IIT-M Opens Admissions for Online BS Degree Courses

Synopsis:

IIT Madras has opened admissions for four online BS degree programmes, including Data Science, Electronic Systems, Management and Data Science, and Aeronautics. The application process for Class 12 students who meet the requirements will remain open until May 31.

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has officially opened admissions for its online Bachelor of Science (BS) degree programmes for the 2026 academic cycle. The institute is inviting applications for its four flexible undergraduate programs which enable students from various academic and professional backgrounds to obtain IIT-level education. The current admission cycle will close its application process on May 31 2026.

The university provides online Bachelor of Science programs which include Bachelor of Science degrees in data science and applications, electronic systems, management and data science, and aeronautics and space technology. The programs accept students who have completed their 12th grade education or possess equivalent qualifications without any restrictions on maximum age. Students can pursue these courses either as standalone degrees or alongside regular college programmes such as BCom, BSc, BBA, or engineering courses.

IIT Madras stated that the programmes are designed to provide flexibility without compromising academic quality. The majority of course materials Students learn through online platforms which offer most of the course content. The curriculum has been developed with industry participation and focuses on emerging technologies, data-driven skills, electronics, computational thinking, and interdisciplinary learning.

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The programmes do not require JEE Advanced as a mandatory entrance examination. Most students can enter through a qualifier process that includes online coursework, assignments, and examinations. JEE Advanced 2026 qualified candidates can enter Foundation Level directly without taking the qualifier examination. The IIT Madras institution has established a direct admission process for JEE-qualified candidates who meet eligibility criteria.

The institute showed that students who complete their BS degrees can choose from various exit options which enable them to obtain certificates and diplomas or entire degrees based on their completed credits. More than 36,000 learners are currently enrolled in IIT Madras online degree programmes which include both working professionals and students who are pursuing dual degrees at the same time. Eligible students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds can receive fee waivers that cover up to 75 percent of their costs.

Professor Prathap Haridoss, Dean of Academic Courses at IIT Madras, explained that the programmes aim to help students develop fundamental skills for technology and management and interdisciplinary problem-solving which will enhance their career prospects in emerging fields. The experts think that these flexible online degree programs create a new way for Indian students to access top-quality technical education.