Hello there,

Preparatory rank is given when you fail to qualify a subject in JA but your subject score is more than the required score for preparatory courses and you will be allowed to participate in counselling. But the branch you will get would be allotted when you clear the exam under preparatory courses in your alloted IIT. So you will be able to complete a 4year course in 5 years .

Seats are limited there, and preparatory ranks are announced for sc, st and PWD only.

Good luck!!