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List of GFTI Colleges in India 2026
June 2026 is getting busier for JEE aspirants than expected. JoSAA counselling 2026 is in full swing. Thousands of students are checking cutoffs, seat allotments, and college options every day. Refreshing the JoSAA web page until they are reassured.
However, most attention goes to top NITs and top IIITs, many students miss a hidden gem category…GFTIs.
GFTIs (Government Funded Technical Institutes) are a group of centrally or state-funded engineering institutions that participate in JoSAA counselling 2026. These institutes offer affordable engineering education with decent placements and good academic exposure.
The exact number of GFTIs is not fixed every year. It generally ranges between 45 to 55 institutes, depending on JoSAA participation updates.
Complete List of GFTI Colleges in India
GFTIs are generally central government-funded institutions, and comparatively, their fee is less than that of other engineering colleges. Here is the list of all GFTIs in India as of 2026.
| Category | Institute Name |
|---|---|
| Central University | Assam University, Silchar |
| Engineering Institute | Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi |
| Engineering Institute | Birla Institute of Technology, Deoghar Off-Campus |
| Engineering Institute | Birla Institute of Technology, Patna Off-Campus |
| Engineering Institute | Punjab Engineering College (PEC), Chandigarh |
| Engineering Institute | Sant Longowal Institute of Engineering and Technology (SLIET), Longowal |
| Engineering Institute | National Institute of Advanced Manufacturing Technology (NIAMT), Ranchi |
| Engineering Institute | International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Naya Raipur |
| Engineering Institute | International Institute of Information Technology (IIIT), Bhubaneswar |
| Engineering Institute | Institute of Infrastructure, Technology, Research and Management (IITRAM), Ahmedabad |
| Engineering Institute | North Eastern Regional Institute of Science and Technology (NERIST), Arunachal Pradesh |
| Engineering Institute | Central Institute of Technology, Kokrajhar |
| Central University | University of Hyderabad |
| Central University | Tezpur University |
| Central University | Central University of Rajasthan |
| Central University | Central University of Haryana |
| Central University | Central University of Jharkhand |
| Central University | Central University of Karnataka |
| Central University | Central University of Jammu |
| Central University | Central University of Punjab |
| Architecture Institute | School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), New Delhi |
| Architecture Institute | School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Bhopal |
| Architecture Institute | School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), Vijayawada |
| Technical Institute | J.K. Institute of Applied Physics & Technology, University of Allahabad |
| Technical Institute | Institute of Engineering & Technology, Dr. H.S. Gour University, Sagar |
| Technical Institute | Ghani Khan Choudhary Institute of Engineering & Technology, Malda |
| Technical Institute | Chhattisgarh Swami Vivekanand Technical University, Bhilai |
| Technical Institute | Gurukula Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Haridwar |
| Technical Institute | Shri Mata Vaishno Devi University, Katra |
| Technical Institute | Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya, Vadodara |
| Food/Technology Institute | National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Sonepat |
| Food/Technology Institute | National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM), Thanjavur |
| Design/Handloom Institute | Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Varanasi |
| Design/Handloom Institute | Indian Institute of Handloom Technology, Salem |
| Electronics Institute | National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT), Aurangabad |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Calicut |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Gorakhpur |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Patna |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Ajmer |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Agartala |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Kohima |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Imphal |
| Electronics Institute | NIELIT Srinagar |
| Aviation University | Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University, Amethi |
| Specialized Institute | Indian Institute of Carpet Technology, Bhadohi |
| Specialized University | Islamic University of Science and Technology, Kashmir |
Many students focus only on the top NITs and IIITs during counselling if they qualified for JEE Mains. However, several GFTIs offer excellent branches at comparatively lower JEE Main ranks.
Also Read: JEE Rank Wise College List 2026, Rank vs College and Branch
Top GFTI Colleges in India
Not every GFTI offers the same opportunities. Some institutions consistently perform better in placements, research, infrastructure, and industry exposure. Based on the recent NIRF 2025, the following GFTIS are attracting the spotlight.
| Institute | NIRF Rank 2025 | Category |
|---|---|---|
| BIT Mesra | ~51 | Top GFTI |
| University of Hyderabad | ~74 | Central University |
| PEC Chandigarh | ~93 | Top GFTI |
| SLIET Longowal | ~79 | Technical Institute |
| Tezpur University | ~192 | Central University |
| NERIST Arunachal Pradesh | ~184 | Regional Tech Institute |
| SMVDU Katra | ~187 | State/Deemed University |
| IIIT Naya Raipur | (varies) | IIIT under JoSAA |
As GFTI JoSAA round 1 cutoffs are out, you can see them and know where you stand. Also, you can figure out whether to accept the college or not.
