Careers of the Future Hackathon — ₹5L Prize Pool for Students — Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions founders most often ask about Careers of the Future Hackathon — ₹5L Prize Pool for Students — who qualifies, the funding amount, required documents and how the application works.
Frequently asked questions
How much prize money does the Careers of the Future Hackathon offer?
The total prize pool is ₹5,00,000, spread across 10 events. Within each event, the winner receives ₹30,000, the first runner-up gets ₹15,000, and the second runner-up gets ₹5,000.
Who is eligible to take part?
The hackathon is open to students currently in Classes 10, 11 or 12, to undergraduate students, and to anyone who passed Class 12 in 2026. Applicants studying in any other recognised learning programme can also apply. The recommended age range is 17 to 21 years, students from all academic backgrounds are welcome, and no prior professional experience is required.
What is the last date to register?
Registration closes on 2 July 2026. Applications are submitted through the programme's Unstop listing, so it is worth registering well before the cut-off.
Can I apply as part of a team?
No. Participation is individual only, so each applicant enters on their own rather than as part of a group or team.
Which career tracks can I choose from?
You pick one track from AI Filmmaker, AI SaaS Builder, Creatorpreneur, D2C Entrepreneur, Cloud Kitchen Entrepreneur, Creative Agency Owner, Quick Commerce Entrepreneur, and Impact Entrepreneur. Each track has its own brief and submission format, so the work you produce depends on your choice.
Do I need DPIIT recognition or MSME registration to apply?
No. There is no DPIIT or MSME registration requirement here — this is a student competition rather than a government startup funding scheme. Eligibility rests on your current course of study and the recommended age band.
Does the hackathon take equity in my project or idea?
No. This is a prize competition, not an investment. Winners receive cash prizes and internship opportunities, and no equity or ownership stake is taken in anything you build.
What happens after I register?
You first go through an online screening round where the LIT School team verifies your profile, and you should expect a verification call. From there, shortlisted candidates move into the submission phase and eventually to the offline round. Shortlisting happens on a rolling basis rather than all at once.
What should I bring to the hackathon?
Participants must bring their own laptop and any other devices their chosen track requires, since equipment is not provided.
How do I apply, and is travel or accommodation covered?
Applications are made through the Unstop listing before the 2 July 2026 deadline. For the offline round at LIT School, Bangalore, the organisers arrange accommodation, travel to and from the venue, and food.
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