Yes, most Polytechnic in Mechanical Engineering Colleges in India offer a lateral entry option for eligible students. Lateral entry allows you to join the diploma directly in the second year, which means you save time and complete the course faster.
To qualify for lateral entry, you must have either an ITI certification in a relevant technical trade or have passed Class 12 with vocational or technical subjects. These qualifications are considered equivalent to the first year of the diploma because they already provide basic practical and theoretical knowledge of engineering concepts.
This pathway is especially beneficial for students who have completed ITI and want to upgrade their skills, improve job opportunities, or continue their technical education at a higher level. Through lateral entry, you can quickly move toward learning advanced mechanical engineering subjects like thermodynamics, machine design, manufacturing processes, and workshop technology.