IIT Madras Offers 17 Certificate Courses for Class 9 to 12 Students, Applications Open Till September 30

IIT Madras has introduced 17 certificate courses for students in Classes 9 to 12 through its School Connect Programme, giving school students an opportunity to explore subjects ranging from artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to aerospace, law, design and economics.

The School Connect Programme is a flagship outreach initiative of the Centre for Outreach and Digital Education. It is designed to help students gain early exposure to emerging and interdisciplinary fields before making important academic and career decisions.

The programme is open to students in Classes 9, 10, 11 and 12 from partnered schools. It aims to provide learners with opportunities to explore subjects beyond their regular school curriculum and develop a better understanding of possible higher education and career paths.

The 17 courses currently available under the programme cover a wide range of disciplines. Students can explore Introduction to Data Science and AI, Introduction to Electronic Systems, Introduction to Architecture and Design, Introduction to Engineering Biological Systems, Fun with Math and Computing, Introduction to Law and Math Unplugged: Games and Puzzles.

Other courses include The Fundamentals of Aerospace, Introduction to Ecology, Humanities Unplugged, Introduction to Chemical Engineering, Economics, Finance and Money Matters, Game Tech Explorers: Understanding Human, Machine and Play, Introduction to Product Design, Molecular Engineering: Opportunities and Challenges, Introduction to Cyber Security and Introduction to Digital Humanities.

The course selection gives students exposure to fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, aerospace, engineering, ecology, economics, humanities, law and product design.

Students enrolled through partnered schools are required to complete assignments and examinations as part of their chosen courses. Those who successfully complete the required assessments will receive e-certificates.

The initiative has already established partnerships with 4,920 schools, with more than 1.75 lakh students enrolled in the programme. The courses are intended to help students develop foundational knowledge and discover subjects that may match their interests and future career goals.

Schools can enrol eligible students from Classes 9 to 12 under the IIT Madras School Connect Programme. The last date for applications is September 30, 2026.

The courses are scheduled to begin on October 5, 2026. Students who complete the course requirements, including assignments and examinations, will be awarded e-certificates.

By providing early exposure to subjects such as AI, aerospace, molecular engineering, law and digital humanities, the programme aims to help school students explore a wider range of academic opportunities before making major decisions about higher education and careers.