Starting with the academic year 2025-26, this initiative seeks to recognize exceptionally talented students who have excelled in highly competitive international Olympiads in subjects such as Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Biology, and Informatics, say sources from IIT Kanpur.

Admission through this route will allow a limited number of seats per department specifically for students who have undergone rigorous preparation and training in relevant Olympiad camps.

Eligibility

Eligibility for this pathway requires candidates to be of the same age as JEE (Advanced) candidates and to have taken their Class XII (or equivalent) exams for the first time in either the year of admission or the year prior, with Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics as compulsory subjects.

Candidates must have attended the relevant Olympiad training camp in the subject for which they are applying, say sources from IIT Kanpur.

Those who were previously admitted to IITs via JoSAA or had an IIT admission cancelled are not eligible.

Selection process

The selection process involves two stages. Initially, each department will review applicants based on their Olympiad rankings and shortlist candidates accordingly, say sources from IIT Kanpur.

These candidates will then participate in a written examination, which is mandatory, and an interview, if required.

At the Institute level, a selection committee, led by the Dean of Academic Affairs, will consolidate the recommendations from each department to ensure that the admissions process is streamlined, filling all available seats within each department without overlap.

Initiative

Prof. Shalabh, Dean of Academic Affairs, IIT Kanpur, said their Olympiad-based admissions initiative is designed to provide opportunities for the brightest minds who have excelled in international competitions.

We are cultivating a diverse academic environment rich in innovation and critical thinking, said Prof Shalabh of IIT Kanpur.

Our goal is to enhance our academic community with individuals who bring unique perspectives and exceptional analytical skills, he said.

Through this initiative, we aim to support and promote innovation in disciplines that are essential to India’s growth and global competitiveness, he said.

Timeline

The timeline for this new admission route is set to begin with the call for applications in early March 2025, say sources from IIT Kanpur.

The application window will close by the end of March, and departments will conduct their screenings and exams by May in the respective academic years.

Final offers will be extended in June 2025, giving applicants a streamlined timeline that allows adequate preparation and a clear path to admission.

Alternative pathway

Through this alternative pathway, IIT Kanpur is reserving seats in select departments for young innovators with exceptional analytical skills, making it one of the few institutes in India to directly recruit talent from prestigious global Olympiad platforms.

Renowned for its excellence in science and engineering education, IIT Kanpur has made significant contributions to research and development over the decades.

Its expansive, lush green campus spans 1,050 acres and hosts a rich array of academic and research resources.

The institute comprises 19 departments, 26 centers, three interdisciplinary programs, and two specialized schools across engineering, science, design, humanities, and management disciplines.

With over 590 full-time faculty members and more than 9,500 students, IIT Kanpur continues to be a leader in fostering innovation and academic rigor.

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