Is the EWS Rank Helpful in Getting Admission into IITs?

The EWS (Economically Weaker Section) rank is indeed beneficial for admission into the Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). Introduced to provide reservations for candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the EWS category offers significant advantages in the admission process.

Reservation Benefits for EWS Candidates

One of the key benefits of the EWS rank is the reservation system. EWS candidates are eligible for 10% reservation in the General category seats during the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) Advanced and subsequent counseling processes. This reservation provides the candidates with an additional opportunity to secure admission, which would otherwise be challenging for them.

Separate Rankings for Enhanced Chances

EWS candidates receive a separate rank list based on their JEE scores. This separate ranking system can significantly enhance their chances of securing admission, especially in highly competitive courses. The separate rankings allow EWS candidates to compete at a more favorable position, thereby increasing their chances of getting into their preferred institutions.

Eligibility Criteria and Objectives

To qualify for the EWS status, candidates must meet specific income and asset criteria, which are evaluated based on their family’s financial situation. These criteria are designed to ensure that the benefits of the reservation scheme are extended only to those who genuinely belong to economically weaker sections. The primary objective is to provide a level playing field for economically disadvantaged students, enabling them to compete fairly in the highly competitive IIT admission process.

Impact on Admission Chances

The EWS rank has a profound impact on the admission prospects of candidates from the general category. For instance, consider a candidate from the general ews category, who secured a position at IIT Jammu CSE at an approximate AIR of 6,000. In contrast, candidates in the general category without the EWS rank had a closing rank in the 3,000s. This substantial difference highlights the significant advantage that the EWS rank offers.

User Experiences and Insights

Many IIT aspirants vouch for the usefulness of the EWS rank. A candid user remarked, 'It is definitely helpful to have EWS rather than having no reservation at all, i.e., being OC without EWS. Since it at least helps us to get into a college which is better by at least one rank than the one you can get by being OC.' Another user highlighted their experience, saying, 'Bro it is so helpful one in getting into IITS. For instance, take my case, I was from the general EWS category and I got IIT Jammu CSE at an AIR of approximately 6,000. However, for those in the simple general category, the closing rank was in the 3,000s. So there is really enough of a gap between the two. So, bro, if you are from the general category, I would definitely inspire you to make an EWS certificate; surely, it will help you.'

Conclusion

In summary, the EWS rank plays a crucial role in the admission process into the IITs. It provides candidates from economically weaker sections with additional opportunities through reservation policies and a separate ranking system, thereby leveling the playing field and increasing their chances of securing admission to these prestigious institutions.