ISRO YUVIKA 2026 (Yuva Vigyani Karyakram) is a national space science outreach program conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The initiative introduces school students to the fundamentals of space science, space technology, and space applications.
The YUVIKA program is designed for Class 9 students studying in recognised schools across India. Selected participants attend a two-week residential training program conducted at designated ISRO centres.
The training includes lectures, demonstrations, and practical exposure to topics such as satellite technology, rocket propulsion, space missions, and astrophysics. Participants interact with scientists and researchers and observe how space technologies are developed and tested.
The YUVIKA program 2026 runs from 11 May to 22 May 2026. Online applications open on 27 February and close on 31 March.
Quick Overview – ISRO YUVIKA 2026
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | YUva VIgyani KAryakram (YUVIKA) |
| Organising Organisation | Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) |
| Program Type | Residential space science training programme |
| Target Participants | Students studying in Class 9 |
| Programme Duration | Two weeks |
| Programme Dates | 11 May – 22 May 2026 |
| Application Mode | Online registration |
| Registration Start Date | 27 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
| First Selection List | 13 April 2026 |
| Final Confirmation List | 20 April 2026 |
| Programme Centres | Selected ISRO centres across India |
| Programme Cost | Fully sponsored by ISRO |
About ISRO YUVIKA Program
YUva VIgyani KAryakram (YUVIKA) is a young scientist programme conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). The initiative introduces school students to the fundamentals of space science, space technology, and space applications.
The program is organised as a two-week residential training program. Selected participants attend sessions conducted by scientists and technical experts at designated ISRO centres.
The curriculum includes structured learning on topics such as satellite technology, rocket propulsion systems, space missions, and astrophysics. Sessions combine classroom lectures with demonstrations and practical exposure to space-related technologies.
During the ISRO Yuvika program, students interact with ISRO scientists and researchers, gaining exposure to the working environment of India’s space agency and the technologies used in satellite development and space exploration.
Related: ISRO IISU Internship 2026
Important Dates for YUVIKA 2026
The application process for ISRO YUVIKA 2026 follows a fixed timeline. Students must complete the online registration before the closing date, after which ISRO releases the selection lists and program schedule.
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Online Registration Opens | 27 February 2026 |
| Application Deadline | 31 March 2026 |
| First Selection List Announcement | 13 April 2026 |
| Second Confirmation List | 20 April 2026 |
| YUVIKA Programme Dates | 11 May – 22 May 2026 |
Selected students attend the two-week residential program conducted at ISRO centres during the scheduled program period.
Related: ISRO URSC Internship 2026
Program Structure and Learning Activities
The program at ISRO YUVIKA is designed to connect theoretical science concepts with practical exposure to space technologies. The training introduces participants to how scientific knowledge is applied in real space missions.
The curriculum includes structured sessions on several areas of space science and engineering.
- Satellite technology
- Rocket propulsion systems
- Space missions
- Astrophysics
The programme combines classroom instruction with hands-on activities. Participants engage in exercises designed to demonstrate how space systems are developed and tested.
- Model rocket experiments
- Simulated satellite payload design activities
- Demonstrations related to space technology
Students also interact with ISRO scientists and researchers during the programme. These sessions provide direct exposure to the scientific and engineering work carried out within the organisation.
The YUVIKA program is conducted across multiple ISRO centres, allowing participants to observe how different components of space research and technology development are organised within the agency.
Related: VSSC Internship 2026
Eligibility Criteria for YUVIKA 2026
ISRO defines specific eligibility conditions for participation in the Yuva Vigyani Karyakram (YUVIKA). Applicants must meet the academic and school requirements specified in the official programme announcement.
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Class Requirement | Applicant must be studying in Class 9. |
| Academic Status Date | The student must be in Class 9 as of 1 January 2026. |
| School Requirement | The student must be enrolled in a recognised school in India. |
Students who meet these conditions may submit the online application during the official registration period announced for the program.
Related: UNICEF Internship Program 2026
Selection Criteria and Weightage
The selection process for ISRO YUVIKA 2026 follows a defined evaluation framework. Applicants are assessed based on academic performance and participation in science-related and extracurricular activities.
Each factor contributes a specific percentage to the overall selection score.
| Selection Factor | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Marks obtained in Class 8 examination | 50% |
| Studying in a rural school | 15% (Aimed at promoting inclusivity) |
| Participation in ISRO-conducted quiz competitions | 10% |
| Participation in recognised science fairs | Up to 10% |
| Participation in Olympiad competitions | 5% |
| Participation in NCC / NSS / Scouts & Guides | 5% |
| Sports achievements at recognised levels | 5% |
The final selection list is prepared using the combined score calculated from these criteria.
Related: ICT Summer Internship Mumbai 2026
How to Apply for YUVIKA 2026
Applications for the YUva VIgyani KAryakram (YUVIKA) must be submitted through the official online portal before the 31 March 2026 deadline. Students need to complete the multi-step registration process and provide the required academic and supporting information.
- Visit the official ISRO Antriksh Jigyasa portal.
- Navigate to the YUVIKA 2026 registration link.
- Fill in the required personal, academic, and extracurricular details.
- Submit a brief essay explaining interest in space science.
- Upload the required scanned documents, including a bonafide certificate signed by the school principal.
- Submit the completed application before the closing date.
After the registration period closes, ISRO evaluates applications according to the defined selection criteria and publishes the selection lists based on the program timeline.
Related: Oracle Internship 2026
Facilities Provided to Selected Students
The ISRO YUVIKA program is conducted as a fully sponsored residential training program. Selected students receive logistical and academic support during the program period.
| Facility | Details |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | Residential accommodation is provided during the programme at the designated ISRO centre. |
| Food | Meals are arranged for students throughout the programme duration. |
| Travel Support | Travel assistance is provided according to the programme guidelines. |
| Training Sessions | Lectures, demonstrations, and practical sessions are conducted by ISRO scientists and technical experts. |
| Study Materials | Learning materials required for programme activities are provided to participants. |
These arrangements allow students to participate in the YUVIKA program activities conducted at the ISRO centre during the scheduled training period.
Related: Indian Academy of Sciences – SRFP
FAQs on ISRO YUVIKA 2026
🔽 What is ISRO YUVIKA?
YUva VIgyani KAryakram (YUVIKA) is a young scientist program conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It introduces school students to space science, space technology, and space applications through a two-week residential training program.
🔽 Who can apply for YUVIKA 2026?
Students studying in Class 9 as of 1 January 2026 and enrolled in a recognised school in India are eligible to apply for the program.
🔽 What is the duration of the YUVIKA program?
The programme is conducted for a two-week period. The scheduled dates for the current cycle are 11 May to 22 May 2026.
🔽 What is the last date to apply for YUVIKA 2026?
The online application deadline is 31 March 2026. Applications must be submitted through the official registration portal before this date.
🔽 How are students selected for YUVIKA?
The selection process follows a weightage-based evaluation. The score is calculated using factors such as Class 8 marks, rural school background, participation in ISRO quizzes, science fairs, Olympiads, NCC/NSS/Scouts activities, and sports achievements.
🔽 Is the YUVIKA program free for selected students?
Yes. The program is conducted as a fully sponsored residential training program. ISRO provides accommodation, meals, study materials, and training sessions during the program period.
🔽 When will the YUVIKA selection list be announced?
The first selection list is scheduled to be released on 13 April 2026, followed by the final confirmation list on 20 April 2026.
