IIT Madras School Connect 2026: Class 9 students eligible for the first time

IIT Madras has opened registrations for its October 2026 School Connect Program, expanding eligibility to Class 9 students for the first time and offering school learners exposure to emerging academic and career fields.

Students from Classes 9 to 12 can apply for the program until Sept 20, 2026. The new cohort is scheduled to begin on Oct 5.

The institute said the addition of Class 9 students will allow learners to start exploring their interests, strengths and potential career options at an earlier stage of their schooling.

The School Connect Program is an outreach initiative of IIT Madras’ Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE). It is designed to connect school education with higher education by introducing students to disciplines and fields that may shape future academic and career choices.

IIT Madras said the initiative has already reached more than 4,900 schools and over 1.75 lakh students.

In a post on X, the institute said, "Explore 17 future-focused disciplines - from Data Science & AI, Aerospace and Cybersecurity to Economics & Finance, Law, Design, Humanities, Game Technology and more."

"Learn from faculty at IIT Madras and leading institutions through an 8-week online learning experience featuring lectures, live sessions, assignments and assessments," it added.

The institute further stated, "With 4,900+ schools and 1.75 lakh+ students already reached, School Connect is helping young learners make more informed choices about their future."

The eight-week online program will expose students to multiple disciplines through lectures, live classes, assignments and assessments, according to IIT Madras.

Students who successfully complete the program will receive an official IIT Madras CODE e-certificate.