CHENNAI : In a landmark move to democratize high-end technical education, the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has officially launched its Bachelor of Science (BS) in Aeronautics and Space Technology. This cutting-edge, skill-based undergraduate program is offered in an online format, breaking the traditional barriers of age and the highly competitive JEE (Joint Entrance Examination) requirement.

The program was formally inaugurated on campus by Prof. V. Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, alongside industry stalwarts including Dr. D.K. Sunil (Chairman and MD of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) and Dr. V. Sumantran (Former Chairman of Indigo Airlines). The initiative is designed to address the critical skill gap in India’s rapidly expanding "sunrise sectors" like Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), civil aviation, and satellite manufacturing.

Breaking Barriers: Direct Entry Without JEE

Perhaps the most significant highlight of this launch is that JEE is not mandatory. IIT Madras is utilizing a unique "Qualifier Process" to identify talent, allowing students to earn their way into the institute regardless of their past entrance exam performance.

• Regular Entry: Open to anyone who has passed Class 12 (with Physics and Mathematics) or an equivalent diploma. Applicants undergo a four-week qualifier phase involving coursework in Math, English, and Electronic Systems, followed by a Qualifier Exam.

• Direct Entry: Students who have qualified for the JEE Advanced 2025 or 2026 are eligible for direct admission into the foundation level.

• No Age Limit: The program welcomes school leavers, working professionals, and those currently pursuing other degrees.

A Flexible, Multi-Level Curriculum

Aligned with the National Education Policy (NEP), the program offers a modular structure with multiple exit options. Students can choose to pace their studies over 4 to 8 years, depending on their professional or academic commitments.

The curriculum focuses on high-demand skills such as Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Method (FEM), and aircraft/spacecraft design. While theory is delivered through recorded lectures and live tutorials, the program maintains IIT Madras's rigorous standards through mandatory on-campus laboratory courses and Sunday examinations held at designated centers across India.

Industry Support and Career Prospects

IIT Madras has partnered with its Centre for Outreach and Digital Education (CODE) to facilitate internships and placements. Graduates are expected to be scouted by global giants and public sector undertakings (PSUs), including:

• HAL, ISRO, and Boeing

• GE Aerospace and Rolls-Royce

• Honeywell, Ansys, and Siemens

"Aeronautics and space technology are exponentially growing sectors that need specialized manpower. This BS program is yet another effort by IIT Madras to democratize opportunity for all to enter these sectors," stated Prof. V. Kamakoti during the launch event.

Key Dates for May 2026 Batch

• Application Opens: February 9, 2026

• Application Deadline: May 31, 2026

• Qualifier Phase Starts: June 12, 2026

• Qualifier Exam: July 19, 2026

The total program fee is estimated to be approximately ₹6.12 Lakhs, with significant fee waivers of up to 75% available for students from low-income backgrounds, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder talent.