Securing a core VLSI job while still in your final year? It’s not just a dream—smart strategy and timely action can turn it into reality. Here’s how you can make the leap from campus to the core semiconductor industry before graduation.
1. Build Relevant Skillsets Early
Why It Matters
Top semiconductor companies like Intel, Qualcomm, and Cadence actively offer paid internships to B.Tech students based on early tool experience
What to Learn
- Digital Logic & HDL (Verilog, SystemVerilog)
- EDA Tools: Cadence, Synopsys, Mentor
- ASIC/FPGA Flows: RTL → Synthesis → Simulation → Layout
Even a few months of tool usage during the final year can help you land core internship roles and early job offers.
2. Secure a High-Stipend Summer Internship
Why It Matters
Internships—especially with companies like Intel, TI, and Qualcomm—offer stipends between ₹20k–50k/month and come with placement potential
How to Get In
- Start applications early (6–9 months in advance)
- Leverage alumni, professors, or LinkedIn referrals
- Show project work using key EDA tools
A solid internship résumé opens doors to Pre-Placement Offers (PPOs)—your ticket to a VLSI career before graduation.
3. Build a Strong Project Portfolio
Why It Matters
Companies look for demonstrated capability. Projects signal that you can implement real designs—even more than a high CGPA
What to Build
- FPGA implementations (e.g., UART, SPI, RISC-V core)
- ASIC/LVS design mini-projects using open-source PDKs
- Testbench and simulation flows with waveform debugging
- Publish results on GitHub or your portfolio site to stand out in applications.
4. Join VLSI Bootcamps & Certification Programs
Why It Matters
Programs like MOSart Labs provide industry-endorsed VLSI training, even during senior years, enabling tool practice and project work
What You’ll Gain
- Structured curriculum across RTL, Verification, STA, and PD
- Mentorship and career support
- Access to placement assistance and interview prep
- ₹35–60k monthly internship stipends are common even before final exams.
5. Apply Strategically Before Final Semester
Why It Matters
Many companies conduct off-campus hiring drives in the 7th or early 8th semester—especially for interns transitioning to full-time hires
What to Apply
- Learn internship and job cycles of target companies
- Prepare well for both screening and technical rounds
- Optimize your résumé with keywords (Verilog, STA, Cadence, etc.)
- Securing early interviews early gives you advantage post campus placements.
6. Network & Leverage Mentorship
Why It Matters
Referrals from seniors or alumni working in semiconductor firms significantly improve chances
How to Network
- Connect via LinkedIn and alumni groups
- Attend webinars, guest lectures, and VLSI workshops
- Ask for mock interviews and project advice
In many cases, strong networking helps even when CGPA or college tier may be average.
7. Prepare for Technical and Behavioral Rounds
What to Expect
- Interviews test your fundamentals in:
- Digital logic and timing
- HDL (Verilog/SystemVerilog)
- Tool flows, simulation, STA, and layout
Also, be ready to discuss your projects with depth, explain design choices, and respond to curveballs like debug scenarios and optimization challenges.
Final Path to Core—Pre-Placement Offers
- Intern at a core VLSI firm
- Impress through ownership and high-quality deliverables
- Convert internship into a PPO (Pre-Placement Offer)
- Graduate with a confirmed job—no off-campus scramble
Role of MOSart Labs in Your Journey
MOSart Labs helps bridge the gap between campus learning and core recruitment by offering:
- IIT Bhubaneswar-certified VLSI PG Diploma
- Hands-on ASIC & FPGA capstone projects
- Tool training (Synopsys, Cadence, Mentor)
- Internship and placement support workflows
With our guidance, students routinely secure internships before graduation—many converting into PPOs from companies like Intel, Cadence, and Qualcomm.
Final Thoughts
Landing a core VLSI job before graduation isn’t accidental—it’s strategic. By combining early tool exposure, strong internships, project experience, and smart networking, you can secure a VLSI role before you even walk across the stage.
At MOSart Labs, we provide the skills, mentorship, and placement readiness to make this possible. Your shortcut from campus to core VLSI career starts here.
