If you are planning to build a career in data science, analytics, or artificial intelligence, there is good news. India’s top IITs are offering multiple free online courses in Data Science and Analytics through the NPTEL/SWAYAM platform for the January–April 2026 academic session.
These courses are free to learn, taught by IIT professors, and some even offer academic credits. Learners only need to pay a small fee if they want an official certificate after completing the proctored exam.
Below is a complete list of 11 IIT-backed data science and analytics courses, along with eligibility, focus areas, and key details.
Why Choose IIT Data Science Courses?
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Designed and taught by IIT faculty
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Industry-relevant curriculum
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Recognised certificates (optional)
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Suitable for students, working professionals, and beginners
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Flexible online learning via NPTEL/SWAYAM
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Many courses offer credit transfer options
List of Free IIT Data Science & Analytics Courses (2026)
1. Algorithmic Graph Theory and Data Structures – IIT Kharagpur
This course focuses on advanced data structures and graph-based algorithms used in modern analytics and computer science.
Best for: Computer science students
Credits: 3
Duration: Jan–Apr 2026
2. Bayesian Data Analysis for Behavioural Sciences – IIT Kanpur
Learn Bayesian statistics and probabilistic modelling using R, with applications in behavioural and social sciences.
Best for: Data analysts, psychology & social science students
Credits: 3
3. Data Analytics with Python – IIT Roorkee
A hands-on course covering data analysis techniques using Python, real-world datasets, and business use cases.
Best for: Beginners to intermediate learners
Credits: 3
4. Database Management Systems – IIT Kharagpur
Covers relational databases, SQL, data modelling, and query optimisation—essential skills for data professionals.
Best for: All engineering and tech students
Credits: 2
5. Data Mining – IIT Kharagpur
Learn classification, clustering, association rules, and predictive analytics techniques used in data science projects.
Best for: Engineering and science graduates
Credits: 2
6. Data Mining for Decision Making – IIT Mandi
A short course focusing on how data mining techniques support decision-making in real-world scenarios.
Best for: Data science and analytics learners
Credits: 1
7. Data Science for Engineers – IIT Madras
Introduces core data science concepts, algorithms, and practical workflows using R programming.
Best for: Engineering students & professionals
Credits: 2
8. Exploratory Data Analysis with R – IIT Kanpur
Focuses on statistical exploration, visualisation, and interpretation of data using R.
Best for: Statistics & data science learners
Credits: 3
9. Introduction to Database Systems – IIT Madras
Covers database theory, SQL, indexing, concurrency control, and recovery mechanisms.
Best for: Computer science students
Credits: 3
10. Python for Data Science – IIT Madras
A compact course that introduces Python tools and workflows used in data science pipelines.
Best for: Final-year students and beginners
Credits: 1
11. Statistical Foundations for Big Data Analysis – IIT Kharagpur
Explores large-scale statistical techniques such as regression, dimensionality reduction, and bias-variance trade-off.
Best for: Advanced learners in data science
Credits: 3
Important Enrollment Details
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Platform: NPTEL / SWAYAM
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Course Fee: Free (learning)
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Certificate Fee: Optional (paid exam)
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Enrollment Deadline: Mostly January 2026
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Course Duration: January to April 2026
Who Should Enroll in These Courses?
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Students planning a career in data science or analytics
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Engineering, management, and science graduates
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Working professionals looking to upskill
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Beginners who want IIT-level exposure without cost
Final Words
These free IIT data science courses offer a rare opportunity to learn from India’s best institutes without paying high fees. Whether you want to strengthen your resume, earn academic credits, or simply build strong fundamentals in data analytics, this 2026 course lineup is worth exploring.
👉 Tip: Enroll early, as exam slots and certificates have limited availability.