IIT Madras Opens Registration for Free OOBT 2026 Programme; Apply by July 31, Classes Begin August 6

The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras has invited applications for its Out of the Box Thinking (OOBT) 2026 programme, a free online course aimed at enhancing learners’ creative and analytical abilities. Interested candidates can register until July 31, 2026, with classes scheduled to commence on August 6, 2026.

Designed for a wide audience including school and college students, teachers, professionals, and lifelong learners, the programme focuses on building logical reasoning, mathematical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

Developed by the BLoC (Building Learning through Out-of-the-Box Cognition) Technology Foundation at IIT Madras, the initiative is supported by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, and curated in collaboration with experts in mathematical sciences.

Key Highlights of IIT Madras OOBT 2026

Course Structure

The programme is divided into four levels, each spanning 10 weeks, offering structured study material, guided sessions, and hands-on exercises. The curriculum is designed to progressively strengthen analytical thinking and encourage innovative approaches to real-world challenges.

What Learners Will Gain

Participants will learn to:

• Approach problems from multiple perspectives
• Apply mathematical and computational thinking in real-life scenarios
• Enhance decision-making and critical thinking skills

IIT Madras Director Prof. V. Kamakoti highlighted that the programme will help learners develop a strong foundation in analytical reasoning and innovation, making it valuable for academics, research, and professional growth. This initiative presents a unique opportunity for learners across backgrounds to build essential 21st-century skills at no cost and from the comfort of their homes.

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