IIT - Madras - HSEE

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must have a bachelor's degree or an equivalent qualification in relevant humanities and social sciences disciplines from a recognized university/ institute.
• Age Limit: Generally, there is no strict age limit, but candidates must check the latest notification for any specific restrictions.
• Nationality: The exam is open to Indian nationals. Some IITs may also allow NRIs/ foreign nationals to apply based on specific quotas and norms.

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: Typically conducted offline (pen and paper-based), though some institutes might opt for online mode. Candidates should verify as per the current year's guidelines.
• Number of Questions: Usually around 100 questions, comprising multiple choice and short answer questions, depending on the IIT conducting the exam.
• Marking Scheme: Each question carries equal marks; negative marking may be applicable for wrong answers. Detailed marking scheme is given in the official notification.
• Subjects Covered:
  • English Language and Comprehension
  • General Awareness and Current Affairs
  • Social Sciences topics such as Sociology, Economics, Political Science, History, Psychology
  • Analytical and Logical Reasoning
• When Held: Usually held once a year, around May to June.
• Notification Release: Official notifications are generally released around March to April.

Syllabus

The syllabus broadly covers topics from the following domains in humanities and social sciences:

• English Language: Grammar, Vocabulary, Comprehension passages, Essay Writing
• General Awareness: Current affairs, Social issues, Indian polity and economy basics
• Social Sciences Subjects:
  • Sociology: Basic concepts and theories, Social institutions, Social change
  • Economics: Micro and Macroeconomics fundamentals, Indian economy, Development economics
  • Political Science: Indian Constitution, Political theory, International relations basics
  • History: Modern Indian history, World history overview, Cultural and social history
  • Psychology: Basic psychological concepts, Human behavior, Research methods
• Analytical and Logical Reasoning: Statements and conclusions, Analogies, Pattern recognition, Data interpretation.

Application Process

1. Visit the official website of the respective IIT conducting the Humanities and Social Sciences Entrance Examination.
2. Register with a valid email ID and mobile number.
3. Fill in the application form with personal, educational, and contact details.
4. Upload required documents such as photograph, signature, and educational certificates in prescribed format.
5. Pay the application fee through online payment modes (credit/debit card, net banking). Offline payment if specified.
6. Submit the application and take a printout for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Masters and PhD programs in various fields such as Development Studies, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, and interdisciplinary courses integrating humanities and technology.

Facts about the Entrance Exam

• The exam is designed to select bright candidates with aptitude in humanities and social sciences for advanced study at premier IITs.
• Highly competitive with a focus on analytical skills, knowledge, and critical thinking.
• It bridges the gap between traditional engineering IIT exams and humanities/social sciences disciplines.

Admit Card

1. Download admit card from the official website by logging in with credentials.
2. Check all personal details and exam center information on the admit card.
3. Carry the printed admit card along with a valid photo ID to the exam center.
4. Follow instructions mentioned on the admit card strictly.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are usually announced on the official website within a few weeks after the exam.
• Cut-off marks depend on the number of candidates, difficulty level, and seat availability.
• Candidates meeting or exceeding the cut-off are called for interviews or further rounds.

Preparation Tips

• Understand the syllabus and exam pattern thoroughly.
• Focus on developing strong analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Read newspapers and magazines regularly to improve general awareness and current affairs knowledge.
• Refer to standard textbooks and previous years’ question papers for practice.
• Join online forums or coaching if needed for structured preparation.

FAQs

• Q: Is there an age limit for the exam?
  A: Usually no strict age limit, but check the latest notification.
• Q: Can final year students apply?
  A: Yes, students appearing for the final year exams can usually apply provisionally.
• Q: Is the exam offline or online?
  A: Generally offline, but confirm current year’s mode on the official website.
• Q: Are there negative markings?
  A: Negative marking may apply; confirm details in the official notification.
• Q: How to prepare for the exam?
  A: Focus on syllabus topics, practice previous papers, and enhance analytical skills.