fellowship. Candidates must apply online, appear for the relevant exam or qualify through JEE Advanced/KVPY, and participate in the online counselling and seat allotment process.
BS-MS Admission
Steps to Apply
- Register and fill the online application form on the official IISER admission portal during the application window (April-May 2025).
- Choose preferred IISER campuses in the application form (preferences can be updated during counselling).
- Appear for the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) on May 25, 2025, if applying through the IAT channel; KVPY and JEE Advanced qualifiers are exempted from IAT.
- Check the admission offer lists released in multiple rounds on the official portal.
- Download the admission offer letter and pay the seat acceptance fee by the deadline to confirm the seat.
- Decide to either freeze the allotted seat or float for higher preference IISERs in subsequent counselling rounds.
- Report to IISER Berhampur with original documents for verification and complete admission formalities.
PhD Admission
Steps to Apply
- Register and validate email on the IISER Berhampur ERP portal for PhD admissions by November 1, 2025.
- Complete the online application form with research interests and academic details.
- Submit required documents and await shortlisting based on eligibility and research fit.
- Participate in the interview or written test department guidelines.
- Receive admission offer and complete enrollment formalities at IISER Berhampur.
Eligibility Criteria & Fees
Documents Required
- Class 10 and 12 mark sheets and certificates
- Entrance exam scorecard (IAT/JEE Advanced/KVPY)
- Category certificate (if applicable)
- Photo ID proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.)
- Passport size photographs
- For PhD: Master’s degree certificate and research proposal (if required)
Cutoff 2025
The IISER Berhampur cutoff ranks for the 5-year Integrated BS-MS program in 2025 have generally increased compared to previous years, reflecting heightened competition and applicant numbers. The cutoff ranks vary across categories and rounds, with the general category closing around rank 8769 in the final round. The IISER Aptitude Test (IAT) is the primary exam for admission, and cutoffs are released round-wise during counselling.
Placements 2025
IISER Berhampur's 2025 placement scenario remains focused on research-oriented roles with limited campus placements. Out of 114 eligible students, 6 secured placements with a median package of ₹4.36 LPA, while a significant number opted for higher studies at prestigious global institutions. Top recruiters include Google, Microsoft, and Indian Oil, primarily offering roles in R&D, data science, and scientific research.
Placement Statistics
Top Recruiters
IT: Google, Microsoft
Consulting: Not
Core: Indian Oil, Biotech and Pharma firms
Branch-wise Placement
Rankings & Accreditations
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Berhampur is not ranked in the top tiers of major national or international rankings for 2025, including NIRF, QS, India Today, Outlook, and THE. It does not appear in the 2025 NIRF rankings or other prominent ranking lists, indicating it is still emerging in national and global recognition compared to other IISERs.
NIRF 2025
Other Rankings
Scholarships & Financial Aid
IISER Berhampur offers a range of scholarships and fellowships including INSPIRE and KVPY scholarships for undergraduate students, merit-cum-means fee waivers, and robust fellowship support for PhD and postdoctoral researchers. Additionally, students can avail government scholarships through the National Scholarship Portal and state schemes based on their category and domicile.
Institute Scholarships
Government Scholarships
External Scholarships
- CSIR/UGC Fellowships: Financial support for research scholars based on national eligibility tests and research proposals
- INSPIRE Fellowship (DST): ₹5,000/month for meritorious science students admitted through national channels
Comparison
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Berhampur is compared with IISER Pune and IISER Kolkata as they are premier government institutes dedicated to science education and research in India, sharing similar academic frameworks and national importance status.
Key Strengths
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research - [IISER] Berhampur: Emerging IISER with strong focus on interdisciplinary science education and research, rapidly developing infrastructure and faculty.
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research - [IISER] Pune: Oldest IISER with highest NIRF ranking among IISERs, strong international collaborations, and excellent placement records.
- Indian Institute of Science Education and Research - [IISER] Kolkata: Established research hub with strong emphasis on fundamental sciences and well-developed academic programs.
Campus & Infrastructure
IISER Berhampur's permanent campus is located at Laudigam near Berhampur city in Odisha, spanning a well-planned area with modern academic and residential facilities. The campus is about 12 km from NH-16 and approximately 19 km from Berhampur Railway Station, offering a serene environment close to the Bay of Bengal.
Campus Details
Academic Facilities
- Library: Central Library established in 2016 with a large collection of books, journals, e-books, and e-journals; supports multiple disciplines with digital access and research services
- Labs: Separate computer labs for undergraduate and doctoral students equipped with latest technology
- Classrooms: 300-seater lecture hall and smart classrooms with modern teaching aids
Hostel
Other Facilities
- Health Centre with outpatient and inpatient facilities, 24x7 ambulance service, and specialist doctors on weekly basis
- Sports facilities including cricket, football, table tennis, and carrom
- Guest House for visiting faculty and guests
- Shopping complex with bakery/cafe, stationery shop, medicine shop, barber shop, and State Bank of India branch
- WiFi coverage throughout the campus
- Transportation services connecting campus and city
Frequently Asked Questions
What entrance exams are accepted for admission to IISER Berhampur's BS-MS program?
