Yes, many universities and colleges in India offer lateral entry admission into Aeronautical Engineering programs. This allows diploma holders in Aeronautical, Mechanical, or related engineering fields to join the second year (third semester) of a B.Tech or BE Aeronautical Engineering program. Admission is usually based on entrance exams like LEET, JELET, or institutional-level tests, while some colleges offer merit-based admissions. Candidates must meet the eligibility criteria set by the respective universities, such as a minimum percentage in their diploma course.
Lateral entry helps diploma students save a year and provides them with advanced career opportunities in aviation and aerospace industries. It is a cost-effective way to gain a full-fledged engineering degree without starting from the first year. Many reputed institutions, including Anna University and Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science, offer lateral entry programs. Interested candidates should check with individual colleges regarding their specific admission requirements, entrance exams, and application deadlines.