The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) is offering its Summer Fellowship Programme 2026, a two-month internship designed to foster academic research skills among students from diverse disciplines. This fellowship provides a unique opportunity to work closely with IIT Madras faculty, gain hands-on research experience, and explore advanced topics in engineering, sciences, management, and humanities.
This guide provides all the details including eligibility, application process, deadlines, stipend, and essential instructions for aspiring candidates.
Overview of the Programme
The IITM Summer Fellowship Programme aims to:
- Encourage awareness and interest in high-quality academic research.
- Offer a goal-oriented summer internship experience under IIT Madras faculty supervision.
- Allow students to engage in research projects, experiments, or design work relevant to their discipline.
Duration: Approximately 2 months
Tentative Dates: 18th May 2026 – 17th July 2026
Stipend: ₹15,000 per month, prorated for the actual duration of the internship.
Accommodation: Hostel and mess facilities are available on a payment basis, subject to availability.
Who Can Apply – Eligibility Criteria
The programme targets students who demonstrate strong academic performance and a keen interest in research:
- Undergraduate Students:
- 3rd-year students of BE / B.Tech / B.Sc Engineering
- 3-year B.Sc students with Chemistry, Physics, and Mathematics backgrounds
- Integrated/Dual Degree Students:
- 3rd or 4th-year students of Integrated Masters (M.E./M.Tech/M.Sc)
- Postgraduate Students:
- 1st-year M.Sc., M.A., or MBA students with outstanding academic achievements
Important Notes on Eligibility:
- Applicants must have a proven academic track record, including seminar presentations, project work, participation in design contests, Olympiad rankings, or other awards.
- Students currently enrolled at IITs are not eligible.
Participating Departments
The fellowship is open to students from multiple disciplines:
Engineering Departments
- Aerospace Engineering
- Applied Mechanics & Biomedical Engineering
- Biotechnology
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Science & Engineering
- Data Science and AI
- Engineering Design
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Medical Science and Technology
- Metallurgical & Materials Engineering
- Ocean Engineering
Science Departments
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematics
Humanities & Social Sciences
Management Studies
Application Requirements – Documents Checklist
Before starting your application, ensure the following soft copies are ready:
- Passport-Size Photo: JPEG/PNG format, max 2 MB
- Category Certificate: (if applicable) PDF format, max 2 MB
- Aadhar Card: PDF format, max 2 MB
- Bonafide Certificate: Letter from your college/institution certifying that you are a bonafide student (PDF, max 2 MB). Templates are provided for UG/DD and PG students.
- Academic Records: Consolidated mark sheets/certificates from 10th, 12th, Polytechnic (if applicable), and all completed semesters (PDF, max 2 MB).
Application Fee: ₹100 (non-refundable)
Payment can be made via Debit/Credit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
How to Apply
1. Register on the Portal
- The online application portal will open on 2nd February 2026.
- Click here to register using your valid email address and create a password.
2. Fill in Personal & Academic Details
- Provide personal information (name, contact, date of birth, etc.).
- Enter academic details and achievements, including research, projects, awards, or contests.
3. Upload Required Documents
- Upload all documents as per the Checklist above.
- Ensure the file format and size comply with portal requirements.
4. Pay the Application Fee
- Submit the non-refundable ₹100 application fee online.
5. Submit Application
- Review all information carefully.
- Incomplete or incorrect submissions will be rejected.
- After submission, you will receive login credentials to track your application.
Important Note:
- No hard copy submission is required.
- The portal allows viewing and editing of the application until the last date.
Key Dates & Deadlines
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Portal Activation | 2nd February 2026 |
| Last Date for Online Submission | 2nd March 2026, 5:00 PM |
| Programme Duration | 18th May – 17th July 2026 |
Selection Process
- Candidates will be shortlisted based on academic excellence, research interest, and achievements.
- Selected candidates will be informed via email.
- Hostel and stipend arrangements will be communicated post-selection.
Stipend and Accommodation Details
- Stipend: ₹15,000 per month, prorated for actual stay.
- Hostel & Mess: Available on payment basis, subject to availability.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Highlight research projects, publications, or seminar presentations.
- Include achievements in mathematics, science contests, or Olympiads.
- Provide a complete and well-organized academic record.
- Ensure all documents are clear and legible in PDF/JPEG format.
- Double-check the application portal for errors before final submission.
