Hyderabad: The International Institute of Information Technology Hyderabad (IIIT-H) has opened applications for the January 2027 intake of its revamped Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) programme. The four-semester residential course combines computing fundamentals, applied artificial intelligence (AI), research and venture development. Eligible graduates with 16 years of formal education can apply for IIIT Hyderabad MSIT admissions.
The Consortium of Institutions of Higher Learning (CIHL) developed the programme in collaboration with IIIT Hyderabad’s Centre for Educational Technology and Learning Sciences (CETLS). Through this partnership, the institutions designed a practice-oriented course that goes beyond conventional classroom teaching. For example, students will gain experience in research, technology development and industry settings. IIIT Hyderabad will award the degree.
Commenting on the programme, IIIT-H Director Prof Sandeep Shukla said it emphasised practical application. He explained that students would strengthen their computing and AI foundations, tackle research problems and develop ideas for industry or new ventures. In other words, the course connects academic learning with practical outcomes.
The programme follows a four-semester structure. Initially, students build foundational skills; subsequently, they apply that knowledge through research projects, startup development and industry experience. Along the way, they will work with research centres and develop technology-based products to address practical problems.
IIIT Hyderabad MSIT admissions: semester-wise course plan
During the first semester, students will build core computing skills through Learning to Learn with AI Tools, Algorithms and Data Structures, and Computer Systems.
In the second semester, students will work with faculty members and mentors at IIIT Hyderabad’s research centres. At the same time, they will complete project-focused AI coursework and develop and deploy applied AI systems.
The third semester shifts the focus to venture-building. During this stage, students will form teams, develop working products and prepare business plans addressing real-world problems. They will then pitch their ventures to early-stage venture capitalists for potential seed funding.
The final semester offers two pathways. Students whose ventures secure funding will work towards launching their startups. By contrast, those who do not secure funding will complete a full-time industry cooperative placement, working on production systems with an industry partner.
Overall, the course combines academic study with research, entrepreneurship and industry engagement. As a result, students can gain practical experience in building and deploying technology rather than relying on classroom instruction alone.
Eligibility, entrance tests and admission deadlines
Applicants must have completed 16 years of formal education and be willing to work with computer science, AI and mathematics. However, students in the final year of their degree can also apply while awaiting their results.
The admission process starts with online registration. Next, applicants must take an aptitude assessment through the GRE, GATE or MSIT Entrance Examination, as applicable. Following the assessment, IIIT Hyderabad will interview shortlisted candidates.
The institute has scheduled two admission cycles. For Cycle I, applications close on November 7, 2026, and the examination takes place on November 11. For Cycle II, the deadline is December 7, followed by the examination on December 11.
After completing the selection process, the institute will announce the final admission list on December 20, 2026. The programme will then begin on January 2, 2027.
The residential course will run at the IIIT Hyderabad campus. Tuition costs Rs 1.5 lakh per semester. For further details and applications, candidates can visit www.msit.ac.in.