Securing an IISER Seat with 66 Marks in OBC Category: Chances and Strategies

Having scored 66 marks in the IAT 2021 for the OBC category, you might be questioning your chances of securing a seat in any of the Indian Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER). This article aims to guide you through the understanding of the reservation system, the current trends in the IAT cutoffs, and the latest speculation around the final rounds.

Understanding the Reservation System in IISER

The IISER recruitment process is structured with both merit-based and reservation-based admissions. For the OBC category, 27.5 out of the 50 available seats are reserved. Therefore, your score and rank within this category will play a crucial role in determining your chances of securing a seat.

It's important to note that the exact cutoff for each IISER is not publicly released, adding a layer of uncertainty. However, historical data and recent trends can offer some insights.

Trends in IAT Cutoffs

The IISER IAT cutoffs have shown cyclic trends. While the general perception was that the cutoff would decrease due to the increase in seats, the reality often differs. For instance, the cutoff for IAT 2020 was slightly higher than IAT 2019, despite a 25% increase in seats. This year, the cutoff could potentially be even higher, especially with many seats reserved for OBC candidates.

Given this, you have a relatively higher risk in securing a seat with 66 marks. However, all is not lost. Many candidates who secure lower scores do manage to get seats in the final round or through the spot admissions.

Chances in the Final Rounds

Despite the risks, there are chances for securing a seat in the final rounds. Many OBC candidates who fall just short of the cutoff in the initial rounds do get a chance in the subsequent rounds. This is partly due to the dynamic nature of the final seat allocation.

For the OBC category, the reservation system is such that if the final cutoff in the general category drops below the expected range, you stand a better chance. For example, if the final general cutoff is around 85 marks, you might be able to secure a seat as an OBC candidate with 66 marks.

Other Factors to Consider

Several factors can influence your chances:

Your Order of Preference: The order in which you have listed the IISERs can significantly impact your chances. Some IISERs may be more competitive than others, and securing a seat early can be a strategic move. Gender Factor: If you are a girl candidate, there's a higher likelihood of securing a seat through the spot admissions or final rounds. This is because the OBC quota might already be filled, leading to more seats becoming available for other categories. Application Strategy: Preparing thoroughly for the spot admissions can be crucial. This involves understanding the seat distribution and strategically applying to IISERs that have not filled their seats in the initial rounds.

Summary and Final Words

In conclusion, with a score of 66 marks in the OBC category, you have a chance, albeit a risky one. It's essential to remain calm, monitor the final rounds, and be ready to capitalize on any opportunities that arise. Best of luck in your endeavors!