Mumbai: Breather for all the low scorers in SSC exams that were unable to seek admission in arts, commerce and science colleges.

They can apply for the polytechnic courses offered by the same colleges to ensure a lateral entry into engineering colleges if they score well.

There demand for the polytechnic courses is increasing, especially for those students that are looking for a direct entry through these diplomas into the employment market.

For the first time ever, the government is going for centralized online admissions this year.

Several courses are offered by renowned colleges affiliated to the Maharashtra State Board of Technical Education (MSBTE). More than 120 colleges affiliated to MSBTE offer various courses, which are approved by the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE) and some courses approved by the state government as well.

The list of courses offered are computer, textile, civil, chemical, engineering, etc. apart from vocational courses like blood bank technology, call centre management, computer application, dress designing, digital photography to name a few.

"Polytechnic courses are the best option for students with poor financial background as these courses ensures a job after the three-year diploma course," said KG Narayan Khedkar, Director of Veermata Jijabai Technological Institute.

"Students with good academic record can also pursue engineering as they can get lateral entry into the second year of engineering. There is 10% reservation for students coming from polytechnic courses. This way, the student will be able to complete an engineering course in the same duration," he added.