YSP Innovators in Science & Tech – FAQs

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:

• Faculty sessions exploring core concepts in neuroscience, biotechnology, astrophysics, robotics, AI, genetic engineering, environmental chemistry, and digital health, among others
• Workshops and hands-on projects
• Inspiring speaker sessions with visionary founders and innovators
• Co-curriculars and social activities in the evenings

YSP Innovators in Science & Tech (IST) will be scheduled both in Edition 1 and 2.

• Edition 1: May 18 to May 29, 2026
• Edition 2: June 1 to June 12, 2026

*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.

YSP IST nurtures scientific curiosity and rigour by immersing students in the natural and physical sciences. Students learn to think critically, experiment, and connect science with real-world challenges, preparing them for future studies and careers in research, engineering, and innovation. The programme also gives students a glimpse into university-level scientific exploration and helps them identify areas of interest in the sciences. Graduates join the YSP Alumni Network and can apply to become HSP Ambassadors, becoming part of a vibrant community of young scientists and thinkers.

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.

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:

• Students entering Grades 9–12
• Students who have completed Grade 12 but are not yet enrolled in an undergraduate programme

Selection in the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) will be based on –

1. Academic performance: Applicants must upload scanned copies of their previous two years’ original academic transcripts/marksheets.
   Please ensure that the mark sheets you upload meet the following guidelines:
   – Please upload clearly scanned copies that are neither cropped nor blurred.
   – The marksheet must be authorised by the school, with your name, the school name, and the official stamp clearly visible.
   – For board examinations, only original marksheets (hard copies) issued by the respective board will be accepted. Digital/electronic marksheets will not be considered.
   – If your Grade 10 board results are still pending, please upload either your final marksheets for Grades 8 and 9, or your final Grade 9 marksheet along with your Grade 10 mid-term marksheet.
   – Similarly, if your Grade 12 board results are still pending, please upload either your final marksheets for Grades 10 and 11, or your final Grade 11 marksheet along with your Grade 12 mid-term marksheet.
   – Double-check that the correct mark sheets have been uploaded before submitting your application.
2. Essay submission: Applicants will be evaluated on content, clarity, and, originality.
3. Co-curricular activities: This includes participation and achievements in competitions, leadership roles, community initiatives, creative pursuits, or sustained engagement in activities such as sports, music, or the arts. YSP looks for open-minded and curious learners who demonstrate initiative and commitment beyond the classroom.

No. All eligible students are welcome to apply, regardless of their prior academic background. This programme is designed for anyone interested in exploring cutting-edge fields of science and technology, and in developing the skills to innovate and think critically about the future.

All updates regarding application status and enrollment decisions will be shared via the applicant’s registered email address.

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. All participants 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 enrollment.

YSP 2026 Code of Conduct

Yes. Candidates who are placed on the waitlist will be informed accordingly. As enrollments take place on a rolling basis, waitlisted students may be contacted if a spot 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 don’t overlap with each other.

Yes, the Young Scholars Programme (YSP) accepts applications from international students.

The Young Scholars Programme (YSP) applications open on 1st December 2025, and close on 26th April 2026 (11:59 PM IST). We recommend applying early since enrollments happen on a rolling basis.

Yes, the application fee is ₹1,000 (non-refundable) and must be paid when submitting the application.

The programme fee is ₹85,000 + GST. This covers all programme costs, including:

• Academic sessions and activities
• Stationery and resource materials
• Accommodation
• Meals

Yes. Need-based scholarship is available for eligible applicants. Students can apply for need-based scholarship through the YSP application form, which opens on 1st December 2025. The early Application & Need-based scholarship Deadline is 8th March 2026. Applicants will need to submit documents detailing their parents’ income. The YSP applications team will review the application, considering financial need, and a scholarship offer will be communicated accordingly, which will cover 100% of the programme fee.

Students must complete the payment and enrollment process within five days of receiving their offer.

The refund policy for all programmes under Ashoka Young Scholars Programme (YSP) is as follows:

• If you withdraw anytime till 12th April, 2026 (Before 11:59 PM IST) – then 100% of the course fee will be refunded.
• If you withdraw between 12th April, 2026 (Post 11:59 PM IST) – 26th April, 2026 (11:59 PM IST), then 50% of the course fee will be refunded.
• If you withdraw anytime after 26th April, 2026 (11:59 PM IST), then 0% of the course fee will be refunded.

All refunds will be initiated and processed only after The Ashoka Young Scholars Programme (YSP) 2026 concludes.

A  request for migration refers to a student’s request to shift their application or enrollment from one YSP edition to another after submission.

• Migration of an application for YSP 2026 is not permitted once submitted. Only in case of an unavoidable reason or emergency, a migration request may be considered only between the two YSP editions (Edition 1: May or Edition 2: June).
• Students will not be allowed to change their programme of choice as part of a migration request.
• No migrations will be allowed post the final application deadline for YSP 2026.
• Migration between editions is contingent upon the availability of seats in that edition, and the decision of the YSP Applications Team shall remain final.
• If the application deadline is extended for new applicants, then such an extension shall not re-open migration. The extension applies only to new applicants and not to existing students seeking to migrate to a later or earlier edition.

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.

Parents or guardians may accompany students for drop-off and pick-up, but they cannot stay on campus or visit during the programme, except on designated pick-up days.

Yes. Students must carry a valid school or government-issued ID when entering or exiting the campus.

• Students are generally not permitted to leave campus during the programme. Exceptions may be made in case of emergencies, with prior notification from the student’s parent or guardian to the YSP team.
• For 10-day programmes, students may leave campus for the weekend and return on Sunday, if they have parental consent and inform the YSP team well in advance.

• In addition to regular classes, YSP offers a variety of extracurricular and community activities. Students can participate in sports, creative workshops, and networking events, designed to foster learning, collaboration, and fun.
• For 10-day programmes, special workshops and activities are also planned over the weekends, ensuring a well-rounded experience that goes beyond the classroom.

The Ashoka University campus is well-equipped to support students’ learning, recreation, and overall well-being throughout the programme. The students have access to the following facilities –

• A well equipped infirmary which has a 24X7 ambulance and provides free-of cost basic first-aid and medical assistance
• Unisex salon
• Documentation Centre with printing and photocopying facilities (10am-6pm)
• Tuck shop with general grocery items (Monday to Saturday: 10am-12 midnight and Sunday 10am- 10 pm)
• A book-cum-stationery store (9:30am – 7pm)
• Students will have access to drinking water coolers, microwave, refrigerator, and induction plates.
• However, please note that all meals are provided at the mess.
• Various food outlets

Please note: Change/update in facilities (if any) will be shared closer to the programme.

Students are supported by YSP Counsellors (undergraduate students) from Ashoka University, along with the YSP team. In the lab sessions and workshop sessions, Lab Assistants and Teaching Assistants provide additional guidance and support. Together, they ensure that students have a smooth, engaging, and safe experience on campus.

• Academic sessions are conducted by Ashoka University faculty and renowned external speakers with expertise in their respective domains. They deliver workshops, lectures, and hands-on sessions designed to provide a rich and engaging learning experience.
• Past YSP sessions in the programme have featured Ashoka University faculty such as Prof. Anurag Agrawal, Prof. Dipankar Bhattacharya, Prof. Sourav Pal, and Bittu Kaveri.

YSP ensures student safety and health through a combination of dedicated campus security personnel and medical support services. The campus houses an on-site infirmary, staffed by experienced resident doctors, providing basic health care and scheduled OPD hours. An ambulance is available in case of medical emergencies, with support accessible 24/7. Students are responsible for the cost of prescribed medicines and any medical tests.