The M.S. by Research (M.S.R.) program emphasizes on the development of a broad background in a particular stream followed by a deeper study of a problem within the stream. The program is more research focused than an M. Tech. program. Candidates with B.Tech. in Mechanical Engineering with 55% marks / 5.5 CPI and a valid GATE Score (to be waived for candidates working in sponsored projects) are eligible to apply for this program. Candidates with B.Tech. in some other branches of engineering may also be considered.

The minimum course requirements for this program will be five, including two compulsory courses. Mathematics for Engineers is compulsory for all students. The other compulsory course will be stream specific. The minimum research credit for the M.S.R. program will be 72 credits. The remaining credits must be obtained either from the course or research work.

Candidates not working in sponsored projects and admitted on a full-time basis will be required to have a valid GATE score (unless they have graduated from an IIT with a minimum CPI of 8.0). Some of them may be offered Institute or Project Assistantships, as in the case of M.Tech. students.

Candidates either working in sponsored projects and admitted on a full-time basis or admitted on a part-time basis (with a minimum of one year of project support from the date of admission) will not be required to satisfy the GATE requirement. Part-time candidates employed in sponsored research projects within the Institute will also have to get project funding in their second year of the programme. Such students may be offered Institute Assistantship, as in the case of the M.Tech. students for a maximum of one year, provided they have a valid GATE score by that time and their case is considered favorably by the department.