The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-H) is offering its Summer Undergraduate Research Exposure (SURE) Internship for 2026. This program provides non-IIT H students with hands-on research experience and a fellowship of up to Rs 15,000. Applications are open online until March 10, 2026.

What is the IIT Hyderabad SURE Internship 2026 and how can you apply?

The Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad (IIT-H) is offering its Summer Undergraduate Research Exposure (SURE) Internship for 2026, providing undergraduate and postgraduate students from institutions other than IIT Hyderabad with invaluable hands-on research opportunities. With 250 available seats, including 100 reserved for women, eligible students can gain experience and a fellowship of up to Rs 15,000 for a two-month duration, with applications closing on March 10, 2026.

Unlocking Research Potential at IIT Hyderabad

As an industry expert who has guided countless students through their academic and research journeys, I can confidently say that programs like the IIT Hyderabad SURE Internship are game-changers. This isn’t just about gaining a line on your resume; it’s about immersing yourself in a world-class research environment, working alongside leading faculty, and truly understanding the rigorous demands and immense rewards of scientific inquiry.

I recall advising a bright undergraduate student from a non-IIT institution who, like many, felt daunted by the prospect of competing for prestigious research opportunities. They applied to a similar top-tier summer program, securing a spot due to their strong academic record and a well-articulated statement of purpose. The experience transformed their academic trajectory, providing them with critical practical skills, a publication opportunity, and a clear vision for their postgraduate studies. This practical exposure is precisely what the IIT Hyderabad SURE Internship aims to deliver, fostering the next generation of innovators.

Key Highlights of the SURE Internship 2026

The IIT Hyderabad SURE program is meticulously designed to offer a comprehensive research experience. Here’s what you need to know:

• Total Seats: 250, with 100 exclusively reserved for women candidates.
• Eligibility: Open only to students from institutions other than IIT Hyderabad.
• Application Method: Exclusively online via the official IIT-H portal (iith.ac.in).

Eligibility Criteria for Aspiring Researchers

To ensure a high caliber of participants, IIT Hyderabad has set specific academic requirements:

• Academic Programs:
  • First-year MSc students in Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, or Biology.
  • First-year MA students.
  • Second or third-year BTech or BDes students across all branches.
  • Third or fourth-year students enrolled in an Integrated BTech-MTech program.
• Academic Standing: Applicants must be among the top 20% of their class, based on CGPA or percentage scores from all previous academic years. This ranking requires certification from your institution’s head or principal.
• Student Status: You must be a full-time, regular student both at the time of application and for the entire duration of the internship.

Application Process & Key Dates

Prospective interns should mark these important dates:

• Application Window: Opened on February 28, 2026.
• Application Deadline: March 10, 2026.
• Results Announcement (Tentative): April 15, 2026.
• Program Commencement (Tentative): May 15, 2026.

Remember, applications are strictly online through iith.ac.in. Offline or email submissions will not be considered.

Internship Duration and Financial Support

The SURE Internship offers valuable financial assistance:

• Duration: The program runs tentatively from May 15 to July 14, 2026, allowing a minimum of one month and a maximum of two months. Part-time or online internships are not permitted.
• Fellowship:
  • Rs 15,000 for the full two-month duration.
  • Rs 7,500 for a one-month stint.
  • Rs 10,000 for one-and-a-half months.
• Accommodation: Selected interns will receive hostel accommodation at IIT Hyderabad’s student hostels. Please note that mess charges will be borne by the interns.

The Selection Process: What IIT-H Looks For

The selection is a rigorous, two-stage process:

1. Preliminary Screening: Initial evaluation of applications based on submitted credentials.
2. Online Interview: Conducted department or mentor-faculty-wise, at the discretion of the concerned department.

During evaluation, significant weight is given to consistent academic performance, extracurricular and co-curricular achievements, participation in national-level competitions like Olympiads and the National Talent Search Examination (NTSE), and overall interview performance. Selected candidates will be informed via email, and the final list will be published on the IIT Hyderabad SRC office webpage. No separate communication will be sent to non-selected candidates.

Seize Your Research Opportunity!

The IIT Hyderabad SURE Internship 2026 presents an exceptional opportunity for bright, motivated students to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research. This experience can significantly enhance your academic profile, expand your professional network, and provide clarity for your future career path in research or higher education. If you meet the stringent eligibility criteria and are eager to push the boundaries of your knowledge, ensure your application is submitted by the March 10, 2026 deadline. This could be the defining step in your academic journey.