BeyondQuantum - Free Online Quantum Physics & Research Program
Published Research & University Advantage
A free 12-week online research program by ThinkingBeyond for high school and undergraduate students in India, exploring quantum physics and computing with hands-on projects and mentorship.
Mode
Online
Fee
Free
Participation format
Individual and team
Teams of 1 to 5
Duration
12 weeks
Time needed
13 to 16 hours a week for 12 weeks
Eligibility
Open to high school students (Grades 9-12, typically ages 14-18) and first/second-year undergraduate students (typically ages 18-20), including those on gap years. Participants need a strong passion for quantum physics and computing, willingness to commit 13-16 hours weekly, and readiness to collaborate. Basic understanding of math, physics, and Python is recommended. The program is open to students across all states and cities in India.
- Grade level
- Grade 9 to 12
- Age range
- 14 to 18 years
- Eligibility region
- Available nationwide across India
- Academic requirement
- Open to all levels of expertise in quantum physics and computing; a strong curiosity and passion for the quantum world are essential. Basic understanding of mathematics (algebra, trigonometry), physics (classical mechanics, basic electromagnetism), and Python programming is recommended. Familiarity with LaTeX is a plus, with preparation material provided.
- Prerequisites
- Basic understanding of physics
- Basic programming skills (Python)
- Familiarity with LaTeX (preparation material provided)
- Basic understanding of mathematics (algebra, trigonometry).
- Basic understanding of physics (mechanics, electricity).
See if your child qualifies.
Rewards and recognition
Certificate
Certificate of Completion
Participants who successfully complete the program will receive a Certificate of Completion from ThinkingBeyond, acknowledging their participation and research contribution.
Opens doors to
Significantly strengthens university applications for STEM programs, particularly in Physics, Computer Science, and Engineering, at top institutions in India and abroad. Demonstrates a strong commitment to advanced scientific inquiry and provides valuable research experience for undergraduate and postgraduate admissions.
Career pathways
Provides a strong foundation for careers in quantum technology, theoretical physics, computational science, data science, and advanced engineering fields. It also prepares students for roles in research and development, tech innovation, and scientific consulting, both in India and globally.
Recognition
Research Publication & Fair
Key dates
Last edition
- Registration opened
- 1 Jan 2026
- Registration closed
- 31 Jan 2026
- Dates
- 9 Mar 2026 to 1 Jun 2026
How to apply
- 1Stage 1: Submit a formal application including a compelling motivation letter (original content, no AI assistance allowed) and a detailed schedule demonstrating your ability to balance the program with other academic and personal commitments.
- 2Stage 2 (Preparation Stage): Work independently for four weeks with provided preparation material covering essential concepts in mathematics, programming, physics, and LaTeX. Document your learning journey and progress.
- 3Stage 3: Complete and submit a set of challenging problems based on the preparation material, including exercises in mathematics, Python programming, and physics. Video explanations of your reasoning and problem-solving approach are required for this stage.
Rules and guidelines
- Use of AI is strictly prohibited at any stage of the application process.
- Participants must commit to the program's weekly schedule and tasks.
- Live participation in interactive sessions is expected for participants in Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia up to India.
- Research projects must culminate in a poster presentation at the BeyondQuantum Research Fair.
- All submitted research will be published in the program's official proceedings.
- All team research projects must culminate in a professional poster presentation at the annual BeyondQuantum Research Fair.
Technology requirements
- Computer with webcam and microphone for live sessions
- Software for Python programming (e.g., Anaconda, VS Code)
- Reliable high-speed internet connection for seamless online participation.
- A computer (laptop or desktop) with a functional webcam and microphone for interactive live sessions and team meetings.
- Recommended software for Python programming (e.g., Anaconda, VS Code, Jupyter Notebooks).
- Recommended software for LaTeX document preparation (e.g., TeX Live, Overleaf for collaborative online editing).
About this opportunity
The BeyondQuantum program is a comprehensive 12-week online research program specifically designed for high school students (Grades 9-12) and first or second-year undergraduate students in India who are deeply interested in quantum physics and quantum computing. The program is structured into two main stages: the Course Stage (Weeks 1-6) and the Research Stage (Weeks 6-12).
In the Course Stage, participants will delve into the foundational principles of quantum mechanics, quantum mathematics, and key concepts of quantum computing through interactive live sessions, engaging discussions, and preparatory tasks. The Research Stage provides an invaluable hands-on experience where students, working collaboratively in teams, apply their newly acquired knowledge to a real-world research project under the expert guidance of academic mentors. This stage fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry.
The program culminates in a prestigious BeyondQuantum Research Fair where teams present their innovative research posters, and their work is officially published in the program's proceedings, providing a significant academic credential. The program emphasizes building a supportive community, encouraging peer collaboration, and developing essential research and presentation skills crucial for future academic and career success.
It requires a dedicated commitment of approximately 13-16 hours per week, including live sessions and independent study. Consolidation weeks are strategically built into the schedule to allow students to effectively manage their academic commitments and absorb complex concepts. The program is open to students across India, making it an accessible opportunity for aspiring young researchers.
What your child will do
- Interactive live sessions on quantum concepts and research skills
- Independent work with preparation and consolidation tasks
- Team-based research projects in quantum physics or quantum computing
- Mentor meetings for project guidance
- Attending talks by academics and industry experts
- Presenting research posters at the BeyondQuantum Research Fair
Mentors and faculty
Academic mentors with expertise in quantum information, quantum algorithms, and related fields.
Languages
Academic details
Difficulty: Intermediate
What's covered
The 12-week curriculum is meticulously divided into two stages: a 6-week Course Stage covering fundamental concepts in quantum mechanics, quantum mathematics, and quantum computing basics, and a subsequent 6-week Research Stage where students engage in intensive group research projects under dedicated mentor guidance. The program incorporates a blend of interactive live sessions, independent preparation and consolidation tasks, and insightful talks by leading academics and industry experts. The curriculum is designed to build knowledge progressively and foster practical application, culminating in a research fair and publication.
Frequently asked questions
How can students effectively manage the program's weekly time commitment alongside their academic responsibilities?
The program is designed with consolidation weeks to help students balance their workload. Effective time management strategies, such as creating a study schedule and prioritizing tasks, are crucial. Participants are encouraged to communicate with mentors if they face challenges in managing their commitments.
What are the key benefits for students who successfully complete the BeyondQuantum program?
Successful completion leads to a Certificate of Completion, publication of research in official proceedings, and presentation at the Research Fair. These achievements significantly enhance university applications for STEM fields and provide a strong foundation for future careers in quantum technologies.
How does the program ensure that students are adequately prepared for the advanced topics in quantum physics and computing?
The program includes a mandatory 5-week preparation stage with comprehensive materials covering essential mathematics, physics, programming, and LaTeX. This stage is designed to build foundational knowledge and assess readiness before students delve into the core course and research stages.
What kind of support system is available to students during the research stage of the program?
During the research stage, students work in collaborative teams under the expert guidance of academic mentors. These mentors provide regular feedback, technical assistance, and strategic direction to ensure that research projects are well-executed and meet academic standards.
How does participation in this program contribute to a student's long-term academic and career goals?
The program provides invaluable hands-on research experience, develops critical thinking and problem-solving skills, and fosters a deep understanding of emerging quantum technologies. This experience is highly valued by top universities and employers, opening doors to advanced studies and careers in cutting-edge STEM fields.
What technical requirements are necessary for optimal participation in the online program?
Participants need a reliable high-speed internet connection and a computer with a functional webcam and microphone for interactive live sessions. Recommended software includes Python programming environments and LaTeX editors for document preparation.
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