IIT Madras Opens School Connect Program to Class 9 Students for First Time
IIT Madras invites Classes 9-12 for its School Connect Program's October 2026 cohort, marking the first time Class 9 students can participate.
The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has expanded its flagship outreach initiative, the School Connect Program, to include students from Class 9 for the first time. The program, which previously catered to senior school students, is now accepting applications for its October 2026 cohort from students in Classes 9 through 12.
Managed by the institute's Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), the initiative is designed to bridge the gap between school and higher education. It offers young learners an early opportunity to identify their interests and potential career paths by exploring emerging academic fields.
Participants will have access to 17 future-focused disciplines, ranging from Data Science & AI, Aerospace, and Cybersecurity to Economics & Finance, Law, Design, and Game Technology. The curriculum is delivered through an 8-week online learning experience that includes lectures, live sessions, assignments, and assessments, with instruction from faculty at IIT Madras and other leading institutions.
Interested students can apply until September 20, 2026, with the course scheduled to commence on October 5, 2026. According to the institute, the program has already reached more than 4,900 schools and over 1.75 lakh students. Upon successful completion, participants will receive an official e-certificate from IIT Madras CODE.