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    IIT Madras Online Degree: Eligibility, Fees, Admission 2026, Syllabus, Exam, Placements

    IIT Madras Online Degree: Eligibility, Fees, Admission 2026, Syllabus, Exam, Placements

    Vivek KumarUpdated on 24 Feb 2026, 10:07 AM IST

    The Indian Institute of Technology, Madras (IITM) offers a range of online programmes across multiple streams at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. IIT Madras online degrees are designed to provide students with learning from anywhere. Anyone after class 12 with Physics and Maths can apply for IIT Madras online courses.

    This Story also Contains

    1. Online Degrees Offered by IIT Madras
    2. How Effective is IIT Madras Online Degree?
    3. IIT Madras Placement Statistics For BS Degree
    4. IIT Madras Online Degree Eligibility Criteria
    5. IIT Madras BS Degree Admission 2026
    6. IIT Madras BS Degree Syllabus
    7. IIT Madras Online Degree Exam Details
    IIT Madras Online Degree: Eligibility, Fees, Admission 2026, Syllabus, Exam, Placements
    IIT Madras Online Degree [2026]

    IIT Madras online degree is offered by the Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE). Students enrolled in the IIT Madras online degree benefit from a flexible learning model that includes recorded lectures, weekly assignments, and in-person quizzes. With the option to learn at one’s own pace, IIT Madras online courses offer a comprehensive pathway for students aiming to build expertise in data science, programming and other fields.

    Online Degrees Offered by IIT Madras

    Online DegreeIIT Madras Online Degree Fees
    BS in Data Science and ApplicationsRs 3,86,000 - Rs 4,50,000
    BS in Electronic SystemsRs 5,84,000
    BS in Aeronautics and Space TechnologyRs 6,12,000
    BS in Management and Data Science
    Rs 3,82,000 - Rs 4,46,000
    Web-Enabled M.TechRs 7,75,000 - Rs 10,80,000
    Diploma in ProgrammingRs 62,500
    Diploma in Data ScienceRs 62,500
    Diploma in Electronic SystemsRs 2,48,000
    Diploma in AeronauticsRs 2,04,000
    Diploma in Data Analytics for Business
    Rs 1,80,000

    IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications Course Highlights

    IIT Madras online degree offers students the flexibility to exit at multiple levels. Students are provided with pre-recorded lessons and assignments, along with doubt-clearing sessions, discussion forums, and access to quizzes. The table below showcases the highlights of the IIT Madras online degree programme:

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    Particulars

    Details

    Courses

    • Foundation Level
    • Diploma Level
    • BSc Degree Level
    • BS Degree Level

    Total Credits

    • BSc Degree: 114 credits
    • BS Degree: 142 credits

    Duration

    4 - 8 years

    Total Fees

    Rs 3,86,000 - ₹4,50,000

    Mode of Delivery

    Online

    Assessment

    Quizzes and End-Term Examinations


    Also Read: Top 16 IIT Madras Online Courses and Certifications

    How Effective is IIT Madras Online Degree?

    IIT Madars Online Degree is considered highly effective by many students in terms of rigorous curriculum, learning, and industry recognition. After the IIT Madras BS in Data Science and Applications degree, many students found it helpful for internships and jobs. The following table highlights the IIT Madras BS Data Science and Applications students self-secured internships based on different levels.

    Internships

    LevelMay 2024September 2024January 2025
    Foundation299380313
    Diploma653701462
    Degree18215687
    Total11341237862

    Source: IITM BS-DS: Career choices report: April 2025

    Self-secured Jobs

    LevelMay 2024September 2024January 2025
    Foundation105134108
    Diploma205353303
    Degree488060
    Total358567471

    Source: IITM BS-DS: Career choices report: April 2025

    Must Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science: Salaries, Career Growth for 2024 & 2025 Job Outcomes

    IIT Madras Placement Statistics For BS Degree

    Through IITM's BS placement cell (IIC), many students secured internships and placements, with highest salary package of Rs 15 LPA.

    ParticularSalary
    Minimum PackageRs 3.6 LPA
    Median PackageRs 8.09 LPA
    Highest PackageRs 15 LPA

    IIT Madras Online Degree Eligibility Criteria

    The IITM online degree programme eligibility criteria vary according to the degree level. Students must meet the required eligibility criteria defined by the institute. The table below highlights the IITM online degree eligibility criteria:

    Particulars

    Values

    Educational Qualifications

    • Candidates must have completed class 12 or equivalent and have studied Mathematics and English in class 10.
    • Candidates who completed a diploma recognised by AICTE or a state board of technical education of at least 3-year duration.


    Also Read: IIT Madras BS Data Science vs BS Electronic Systems: Which One to Pursue?

    IIT Madras BS Degree Admission 2026

    IIT Madras admission criteria differ according to the level of degree students wish to pursue. The table below showcases the admission requirements for each level of programme at IIT Madras:

    Degree Level

    Admission Requirement

    Foundation Level

    • Regular Entry: Applicants must complete a 4-week Qualifier Process, including coursework and weekly assignments in four foundational subjects, followed by a final Qualifier Exam.

