IIT Branch Salary Comparison: Which Engineering Stream Pays the Most?

When you’re preparing for IIT JEE, India’s most competitive engineering entrance exam that opens doors to top-tier technical education, it’s natural to wonder: which branch will get me the best salary? The answer isn’t just about popularity—it’s about demand, industry trends, and where skills are actually valued. While Computer Science, the branch most associated with high-paying tech roles in software, AI, and product companies consistently leads the pack, other branches like Electrical Engineering, which powers everything from renewable energy systems to automation, and Mechanical Engineering, the backbone of manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace industries also deliver strong returns, especially with the right specialization.

It’s not just about the branch name. A IIT branch salary comparison shows that within Computer Science, students who focus on AI, cybersecurity, or product management often earn significantly more than peers in general software roles. Meanwhile, Electrical Engineering grads working in semiconductor design or power systems at firms like Intel or Siemens can outearn many CS graduates in mid-level roles. Even branches like Civil or Chemical Engineering, often seen as "lower paying," can lead to six-figure salaries in infrastructure projects, oil & gas, or process automation—especially if you go abroad or join multinational firms. The real differentiator? Internships, projects, and whether you learn to solve real problems, not just pass exams.

Many students assume the branch you get at IIT locks your salary for life—but that’s not true. The best engineers adapt. A Mechanical Engineering student who learns Python and builds robotics projects can land jobs in automation startups. An Electrical Engineering grad who masters data analysis can move into fintech. The highest earners aren’t always the ones in the "top" branch—they’re the ones who use their IIT brand as a launchpad, not a ceiling. Below, you’ll find real posts that break down salary data, interview insights, and career paths across IIT branches, so you can make a smarter choice—not just based on hype, but on what actually pays off.