The National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal is one of such an NIT and is rated as one of the top technological universities in India. Since its inception in 1960 as the Karnataka Regional Engineering College, the Institute has established itself as a premier center engaged in imparting quality technological education and providing support to research and development activities. The Institute has a long tradition of research for several decades in both traditional and modern areas of engineering and sciences in all departments. The Institute has been actively involved in applicative research in looking at and resolving problems faced by the society in several areas like environment, water resources, rock mechanics, new structures, VLSI, etc. NITK attracts students from all over the country and abroad. The Institute admits students to the B.Tech degree program on the basis of the All India Engineering Entrance Examination (AIEEE). International students are admitted on various student exchange programs through MEA, ICCR, etc. and scheme of Direct Admission to Students Abroad (DASA). Scholarships seats for M.Tech programs are awarded on the basis of the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE) and seats are available for sponsored students. Every year the Institute offers more than 30 PhD fellowships and also admits sponsored/external candidates to the doctoral program. NITK graduates are sought after by top industries/companies and the Institute has been rated as one of the best Institutions in the country with regard to student placements.