IIM Bangalore Launches 4‑Year BSc in Economics & Data Science for 2026 Intake
IIM Bangalore has announced two 4-year BSc (Hons) programs in Economics and Data Science for the 2026 intake. Learn about the curriculum, eligibility, admission process, fees, and more.
In a landmark and strategic move that reshapes the landscape of undergraduate education in India, the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) has announced the launch of its first-ever undergraduate programs. The premier management institution will offer two four-year residential Bachelor of Science (Honours) degrees: one in Economics and the other in Data Science. Admissions for the inaugural batch are scheduled to open in September 2025, with the first academic session set to commence in August 2026.
This initiative is a significant departure for an institution traditionally focused on postgraduate, doctoral, and executive education. It signals a bold step towards implementing the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which advocates for multidisciplinary and holistic learning. According to the institute's leadership, the vision is to engage young learners early and equip them with the critical thinking, analytical, and ethical perspectives required to lead in a rapidly evolving world. The new programs, housed under the newly established School of Multidisciplinary Studies, will be delivered at IIMB's state-of-the-art new campus in Jigani.
A Glimpse into the Curriculum and Academic Vision
The two new programs are designed to be distinct yet interconnected, providing a unique blend of core disciplinary knowledge with practical business applications.
- BSc (Hons) in Economics: This program will have a minor in Data Science and Business. The curriculum combines robust economic theory with applied learning in econometrics, policy analysis, and quantitative methods. Electives will be offered in areas like public policy, development economics, and behavioral economics, preparing students for roles in academia, research, policy, and financial analysis.
- BSc (Hons) in Data Science: This program will include a minor in Economics and Business. It will provide rigorous training in programming, machine learning, big data analytics, and statistical modeling. The curriculum is focused on using data to solve real-world problems in business and policy, with electives available in areas such as quantitative risk management, supply chain optimization, and big data computing.
Both programs will also include a strong liberal arts foundation, with mandatory courses in philosophy, communication, and ethics. This interdisciplinary approach is a key highlight, ensuring that graduates are not just technically proficient but also ethically grounded and well-rounded.
Eligibility and Admission Process for 2026 Intake
Admission to the IIMB undergraduate programs will be highly selective, with an initial intake of just 40 students for each course. The admission process is a two-stage evaluation designed to identify the most promising candidates.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: Candidates from the General category must be under 20 years of age as of August 1, 2025. A relaxation is provided for reserved categories (SC/ST/PwD), with the age limit set at 22 years.
- Academics: Applicants must have a minimum of 60% in Class 10 and a minimum of 60% in Mathematics in their Class 12 board examinations. The compulsory Mathematics component in Class 12 underscores the programs' quantitative focus.
- Admission Stages:
- National-Level Entrance Test: The first stage is an aptitude test, tentatively scheduled for December 2025. The exam will assess a candidate's proficiency in Mathematics, Logical Reasoning, English Language, and General Knowledge.
- Personal Interview (PI): Shortlisted candidates from the entrance test will be invited for a personal interview. This round will assess their motivation, communication skills, and overall suitability for the demanding curriculum.
Financials and Key Program Features
The annual program fee for the BSc (Hons) programs has been set at ₹8.5 lakh. However, in its commitment to inclusive education, IIMB has provisioned a significant amount for financial aid, ensuring that deserving students are not deterred by economic constraints. Approximately 20% of the total financial assistance has been factored into the design to provide scholarships and support.
The residential nature of the programs at the new Jigani campus is another highlight. It will foster a vibrant community and collaborative learning environment. A key feature, in line with NEP 2020, is the flexibility to exit the program after three years with a standard BSc degree. Students who complete the full four years will be awarded the BSc (Hons) degree. The curriculum also integrates two industry internships and an international exchange term, offering invaluable real-world exposure and global perspectives.
The launch of these programs marks a new era for IIM Bangalore, extending its legacy of academic excellence to undergraduate education. With a meticulously designed curriculum and a rigorous admission process, the institute is poised to shape the next generation of leaders who can effectively merge economic theory, data analytics, and business acumen. Aspiring students are advised to keep a close watch on the official IIMB website for the opening of the application window in September 2025.