The Young Scholars Programme – Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) is a 10-day residential programme that introduces high schoolers to the world of cutting-edge science and technology. Emphasizing transdisciplinarity and applications of research, the programme equips students to navigate the evolving landscape of 21st-century sciences.
Yes, YSP Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) is an offline, residential programme and will be held in person at Ashoka University Campus in Sonipat, Haryana.
The programme schedule for YSP IST will include:
YSP Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) will be scheduled both in Edition 1 and 2.
*tentative schedule, subject to change
YSP Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) and YSP Tech, Data & Computer Science (TDCS) differ in their disciplinary focus.
YSP IST is rooted in the natural and physical sciences, introducing students to fields like physics, chemistry, and biology, along with emerging areas such as bioinformatics and sustainable energy.
YSP TDCS, on the other hand, focuses on computing, data science and technology, covering programming, algorithms, AI, and robotics, etc. emphasizing computational thinking and the real-world applications of digital systems.
No, there is no specific background required to participate in YSP IST. The programme welcomes students from all academic backgrounds.
No. YSP IST is not modeled on a particular school board. It is open to high school students from all educational boards—including CBSE, ICSE, IB, Cambridge, State Boards, and international curricula. The programme is rooted in Ashoka University’s pedagogy that uses a liberal, multidisciplinary, and interdisciplinary approach emphasizing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
A broad spectrum of cutting-edge topics will be explored across multiple disciplines, including biophysics, magnonics, medicinal chemistry, bioinformatics, and astrophysics. Students will participate in seminars, research showcases, and laboratory sessions led by faculty, gaining hands-on experience in addressing real-world problems while learning to think like scientists.
The topics for the programme have been carefully curated for a high-school audience. They are thought provoking, accessible and suitable for students across different boards and grades. It is recommended to students to read up on the speakers and their area of research in advance to better connect with the discussions and make the maximum out of the programme. The list of speakers is shared closer to the programme.
Lab sessions and workshops will be spread out across all days of the programme. Attendance in all sessions is mandatory, and choices between sessions are not available.
No, there is no need to bring any specific materials. The YSP team will provide all written or printed materials required for the sessions.
Yes, students are required to bring a laptop. Both Windows laptops and MacBooks are acceptable. However, tablets are not recommended as some of the workshops require the flexibility and functionality of a full laptop.
A laptop ensures that students can fully participate in hands-on activities, collaborate effectively, and explore digital resources during and beyond the sessions.
The speakers mentioned on the website are indicative based on previous YSPs. While the same ones may not be present, speakers of the same stature will be there to guide students.
No, there will not be separate groups based on grade or board for the seminars. However, smaller groups may be formed for the laboratory sessions.
Learning outcomes are spread across skills, applications, knowledge and attitude. Students will build a strong foundation with sessions focussing on the big questions in sciences and at the same time will be introduced to cutting edge topics in the field. They will learn experimental design at the University’s state of the art laboratories, while developing a scientific temperament and a sense of belonging in the science community.
Globally renowned faculties from Ashoka University, industry experts, scholars, and scientists provide insights on relevant career opportunities In most sessions, there is dedicated time for Q&A, where students can ask questions related to emerging fields, career options, etc.
Students will also have the opportunity to hold office hours with Ashoka’s undergraduate students who work as counselors during the programme to learn about their academic experiences in specific majors and minors, helping them make informed decisions.
Yes, you will receive a physical copy of a certificate of completion by Ashoka University provided you attend all sessions and participate meaningfully.
HSP Ambassadors are creative and proactive Young Scholars Programme (YSP) & Horizons Achievers Programme (HAP) alumni who are selected to represent YSP & HAP in their schools and among their networks.
YSP helps students gain clarity about future subject choices, college decisions, and career interests, while experiencing learning beyond school and a glimpse into university life. Students also join the YSP Alumni Network and can apply to be the Office of High School Programmes’s (HSP) Ambassadors.
Attending YSP Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) will give you an insight on different sciences, technology and allied disciplines combined with Ashoka’s multidisciplinary approach to higher education, along with a campus tour. This will surely help you explore your interests and assist you in submitting the undergraduate application form at Ashoka University. However, this does not guarantee admission to Ashoka University’s Undergraduate programme.
The Ashoka Young Scholars Programme is open to:
Selection in the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) will be based on –
YSP applicants must upload scanned copies of their original academic transcript/marksheet for the academic year 2025-26.
Please ensure that the mark sheets you upload meet the following guidelines:
No. YSP welcomes students from all academic backgrounds.
All updates regarding application status and enrollment decisions are shared via the applicant’s registered email address.
Yes. All enrolled students are required to review and adhere to the programme’s Code of Conduct and Terms & Conditions. The document provided below outlines the policies and expectations that applicants must read and agree to before enrolment.
