ISRO YUVIKA 2026: Applications Open for Class 9 Students, Free Internship with Travel and Stay Covered

Students fascinated by space science and technology now have a golden opportunity to step inside India’s premier space agency. The Indian Space Research Organisation has announced the YUVIKA 2026 programme, a two-week residential internship specially designed for Class 9 students across the country. Online applications will begin from February 27, 2026.

The programme, officially known as Young Scientist Programme (YUVIKA), aims to introduce school students to the fundamentals of space science, satellite technology, and real-world applications of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics). Selected students will receive complete financial support, including travel, accommodation and study material.

Who Can Apply for ISRO YUVIKA 2026?

Students studying in Class 9 as on January 1, 2026, in any recognized school in India are eligible to apply.

Important Dates

• Registration Starts: February 27, 2026

• Last Date to Apply: March 31, 2026

• First Selection List: April 13, 2026

• Second Selection List: April 20, 2026

• Programme Duration: May 11 to May 22, 2026

The internship will run for two weeks in May.

Objective of YUVIKA Programme

The core aim of YUVIKA 2026 is to:

• Encourage early interest in space science

• Provide exposure to satellite technology and launch systems

• Explain practical applications of space technology

• Promote STEM-based career awareness

Through expert lectures, practical demonstrations and interactive sessions, students will gain first-hand experience of how India’s space missions are designed and executed.

How to Apply?

Students can apply online through the official portal:
https://jigyasa.iirs.gov.in/yuvika

Applicants must fill out the form carefully and keep a printed copy for future reference.

Only students enrolled in recognized schools and studying in Class 9 as of January 1, 2026, will be considered eligible.

Selection Process Explained

Selection will be merit-based and structured as follows:

• Class 8 or latest exam marks: 50% weightage

• Online quiz performance: 10%

• Participation in science exhibitions and extracurricular activities: 2% to 10% (depending on level)

• Rural school students: Additional 15% weightage

Extra marks will also be awarded for:

• Sports competitions

• Scouts and Guides

• NCC or NSS participation

• Olympiad achievements

Additionally, ISRO has ensured minimum representation from every state and Union Territory to promote balanced participation across regions.

Training Centres for YUVIKA 2026

The programme will be conducted at nine major ISRO centres, including:

• Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre

• Satish Dhawan Space Centre

• U R Rao Satellite Centre

Students will get exposure to laboratories, launch facilities, satellite assembly units and interactive sessions with scientists.

ISRO Will Bear All Expenses

One of the most attractive aspects of the programme is that selected students will not have to bear any financial burden.

ISRO will cover:

• Study materials

• Accommodation

• Food expenses

• Travel costs

Travel reimbursement will be provided after ticket verification. Students will be reimbursed for Second AC train fare or equivalent bus fare.

Why YUVIKA Matters

YUVIKA is not just an internship — it is a career-shaping opportunity. For students interested in becoming space scientists, engineers or researchers, early exposure to India’s space ecosystem can be transformational.

The programme reflects ISRO’s long-term vision of nurturing scientific talent from a young age and strengthening India’s presence in global space research.

Interested students are encouraged to apply before the March 31 deadline and ensure all details are accurately submitted.