Chennai, February 26, 2025: The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has announced a direct admission pathway for its BS in Data Science and Applications program, eliminating the need for students to clear the Joint Entrance Examination (JEE). This decision provides a significant opportunity for students aspiring to build a career in data science, artificial intelligence, and analytics without undergoing the rigorous JEE selection process.

The BS in Data Science and Applications is designed as a flexible, online degree program that allows students to pursue diplomas, certificates, and a full-fledged degree based on their learning pace. It has been structured to cater to a broad range of students, including those from rural areas, working professionals, and individuals seeking career shifts into the tech industry.

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Process

Unlike the conventional BTech programs at IITs, where JEE Advanced is mandatory, this program follows a unique qualifier process for admission. Students will be required to:

• Enroll online and complete foundational courses offered by IIT Madras.
• Pass the qualifier test, which evaluates their understanding of mathematics, statistics, and computational thinking.
• Successfully clear this stage to progress to the core and advanced levels of the degree.

This multi-tier admission system ensures that students from diverse educational backgrounds can access world-class IIT education without the pressure of JEE rankings.

Key Features of the Program

• No JEE requirement – Open to all students interested in data science.
• Multiple exit options – Students can earn certificates, diplomas, or a full BS degree based on their progress.
• Online and flexible learning – Designed for students from all locations, including working professionals.
• Industry-focused curriculum – Covers machine learning, big data, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing.
• Affordable and accessible – IIT Madras aims to make high-quality technical education available to a broader student base.

Future Prospects and Industry Demand

With the increasing demand for data scientists, AI specialists, and analytics professionals, this program is expected to create new career pathways for students in banking, healthcare, finance, IT, and e-commerce sectors. IIT Madras’ initiative aligns with India’s growing digital economy and the need for skilled professionals in data-driven fields.

The admissions for the upcoming batch are now open, and interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the official IIT Madras portal.

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