B.Tech Mechanical Engineering

This is completely your choice. If you want to explore the area of thermal energy after studying the fundamentals of Mechanical Engineering, you can opt for an M Tech in Thermal Engineering course. No doubt, the degree will let you explore good earning opportunities in the job market demanding advanced-level technical expertise, making you an asset for the recruiter.
Coming to the job aspect after BTech Mechanical Engineering, this can also be a promising choice in terms of career scope and earning potential. If you are a mechanical wizard who loves to play with machines and are satisfied with your 4-year academic ride, you look for a job and start earning right after graduation.

If you are someone who wishes to get in-depth knowledge of the foundational concepts of mechanical systems and thermal energy transfer and utilization and wants to earn a dual degree in 5 years, which includes theory classes and skill-based learning via lab work, this could be a go-to course option for you. This also turns out to be a cost-effective option that can lead to promising earning opportunities in the long run.
Having said that, you need to indulge in some self-introspection and see for yourself if you are really interested in the course, whether it aligns with your future plans, and if you would like to put your time and money in the same. Best of luck! ;)

The time involved in the BTech Mechanical Engineering admission process varies from one college to another because every institution follows some particular guidelines when it comes to giving admission to the course. In general, it can easily take you around 2 to 4 months to get the final seat at a good college. 

The basic steps include giving the entrance test, completing the application forms, waiting for exam results, participating in the college counseling, seat allotment, and paying the course fee. So, you need to stay calm and patient during the entire process.

For colleges providing admission on the basis of Class 12 merit, you need to give the GD or PI round as well. Rest, you can check the official college websites for accurate details.

Relevant Link: Mechanical Engineering Admission Process

Well, yes. Before choosing the college for studying the BTech Mechanical Engg. course, you should look out for various parameters, and the college ranking stands as one of the top parameters. You should try and opt for a college that enjoys a decent ranking in India in terms of quality education, research exposure, and placement records, as it can definitely give you a boost in terms of career prospects.

Top-ranked colleges are known for their learning space, teaching expertise, practical exposure, and skill-based learning module that helps students gain important skills and do well at the workplace. Moreover, top recruiters also prefer such students as they see them as valuable assets for their business growth.

It is not compulsory for you to give an entrance test for admission to the BTech Mechanical Engineering course. There are more than 1,050 BTech Mechanical Engineering colleges in India that give admission taking into account the Class 12 marks of students secured in the board exams. These colleges often take extra rounds like the GD or PI for student shortlisting after releasing the merit cutoff lists.

Having said that, top colleges like the IITs, NITs, and IIITs, along with other colleges require valid entrance exam scores for admission. So, it is better if you work hard and give the entrance test and end up getting excellent marks to keep both the options for admission open. Rest, the choice is completely yours.