.jpg "Class IX Students Can Now Explore Careers With IIT Madras - Details Here")
Chennai, 9 September 2026: Students from Classes IX to XII will have an opportunity to explore emerging career fields and learn from faculty at the Indian Institute of Technology Madras through the IIT Madras School Connect Programme, which has opened applications for its October 2026 cohort.
For the first time, Class IX students are eligible to join the programme, giving younger learners an opportunity to explore their interests, strengths and possible career pathways before making important academic choices. Programme offers an eight-week online learning experience covering 17 future-focused disciplines.
17 disciplines to explore
Students can explore areas including:
- Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
- Aerospace
- Cybersecurity
- Economics and Finance
- Law
- Design
- Humanities
- Game Technology
Programme also covers other emerging and interdisciplinary areas, giving students an opportunity to understand different fields before deciding on their future academic and career direction.
Learn from IIT Madras faculty
Eight-week programme will include lectures, live sessions, assignments and assessments, enabling students to gain exposure to subjects beyond their regular school curriculum. Students who successfully complete the programme will receive an official IIT Madras CODE e-certificate.
Applications open until September 30
Applications for the October 2026 cohort are open until September 30, 2026.
Courses are scheduled to begin on October 5, 2026.
According to the programme information, School Connect has already reached more than 4,900 schools and 1.75 lakh students, helping young learners gain greater exposure to emerging fields and make more informed decisions about their future. For students and parents, the inclusion of Class IX students in the latest cohort provides an opportunity to begin career exploration earlier rather than waiting until the higher secondary years.
Important dates
- Application deadline: September 30, 2026
- Courses begin: October 5, 2026
- Eligibility: Classes IX–XII
- Format: Online, eight weeks
- Certificate: IIT Madras CODE e-certificate
Keywords: IIT Madras School Connect 2026, IIT Madras courses for school students, Class IX students, career exploration, AI courses for students, online courses IIT Madras, Citizen News Puttur