Overview
ISRO Scientist/Engineer 'SC' recruits engineering graduates directly into India's space research programme, working on satellite systems, launch vehicles, and space applications. Unlike most other engineering PSUs, ISRO conducts its own dedicated written examination rather than relying primarily on GATE scores, testing core engineering subject knowledge at a degree level. Candidates who clear the written test proceed to a Personal Interview, and final selection is based on combined written and interview performance — reflecting the specialised, research-oriented nature of the roles being filled.
What's New in the 2026 Cycle
What changed in the 2026 cycle
- ISRO conducts its own written examination rather than relying on GATE scores, unlike most other engineering PSUs covered on this hub.
- Recruitment is limited to three core disciplines — Mechanical, Electronics & Communication, and Computer Science — reflecting ISRO's engineering needs.
- Minimum aggregate requirement (65% or 6.84 CGPA) is stricter than many other PSU recruitments, reflecting the competitive and research-intensive nature of the roles.
- Selected Scientists/Engineers work across ISRO's various centres nationwide (VSSC, SAC, URSC, and others) on space-mission-critical systems.
Eligibility Criteria
| Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
| Age Limit | Up to 35 years typically (relaxation per government norms for SC/ST/OBC/PwBD/ex-servicemen) |
| Educational Qualification | BE/B.Tech (or equivalent) in the relevant discipline (Mechanical, Electronics & Communication, or Computer Science) with a minimum 65% aggregate or 6.84 CGPA (on a 10-point scale) from a recognised university |
| Nationality | Indian citizen |
| Application Fee | ₹250 (General/OBC/EWS candidates). Women and SC/ST/PwBD/ex-servicemen candidates are exempted. |
ISRO Scientist/Engineer Exam Pattern
The ISRO Scientist/Engineer selection process runs through written test + interview. Each stage has its own timing, marking scheme and qualifying rules, detailed below.
Written Test
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Discipline-specific core engineering subjects (Mechanical/Electronics & Communication/Computer Science) | — | Qualifying |
Interview
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Interview | — | Qualifying |
ISRO Scientist/Engineer Detailed Subject-Wise Syllabus
Below is the complete topic-wise ISRO Scientist/Engineer syllabus for every subject tested across all stages, with a short note on what each section actually rewards — use this to build a section-wise study plan rather than relying on generic topic summaries.
Mechanical Engineering (discipline-specific)
Prepare at GATE-equivalent depth — ISRO's written test difficulty is broadly comparable to core GATE subject papers.
- Engineering mechanics & strength of materials
- Thermodynamics & heat transfer
- Fluid mechanics
- Machine design
- Manufacturing science
- Theory of machines
Electronics & Communication Engineering (discipline-specific)
Communication systems and embedded systems carry particular relevance given ISRO's satellite and mission-control work.
- Analog & digital circuits
- Signals & systems
- Communication systems
- Control systems
- Electromagnetic theory
- Microprocessors & embedded systems
Computer Science Engineering (discipline-specific)
Core CS fundamentals matter more than niche or trending topics — ISRO's written test rewards genuine conceptual depth.
- Data structures & algorithms
- Operating systems
- Database management systems
- Computer networks
- Theory of computation
- Software engineering fundamentals
Selection Process
- Written Test — discipline-specific core engineering subjects.
- Interview.
- Final merit based on combined written test and Interview scores.
Salary & Job Profile
ISRO Scientist/Engineer 'SC' posts start at Pay Level 10 (₹56,100 basic) of the 7th CPC matrix, plus Dearness Allowance, HRA, Transport Allowance and ISRO-specific research/technical allowances.
Best Books for ISRO Scientist/Engineer Preparation
- GATE-level discipline-specific standard textbooks (Mechanical/ECE/CS, as applicable) — ISRO's written test difficulty is broadly comparable
- ISRO Scientist/Engineer Previous Year Solved Papers — various publishers
- Core degree-level textbooks for your specific discipline
Previous Cut-off Trends
Approximate — always verify officially
ISRO's written test cut-offs vary by discipline and recruitment cycle, given the very high applicant volume relative to a comparatively small number of specialised vacancies each year. Always check ISRO's official cut-off/result release for the specific discipline and cycle.
Preparation Tips
- Prepare at a GATE-equivalent depth for your discipline, since ISRO's written test difficulty is broadly comparable to core GATE subject papers.
- Given the high competition and specialised nature of ISRO roles, prioritise genuine conceptual clarity over rote memorisation.
- Follow ISRO's recent missions and technical achievements closely — interview panels often probe genuine interest and awareness of the organisation's work.
- Practise previous years' ISRO written test papers specifically, since question style can differ from generic GATE-preparation material.
Exam Day Guidelines
- Carry the Document Checker and a valid original photo ID to the exam centre.
- No electronic devices, including calculators, are allowed inside the exam hall unless explicitly permitted in the notification.
- Prepare to discuss your academic projects and any relevant research experience for the Interview stage.
- Research ISRO's recent missions and your discipline's relevance to space engineering before the interview.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, ISRO Scientist/Engineer 'SC' recruitment uses ISRO's own dedicated written examination rather than relying on GATE scores, unlike most other engineering PSUs.
Primarily Mechanical, Electronics & Communication, and Computer Science Engineering, reflecting ISRO's core engineering needs.
A minimum of 65% aggregate marks or 6.84 CGPA (on a 10-point scale) in the relevant BE/B.Tech discipline from a recognised university.
Yes, candidates who clear the written test are called for a Personal Interview, and final selection is based on combined written and interview performance.
Related Exams
Back to Syllabus Hub — browse all government exam syllabus pagesSyllabus content on this page is compiled and reviewed against the official Indian Space Research Organisation notification as of 11 May 2026. Exam patterns, vacancies, salary figures and cut-offs are subject to change — always cross-check with the official notification at isro.gov.in before applying.