GFTI Placements and Fee Structure
Placements and fees are often the biggest deciding factors during JoSAA counselling. The table below highlights some of the most sought-after GFTIs.
| GFTI College | Fees (Approx.) | Average Package (CSE-focused) |
|---|---|---|
| BIT Mesra | ₹14–16 Lakh | ₹10–12 LPA |
| PEC Chandigarh | ₹8–10 Lakh | ₹12–18 LPA |
| University of Hyderabad | ₹2–3 Lakh | ₹6–9 LPA |
| SLIET Longowal | ₹5–6 Lakh | ₹6–8 LPA |
| IIIT Naya Raipur | ₹8–10 Lakh | ₹8–12 LPA |
| SMVDU | ₹7–9 Lakh | ₹7–10 LPA |
| Tezpur University | ₹3–5 Lakh | ₹6–8 LPA |
BIT Mesra reported average packages around ₹11–12 LPA in recent placement seasons. Also, it is noted that the top offer crosses ₹1 crore in exceptional cases.
PEC Chandigarh also continues to maintain strong placement performance with leading technology and consulting recruiters.
Key Placement Insights
- PEC Chandigarh generally offers one of the strongest placement outcomes among GFTIs.
- BIT Mesra attracts over 200 recruiters across multiple sectors.
- IIIT Naya Raipur performs well in Computer Science and Electronics.
- University of Hyderabad excels in higher studies and research pathways.
- SLIET provides a good balance between affordability and placement opportunities.
GFTI ROI Comparison
| Category | Best Options |
|---|---|
| Highest ROI | PEC Chandigarh |
| Low Fees + Good Return | University of Hyderabad |
| Balanced Placement + Brand | BIT Mesra |
| Affordable Government Option | SLIET Longowal |
| Emerging Tech Institutes | IIIT Naya Raipur |
Students should always compare fees, branches, and placement together. Never focus only on rankings and the highest packages.
Also Read: List of IIT Colleges in India 2026, Placements, Seats, Fees
GFTI Admission Process Through JEE Main
Admission to GFTIs happens through the same JoSAA counselling process used for IITs, NITs, and IIITs.
Step 1: Appear for JEE Main
A valid JEE Main score is mandatory for admission into GFTIs participating in JoSAA.
Step 2: Register for JoSAA Counselling
Candidates must complete registration on the JoSAA portal after JEE Main results.
Step 3: Fill and Lock Choices
Students can select:
- IITs (If qualified JEE Advanced)
- Top NITs
- Top IIITs
- GFTIs
Choice order plays a major role in final allotment.
Step 4: Seat Allotment
JoSAA releases multiple rounds of seat allotment. Candidates receive seats based on:
- JEE Main rank
- Category
- Seat availability
- Choice preference
Step 5: Document Verification
After seat allotment, candidates must upload and verify documents.
Step 6: Reporting to the Institute
Candidates complete admission formalities and report to the allotted college.
Documents Required
- JEE Main Scorecard
- Class 10 Marksheet
- Class 12 Marksheet
- Category Certificate (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
- Identity proof
Students should also track every GFTI JoSAA Round cutoffs and CSAB updates during counselling.
Also Read: List of NIT Colleges in India 2026, Placements, Average Package
Are GFTIs Worth Joining in 2026?
Yes. Why not! They offer better study in less fee and good placements. However, the answer depends on the available options and your rank.
GFTIs Are Worth Considering If:
- A preferred branch is available.
- Top NITs are not available at the current rank.
- The budget is limited.
- Good placement opportunities are required.
- A government-funded institute is preferred.
GFTIs May Not Be the Best Choice If:
- A higher-ranked NIT offers the same branch.
- A top IIIT provides stronger placement outcomes.
- A significantly better institute is available at a similar rank.
Also Read: List of IIIT Colleges in India 2026, Placement & Average Package
List of GFTI Colleges in India 2026: Conclusion
While checking JoSAA counselling updates, do check about all the colleges in your rank range. The right branch at a strong GFTI can often be a smarter choice than a less preferred branch elsewhere. Ensure you are getting the best out of your JEE study. Stay tuned with us to get all the latest updates on JoSAA counselling 2026.
