KTU 2024 Scheme vs 2019 Scheme — What Actually Changed
If you joined KTU in 2024 or are about to join, you are under the new 2024 scheme. If you joined before 2024, you are still on the 2019 scheme. The two are meaningfully different — not just in subject names but in how exams are structured, how marks are distributed, and what kind of learning the curriculum expects from you.
Here is a straight comparison of what changed and what it means for how you study.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Aspect | 2019 Scheme | 2024 Scheme |
|---|---|---|
| Modules per subject | 5 modules | 4 modules |
| ESE (university exam) marks | 100 marks | 60 marks |
| CIA marks | 50 marks (for most subjects) | 40 marks (regular) / 60 marks (PBL) |
| ESE exam pattern | Part A: 30 marks, Part B: 70 | Part A: 24 marks, Part B: 36 |
| PBL subjects | Not structured as PBL | 4 dedicated PBL subjects (S3-S6) with 60 CIA / 40 ESE |
| Programme electives | From S5 onwards | From S4 onwards (PE-1 in S4) |
| Open electives | Limited | 3 open/industry elective slots (S6, S7, S8) |
| Level-5 courses | Not available | Available — 5 credits (3+2) for advanced electives |
| Honours / Minor | Not available | Optional Honours and Minor tracks via VAC slots |
| Internship option | Limited | Full-semester internship in S7 or S8 as alternative to project |
| Python in curriculum | Not in first year for all | Algorithmic Thinking with Python in S1 for all Group A/C branches |
| AI / Data Science | Not in early semesters | Introduction to AI and Data Science in S3 for most branches |
| Total credits | Approximately 170 | 170 credits (same total) |
What These Changes Mean in Practice
1. The ESE is now 60 marks, not 100 — and that is a big shift
In the 2019 scheme, the end-semester exam carried 100 marks. In 2024, it is 60 marks. The total marks per subject (CIA + ESE) is now 100 instead of 150. This means each question in the ESE carries proportionally more weight, but it also means your CIA performance has become more important. A student who studies consistently throughout the semester benefits significantly from the 2024 pattern.
2. Four modules instead of five — less breadth, more depth
Reducing from 5 modules to 4 per subject means the 2024 syllabus is more focused. There is less to cover but what is there needs to be understood properly. Students who relied on selective study (covering only 3 out of 5 modules) will find the 2024 pattern less forgiving in that strategy.
3. PBL subjects are new and change how you prepare
Project Based Learning (PBL) subjects appear in S3, S4, S5, and S6 across most branches. These follow a 60 CIA / 40 ESE pattern — meaning 60% of your marks come from internal work, project submissions, and continuous assessment. You cannot rely on last-minute exam preparation for PBL subjects. Consistent semester-long engagement is the only way to score well.
4. Electives start earlier and cover more ground
In the 2024 scheme, Programme Elective-1 starts in S4 (compared to S5 or S6 in older schemes). This means students start specialising earlier. The three open elective slots in S6, S7, and S8 allow genuine interdisciplinary exposure — an ECE student can take cloud computing, a Mechanical student can take business analytics. The Level-5 course option is also new — extra 2 credits for advanced-level electives for students who qualify.
5. Python and AI are now foundational, not optional
Algorithmic Thinking with Python is in S1 for Group A (IT, CS) and Group C (Civil, Mechanical) branches. Introduction to AI and Data Science appears in S3 for most branches. This is a significant shift — the 2024 curriculum treats programming and AI literacy as non-negotiable foundations for all engineers, not just CS/IT students.
Is the 2024 Scheme Easier or Harder Than 2019?
This question comes up constantly. The honest answer is: it is different, not simply easier or harder. The ESE carries fewer marks and the syllabus has one fewer module — which sounds easier. But PBL subjects demand consistent semester-long effort, electives start earlier, and the curriculum expects more practical application. Students who study regularly throughout the semester will genuinely benefit from the 2024 pattern. Students who relied on intensive last-minute cramming will find it harder.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between KTU 2024 and 2019 scheme?
Key differences: ESE reduced from 100 to 60 marks, modules per subject reduced from 5 to 4, 4 dedicated PBL subjects introduced in S3-S6, electives start from S4, Level-5 courses and Honours/Minor tracks added, full-semester internship option in S7/S8.
Does the KTU 2024 scheme have less syllabus?
Yes. With 4 modules instead of 5 per subject, the 2024 scheme has a more focused syllabus per subject. However, PBL subjects require more consistent effort throughout the semester.
What are PBL subjects in KTU 2024 scheme?
PBL (Project-Based Learning) subjects are dedicated project-integrated courses in S3 through S6. They follow 60 CIA / 40 ESE marking. Students work on real projects as part of the learning process instead of purely exam-based assessment.
Is KTU 2024 scheme valid from which year?
The KTU 2024 scheme applies to students who joined the B.Tech programme in the 2024-25 academic year (first year). Students who joined in 2023 or earlier are on the 2019 scheme.
Can 2019 scheme students switch to 2024 scheme?
No. Students admitted under the 2019 scheme continue under that scheme throughout their programme. The 2024 scheme applies only to new admissions from 2024 onwards.
