Vellore Institute of Technology has opened the application window for its engineering entrance exam

Aspiring engineers! The Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) has officially opened the application window for the highly competitive VIT Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE) 2026. Starting October 24, 2025, you can begin your journey toward a B.Tech degree at one of VIT's four campuses. The application deadline is March 31, 2026. This article provides a comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide on the important dates, new exam pattern, and essential preparation strategies to help you ace VITEEE 2026. Don't miss this crucial window—apply early and kickstart your career.

The Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), a name synonymous with quality engineering education in India, has officially announced the opening of its application window for the VIT Engineering Entrance Examination (VITEEE) 2026. This is a critical piece of news for lakhs of engineering aspirants across the country, as the VITEEE serves as the mandatory gateway for admission into the prestigious B.Tech programs across its four campuses: Vellore, Chennai, Bhopal, and VIT-AP.

​The online application process commenced on October 24, 2025, giving candidates a substantial five-month period to complete their registration. The last date to submit the online application form is March 31, 2026. Given the high competition and the recent introduction of significant changes to the exam structure, aspirants are strongly advised to begin the application and preparation process without delay.

​ Key Dates and Online Application Process

​For prospective students, adhering to the official schedule is paramount. Missing a deadline could result in the cancellation of candidature.

• ​Application Window Opens: October 24, 2025 
  • ​Action: Start the registration process immediately to avoid last-minute rush and technical glitches.
• ​Application Deadline: March 31, 2026 
  • ​Note: Ensure your application, including all personal and academic details, and the application fee payment of ₹1,350 (tentative), is completed well before this date.
• ​Exam Dates (Tentative): April 28, 2026, to May 3, 2026 
  • ​Mode: The exam will be conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) across various centers in India and abroad.
• ​Slot Booking: Expected in April 2026 
  • ​Crucial Step: Registered candidates must complete the mandatory slot booking process online to choose their preferred date and time for the examination.
• ​Eligibility Criteria Checklist:
  • ​Candidates must be Indian Nationals, NRIs, PIO, or OCI holders.
  • ​The date of birth must fall on or after July 1, 2004.
  • ​Applicants must have secured a minimum aggregate of 60% in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics/Biology in the qualifying (10+2) examination (50% for SC/ST and candidates from North-Eastern states and J&K/Ladakh).

​ VITEEE 2026: Revised Exam Pattern and Marking Scheme

​A major update for the 2026 session is the revised exam pattern, which introduces negative marking—a significant shift from previous years. Aspirants must recalibrate their preparation strategy to account for this change, focusing on accuracy along with speed.

• ​Examination Mode and Duration:
  • ​Mode: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
  • ​Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes (150 minutes)
  • ​Language: English only
• ​Structure and Question Distribution (Total 125 Questions / 500 Marks): 
  • ​Mathematics/Biology: 40 Questions (Candidates choose between the two based on their B.Tech stream preference).
  • ​Physics: 35 Questions
  • ​Chemistry: 35 Questions
  • ​Aptitude: 10 Questions
  • ​English: 5 Questions
• ​New Marking Scheme: 
  • ​Correct Answer: +4 Marks
  • ​Incorrect Answer: -1 Mark (Negative Marking Introduced)
  • ​Unattempted Question: 0 Marks

​ Pro-Tips for Preparation and Strategy

​Success in VITEEE requires a balanced approach, incorporating rigorous subject preparation with effective test-taking strategies. The introduction of negative marking makes strategic guessing a high-risk activity.

• ​Master the Syllabus and NCERT: 
  • ​The syllabus closely follows the NCERT curriculum for Classes 11 and 12. Use these books as the primary study material.
  • ​Focus on high-weightage topics like Calculus, Algebra, and Coordinate Geometry in Mathematics; Electrostatics, Current Electricity, and Modern Physics in Physics; and Organic Chemistry and Thermodynamics in Chemistry.
• ​Mock Tests and Time Management:
  • ​Regularly attempt full-length mock tests to adapt to the 150-minute time constraint and the CBT environment.
  • ​Analyze mock test results meticulously to identify and strengthen weak areas.
  • ​Develop a section-wise time allocation strategy to ensure all 125 questions are reviewed. Allocate more time for Mathematics/Biology (approx. 55-60 mins) and less for Aptitude and English (approx. 15-20 mins combined).
• ​Don't Ignore Aptitude and English:
  • ​While smaller sections, the Aptitude (Data Interpretation, Syllogism) and English (Grammar, Reading Comprehension) sections are high-scoring and can significantly boost your overall rank. Dedicate dedicated time for regular practice.
• ​Conceptual Clarity is Key: 
  • ​With the new negative marking, rote memorization is insufficient. Focus on deep conceptual understanding in all core subjects to confidently tackle application-based and numerical problems.

​Conclusion

​The opening of the VITEEE 2026 application window marks the official start of the B.Tech admission season at VIT. With the new exam pattern bringing a crucial change in the marking scheme, aspirants need to be focused, disciplined, and strategic in their preparation. By applying early, understanding the new rules, and committing to a solid study plan, you can significantly enhance your chances of securing a seat in one of the country's premier engineering institutions. Your future in engineering starts now—seize the opportunity.

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