2026 Batch: VIT, SRM, Manipal Show Divergent Placement Packages

As the 2026 academic year draws to a close, the placement results of three prominent engineering institutions in India reveal a distinct hierarchy in terms of average salary packages offered to graduates. Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) secured the highest average cost-to-company (CTC) of ₹20 lakhs per annum, while Manipal University attained a commendable ₹15 lakhs, and SRM Institute of Science and Technology followed with a comparatively lower ₹12 lakhs.

These figures were compiled from the most recent placement announcements posted on the official portals of each university, corroborating reports from Careers360. VIT's robust industry tie-ins and state‑of‑the‑art campus infrastructure appear to have attracted a higher number of premium recruiters, particularly in the IT and electronics sectors. Manipal's strong placement record in consulting and finance, coupled with its comprehensive career services, contributed to its competitive package, whereas SRM’s focus on diverse industry outreach and research collaborations helped secure solid offers, albeit at a slightly lower average.

For students in Udupi district and beyond, these insights underscore the importance of aligning course selection with desired industry pathways and the value of proactively engaging in internship and project opportunities. The findings, sourced from Google News – Manipal, highlight that while institutional reputation matters, recruiters’ demands and sector strength play critical roles in shaping the post‑graduation earning potential.