The Indian Space Research Organisation is organising the YUVIKA 2026 Young Scientist Programme for students studying in Class 9 across the country, with applications open from February 27 to March 31, 2026. Selected students will receive training at ISRO space centres, with the organisation bearing the full cost of travel, accommodation and meals.
Programme Objective and Eligibility
The YUVIKA 2026 programme aims to provide foundational knowledge of space science and space technology to students at the school level. Students studying in Class 9 in any recognised school in the country as of January 1, 2026, are eligible to apply.
Under the programme, selected students will be trained at various ISRO space centres to gain practical exposure to space science, technology and STEM careers. The initiative is designed to help students develop scientific thinking and increase interest in space research from an early stage.
Application Timeline and Selection Process
The application process will begin on February 27 and continue until March 31, 2026. The first selection list will be released on April 13, and the final selection list will be announced on April 20, 2026. The programme will be conducted from May 11 to May 22, 2026.
Selection will be based on Class 8 marks, which will carry a weightage of 50 percent. Students from rural areas will receive an additional 15 percent weightage. Performance in an online quiz, participation in science exhibitions and Olympiads, and achievements in NCC, NSS, Scouts and sports will also be considered in the selection process.
Training at ISRO Centres
The YUVIKA 2026 programme will be conducted at nine major ISRO space centres, including Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Satish Dhawan Space Centre and U R Rao Satellite Centre. Selected students will undergo training at these centres to gain direct exposure to space missions and technology.
ISRO will bear the complete expenditure for selected students, including AC train travel, accommodation and food during the programme.
