IOE Entrance Exam
Institute of Engineering Entrance Examination
Conducted by Institute of Engineering (IOE), Tribhuvan University
About This Exam
The Institute of Engineering (IOE) Entrance Examination is the most prestigious engineering entrance test in Nepal, conducted annually by Tribhuvan University's Institute of Engineering. This computer-based test (CBT) serves as the gateway to various Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Bachelor of Architecture (B.Arch) programs at IOE constituent and affiliated colleges across Nepal.
The IOE entrance exam is known for its competitive nature, with over 25,000 students competing for approximately 5,000 seats each year. The examination tests candidates on Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and English, with a total of 100 questions carrying 140 marks. A unique aspect of this exam is the 10% negative marking for wrong answers, making accuracy crucial.
The exam is conducted as a Computer-Based Test (CBT) at designated centers including the IOE ICT Center at Pulchowk Campus, Pashchimanchal Campus, and Purwanchal Campus. Students can choose their preferred examination date and shift during the application process, subject to availability.
Engineering programs available through IOE include Civil Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electronics and Communication Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and specialized programs like Aerospace Engineering, Geomatics Engineering, and Architecture. Successful candidates can gain admissions to prestigious institutions like Pulchowk Campus, Thapathali Campus, and various affiliated private colleges.
Important Dates
Eligibility Criteria
Exam Pattern
| Section | Questions | Marks |
|---|---|---|
Mathematics Sets, Logic & Functions, Algebra, Trigonometry, Coordinate Geometry, Calculus, Vectors, Statistics & Probability | 30 | 50 |
Physics Mechanics, Heat & Thermodynamics, Geometric & Physical Optics, Waves & Sound, Electricity & Magnetism, Modern Physics | 30 | 45 |
Chemistry Physical Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry, Applied Chemistry | 25 | 25 |
English Grammar, Phonetics, Comprehension, Vocabulary | 15 | 20 |
Syllabus
Mathematics
- •Sets, Logic & Functions
- •Algebra
- •Trigonometry
- •Coordinate Geometry
- •Calculus
- •Vectors
- •Statistics & Probability
Physics
- •Mechanics
- •Heat & Thermodynamics
- •Geometric & Physical Optics
- •Waves & Sound
- •Electricity & Magnetism
- •Modern Physics
Chemistry
- •Physical Chemistry
- •Inorganic Chemistry
- •Organic Chemistry
- •Applied Chemistry
English
- •Grammar
- •Phonetics
- •Comprehension
- •Vocabulary
Programs Covered
How to Apply
- 1Visit the official IOE entrance portal at entrance.ioe.edu.np
- 2Pay the entrance fee of NPR 2,000 through Siddhartha Bank or digital wallet
- 3Note the Bank Voucher Number or Transaction ID
- 4Start registration on the portal
- 5Fill personal and academic details carefully
- 6Upload required documents (photo, citizenship, signature)
- 7Select preferred examination date, location, and shift
- 8Submit the application and save confirmation
- 9Download admit card from Bhadra 1 (August 16)
Required Documents
- Bank Voucher or Transaction ID as payment proof
- +2 Transcript or Mark Sheet
- Passport-size photo (350x300 pixels, color, plain background)
- Citizenship Certificate or Passport (for foreigners)
- Scanned copy of signature
- Recommendation letter (for reserved category applicants)
Preparation Tips
- 1Focus heavily on Mathematics - it carries the highest marks (50 out of 140)
- 2Practice numerical problems and derivations in Physics
- 3Complete the official syllabus from IOE website
- 4Avoid guessing due to 10% negative marking
- 5Take computer-based mock tests to familiarize with CBT format
- 6Manage time wisely - 2 hours for 100 questions means ~72 seconds per question
- 7Revise formulas and shortcuts regularly
Frequently Asked Questions
Is IOE entrance exam computer-based or paper-based?
IOE entrance exam is a Computer-Based Test (CBT). Students take the exam on computers at designated exam centers with multiple shifts per day.
What is the negative marking system in IOE entrance?
IOE has 10% negative marking. For example, if a 1-mark question is answered wrong, 0.1 marks are deducted. For a 2-mark question, 0.2 marks are deducted.
How many students appear in IOE entrance exam each year?
Approximately 25,000-30,000 students appear in IOE entrance exam annually, competing for around 5,000 seats in various engineering programs.
Which is the best engineering campus under IOE?
Pulchowk Campus (IOE main campus) in Lalitpur is considered the most prestigious, followed by Thapathali Campus, Pashchimanchal Campus (Pokhara), and Purwanchal Campus (Dharan).
Can I change my exam center or date after applying?
No, once you submit your application with exam center and date preferences, changes are not allowed. Choose carefully during application.