IISER Berhampur admits students primarily through the IISER Aptitude Test (IAT). Previously, JEE Advanced and JEE JAM scores were also considered, but from 2025 onwards, admission is based solely on the IAT exam.
What is the cutoff rank for general category students in IISER Berhampur for 2025 admission?
The closing cutoff rank for the general category in IISER Berhampur's BS-MS program was around 3,299 in Round 1 and 5,086 in Round 2 of the 2025 counselling process.
What is the fee structure for hostel accommodation at IISER Berhampur?
Hostel accommodation includes a one-time allotment fee of ₹1,000-1,500 and a monthly rent of approximately ₹4,000. Hostel fees are part of the semester fees, with mess charges around ₹120-150 per day.
Are scholarships or financial aid available at IISER Berhampur?
Students eligible for the INSPIRE scholarship by the Department of Science and Technology can apply. Other scholarships and education loans depend on government schemes and bank policies, but specific institutional scholarships are limited.
What is the average placement package and placement rate at IISER Berhampur?
IISER Berhampur primarily focuses on research and higher studies; formal placement drives are limited. Students often pursue PhDs or research internships, with some securing internships at premier research institutes and companies.
Which companies or research institutes recruit from IISER Berhampur?
Recruiters include national research labs, academic institutions, and some biotech and pharmaceutical companies. Internships and research projects are common pathways rather than traditional campus placements.
What is the curriculum structure for the BS-MS dual degree at IISER Berhampur?
The 5-year integrated program combines undergraduate and master's level coursework in sciences, with a strong emphasis on research from the third year onwards, including a thesis project under faculty supervision.
How qualified is the faculty at IISER Berhampur?
The faculty comprises PhD holders from reputed Indian and international institutions, actively engaged in research across disciplines like Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, and Earth Sciences.
What are the hostel facilities and room types available at IISER Berhampur?
The institute has 8 hostels (5 for boys, 3 for girls) with single and double occupancy rooms furnished with beds, study tables, and chairs. Facilities include 24-hour water supply, washing machines, and high-speed internet.
How is the food quality and mess system at IISER Berhampur?
The mess serves vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals three times a day. Food quality varies, with mess fees around ₹120-150 per day. Separate messes operate for boys and girls hostels.
What extracurricular clubs and cultural activities are available on campus?
IISER Berhampur hosts various student clubs related to science, arts, and sports. The annual cultural fest "Kyat" and sports events like cricket and football are major highlights, often held in the amphitheater or sports grounds.
Is the campus safe and what is the ragging situation at IISER Berhampur?
The campus maintains a strict anti-ragging policy with security measures in place. Students report a friendly and ragging-free environment supported by the administration.
How far is IISER Berhampur campus from the city and what are the transport options?
The permanent campus is about 18-19 km from Berhampur city railway station. The institute provides regular bus services between hostels and the transit campus, and public buses and autos connect the campus to the city.
Are part-time jobs or internships available for students during the course?
On-campus part-time jobs are limited. However, students actively pursue summer internships and research projects at IISER and other research institutes, which are encouraged as part of academic training.
Is there a dress code or any specific laptop requirements for students?
There is no formal dress code at IISER Berhampur. Students are advised to have a personal laptop with standard specifications to support coursework and research activities.
How does IISER Berhampur compare with other IISERs in terms of reputation and research output?
IISER Berhampur is one of the newer IISERs but is rapidly developing its research profile. It is considered on par with other IISERs for integrated science education, with growing faculty strength and infrastructure.
What is the return on investment (ROI) for studying at IISER Berhampur?
With relatively low tuition and hostel fees and strong emphasis on research, IISER Berhampur offers good ROI for students aiming for careers in science research and academia.
Does IISER Berhampur have a strong alumni network?
The alumni network is growing as the institute matures, with graduates pursuing PhDs and research careers globally, contributing to academia and industry.
Are there medical facilities available on campus?
The campus has a modern health center with outpatient and inpatient facilities, staffed by general physicians and visiting specialists. Ambulance service is available 24x7.
What are the library and laboratory facilities like at IISER Berhampur?
The central library, established in 2016, houses a large collection of books and journals. Separate computer labs for undergraduate and doctoral students are equipped with modern technology.
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Transit Campus, Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Berhampur, Engineering School Road, Berhampur 760010, Ganjam, Odisha, India
Contact: +91-680-2227 707
