India Experiential Learning Programme (IELP)
The India Experiential Learning Programme (IELP) empowers students to become globally engaged leaders by combining experiential learning, intercultural collaboration, and applied research to address real-world challenges and create positive impact across communities.
IELP is an immersive, interdisciplinary learning experience that combines academic knowledge with practical skills, fostering cross-cultural understanding, teamwork, and real-world insights into contemporary India.
Led by the University India Centre, IELP 2026 is delivered in partnership with University of Southampton Delhi, Sustainability Resilience Institute and Jawaharlal Nehru University, engaging government, non-government organisations and industry.
IELP 2026
Expressions of interest are now open for first- and second-year undergraduate students to join IELP, a unique blend of virtual engagement and immersive, on-ground experience in India.
Programme highlights
- 5-week Paired Virtual Internship with government bodies and leading NGOs, in collaboration with students from Southampton and India. The internship is remote, requiring approximately 4 hours per week (dates: 27 July – 28 August 2026)
- 10-day Field Immersion in India, featuring curated visits to institutions, industries, and iconic sites of historical and cultural significance including the Taj Mahal (dates: 7–16 September, 2026)
Field and cross-cultural experience
IELP helps students to develop practical and employability skills while gaining first-hand, cross-cultural experience of India through immersive cultural activities, site visits, and meaningful interactions with local communities, complementing the skills built during virtual collaboration, live projects, and internship experiences.
Through a 10-day field immersion in Delhi, participants deepen their critical perspectives while strengthening teamwork, interdisciplinary understanding, and global competence.
Internship projects
- Clean air and environmental sustainability
- River rejuvenation and water conservation
- Eco-tourism and sustainable development
- Constitutional values and civic engagement
What will you gain
- Practical experience by working on real-world social and environmental challenges
- Research, analytical and problem-solving skills
- Experience India’s culture and broaden global perspectives
- Enhance cross-cultural communication, teamwork, and professional skills
- Gain exposure to policy implementation, governance, and community engagement
Who should apply
- Curious, proactive, and open to new global experiences
- Demonstrated interest in environmental and social impact
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively
- Strong communication and critical thinking skills
How to Apply
- Statement of purpose (300–500 words). Explain your motivations and how the IELP will help develop your personal and professional skills
- CV (2 pages max) highlighting your educational background, skills, and experience
- Most recent academic transcript (grade/mark sheet from semester 1)
Submit your application via email: indiacentre@soton.ac.uk by 4 pm on Thursday 7 May 2026
Note: Places are limited. Selection is based on merit and the quality of applications. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by 15 May with further details and timelines. The programme will run only if the minimum number of participants is met.
Costs
The University is committed to supporting students to participate in the programme and subsidises most of the costs, making the opportunity accessible to all participants. However, to ensure the programme remains viable, selected candidates will be expected to pay a total fee of £700, payable in two instalments: £350 deposit by 25 May and £350 balance by 18 June.
The programme strongly encourages students from underprivileged backgrounds to apply, who will be fully exempt from all fees to ensure widening participation.
Plus, gain a deep understanding of India, the world’s largest democracy, most populous nation, and a rapidly advancing global economy, while engaging as a global citizen and creating meaningful, real-world impact.
