IIT No 1 Branch: Which Branch Is Truly the Best for Top JEE Rank Holders?

When people ask IIT No 1 branch, the most sought-after engineering program at India's top technical institute. Also known as Computer Science and Engineering, it's the branch that pulls in the highest ranks, the most recruiters, and the biggest starting salaries. But here’s the truth: calling it the "#1 branch" is misleading. It’s not just about prestige—it’s about fit, future goals, and how you use the opportunity.

Take IIT Bombay, one of the most competitive IITs where even a 5000 JEE Advanced rank can land you a seat. Also known as IITB, it’s where many top scorers end up—but not always in Computer Science. Some choose Electrical, Mechanical, or even Mathematics and Computing, because those programs offer better research paths, global exposure, or higher placement numbers in niche fields like AI and robotics. Meanwhile, IIT Delhi, a close rival with strong industry ties. Also known as IITD, it often beats IIT Bombay in startup culture and internships with Silicon Valley firms. The real difference isn’t just the name on the gate—it’s what you do inside it.

Top JEE rank holders don’t just pick a branch because it’s popular. They look at placement data from the last three years, talk to seniors who actually got hired, and check which departments have active labs and industry partnerships. A 2025 survey of IIT graduates showed that while Computer Science still leads in average salary, branches like Electrical Engineering and Mechanical Engineering with specializations in automation and AI are closing the gap fast. Some even switched to dual degrees or minors in Data Science after joining, because the job market changed faster than the syllabus.

So if you’re aiming for the top, don’t just chase the #1 label. Understand what each branch actually offers: the courses, the faculty, the projects, the internships. The best branch isn’t the one everyone wants—it’s the one that matches your strengths and your long-term goals. Below, you’ll find real stories from students who cracked JEE Advanced, chose their branch wisely, and ended up in roles they love—not just the ones that looked good on paper.