Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has opened applications for the October 2026 cohort of its School Connect Programme, expanding the initiative to include Class IX students for the first time as it looks to provide earlier exposure to academic disciplines and emerging career pathways.
The programme, implemented through the Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE) at IIT Madras, is open to students of Classes IX, X, XI and XII. Applications close on September 30, 2026, while the courses will commence on October 5, 2026.
Expanding access to career exploration
School Connect is designed to help students explore different academic fields before making important decisions on school streams, higher education and career choices.
The courses are available in English and Hindi, with development underway to introduce the modules in seven more regional languages.
The programme has already partnered with more than 4,900 schools, including over 60 schools outside India, and has benefited more than 1.75 lakh students since its inception. IIT Madras CODE now aims to expand its reach to 25,000 schools across India in the coming years.
IIT Madras, Chair, Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE), Prof. Andrew Thangaraj, said the expansion to Class IX would enable students to explore their interests earlier and make more informed academic decisions.
“School Connect was built to give students an opportunity to explore, experience and understand different fields before making important academic choices. We are particularly excited to open the program to Class IX students this year, because earlier exposure gives students more time to discover their interests and make informed decisions,” he said.
Courses across 17 disciplines
School Connect offers courses across 17 future-focused disciplines, designed and delivered by faculty from IIT Madras and other prominent institutions.
The disciplines include Data Science and AI, Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Electronic Systems, Chemical Engineering, Molecular Engineering, Architecture and Design, Product Design, Law, Economics and Finance, Humanities, Ecology, Digital Humanities, Game Technology, Mathematics and Computing, and Engineering Biological Systems.
Each course is structured as an eight-week online learning experience, combining pre-recorded lectures, live sessions, assignments and computer-based assessments. Students completing the prescribed requirements will receive an official e-certificate from IIT Madras CODE.
IIT Madras, Dean Academics, Prof. Prathap Haridas, said early exposure could play an important role in helping students understand their interests and the opportunities available to them.
“Through School Connect, we want to help students explore diverse fields, broaden their horizons and make informed choices about their future,” he said.
Opportunity for schools and parents
The initiative is also seeking greater participation from schools, with principals and school administrators invited to partner with the programme and offer students exposure to emerging disciplines and career pathways.
For students in Classes IX and X, the courses are intended to help them make informed decisions while choosing their Class XI and XII streams. Students in Classes XI and XII can use the exposure to different fields to better understand potential degree and career pathways.
Top-performing schools, students and teachers will also be invited to the IIT Madras campus for a felicitation ceremony and interaction with faculty and members of the institute.
For Class XII students, the programme additionally provides an opportunity to explore IIT Madras’ non-campus BS degree programmes while still in school.