Last Updated: June 2026
The Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IIT Kanpur) has announced the launch of a new undergraduate programme, Bachelor of Cybersecurity (B Cyber), which is scheduled to begin in July 2026 for the 2026-27 academic session. The programme will be offered through the Wadhwani School of AI and Intelligent Systems and is aimed at developing specialised expertise in cybersecurity through a blend of academic instruction and practical training.
The introduction of the programme comes amid increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals across government agencies, critical infrastructure sectors, financial institutions, and technology-driven industries. As digital systems become more deeply integrated into everyday operations, educational institutions are expanding opportunities for specialised training in cyber defence, digital security, and related fields.
B Cyber Programme: Key Highlights
|
Particulars |
Details |
|
Programme Name |
Bachelor of Cybersecurity (B Cyber) |
|
Institution |
IIT Kanpur |
|
School |
Wadhwani School of AI and Intelligent Systems |
|
Duration |
4 Years |
|
Academic Session |
2026-27 |
|
Programme Launch |
July 2026 (Confirmed) |
|
JEE Advanced Requirement |
Not Required |
|
Initial Screening |
JEE Main and cybersecurity-related work |
|
Assessment Method |
In-person evaluation and hackathon |
|
Practical Training |
Internship-based learning in later years |
Admission Process
The admission framework for the Bachelor of Cybersecurity programme differs from the pathway followed for most undergraduate programmes at IITs. IIT Kanpur has stated that applicants will not need a JEE Advanced score to be considered for admission.
Instead, candidates will be shortlisted using their JEE Main performance along with evidence of prior work, projects, competitions, or demonstrated interest in cybersecurity. The objective is to evaluate both academic preparation and engagement with the field.
Applicants who clear the initial screening stage will be invited to the IIT Kanpur campus for further assessment. The selection process will include a hackathon designed to evaluate practical aptitude, technical understanding, and problem-solving ability.
Prof. Manindra Agrawal, Director of IIT Kanpur, has indicated that such assessment models are being discussed as part of broader efforts to encourage skill-based evaluation and reduce dependence on traditional coaching-oriented examination systems.
|
Stage |
Details |
|
Stage 1 |
Application and profile review |
|
Stage 2 |
JEE Main and cybersecurity-based shortlisting |
|
Stage 3 |
In-person assessment |
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Stage 4 |
Hackathon evaluation |
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Stage 5 |
Final selection |
Course Structure
The four-year programme has been divided into two distinct phases.
During the first two years, students will study on the IIT Kanpur campus through classroom instruction, laboratory sessions, and practical coursework. This phase is expected to provide foundational knowledge in cybersecurity and related computing disciplines while offering hands-on exposure through controlled learning environments.
The remaining two years are planned as internship-based training. The institute has stated that students are expected to work with government security organisations and participate in cybersecurity-related projects. Additional information regarding internship partners and implementation details is yet to be released.
|
Duration |
Academic Component |
|
First Two Years |
Campus-based coursework and laboratory learning |
|
Final Two Years |
Internship-based practical training |
Educational Context
Cybersecurity has become an increasingly important area of focus as governments, businesses, and public institutions strengthen their digital infrastructure. Growing concerns around cyberattacks, data protection, network security, and critical system resilience have contributed to rising demand for specialised talent.
The new programme reflects a wider shift towards application-oriented education models that combine theoretical learning with real-world experience. IIT Kanpur has indicated that the curriculum is intended to provide both academic grounding and practical exposure, which are considered important components of cybersecurity training.
Timeline and Status of Information
|
Information |
Status |
|
Programme Launch (July 2026) |
Confirmed |
|
Academic Session (2026-27) |
Confirmed |
|
Admission Process Framework |
Confirmed |
|
Seat Intake |
Awaited |
|
Fee Structure |
Awaited |
|
Eligibility Criteria |
Awaited |
|
JEE Main Cut-off |
Awaited |
|
Application Dates |
Expected |
|
Internship Partner Details |
Awaited |
Verification Note: Detailed admission guidelines, fee information, seat availability, application schedules, and eligibility requirements have not yet been released by IIT Kanpur. Readers should refer to future official notifications for updates.
Information Yet to Be Released
Several important admission-related details remain pending at the time of publication. These include seat availability, fee structure, eligibility requirements, category-wise criteria, application dates, and detailed admission procedures.
The institute is currently developing a dedicated webpage for the Bachelor of Cybersecurity programme. Once available, the portal is expected to provide comprehensive information regarding admissions and programme requirements.
Admission Safety Advisory
Applicants should use only official IIT Kanpur communication channels while seeking admission-related information.
- Access information through official IIT Kanpur websites and admission portals.
- Do not share OTPs, passwords, or login credentials with any individual.
- Be cautious of websites or agents claiming guaranteed admission.
- Verify all payment-related communications directly through official channels.
- Avoid responding to unsolicited calls, emails, or messages requesting fees or personal information.
- Upload documents only on verified institutional platforms.
Official Source
Primary Source: IIT Kanpur announcement regarding the Bachelor of Cybersecurity (B Cyber) programme for the 2026-27 academic session.
Source Context: Information is based on details released by IIT Kanpur and statements made by institute officials regarding the programme’s proposed admission process and academic structure.
Conclusion
The Bachelor of Cybersecurity programme adds a new undergraduate option for students interested in cybersecurity and digital security studies. Its admission framework and curriculum structure differ from conventional engineering pathways by incorporating profile-based screening and extended internship training. However, several key details, including eligibility requirements, fees, seat intake, and application timelines, are still awaited. Prospective applicants should monitor official IIT Kanpur announcements and the forthcoming programme portal for verified updates.
Editorial Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only. Admission rules, eligibility criteria, fee structures, timelines, and programme details may be revised by IIT Kanpur after publication. Readers should verify all information through official notifications, admission brochures, and institute announcements. In the event of any discrepancy, official IIT Kanpur communications will take precedence.