Top 10 Engineering Colleges in Kerala for Higher Education
Introduction
Kerala, often known for its literacy and educational excellence, is also home to some of the top engineering colleges in India. Whether you’re looking for institutions under KEAM, government engineering colleges in Kerala, or colleges with high placement records, the state offers a wide variety of options for aspiring engineers. From premier national institutes like NIT Calicut and IIST Trivandrum to reputed KTU-affiliated colleges, Kerala’s engineering education ecosystem is vast, diverse, and highly competitive.
With over 150 engineering colleges spread across the state—including central universities, government colleges, autonomous institutions, and aided/self-financing colleges—choosing the right one can be overwhelming. This blog presents a curated list of top engineering colleges in Kerala based on academic quality, infrastructure, placements, alumni feedback, and overall reputation. Whether you’re preparing for KEAM counseling, comparing cut-off ranks, or seeking the best engineering colleges in Kerala with placement, this guide will help you make an informed decision. We’ve also highlighted the top engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM, those known for placement excellence, and institutions that consistently rank high across national surveys and state rankings.
This list covers everything a student or parent should know—how to apply to engineering colleges in Kerala, the number of government and autonomous colleges, which ones are best for specific branches, and more. If you’re planning your engineering journey in Kerala, consider this your go-to source. Let’s explore the top-ranked engineering colleges in Kerala that continue to shape the future of thousands of students every year.
List of Top Engineering Colleges in Kerala
| Sl. No | College Name | Location | Type | Contact Details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | National Institute of Technology (NIT) Calicut | Calicut | Central Government | www.nitc.ac.in / +91-495-2286100 |
| 2 | Indian Institute of Space Science & Technology (IIST) | Thiruvananthapuram | Deemed University | www.iist.ac.in / +91-471-2568452 |
| 3 | College of Engineering, Trivandrum (CET) | Thiruvananthapuram | Government (KTU) | www.cet.ac.in / +91-471-2515502 |
| 4 | College of Engineering, Chengannur | Alappuzha | Government (KTU) | www.ceconline.edu / +91-479-2451424 |
| 5 | Government Engineering College, Barton Hill | Thiruvananthapuram | Government (KTU) | www.gecbh.ac.in / +91-471-2300484 |
| 6 | Government Engineering College, Thrissur | Thrissur | Government (KTU) | www.gectcr.ac.in / +91-487-2334144 |
| 7 | T.K.M. College of Engineering | Kollam | Aided | www.tkmce.ac.in / +91-474-2712022 |
| 8 | Government Engineering College, Kozhikode | Kozhikode | Government (KTU) | www.geckkd.ac.in / +91-495-2383220 |
| 9 | Government Engineering College, Wayanad | Wayanad | Government (KTU) | www.gecwyd.ac.in / +91-4936-203290 |
| 10 | Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RIT) | Kottayam | Government Aided | www.rit.ac.in / +91-481-2506153 |
Top Engineering Colleges in Kerala
1. National Institute of Technology (NIT), Calicut
📍 Location: Calicut | 🏫 Type: Central Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: Autonomous
NIT Calicut stands tall as one of the top engineering colleges in Kerala and among the most prestigious National Institutes of Technology in India. An Institute of National Importance, it is renowned for its cutting-edge research, industry-oriented programs, and outstanding placement records. NIT Calicut is an autonomous institute under the Ministry of Education, Government of India, and is ranked consistently among the top engineering institutions in India by NIRF. With courses accredited by NBA and AICTE-approved, it offers B.Tech programs in disciplines like Computer Science, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, and more.
Admissions to NIT Calicut are conducted via JEE Main, and not through KEAM, setting it apart from most engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM. With global alumni networks and collaborations with top industries, the college has witnessed placement packages exceeding ₹50 LPA in recent years. The sprawling campus in Kozhikode (Calicut) is equipped with world-class infrastructure, modern labs, and innovation centers. If you’re aiming for quality engineering education with excellent placement opportunities, NIT Calicut remains a top-tier choice.
2. Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST), Thiruvananthapuram
📍 Location: Thiruvananthapuram | 🏫 Type: Deemed | 🎓 Affiliation: Autonomous
IIST is India’s first space-dedicated engineering institute and is managed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). As a Deemed University under the Department of Space, Government of India, it offers specialized engineering programs in Aerospace Engineering, Avionics, and Engineering Physics. IIST is not part of the KEAM admission process but instead selects students through JEE Advanced, attracting top-performing candidates from across the country.
