India’s incredible journey in space exploration stands as a testament to innovation, precision, and scientific brilliance – all powered by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). For aspiring engineers across the country, the ISRO Scientist Exam is a gateway to contributing to India’s space missions and working at the forefront of research and technology.
Each year, ISRO opens its doors to brilliant minds through this exam, recruiting engineers in disciplines such as Electronics, Mechanical, and Computer Science.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through the eligibility, selection process, syllabus, exam pattern, and expert preparation strategies, along with top-recommended books from GK Publications to help you excel.
Overview of ISRO Scientist Recruitment
The ISRO Scientist exam is conducted to select eligible engineers for various technical roles within ISRO’s research centres and units.
It offers a highly rewarding career – combining innovation, national pride, and scientific exploration.
Key Highlights
· Posts Offered: Scientist/Engineer ‘SC’ in Electronics, Mechanical, and Computer Science.
· Approximate Vacancies: Around 300-350 annually (varies by year).
· Educational Qualification: B.E./B.Tech or equivalent degree in the relevant discipline with minimum marks/ CGPA as specified in the notification.
· Age Limit: Generally up to 28 years for the General category; relaxations apply for SC/ST/OBC and other categories.
· Selection Process: Written Test followed by an Interview.
· Weightage: Final selection is typically based on 50% Written Test + 50% Interview.
Exam Pattern & Syllabus
Understanding the exam structure and syllabus is crucial for planning your preparation effectively.
Exam Pattern
The written test usually consists of two parts:
· Part A: Technical questions from your core engineering discipline.
o 80 questions (80 marks)
o Focused on conceptual clarity and problem-solving.
· Part B: General Aptitude & Reasoning.
o 15-20 questions (20 marks)
o Tests numerical ability, logical reasoning, and analytical thinking.
Total Marks: Around 100
Duration: 2 hours
Negative Marking: ⅓ mark (0.33) deducted for every incorrect answer.
Discipline-Wise Syllabus Overview
Electronics & Communication Engineering
· Circuit Theory, AC/DC Circuits, Resonance
· Electronic Devices: Diodes, Transistors, FETs, Op-Amps
· Digital Electronics: Logic Gates, Flip-Flops, Counters, ADC/DAC
· Control Systems: Stability, Root Locus, Bode/Nyquist Plots
· Communication Systems: AM/FM/PM, PCM, Modulation Techniques
Mechanical Engineering
· Applied Mechanics & Design: Theory of Machines, Vibrations, Machine Design
· Thermal Sciences: Thermodynamics, Heat Transfer, IC Engines, Turbomachinery
· Production & Manufacturing: Casting, Forming, Welding, Industrial Engineering
Computer Science / IT Engineering
· Data Structures and Algorithms: Trees, Graphs, Sorting, Searching
· Operating Systems: Deadlocks, Scheduling, Virtual Memory
· Computer Networks: OSI/TCP-IP Models, Protocols, IPv4/IPv6
· Software Engineering: SDLC, Testing, Design Patterns, Agile Concepts
General Aptitude & Reasoning
· Numerical Reasoning
· Logical and Analytical Reasoning
· Deductive, Diagrammatic, and Abstract Reasoning
Preparation Strategy for ISRO Scientist Exam
Preparing for ISRO requires a balance of conceptual mastery, problem-solving speed, and consistent practice. Below is a smart preparation roadmap you can follow.
Step 1: Understand the Syllabus and Pattern
Begin by downloading the latest notification and marking the important topics for your branch.
Prioritize topics that appear frequently in previous years’ papers.
Step 2: Strengthen Core Concepts
Focus on your fundamental engineering subjects — clarity of concepts is key. Revise theories, formulas, and problem-solving methods regularly.
Step 3: Practice Previous Year Papers
The best way to understand ISRO’s exam pattern is through previous years’ question papers. They give you insight into recurring topics, difficulty levels, and time management.
Step 4: Attempt Mock Tests
Simulate exam conditions by solving full-length mock papers within 2 hours. Analyse your mistakes and maintain an error log for improvement.
Step 5: Revise & Stay Consistent
Regular revision is crucial in the final 2–3 weeks.
Focus on formulas, key derivations, and quick problem-solving.
Recommended Books from GK Publications
At GK Publications, we understand that targeted preparation makes all the difference. Our books are designed to give you a real exam experience with updated patterns, solved papers, and detailed explanations.
Top Titles for ISRO Preparation
· ISRO: Electronics Engineering – 16 Previous Years Solved Papers (2008–2023)
Includes detailed solutions and 3 full-length practice sets designed as per the latest ISRO pattern.
· ISRO: Mechanical Engineering – 16 Previous Years Solved Papers (2008–2023)
Covers core mechanical concepts with solved papers and practice sets for speed and accuracy.
· ISRO: Computer Science – 16 Previous Years Solved Papers (2008–2023)
Perfect for CS/IT aspirants, featuring real ISRO questions and concept-based solutions.
Each book is structured for quick learning, offering:
· Chapter-wise practice and formula revision.
· Full coverage of frequently asked topics.
· Three updated practice papers to build exam confidence.
These books are ideal not only for ISRO aspirants but also for those preparing for DRDO, BARC, GATE, and other PSU exams.
Exam-Day Tips
· Carry your admit card, valid ID proof, and stationery as instructed in the notification.
· Reach your exam centre at least an hour early to avoid last-minute stress.
· Read all instructions carefully before starting.
· Manage your time wisely — around 1.2 minutes per question on average.
· Attempt easy questions first and maintain high accuracy to minimize negative marking.
Concluding Note
A career as an ISRO Scientist/Engineer is more than just a job — it’s a chance to serve India’s space vision and contribute to global scientific advancement.
While the exam demands discipline and dedication, the right preparation strategy and reliable study material can make your journey much smoother.
With GK Publications’ ISRO series, aspirants get access to authentic solved papers, practice sets, and updated exam patterns — making it the perfect companion for structured and smart preparation.
Stay focused, believe in your preparation, and aim for the stars — literally!
All the best for your ISRO journey.
