How to Join ISRO: What to Study, Career Options, and Institutes

Big rockets. Satellites flying. Missions are going to the Moon, Mars, and beyond. If that kind of stuff makes your heart race, ISRO might be where you belong. But how do you get there? What should you study? Where do you start? Let’s just break it down, no fluff.

Dreaming of ISRO? Here’s What’s What

ISRO is the Indian Space Research Organisation. They build rockets. Launch satellites. Send missions to space. It’s one of the coolest science places in India, maybe the world. But to be part of it? You can plan it early.

Start Early – What to Pick After Class 10

Done with Class 10? Then pick Science. Physics, Chemistry, Maths. That’s your combo. PCM. This part’s non-negotiable. ISRO’s work is technical, so the basics matter. And this is your first step.

College – What You Should Study

To land most jobs in ISRO, you need a degree. Here’s what works:

• BTech or BE in:
• Mechanical Engineering
• Aerospace Engineering
• Electrical or Electronics
• Computer Science

OR BSc in:

• Physics
• Mathematics
• Astronomy

Then go for MSc if you take the science route. Either way, aim for 65% or more. Or CGPA 6.84+ out of 10. Also, make sure your college is legit, government-recognized.

Want to Do Research? Go Higher

If you are interested in research, space science, or developing new technology, you can choose to study further by doing an MTech, ME, MSc, or even a PhD in areas such as: 

• Astrophysics
• Remote Sensing
• Satellite Tech
• Space Science
• Space Apps (not mobile apps, real space apps)

These get you into core research or scientist roles in ISRO.

Main Career Tracks at ISRO

Different jobs need different skills. Here are the top fields where ISRO takes people:

• Mechanical Engg – For rockets, engines, systems
• Electronics & Comms – For satellites, signal stuff
• Computer Science – Coding, mission software, data
• Aerospace Engg – Flight paths, navigation
• Physics / Maths – Core science and calculation
• Remote Sensing & GIS – Mapping Earth from space

ISRO Hiring – How They Pick You

You don’t just walk in. ISRO hires mostly through ICRB – their own recruitment board. Steps look like this:

1.     Written Test – Based on what you studied

2.     Interview – To check what you actually understand

3.     Sometimes GATE Score – For research roles

Best Colleges If You’re Serious About ISRO

Where you study can matter. Some colleges give you an edge:

• IIST, Thiruvananthapuram – Backed by ISRO, a top choice
• IITs, NITs – Solid reputation, good placement
• IISc, Bengaluru – Hardcore research
• IIRS – Focused on satellite mapping, Earth observation

Also, ISRO offers internships, short training, and online courses. These help you get actual space-tech exposure even before you graduate.