    • JEE-based Entry: Candidates eligible to appear for the JEE Advanced are directly admitted.

    Diploma Level

    • Students secure admission after successfully completing all eight Foundation Level courses.

    BSc Degree Level (BSc in Programming and Data Science)

    • Students are admitted after completing all 8 courses in Foundation Level and all 12 courses + 4 projects in Diploma Level.

    BS Degree Level (BS in Data Science and Applications)

    • To progress to the BS Degree Level, learners must complete the BSc Degree Level and earn a total of 114 credits.


    Also Read: IIT Madras BS in Data Science And Applications: Worth Pursuing or Just Hype?

    IIT Madras Online Degree Application Process 2026

    The application process for the IIT Madras Online Degree September 2026 academic session will begin soon. Interested students should visit the official website to initiate the online application process. The admission process is mentioned as follows:

    Step 1: Registration and Login

    • Visit the official website: study.iitm.ac.in/ds/index.html
    • Register and Login providing details such as email Id and contact details.

    Step 2: Online application form

    • Navigate through the IIT Madras online degree programme page.
    • Submit the online application form.
    • Provide details such as personal, academic, and professional details.

    Step 3: Document Submission

    Students must upload the mentioned documents along with the online application form;

    • Passport size photo
    • Signature
    • Scanned government ID proof (Aadhar card/ PAN Card, etc.)
    • 12th Admit card with photo
    • Category certificate (only for SC/ ST/ OBC-NCL / EWS)
    • PwD certificate (only for applicants with 40% or more disability).
    • 10/12th/Bachelors/Diploma Marksheet

    Step 4: Application Fee

    • Submit the online application fee.
    • Pay the fees using various payment methods including Net Banking, UPI, credit/debit cards.

    Step 5: Final Selection & Enrolment

    • Upon successful submission of the online application form, students will be contacted for further procedure by the institute via email, phone, or SMS.

    IIT Madras Online Degree Application Process

    Also Read: Are Online Technical Degrees Valid in India?

    IIT Madras BS Degree Syllabus

    The syllabus of the IIT Madras online degree varies depending on the course level. Each level covers advanced topics to help students gain core knowledge in programming and data science applications. The following are the levels in an IIT Madras Online Degree curriculum:

    Foundation Level Syllabus

    This is the first level of the IITM Online Degree. The Foundation Level encompasses courses in Statistics, Mathematics, English, and Basics of Programming and Python. After completing the Foundation level, students will be able to proceed to the Diploma Level or may exit with a Foundational Certificate.

    Courses: 8

    Credits: 32

    Fees: Rs 48,000

    Duration: 1-3 years (10 hours per course/week)

    The Foundation Level courses include:

    • Mathematics for Data Science I
    • Statistics for Data Science I
    • Mathematics for Data Science II
    • Statistics for Data Science II
    • Computational Thinking
    • English I
    • Programming in Python
    • English II

    Diploma Level Syllabus

    The IITM Online Diploma Level offers courses for both the Diploma in Programming and the Diploma in Data Science, each comprising five core courses, two projects, and one skill enhancement course. Upon completion, students can choose to exit with a Diploma in Programming, a Diploma in Data Science, or both, or continue to the IIT Madras Online Degree Level.

    Courses: 12 (6 courses each) and 4 projects (2 projects each)

    Credited: 54 (27 credits each)

    Fees: Rs 1,29,000 (Foundation + One Diploma) and Rs 2,10,000 (Foundation + Two Diplomas)

    Duration: 1-3 years (15 hours per course/ week)

    IIT Madras Diploma in Programming Courses:

    • Database Management Systems
    • Programming, Data Structures, and Algorithms using Python
    • Modern Application Development I
    • Modern Application Development I - Project
    • Programming Concepts using Java
    • Modern Application Development II
    • Modern Application Development II - Project
    • System Commands

    IIT Madras Diploma in Data Science Courses:

    • Machine Learning Foundations
    • Business Data Management
    • Business Data Management - Project
    • Machine Learning Technqiues
    • Machine Learning Practice
    • Machine Learning Practice - Project
    • Business Analytics
    • Tools in Data Science
    • Business Data Management - Project (Option 1)
    • Business Analytics (Option 1)
    • Introduction to Deep Learning and Generative AI (Option 2)
    • Deep Learning and Generative AI - Project (Project 2)

    IIT Madras Online Degree Level Syllabus

    There are two levels of IIT Madras Online Degrees – Online BSc in Programming and Data Science and Online BS in Data Science and Applications. Once the learners complete the degree level along with the credits, they can exit with the IITM Online BSc in Programming and Data Science degree or proceed to the BS Degree Level. Similarly, once the student earns 142 credits, they can exit with an IIT Madras BS Degree in Data Science and Applications.

