Logistics
When does the semester begin?
The new semester begins on 22nd February 2021 and is scheduled to end on 11th June.
Is the semester going to be in-person or online?
All courses will run online, at least until the first week of April.
This applies to students who may be physically on campus as well.
What are some important dates to know?
Semester starts: 22nd February.
Course registration deadline: 5th March.
Last date for dropping a course without mention on the transcript: 26th April.
Last date for dropping a course with mention on the transcript: 26th May.
Last date of instruction: 28th May.
End term examinations: 2nd-11th June.
I am a new PhD student. What orientation programs should I attend?
New student orientation program on 18th February organized by the Institute.
Departmental orientation program on 22nd February.
Look for updates (timing, meeting links) on the IISc (www.iisc.ac.in) and the ME@IISc (www.mecheng.iisc.ac.in) pages
I joined the M.Tech (Coursework) program in Aug 2020. What should I be doing during my first week of this semester?
Attend the project allotment meeting with the DCC on 22nd February.
Read the course requirements (under the “Course Requirements” tab on this page)
Check the course timetable for this semester (under the “Current Semester” tab on this page)
You may register for 12-18 credits this semester.
Recommended: Four courses, with the consent of your faculty advisor. Pick a few electives that will help with your project work.
If you are unsure about which electives to pick, attend the first week or two of lecture for multiple courses. Reach out to course instructors and your faculty advisor, or if required, to the Department Curriculum Committee (DCC).
Register for courses before the March 5th deadline.
I joined the M.Tech (Research) program in Aug 2020. What should I be doing during my first week of this semester?
Read the course requirements (under the “Course Requirements” tab on this page)
Check the course timetable for this semester (under the “Current Semester” tab on this page)
You may register for 12-18 credits this semester.
Recommended: Complete the course requirements for your program, in consultation with your research advisor.
Register for courses before the March 5th deadline.
I am a new student joining the PhD program. What should I be doing during my first week?
Read the course requirements (under the “Course Requirements” tab on this page)
Check the course timetable for this semester (under the “Current Semester” tab on this page)
Identify a research advisor (read below).
Pick courses in consultation with your research advisor, paying attention to satisfying the RTP requirements.
Register for courses before the March 5th deadline.
Academics
What courses are being offered by the ME department this semester?
Click on the “Current semester Feb – June 2021” tab to see the list of course
Where do I find class meeting links to attend lectures?
Visit the department bulletin board (intranet.iisc.ac.in -> Academics -> Division of Mechanical Sciences -> Mechanical Engineering) or check on the course webpage.
I am joining the PhD program. How do I identify my research advisor?
The orientation programs during the first week of the semester will provide a glimpse of the active research areas in the department. Over the next few days, DCC will guide you through the process of identifying a research advisor. Get in touch with prospective mentors asap to setup times for one-on-one discussions. Reach out to several faculty members, including those who may not appear to be working in your specific field of interest.
I am a M.Tech (Coursework) student. How and when do I decide my project topic?
Attend the meeting with the DCC on Feb 22nd.
I need help/advice choosing courses. Who can I talk to?
Reach out to:
- The instructor if you would like to discuss specifics of a course
- Your research or faculty advisor
- The Department Curriculum Committee
How do I find out about courses offered in other departments?
You may pick electives from across the institute. See
intranet.iisc.ac.in -> Academics -> Division Name -> Department Name
Consult your advisor.
What should I expect with online courses?
The online format is challenging for both instructors and students.
The course shopping period (Feb 22-March 5) is likely to be more so.
Keep a regular tab on course webpages, ensure that you attend live lectures and watch recorded lectures on time.
Lecture notes, recordings and assignments will be made available on course webpages.
Interact regularly with teaching assistants (TAs) for your courses.
I am a M.Tech Res student. What is my expected time to graduate?
Expected: 2 years
Extension possible: 6 months
Termination scholarship at 2 years + 6 months.
I am a Ph.D student. What milestones should I meet?
RTP course completion: 1 year (recommended)
Comprehensive exam: 2 years
Expected time to completion for students with a masters degree: 4.5 years
Expected time to completion for direct PhD students: 5 years
Termination of scholarship: 5 years
I am an incoming PhD / M.Tech-Res student. How do I get started with research?
We hope that you will arrive on campus asap. Your research advisor will help you get started, though discussions about possible thesis topics, reviewing the literature, planning experimental setups and more. Stay engaged with you research group.
Can I attend research seminars?
Besides thesis colloquia and routine research presentations, the department organizes a weekly seminar on Fridays at 4pm. The Department Student Research Committee (DSRC) also organizes short lectures and presentations. You are welcome to attend these, as well as seminars elsewhere on campus, by logging in to the meeting link.
Staying Connected
How do I connect with my cohorts?
Batch-wise mailing groups will help you get in touch with your peers.
The department will organize frequent and informal interaction sessions as well.
