Entrance Exams for B. Tech Lateral Entry After Diploma in Aerospace

Many engineering diploma holders always seek one of the quickest routes for further studies and career building. Lateral entry to B.Tech is one of the finest alternatives, enabling diploma holders to directly enroll in the second year of the course. But a common question pops up among students: Which entrance exam is considered for lateral entry into B.Tech after diploma? Let’s find out…

What is Lateral Entry in B.Tech?

Lateral entry refers to the provision through which diploma holders in engineering can seek admission in the second year of B.Tech instead of starting from their first year. This saves time and provides an avenue for further growth of their career with a full engineering degree.

Entrance Exams for Lateral Entry in B.Tech

In India, different states and universities conduct their entrance examination for lateral entry admissions. Some of the important ones are:

1. LEET (Lateral Entry Entrance Test)

• Conducted in several states for diploma holders.
• Helps students get admission into the 2nd year of B.Tech.
• Covers subjects studied during the diploma, like Mathematics, Physics, and core engineering topics.

2. ECET (Engineering Common Entrance Test)

• Known as AP ECET in Andhra Pradesh and TS ECET in Telangana.
• Organized by the state education boards for diploma and B.Sc. graduates.
• Qualifying students get lateral entry into state universities and colleges.

3. JELET (Joint Entrance for Lateral Entry Test)

• Conducted in West Bengal by the WBJEE Board.
• Diploma holders and B.Sc. degree students can apply.
• Opens admission to various government and private engineering colleges in the state.

4. AME CET (Aircraft Maintenance Engineering Common Entrance Test)

• This is a national-level entrance exam for students aiming for Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Aircraft Maintenance Engineering fields.
• There are some crossover opportunities via AME CET for diploma holders to enter lateral entry B.Tech programs through reputed institutes.
• It is a rank-based entrance that gives the candidates an opportunity for scholarships.

5. Other State-Level Exams

• There are lateral entries through other exams as well, such as KEAM, UPSEE, BCECE, KCET, and many others.
• Each state has its own rules and eligibility criteria.

6. University-Level Entrance Exams

• Some private universities like VIT, SRM, and Manipal University conduct their own entrance tests.
• In certain cases, direct admission based on diploma marks is also an option.

Eligibility for Lateral Entry into B.Tech

• Students should have finished a 3-year engineering diploma from a recognized institute or board.
• Minimum 45% to 50% marks is usually required (relaxation for reserved categories).
• Some exams may have subject-specific eligibility rules.

Benefits of Lateral Entry

• Save one year of study (join directly in the 2nd year).
• More job and career choices after finishing B.Tech.
• Opportunity to apply for government jobs, PSUs, private sector jobs, or even higher studies like M.Tech or MBA

The entrance exam for lateral entry into B.Tech after a diploma depends on the state or university you choose. Common exams are LEET, ECET, AME CET, JELET, and some others by states or universities. Before applying, always check the exam rules and syllabus carefully. With the right preparation and guidance, diploma holders can successfully clear these exams and take a big step toward a promising engineering career.