    Online BSc in Programming and Data Science

    Credits: 28 credits (Total 114 credits)

    Fees: Rs 2,86,000 - Rs 3,10,000

    Duration: 3 years

    Online BS in Data Science and Applications

    Credits: 28 credits (Total 142 credits)

    Fees: Rs 3,86,000 - Rs 4,50,000

    Duration: 4 years

    Online Degree Level Core Courses:

    Core Courses Option I

    • Software Testing
    • Software Engineering

    Core Courses Option II

    • AI: Search Methods for Problem Solving
    • Deep Learning

    Elective Courses:

    • Software Engineering
    • Software Testing
    • AI: Search Methods for Problem Solving
    • Deep Learning
    • Strategies for Professional Growth (Mandatory course)
    • Algorithmic Thinking in Bioinformatics
    • Big Data and Biological Networks
    • Data Visualization Design
    • Special topics in Machine Learning (Reinforcement Learning)
    • Speech Technology
    • Design Thinking for Data-Driven App Development
    • Industry 4.0
    • Sequential Decision Making
    • Market Research
    • Privacy & Security in Online Social Media
    • Introduction to Big Data
    • Financial Forensics
    • Linear Statistical Models
    • Advanced Algorithms
    • Statistical Computing
    • Computer Systems Design
    • Programming in C
    • Mathematical Thinking
    • Large Language Models
    • Introduction to Natural Language Processing (i-NLP)
    • Deep Learning for Computer Vision
    • Managerial Economics
    • Game Theory and Strategy
    • Corporate Finance
    • Deep Learning Practice
    • Operating Systems
    • Mathematical Foundations of Generative AI
    • Algorithms for Data Science (ADS)
    • Machine Learning Operations (MLOps)
    • Data Science and AI Lab
    • App Dev Lab
    • Computer Networks
    • Theory of Computation

    IIT Madras Online Degree Exam Details

    IIT Madras Online degree programme utilises a structured examination system to assess student performance across all levels. The evaluation process includes a combination of continuous assessments, such as weekly assignments, quizzes, and end-term examinations. End-term exams are conducted in person at designated examination centres across various cities within and outside India.

    Students are required to adhere to the examination schedule and guidelines provided by the institute. The IIT Madras online degree assessment ensures that students maintain a high standard of academic performance throughout the programmes.

    The IIT Madras Online Degrees provide learners with a comprehensive understanding of programming and data science, fulfilling the demand for data scientists. Students must visit the official website and verify the admission process and other requirements before securing their IIT Madras online degree admission.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

    Q: What is the duration of IIT Madras Online BS in Programming and Data Science?
    A:

    The duration of the IIT Madras BS in programming and data science is 5 years with a maximum duration of upto 8 years.

    Q: Who can pursue IIT Madras Online Degrees?
    A:

    The programme is open to learners from across the globe. Anyone who has completed class 12 or equivalent can apply for the IITM Online Degree programmes.

    Q: Will I get access to IIT Madras campus facilities after enroling in the course?
    A:

    As the classes are held online and students enrol from other countries, as well, learners will not have access to IITM campus facilities.

    Q: Is IIT Madras Online degree UGC Approved?
    A:

    As IITs are created under an Act of Parliament, the IIT Act, they do not come under UGC, and no IIT degrees need additional approval or recognition by UGC. The act provides all rights to IITs to confer degrees. Thus, the IITM online degree are recognised as a legal degree.

    Q: How can I pay for the IIT Madras online degree fees?
    A:

    The fees for the IITM online degrees can be paid only through online mode. You can pay the fees using any Credit Card, Netbanking, Wallet, and UPI. Fees through DD will not be accepted and payment using Debit card cannot be made.

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    Questions related to IIT Madras (IITM)

    On Question asked by student community

    Have a question related to IIT Madras (IITM) ?

    Hello,

    In 2025, IIT Madras JEE Advanced, closing ranks are around 171 for CSE, 306 for AI & Data Analytics, 849 for Electrical, about 1300 for Computational Engineering, around 1440 for Engineering Physics, 2468 for Mechanical, and about 6112 for Civil.

    To know more access below mentioned link:

    https://engineering.careers360.com/articles/jee-advanced-cutoff-for-iit-madras

    Hope

    Hello Aspirant,

    When applying to BS in Medical Sciences and Engineering at IIT Madras via the IAT (IISER Aptitude Test) for the OBC-NCL Female category, the suggested ranks and marks can differ every year depending on the level of difficulty or how many took the exam. However, based on the

    Hello aspirant,

    To get admission in the Dual Degree Aerospace Engineering (B.Tech + M.Tech) program at IIT Madras through JEE Advanced under the female quota, you should aim for a rank around 6000 to 6300 based on the previous year’s trends. In 2025, the closing rank for female supernumerary seats

    Hello,

    Yes, If you work hard and study regularly, you can definitely crack JEE Main and JEE Advanced.

    IIT Madras is tough, but many students from state boards have made it with good preparation. Focus on understanding concepts well, practice lots of questions, and solve previous years’ papers.

    Also, try

    With a preparatory rank of 3935, your chances of getting a seat at IIT Madras are unlikely. While a preparatory rank can sometimes lead to admission in less competitive IITs or specific courses, 3935 is a high rank within the preparatory category, and IIT Madras is one of the most