Recognized as one of the best engineering colleges in Kerala for higher education, IIST ensures state-of-the-art training in space technology and exclusive internship opportunities with ISRO. The campus, located near the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, is equipped with research facilities on par with international space research institutions. For students aspiring to build careers in space and defense technology, IIST remains a premier option that outshines many engineering colleges in Kerala with placement excellence in its niche domain.
3. College of Engineering, Trivandrum (CET)
📍 Location: Thiruvananthapuram | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU)
Established in 1939, CET is one of the oldest and top engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM. This government college is affiliated with KTU and offers B.Tech programs in Civil, Mechanical, CSE, ECE, EEE, and other core engineering disciplines. CET is AICTE-approved and regularly features in NIRF rankings for its academic standards, student research, and placements.
Admissions are through KEAM (Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical), and the college typically sees cut-off ranks in the top 1000, making it highly competitive. Known for its high placement rates, CET has built strong ties with companies like TCS, Infosys, Bosch, and many public sector units. With its central location in the capital city and government funding, CET offers top-notch faculty, excellent infrastructure, and a vibrant student community—making it one of the best engineering colleges in Kerala with placement and quality education.
4. College of Engineering, Chengannur
📍 Location: Alappuzha | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
College of Engineering Chengannur, also known as CE Chengannur, is a prominent government engineering college in Kerala under KTU. Established in 1993 and managed by the IHRD (Institute of Human Resources Development), the college offers B.Tech programs in branches such as Electronics and Communication Engineering, Computer Science, and Electrical Engineering. Known for its disciplined academic environment and affordable fee structure, CE Chengannur consistently ranks among the top engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM.
Admission is through KEAM, and the college sees good demand, especially for Computer Science and ECE streams. With its growing placement records, CE Chengannur attracts companies like Infosys, UST, Wipro, and TCS. Its strategic location between Kollam and Kottayam districts and its strong KTU curriculum make it an excellent choice for students seeking a government college with a solid academic and placement profile.
5. Government Engineering College, Barton Hill
📍 Location: Thiruvananthapuram | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
Located in the heart of Kerala’s capital, Government Engineering College, Barton Hill is one of the best government engineering colleges in Kerala known for its urban campus setting and high-performing student community. The college, affiliated with KTU, offers B.Tech programs in core branches such as Mechanical, Civil, and Electrical & Electronics Engineering. GEC Barton Hill is also AICTE-approved and is regularly included in the ranking of engineering colleges in Kerala by education platforms.
Students are admitted through KEAM counseling, and the cut-off ranks are generally competitive due to its popularity among Trivandrum-based aspirants. The college is also recognized for its excellent placement support, with top recruiters visiting every year. Its proximity to government R&D hubs and IT parks gives students added exposure to internships and projects. For those looking for top engineering colleges in Kerala with placement and government backing, Barton Hill is a well-rounded choice.
6. Government Engineering College, Thrissur
📍 Location: Thrissur | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
Government Engineering College Thrissur, commonly referred to as GEC Thrissur, is one of the most sought-after engineering colleges in Kerala due to its strong academic track record, long history (since 1957), and excellent faculty. Affiliated with KTU and AICTE-approved, GEC Thrissur offers B.Tech programs in multiple disciplines and is known for fostering innovation, research, and industry-focused education.
Admission is via KEAM, and its cut-off ranks are among the lowest (i.e., most competitive) in the state. It regularly features in the top 10 lists of best engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM. GEC Thrissur has a robust placement cell and maintains tie-ups with reputed companies like IBM, Accenture, and Core Engineering firms. Its central Kerala location, alumni network, and consistent placement performance make it one of the best bets for engineering aspirants.
7. T.K.M. College of Engineering, Kollam
📍 Location: Kollam | 🏫 Type: Aided | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
T.K.M. College of Engineering, established in 1958, is the first self-financing and aided engineering college in Kerala. It enjoys a legacy of excellence in engineering education and is widely known for its academic quality, infrastructure, and alumni presence. The college offers B.Tech courses in over six branches including Architecture and Naval Engineering, making it one of the top private engineering colleges in Kerala under KTU.
Admissions are done via KEAM, and its aided status makes it attractive to students seeking quality education at a lower cost compared to private unaided institutions. TKM is also renowned for its strong placement statistics, particularly in core engineering sectors. Accredited by NBA and AICTE, and having ISO-certified processes, the college stands as a pillar of engineering education in south Kerala.
