Chennai, May 1, 2025 — The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has announced the commencement of applications for its next batch of Bachelor of Science (BS) degree programs in Data Science and Applications and Electronic Systems. The mode through which these programs will be held is online, an innovation by IIT to make education accessible to everyone around the world, especially for those outside the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) framework.
Currently, over 38,000 learners are enrolled in these programs, which include working professionals, career shifters, international students, and school leavers. Notably, 25% of the enrolled students are women, and 20% are over the age of 30, which shows the diverse nature of the program.
Students who have cleared JEE Main are eligible for direct admission, while the others can qualify by completing a four-week online basic course, followed by an in-person qualifier examination, which means students should visit a center and give their exam. The deadline to apply is May 20, 2025, and applications can be submitted via study.iitm.ac.in.
The Data Science program is open to students from all streams, the basic requirement is that they have studied Mathematics and English in Class 10. The Electronic Systems program requires candidates to have studied Physics and Mathematics in Classes XI and XII.
Highlighting the benefits of these programs, Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, stated, “These BS programs reflect our vision to democratize access to IIT-quality education", which indirectly meant that the education will be available to students from all types of economic background, colour, and race.
He further highlighted that three of the top 10 All India Ranks in GATE 2025 Data Science and AI were secured by students from the BS Data Science program, including the top rank, which proves the seriousness shown by everyone involved in the program. Which includes the students, who are receiving education of excellent quality from the institution.
Prof. Andrew Thangaraj, Program Coordinator, mentioned that high-performing students have a pathway to pursue M.Tech or MS degrees at IIT Madras.
These programs offer multiple entry and exit options, allowing students to exit with a certificate or diploma or continue toward a BSc or BS degree. This program is online, but the exams should be given in centers which are across India and abroad. There is no age limit, and the programs offer strong financial support for deserving students. Graduates earn IIT Madras alumni status with the Senate-approved BSc/BS degree.
