The institute was established by Sri.Krishnadevaraya Educational Trust in the year 1986 and is named after Sir. M. Visvesvaraya, an illustrious son of Karnataka, and an engineer statesman par excellence. It is located on a vast expanse of 53.8 hectares on NH7, at a distance of 21 kms from Bangalore city railway station. The institute provides an inspiring academic ambience amidst abundant greenery and serenity. The Institute has nearly 2600 students and over 145 teaching faculty.

The institute is affiliated to Vivesvaraya Technologcal University, Belgaum and approved by All India Council for Technical Education, New Delhi. It is accredited by National Board of Accreditaion, NewDelhi and Institution of Engineers (India), Kolkata Sir. M.VIT is one of the top engineering colleges in Karnataka.