IIT, NIT, IIIT 2025 Placements Impacted by H-1B Fee Hike and AI

IITs, NITs, IIITs, and DTU witnessed a challenging placement season in 2025 due to the U.S. H-1B visa fee hike and changing hiring preferences in the IT industry. Several institutes reported a decline in international offers and a shift towards specialised roles in emerging technologies.

H-1B Visa Fee Hike Affects International Recruitment

The U.S. government’s introduction of a $100,000 H-1B visa fee has significantly affected campus placements. Institutes such as IIIT Hyderabad and DTU reported a potential 50 per cent reduction in international placements compared to previous years. Experts suggest that higher costs may discourage U.S. companies from hiring international candidates, affecting overall placement numbers.

Shift Towards AI and Specialised Skills

Recruiters are increasingly seeking candidates with expertise in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Large Language Models (LLMs), and data analytics. Traditional bulk recruiters like TCS are now focusing on these emerging skills. Placement processes increasingly include hackathons and technical assessments to evaluate problem-solving and applied skills.

Decline in International Offers

Top institutions such as IIT Madras and NIT Karnataka reported a decrease in offers from major companies like Amazon, Google, Meta, and Microsoft. IIT Madras, which had pre-placement offers in previous years, did not receive any in 2025, reflecting the impact of global policy changes and hiring shifts.

Revised Placement Strategies by Institutions

To adapt to evolving trends, placement cells at IITs, NITs, IIITs, and DTU are emphasising domestic recruitment. Institutes are enhancing training in AI, ML, and emerging technologies to prepare graduates for industry demands. This strategy aims to mitigate international placement losses while equipping students with in-demand skills.

Key Takeaways for 2025 Placement Season

• Visa changes and hiring preferences are reshaping the job market.
• Domestic recruitment has become a primary focus for institutions.
• Specialised skills in AI and data science are crucial for securing top roles.
• Students are advised to upgrade their technical expertise and remain updated on industry trends.

The combination of increased H-1B fees, the growing AI and technology focus, and a reduction in international offers has redefined the 2025 placement landscape for India’s premier engineering institutes.