ISRO YUVIKA 2026: Eligibility, Important Dates, Selection Criteria & Full Schedule for Two-Week Residential Programme

The Indian space research Organisation (isro) has officially announced the launch of YUVIKA 2026 — the Young Scientist Programme (YUva VIgyani KAryakram) — a prestigious two-week residential course designed to introduce school Students to the fundamentals of space technology, Space Science, and space applications.

The initiative reflects ISRO’s long-standing vision to “catch them young” by nurturing curiosity and inspiring students to pursue careers in STEM fields — Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Online registration for ISRO YUVIKA 2026 will open on February 27, 2026, and remain active until March 31, 2026. Students studying in Class 9 as on January 1, 2026, in recognized schools across India are eligible to apply.

ISRO YUVIKA 2026: Important Dates

The two-week residential programme will be conducted from May 11 to May 22, 2026, at designated ISRO centres across the country.

Eligibility Criteria for ISRO YUVIKA 2026

• Applicants must be studying in Class 9 as on January 1, 2026.
• Students must be enrolled in recognized schools within India.
• Selection will be merit-based and follow a structured weightage system.

ISRO has also ensured minimum representation from each State and Union Territory, promoting equal opportunity and national inclusivity.

Selection Process & Weightage Criteria

Participants will be shortlisted through a multi-parameter evaluation process. The selection mechanism ensures academic merit while also encouraging extracurricular excellence.

The inclusion of extra credit for Olympiads, athletics, and youth organizations such as NCC, NSS, Scouts, and Guides ensures that well-rounded students are recognized.

Importantly, students studying in rural or Panchayat-area schools receive a 15% weightage, reinforcing ISRO’s commitment to promoting scientific talent from underserved regions.

ISRO Centres Hosting YUVIKA 2026

The residential programme will be conducted at nine premier ISRO facilities across India, including:

• Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
• Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC)
• U R Rao Satellite Centre (URSC)
• Other major ISRO establishments across the country

During the programme, students will receive hands-on exposure to:

• Rocket science fundamentals
• Satellite technology
• Space applications
• Interaction with ISRO scientists and engineers
• Laboratory visits and technical demonstrations

Expenses & Travel Reimbursement

ISRO will bear the full cost of:

• Course materials
• Accommodation
• Boarding and meals

Additionally, travel expenses will be reimbursed up to II AC train fare or equivalent bus fare upon submission of original tickets, ensuring that financial constraints do not prevent participation.

Why YUVIKA Matters

YUVIKA has emerged as one of ISRO’s flagship outreach initiatives, designed to ignite scientific curiosity at an early stage. By exposing students to India’s cutting-edge space ecosystem, the programme aims to cultivate the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

For students passionate about Space Exploration, satellite technology, and India’s growing role in global space missions, YUVIKA 2026 offers a rare opportunity to step inside ISRO’s world-class facilities and learn directly from experts.

With limited seats and a highly competitive selection process, eligible students are encouraged to apply early once registration opens on February 27, 2026.

As India continues to expand its footprint in space research and planetary missions, initiatives like YUVIKA play a crucial role in shaping the scientific leaders of tomorrow.