IIT Kanpur SURGE Internship 2026: Apply for Premier Research Training

The IIT Kanpur SURGE Internship 2026 (Students-Undergraduate Research Graduate Excellence) is now open for applications. Launched on May 8, 2006, SURGE is IIT Kanpur’s flagship program designed to give undergraduate students an immersive, hands-on experience in academic research under the direct mentorship of expert faculty.

Running from May 11 to July 10, 2026, this 8-week program is one of the most structured and competitive research internships in India, providing a platform for students to transform classroom knowledge into real-world innovation.

About IIT Kanpur SURGE

The SURGE program is managed by the Office of Outreach Activities (OOA) at IIT Kanpur. It aims to promote early academic exploration and build technical depth in students. Interns are expected to define a project, execute experimental or theoretical research, and present their findings through high-quality posters and technical reports.

About the SURGE-2026 Role

The internship is a full-time commitment that demands academic discipline and a passion for discovery.

• Role: Summer Research Intern (SURGE-2026)

• Duration: 8 Weeks (May 11 – July 10, 2026)

• Stipend: Up to ₹16,000 (Based on funding route and eligibility)

• Location: IIT Kanpur Campus, Uttar Pradesh

• Recognition: Certificates and awards for “Best Project” and “Best Poster.”

Key Responsibilities

• Mentored Research: Working on a defined project under an IIT Kanpur faculty member.

• Abstract Submission: Drafting and submitting a research abstract mid-program.

• Documentation: Preparing a comprehensive project report documenting all outcomes.

• Presentation: Creating and presenting a research poster during the SURGE felicitation.

Eligibility and Categories

SURGE-2026 is open to students across three main categories:

1. IITK: Current students of IIT Kanpur.

2. NON-IITK: Students from other recognized Indian colleges and universities.

3. SAARC: Eligible students from SAARC countries (excluding India).

Note: For funding consideration (Institute/Partial), students typically need a CPI ≥ 8.5 at the time of registration.

Funding Routes and Fees

Funding for SURGE depends on merit and project availability:

• Institute Funded: Selected top-tier candidates may receive a stipend of ₹16,000.

• Partial Institute Funded: Stipends up to ₹8,000.

• Project/Self-Funded: Support provided by faculty grants or student self-funding.

• SAARC Funding: Scholarship of ₹16,000 plus travel reimbursement (up to ₹10,000).

Fees Structure

• Registration Fee (Non-IITK): ₹750 (Non-refundable).

• Administrative Charges: ₹4,000 (Non-IITK/SAARC) and ₹3,000 (IITK).

• Hostel/Mess: Accommodation is provided in student hostels on a payment basis.

Selection Process

The selection process is merit-heavy and faculty-driven:

1. Faculty Agreement: Applicants must identify and secure an agreement from an IIT Kanpur faculty member to act as their mentor.

2. Screening: Applications are reviewed based on CPI, research interests, and project proposals.

3. Results: The first list of selected candidates is tentatively scheduled for March 23, 2026.

Important Dates for SURGE-2026

How to Apply

1. Registration: Sign up on the official SURGE portal.

2. Fee Payment: Non-IITK students must pay the ₹750 fee via SBI Collect.

3. Application: Log in with your credentials, fill in your research details, and identify your IITK mentor.

4. Submission: Ensure all documents are uploaded before the February 22 cutoff.