If you’re a student dreaming of a research-driven career—and wondering what it actually takes to get there—the IIT Madras Summer Fellowship Programme (SFP) 2026 might just be the launchpad you need.Designed as an intensive two-month, goal-oriented research internship, the programme opens the doors of IIT Madras to bright young minds from engineering, science, humanities and management streams. The idea is simple but powerful: give motivated students early exposure to high-quality academic research, guided by some of the country’s best faculty.Who can apply?The fellowship is open to students with strong academic credentials who are:• In the 3rd year of UG programmes (B.E./B.Tech/B.Sc Engg./3-year B.Sc with Physics, Chemistry & Mathematics), or• In the 3rd or 4th year of Integrated/Dual Degree programmes, or• In the 1st year of M.Sc/M.A/MBAApplicants are encouraged to highlight achievements beyond grades—think research projects, seminars, Olympiads, design contests or academic awards. One clear caveat: students from IITs are not eligible.What does the programme offer?The 2026 fellowship is expected to run from 18 May to 17 July 2026. Selected students will receive a stipend of ?15,000 per month, for up to two months, prorated if required. Hostel and mess facilities are available on a paid basis, subject to availability.Fields you can work inThe programme spans a wide range of disciplines—from Computer Science, Data Science & AI, Electrical, Mechanical and Civil Engineering, to Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, Humanities & Social Sciences, and Management Studies. In short, there’s room here for both hardcore lab researchers and theory-driven thinkers.How to applyApplications are fully online. You’ll need scanned copies of documents like academic mark sheets, bonafide certificate, Aadhaar, photograph and category certificate (if applicable), all within prescribed size limits. There’s also a non-refundable application fee of Rs 100.The application portal opens on 2 February 2026, and the deadline is 2 March 2026 at 5:00 pm. No hard copies are required—but incomplete applications will be rejected, so attention to detail matters.For students serious about research—or even those just testing the waters—this fellowship can be a defining early chapter in a long academic or innovation-focused career.
