ISTC Admission 2027: Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, sourced answers to the questions students and parents ask most about ISTC Chandigarh admissions. Each answer links to a detailed page.
Is ISTC a government institute?
Yes. ISTC functions as part of CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIR-CSIO), a national laboratory under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Government of India.
When was ISTC established?
In 1963, in collaboration with the Swiss Foundation for Technical Assistance, Switzerland. It was inaugurated on 18 December 1963 by Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru.
Are ISTC diplomas AICTE approved?
Yes. The 2026 brochure states that all courses are approved by AICTE, New Delhi.
What courses does ISTC offer?
Diploma in Mechanical Engineering (Tool & Die), Diploma in Electronics Engineering, Advanced Diploma in Die & Mould Making, and Advanced Diploma in Mechatronics & Industrial Automation.
How many seats are there at ISTC?
180: 60 each in the two Diplomas and 30 each in the two Advanced Diplomas.
What is the eligibility for ISTC?
Class 10 with Mathematics, Science and English, with 50% marks (40% for SC/ST), and the date-of-birth limit in the brochure.
What is the age limit for ISTC?
In 2026: born on or after 1 August 2007 (SC/ST: 1 August 2004). Expected to move forward one year for 2027, subject to the official brochure.
When will the ISTC 2027 form come out?
Not announced yet. The 2026 form was open from 01 May to 03 June.
What is the application fee?
Rs 1,200 (General/OBC/EWS) and Rs 600 (SC/ST), non-refundable.
Is admission through an entrance exam?
Yes. Selection is based on the ISTC entrance exam merit list.
What is the ISTC exam pattern?
100 MCQs in 100 minutes at Class 10 level, with +1 for correct and minus 0.25 for wrong answers.
What subjects are in the ISTC exam?
Mathematics, Science, Aptitude, English and General Knowledge.
Where is the exam conducted?
Chandigarh, and New Delhi if at least 50 candidates choose it (2026 rule).
Are Class 10 marks used for merit?
No. Merit is based on the entrance exam. Class 10 marks decide eligibility only.
What is the ISTC fee?
Rs 17,500 training fee per semester. First semester: Rs 26,000 (day scholar) or Rs 34,150 (hosteller), per the 2026 brochure.
Is there a hostel?
On-campus sharing hostel for boys, first come first served, Rs 6,000 per semester (2026 brochure).
Do girls study at ISTC?
Yes, admission is open to all eligible candidates. On-campus hostel was listed for boys only in 2026.
Does ISTC have placements?
Yes, through its Training and Placement cell. Recruiters include Maruti Suzuki, Siemens, Honda, Titan and Rockwell Automation.
Can I do B.Tech after an ISTC diploma?
AICTE-approved diploma holders can generally apply for lateral entry into the second year of B.Tech/B.E. through state lateral entry processes (such as LEET in Punjab or Haryana), subject to each state and university's rules.
Is ISTC better than a polytechnic?
It depends on your goal. ISTC offers workshop-intensive, industry-oriented training with a small intake and a 1963 Swiss legacy. A local polytechnic may be closer to home and cheaper. Compare using our guide to engineering diplomas after 10th.
What is the medium of instruction?
English, as per the 2026 brochure. The institute FAQ mentions English and Hindi.
What is the attendance requirement?
85% attendance is compulsory in each semester.
Is industrial training part of the course?
Yes. Six to eight weeks of industrial training is compulsory after the fourth semester.
Is ISTC linked to any coaching centre?
No. The institute has publicly stated it has no linkage with any coaching centre for admissions.
Is ISTCKonnect the official ISTC website?
No. ISTCKonnect is the independent alumni network. The official website is istc.ac.in and applications are accepted only there.
Last verified against istc.ac.in and the official 2026 Information Brochure on .