# JEE Mains 2025 – 98.7%ile (~20,000 CRL) | Need Help Shortlisting Colleges Hi everyone, I recently appeared for **JEE Mains 2025** and secured a **percentile of \~98.7**, which gives me a **CRL rank around 20,000** (± a few ranks). I’m trying to figure out the best possible options I have, especially after **JoSAA** and **CSAB** rounds, and would love to hear your thoughts. # Branch Preferences * I don’t have a strict branch preference, but I’d **prefer a 4-year circuital branch** (CSE, ECE, EE, etc.). * **Not keen on non-core branches** like Civil or Mining for various reasons (interest, placements, etc.). * Open to flexible or interdisciplinary options if the college reputation and peer group are strong. Colleges I’ve Shortlisted So Far 1. **IIITs** – Mixed opinions here. Some (like IIIT Gwalior, Jabalpur, etc.) seem promising, but I’m unsure about long-term value vs. NITs. 2. **DTU (EE)** and **NSUT (ECE)** – Hoping for upgradations here through later rounds. 3. **NITs** – I want to avoid most North Eastern ones due to location concerns, but **NIT Silchar** is still under consideration. 4. **BIT Mesra** – Again, mixed reviews. Good brand but varied placement reports. # Not Considering * **VITEEE** – Got around 7,000 rank but not planning to join (too many concerns around transparency, fees, and value). * **Private Tier-2 colleges** unless absolutely necessary. # What I Need Help With * Which **IIITs/NITs are worth it** at this rank? Any hidden gems? * Should I **prefer DTU/NSUT over newer IIITs/NITs**? * Any colleges I might have **missed** that are **underrated but great** for ECE/EE/CSE? * Is **BIT Mesra** worth considering for CSE in 2025? * Would it be smarter to **wait for CSAB** rounds or lock in something safer early? Any genuine feedback, suggestions, or personal experiences are appreciated. Thanks in advance (Speaking of it, it was a disaster not feeling good about advanced, not much expectations) and best of luck to everyone out there!