For many students, the step from school to engineering college can feel overwhelming. There’s a lot to consider, like quality of education, affordability, and how far you’re willing to go from home. While Visakhapatnam has a few decent options, limiting your search to just the city can be restrictive.
However, if you’re open to exploring colleges across Andhra Pradesh, the state offers a fair mix of institutions that provide solid value, especially for those interested in core engineering branches, preparing for government exams, or aiming for IT placements. This guide breaks down the top engineering colleges in Andhra Pradesh and what they offer.
This list is compiled based on online research, student reviews, and personal experience. The colleges are not listed in any particular ranking order.
1. IIT Tirupati
Established: 2015
Accreditation: Institute of National Importance
NIRF 2024 Ranking: 61
Entrance Exam: JEE Advanced
IIT Tirupati is one of the two centrally funded technical institutes in Andhra Pradesh. Despite being relatively new, it has rapidly established a strong presence in both academia and research. With world-class faculty and placements in global tech companies, it represents the gold standard for engineering aspirants in the state.
2. NIT Andhra Pradesh – Tadepalligudem
Established: 2015
Accreditation: Institute of National Importance
NIRF 2024 Ranking: Band 250–300
Entrance Exam: JEE Main
NIT Andhra Pradesh is gradually building its reputation within the national NIT ecosystem. Backed by central funding, it offers a modern academic framework, growing infrastructure, and improving placement support. A solid option for students willing to invest in a developing but recognised institute.
3. Koneru Lakshmaiah Education Foundation (K L University), Vijayawada
Established: 1980
Accreditation: Deemed-to-be University
NIRF 2024 Ranking: 35
Entrance Exam: KLUEEE / JEE Main / AP EAMCET
KL University is one of Andhra’s top-ranked private institutions. With its strong industry collaboration, research output, and flexible academic structure, it appeals to students aiming for high-salary IT placements and global tech exposure.
4. Vignan’s Foundation for Science, Technology & Research, Guntur
Established: 1997 (Deemed a university since 2008)
Accreditation: UGC-recognised
NIRF 2024 Ranking: 91
Entrance Exam: V-SAT / JEE Main / AP EAMCET
Vignan is a respected name in private engineering education. It offers a structured curriculum, solid mid-tier placements, and decent campus facilities. Known for affordability and discipline, it’s a common pick for students from central Andhra.
5. Andhra University College of Engineering (AUCE), Visakhapatnam
Established: 1955
Accreditation: NAAC A
NIRF 2024 Ranking: 90
Entrance Exam: AP EAMCET
As one of the oldest engineering colleges in South India, AUCE is known for core engineering, research, and government exam preparation. With low fees and a historic legacy, it attracts serious students looking for long-term, stable careers in technical fields.
6. JNTU College of Engineering, Kakinada (JNTU-K)
Established: 1946
Accreditation: NAAC A+
NIRF Ranking: Not listed
Entrance Exam: AP EAMCET
JNTU-K is a highly regarded public institution known for producing PSU-level engineers and GATE/ESE achievers. It’s a top choice for core branches and students aiming for government or academic pathways.
7. Sri Venkateswara University College of Engineering (SVUCE), Tirupati
Established: 1959
Accreditation: Public University
NIRF 2024 Ranking: Band 201–300
Entrance Exam: AP EAMCET / GATE (PG)
SVUCE offers a classical engineering education with a steady academic culture. It serves as a strong option for students from Rayalaseema and those aiming for core sector jobs.
8. Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering (GVP), Visakhapatnam
Established: Early 1980s
Accreditation: NAAC A+
NIRF Ranking: Not ranked
Entrance Exam: AP EAMCET
One of the most respected autonomous colleges in North Andhra, GVP is known for its consistent placement records in CSE and ECE, academic discipline, and skilled faculty. It’s a go-to option for students in and around Vizag looking to stay local without compromising on quality.
9. GMR Institute of Technology (GMRIT), Rajam
Established: 1997
Accreditation: AICTE-approved
NIRF Ranking: Not ranked
Entrance Exam: AP EAMCET
GMRIT may not have national fame, but it’s well-respected in its zone for ECE, Mechanical, and Civil. Known for its campus infrastructure and practical learning environment, it serves students from North Andhra and nearby districts
Other Noteworthy Institutions
While they may not feature prominently in national rankings, the following colleges are steadily building a name for themselves in emerging fields:
VIT-AP University, Amaravati – Known for Data Science, AI, and international exchange programs.
SRM University, Amaravati – Focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and global curriculum.
JNTU-GV College of Engineering, Vizianagaram
GITAM University, Visakhapatnam – One of the largest private universities in South India, known for its campus infrastructure and interdisciplinary programs.
Andhra Pradesh may not dominate India’s engineering education landscape, but it offers a credible mix of old and new institutions catering to a wide range of academic goals. Whether you’re aiming for IT roles or higher studies, these top engineering colleges in Andhra Pradesh lay down practical pathways to stable careers. Choose wisely, not just for a degree, but for a direction and do more research or consult a career coach for a better decision.
Also read: 7 Top existing and upcoming universities in Visakhapatnam!
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