Yes, there is a Waitlist. Applicants who are waitlisted will be notified as such via email. As enrolments are on a rolling basis, we will reach out to waitlisted applicants if a seat becomes available.
Yes. Students who have recently completed Grade 12 and are NOT yet enrolled in an undergraduate programme are welcome to apply.
Yes, many students return to YSP to explore a new disciplinary track and deepen their learning in another area of interest. We recommend choosing a different programme track to broaden your perspective and build on your previous YSP experience.
Yes, students may apply to and attend two or more programmes, provided the respective programme schedules do not overlap with each other.
Yes, the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) accepts applications from international students.
Applications for the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) open on 1st December 2026. The early deadline is on 7th March, 2027, 11:59 pm. We recommend applying early since enrollments happen on a rolling basis.
Students with questions about the application process can contact the YSP applications team at youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in. The YSP applications team closely monitors communications sent to this email and responds promptly to all queries.
Yes, the application fee is ₹1,000 (non-refundable) and must be paid when submitting the application.
The programme fees for programmes at YSP are as follows:
| Programme name | Programme Fee |
|
Rs 49,500 + GST |
|
Rs 85,000 + GST |
The programme fee includes academic sessions and structured activities, stationery and resource materials, accommodation, and meals for the duration of the programme.
Selected applicants must complete the payment and enrolment process within five days of receiving their offer.
Ashoka University shuttles are available for YSP students and their parents between the campus and Azadpur Metro Station, Delhi. Ashoka University does not provide direct transport from airports or railway stations. However, students are free to book transport on their own or use their own vehicles.
Please note: Updated schedule/changes (if any) will be shared closer to the programme
There is plenty to do outside the classroom. YSP students can use campus sports facilities, join creative workshops, and enjoy fun activities organised daily in the residence halls with peers from their floor. These activities provide opportunities for peer engagement, interaction, and networking.
For 10-day programmes, the weekend also includes specially planned workshops and activities, giving students more opportunities to explore, learn, and spend time with their peers.
YSP students stay on the Ashoka University campus in double-occupancy rooms, sharing their residential experience with peers from different programmes, schools, and backgrounds. Roommates are assigned based on gender and similar grade level, giving students the chance to meet new people and also build friendships beyond their own programme.
Four balanced meals are provided daily at the main campus dining hall: breakfast, lunch, evening snacks, and dinner, and are included in the programme fees. YSP students can choose from vegetarian, non-vegetarian, vegan, and Jain options at the campus mess. Additional food outlets are available across campus for snacks and other favourites, which students can purchase at their own expense.
YSP Students have access to a range of facilities and everyday essentials during their stay, including:
All regular meals are provided at the campus mess.
**Facility availability and timings are subject to change and will be updated closer to the programme.
Yes. YSP Students can bring their phones and laptops to use during their free time and throughout their stay. Mobile phones, however, are not permitted during academic sessions so students can stay engaged in class.
Students are supported throughout the programme by the YSP Programme Team and the YSP Student Counsellors, who are current Ashoka University undergraduate students. Lab Assistants and Teaching Assistants provide additional support during lab and workshop sessions. Together, these teams help students navigate campus life and provide guidance throughout their stay.
The Ashoka University campus has 24/7 security personnel stationed across the campus, including at entry and exit points and student residences. CCTV cameras monitor common areas, and access to campus and residential buildings is restricted to authorised individuals. Visitors must register at the main gate and present valid identification. Luggage screening is also conducted upon student arrival.
During YSP, students are expected to follow the programme’s safety and campus guidelines, including those related to campus access and leaving the campus.
Students have access to an on-campus infirmary staffed by experienced resident doctors, providing basic medical care and scheduled OPD services. The infirmary and ambulance services are available 24/7 to address medical needs and emergencies.
Yes. YSP students must carry a valid school or government-issued ID when entering or exiting the campus.
YSP Students are expected to remain on campus throughout the programme and cannot leave independently.
In case of an emergency, students must inform the YSP team by emailing youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in, keeping their parent/guardian in CC, and receive approval before leaving campus.
For 10-day programmes, students may leave campus over the weekend and return on Sunday, with parental consent. Enrolled students receive a parent consent form to share these details in advance. If there are any changes to the plans, students must inform the YSP team by emailing youngscholars@ashoka.edu.in.
Parents and guardians may accompany YSP students for drop-off and pick-up, but cannot stay on campus or visit during the programme, except on designated pick-up days.
Parents/guardians are also invited for a campus walk-through on arrival day at programme-specific times.
YSP Students are responsible for keeping their personal belongings and valuables, including cash, laptops, mobile phones, cameras, and jewellery, secure during the programme.
Any lost or stolen item should be reported to the Residence Life team or warden at the earliest