IISER

IISER stands for Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research. It is a network of autonomous public institutes of higher education in India dedicated to science education and research. Established by the Government of India with support from the Ministry of Education, the IISER system aims to promote high-quality science education at the undergraduate and graduate levels and to advance basic research in the country.

The IISERs began with five campuses in 2006, located in Pune, Kolkata, Mohali, Bhopal, and Thiruvananthapuram. Since then, the network has expanded to include additional campuses across the country. The institutes operate under central government funding and follow guidelines set by the Department of Higher Education. They emphasize an interdisciplinary approach, integrating rigorous science instruction with substantial research activities.

Academic programs at IISERs include an undergraduate five-year integrated BS-MS degree, which covers multiple science disciplines. In addition, IISERs offer Master of Science programs and doctoral (PhD) programs in various branches of science and mathematics. Research is embedded in the curriculum, with opportunities for laboratory work, research projects, and collaboration across disciplines.

Admissions to the undergraduate BS-MS program are based on national-level entrance channels. Historically, the IISER Aptitude Test (IISER-AAT) has been used, with additional pathways through channels such as KVPY or JEE Advanced, depending on current policy. Admission processes may vary by campus but broadly align on eligibility for Indian students.

IISERs play a significant role in India's science education and research ecosystem by training scientists, promoting interdisciplinary inquiry, and supporting national science education programs.