Overview
- IIT Madras opened applications for the October 2026 School Connect cohort and expanded eligibility to include Class IX students for the first time, with programmes accepting registrations through September 30.
- The eight-week online courses start on October 5 and combine pre-recorded lectures, live sessions, assignments and computer-based assessments, with successful participants receiving an e-certificate from the institute’s Centre for Outreach and Digital Education.
- School Connect currently offers 17 introductory disciplines ranging from Data Science and AI to Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Law and Design to help students explore career and higher-education paths.
- Courses are available in English and Hindi now, and IIT Madras is developing modules in seven additional regional languages to widen access for schools and students.
- Since launch the programme has partnered with about 4,900 schools and reached roughly 175,000 students, and IIT Madras says it aims to scale School Connect to 25,000 schools and use the scheme to steer students toward options such as its non-campus BS degrees.