8. Government Engineering College, Kozhikode
📍 Location: Kozhikode | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
Government Engineering College Kozhikode is one of the top-rated government engineering colleges in North Kerala. Founded in 1999 and affiliated with KTU, the college has quickly earned a reputation for academic discipline and technical excellence. It offers B.Tech programs in Computer Science, Mechanical, and Electronics among others.
Admissions are through KEAM, and GEC Kozhikode consistently sees cut-off ranks in the top tier. With placement drives increasing every year, students have access to companies across IT, core, and electronics sectors. The college is also supported by state infrastructure development programs, and its Kozhikode location makes it easily accessible to students from northern districts. It is often listed in the top engineering colleges in Kerala list for KEAM aspirants.
9. Government Engineering College, Wayanad
📍 Location: Wayanad | 🏫 Type: Govt | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
Situated amidst the scenic hills of Wayanad, GEC Wayanad offers a unique blend of nature and technology. This government institution, though relatively newer, is quickly gaining recognition for its commitment to quality technical education. Affiliated with KTU and approved by AICTE, it offers B.Tech programs in Civil, Mechanical, and Computer Science.
Admissions are handled through KEAM, and the college is gaining popularity for its growing placement support and personalized teaching environment. While it may not yet rank at the very top, it is still a strong contender among emerging government engineering colleges in Kerala, particularly for students from North Kerala looking for a good academic base and community living.
10. Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology (RIT), Kottayam
📍 Location: Kottayam | 🏫 Type: Govt-Aided | 🎓 Affiliation: KTU
Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Technology, Kottayam—commonly known as RIT—is a top government-aided engineering college in Kerala. Founded in 1991 and managed by the Government of Kerala, it is affiliated with KTU and known for its consistent academic and placement performance. RIT offers B.Tech courses in diverse streams including Mechanical, Civil, Computer Science, and Electrical Engineering.
Students are admitted via KEAM, and the cut-off ranks for popular branches are competitive. RIT has consistently shown strong placement statistics, especially in recent years, with core companies and software firms recruiting actively. The college’s blend of academic rigor, extracurricular opportunities, and its strategic location in Kottayam makes it one of the top 10 engineering colleges in Kerala under KEAM and a preferred choice for thousands every year.
Other Notable Engineering Colleges in Kerala
In addition to the top 10, Kerala has several other reputed engineering colleges contributing to quality technical education. Some of the best engineering colleges in Kerala beyond the top list include Sahrdaya College of Engineering & Technology, Thrissur; Federal Institute of Science and Technology (FISAT), Angamaly, Ernakulam; Mar Athanasius College of Engineering (MACE), Kothamangalam; St. Joseph’s College of Engineering & Technology, Palai; Rajagiri School of Engineering & Technology (RSET), Kochi; Vidya Academy of Science & Technology, Thrissur; Toc H Institute of Science & Technology (TIST), Arakkunnam, Ernakulam; Musaliar College of Engineering and Technology, Pathanamthitta; Adi Shankara Institute of Engineering & Technology, Kalady; Amal Jyothi College of Engineering, Kanjirappally, Kottayam; Jyothi Engineering College, Cheruthuruthy, Thrissur; MES College of Engineering, Kuttippuram, Malappuram; Lourdes Matha College of Science and Technology, Trivandrum; Nehru College of Engineering and Research Centre, Thrissur; SCMS School of Engineering and Technology, Ernakulam; Mohandas College of Engineering and Technology, Nedumangad, Trivandrum; Mar Baselios College of Engineering and Technology, Thiruvananthapuram; Vimal Jyothi Engineering College, Kannur; Ilahia College of Engineering and Technology, Muvattupuzha; Christ College of Engineering, Irinjalakuda, Thrissur. These institutions are known for their infrastructure, academic rigor, and growing placement statistics, further enriching the engineering education landscape of Kerala.
Final Thoughts
Kerala is home to over 150 engineering colleges, including central, government, aided, and self-financing institutions. Many of them are affiliated with APJ Abdul Kalam Technological University (KTU), while a few operate independently as autonomous institutions. Admission to most colleges is through the Kerala Engineering Architecture Medical (KEAM) exam, conducted by CEE Kerala. The cut-off ranks vary yearly, depending on seat availability, branch popularity, and student performance.
Whether you’re aiming for research, industry jobs, or higher studies, Kerala offers diverse choices—from top government colleges with low fees to reputed private colleges with excellent placement support. Choose wisely based on your goals, location, and preferred engineering discipline.
