Classes 9–12 Can Now Explore AI, Aerospace and Cybersecurity Through IIT Madras Courses
IIT Madras has opened applications for its October 2026 School Connect programme for Classes 9–12, offering 17 eight-week courses across AI, aerospace, cybersecurity, game technology and more.The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has opened applications for the October 2026 cohort of its School Connect programme, expanding the initiative to students of Classes 9 to 12 for the first time. Applications are open until September 30, 2026, and courses will begin on October 5.
The programme, implemented through IIT Madras’ Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), offers 17 future-focused disciplines, including:
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Aerospace
- Cybersecurity
- Electronic Systems
- Chemical Engineering
- Molecular Engineering
- Architecture and Design
- Product Design
- Game Technology
- Mathematics and Computing
- Engineering Biological Systems
- Ecology
- Law
- Economics and Finance
- Humanities
- Digital Humanities
The courses are designed to help students explore emerging fields before making important decisions about their Class 11–12 streams, higher education and careers.
Eight-week online courses
Each course runs for eight weeks and combines recorded lectures, live interactive sessions, assignments and computer-based assessments. Students who meet the prescribed requirements receive an official e-certificate from IIT Madras CODE. The courses are available in English and Hindi, with content in additional regional languages under development.
The programme is open to students from partnered schools. IIT Madras says School Connect has already reached more than 1.75 lakh students across 4,900+ schools, including schools outside India.
Interested parents and students should approach their school management regarding participation and registration through the official IIT Madras School Connect portal.