In a significant step towards strengthening industry-integrated engineering education, the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Gandhinagar has introduced a credit-bearing semester that allows BTech students to earn academic credits through full-time industry, research and startup engagements.

The initiative, launched in the 2025-26 academic year, enables seventh-semester BTech students to enroll in IN 498 – External Exposure, an elective course that awards up to 16 academic credits for a semester-long placement with approved companies, research laboratories, academic institutions or startups.

Unlike conventional internships that are typically undertaken during summer breaks, IIT Gandhinagar's programme integrates workplace learning directly into the undergraduate curriculum without extending the duration of the degree. Students work on live projects while their performance is jointly assessed by faculty members and host organisations through periodic evaluations, ensuring that professional experience meets academic standards.

The programme also gives students the flexibility to pursue opportunities aligned with their career aspirations, including industry, entrepreneurship, research and higher education. According to the institute, 18 students have already participated in the initiative, gaining hands-on experience with leading organisations such as Qualcomm, Samsung R&D, Oracle, Tower Research Capital, Solar Defence and Aerospace Limited, the California Institute of Technology, the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, and startup HapiHygi Innovations Pvt. Ltd.

Sharing his experience, BTech Computer Science student Bhoumik Patidar, who completed his external exposure at Qualcomm, said working on an open-source software project involving an ELF linker strengthened his problem-solving abilities and deepened his interest in systems programming.

Similarly, Electrical Engineering student Tejas Zunjare worked on embedded systems, circuit design and hardware development at HapiHygi Innovations. He said the semester helped bridge the gap between classroom concepts and practical engineering challenges.

The initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which encourages experiential learning, multidisciplinary education and stronger industry-academia collaboration. By recognising workplace learning as an integral part of the BTech curriculum, IIT Gandhinagar is redefining engineering education and preparing graduates with industry-ready skills, practical problem-solving abilities and real-world experience in an increasingly competitive job market.