IIT Madras Opens BS Data Science Admissions for September 2026 Term

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras has opened applications for its Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Data Science and Applications for the September 2026 term. The programme is offered through a non-campus mode, making it accessible to a wider pool of learners.

A notable feature of this admission cycle is that a JEE score is not mandatory. Candidates can enter through a regular qualifier process, which serves as an alternative route. The last date to submit qualifier applications is September 27, 2026.

Eligibility and Qualifier Process

Applicants who have completed Class 12 or an equivalent examination are eligible, irrespective of age or prior academic stream. Students who have appeared for their Class 11 final exams may also apply, provided they clear Class 12 before joining.

The qualifier stage involves four weeks of coursework in English I, Mathematics for Data Science I, Statistics for Data Science I, and Computational Thinking. Passing criteria vary by category: General candidates need a minimum 40% average assignment score per course, while OBC-NCL/EWS candidates require 35%. SC/ST/PwD candidates (with 40% disability) need 30%.

For the qualifier exam itself, General candidates must secure 40% in each course and a 50% overall average. OBC-NCL/EWS candidates need 35% per course and 45% average, while SC/ST/PwD candidates require 30% per course and a 40% average.

JEE Advanced Route

Candidates eligible to appear for the most recent JEE Advanced can gain direct admission to the Foundation Level of the programme, bypassing the qualifier process entirely. This provides a streamlined path for students already preparing for competitive engineering entrance exams.