Lateral Entry into Engineering Colleges 2026 – Eligibility and Process

Lateral entry allows diploma holders and B.Sc graduates to directly join B.Tech second year, saving one year of study. Eligibility requires a 3-year diploma in engineering or B.Sc with Mathematics from a recognized board with at least 45% marks. Each state conducts its own lateral entry exam such as AP ECET, TS ECET, MHT-CET, and KCET lateral entry. NITs and IITs generally do not offer lateral entry. Private and state government colleges do offer these seats, usually up to 10% of sanctioned intake. Candidates should check state-specific eligibility and entrance exam schedules for 2026 admissions.