Chennai, Sept 8:
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras has opened applications for the October 2026 cohort of its School Connect programme, with the initiative being expanded to Class IX students for the first time.
The programme, implemented through the Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), is designed to give school students early exposure to different academic disciplines and help them make informed choices about higher education and future careers. Students from Classes IX to XII can apply, with applications closing on September 30. The eight-week online programme will commence on October 5.
The programme offers students an opportunity to explore 17 disciplines, including Data Science and Artificial Intelligence, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronic Systems, Law, Economics and Finance, Architecture and Design, Humanities, Mathematics and Computing, and Engineering Biological Systems.
The courses combine recorded lectures with live interactive sessions, assignments and computer-based assessments. Students who successfully complete their chosen course will receive an official e-certificate from IIT Madras CODE.
The programme is currently offered in English and Hindi, while course modules in seven additional regional languages are under development.
CODE Chairperson Prof. Andrew Thangaraj said early exposure to different disciplines would give students more time to understand their interests and make informed decisions about their academic and career paths.
IIT Madras is also planning to expand School Connect to 25,000 schools across India, with the objective of taking career and higher-education exploration opportunities to a much larger number of students.
Dean Academics Prof. Prathap Haridas said the initiative would help students broaden their horizons by exposing them to a wide range of fields before they make crucial educational choices.
Since its launch, the School Connect programme has reached more than 1.75 lakh students in over 4,900 schools, including more than 60 schools outside India.
Class XII students participating in the programme can also explore IIT Madras’ non-campus BS degree programmes and learn about alternative higher-education pathways offered by the institute.
Students and teachers from top-performing schools will also be invited to the IIT Madras campus for felicitation and interaction with faculty members.