Navigating Engineering Entrance Exams: Insights from My Personal Experience
Determined to secure admission to a top engineering college, I took a strategic approach by participating in multiple entrance exams. In this article, I will share my experience with the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) and will explore other key entrance exams such as JEE Advanced and BITSAT. Understanding the intricacies of each exam, preparing effectively, and making wise decisions can significantly impact your college application process.
Choosing the Right Engineering Entrance Exam
One of the standardized tests I took was the Symbiosis Entrance Test (SET) for engineering. As an advocate for SET, I found it to be a simple and focused exam consisting of a straightforward multiple-choice format covering a wide range of topics. With its well-structured syllabus, SET provided me with immense confidence for the engineering entrance exam.
SET Engineering or Symbiosis Institute of Technology Engineering (SIT EEE) is the ideal category for those seeking admission to the flagship institute of Symbiosis.
Personal Experience with SET
My journey with SET began last year when I faced the challenge of the Symbiosis Entrance Test. The exam consisted of 70 multiple-choice questions, totaling 140 marks. Despite its intimidating reputation, I discovered that the test was on topic, which greatly benefited my performance and helped me achieve good marks.
Preparing diligently for SET, I was rewarded with a successful admission to the Symbiosis Institute of Technology. This experience underscored the importance of well-rounded preparation and strategic exam selection.
Exam Choices and Preparation
Confident in my preparation, I opted to fill out only three major engineering entrance exams, minimizing the workload and maximizing my focus on my target colleges.
1. JEE Main
My first major national exam after KVPY, JEE Main, was the first step in my application process. While I was immensely nervous, I managed to perform decently. My scores were 99.01 for the January session and 99.07ile for the April session, with a final rank of 10651.
2. JEE Advanced
For this highly anticipated exam, I was determined to perform my best. However, things did not go as planned, and I scored 147 out of 366, ranking 6534. The relief of completing this exam led me to watch the Kota Factory—a popular video series about the life of students in Kota, a hub for JEE coaching.
3. BITSAT
As the only private college entrance exam I took, BITSAT posed a unique challenge due to the long travel distance of 300KM. Despite extensive practice with mock tests, my nerves got the better of me during the exam. I slowed down, double-checking every calculation, which prevented me from attempting bonus questions. This ultimately led to a disappointing score of 334 out of 450.
Final Verdict and Decision Making
With no standout scores from the exams, the decision-making process became challenging. I discarded all options from JEE Main, as the ranks did not align with my preferences. Through JOSAA, I secured admission to IIT Patna for Mechanical and IIT BHU for Civil Engineering. For BITSAT, I was offered a place in Electronics and Instrumentation at BITS Pilani, Pilani campus.
With 30 minutes left before the JOSAA withdrawal window, I made a last-minute decision to opt out and secure my place at BITS Pilani. This experience highlights the importance of strategic and well-considered choices in a competitive academic realm.