Note: ATL applications are opened by the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog for limited periods. Dates, forms and rules change between rounds — always confirm on the official aim.gov.in website before applying.
Who can apply for an Atal Tinkering Lab?
- Schools with classes 6 to 12 (government, government-aided and private schools)
- A dedicated room for the lab — AIM suggests roughly 1,000–1,500 sq ft
- Basic infrastructure: electricity, internet, a computer and safe access for students
- A teacher who can act as the ATL in-charge
Priority and exact criteria (for example for government schools or specific regions) can vary in each round.
Documents usually needed
- School registration / affiliation details (CBSE, ICSE, state board, UDISE code)
- Details of the principal and the proposed ATL in-charge
- Student strength by class and teacher details
- Photographs and size of the proposed lab room
- Information on existing labs, computers and internet
- School bank account details for grant release
Steps to apply for ATL
- Check the round — watch aim.gov.in for an open ATL application call.
- Register the school on the AIM / ATL application portal.
- Fill the application form with school, infrastructure and student details.
- Upload documents and photos of the proposed lab space.
- Submit and track — note your application ID and check status updates.
- Verification — selected schools may be checked by AIM or its partners.
- Grant agreement — sign the agreement and receive the first instalment.
What happens after your school is selected?
Once selected, the school must set up the lab within the given time, buy equipment as per the ATL guidelines, keep usage records and run regular student activities. This is where most schools need help — choosing the right equipment, installing it and training teachers.
Techradiance handles the complete ATL lab setup: equipment from the ATL equipment list, installation, teacher training, a class-wise curriculum and competition preparation.
Tips to improve your chances
- Show an existing interest in science and innovation — science fairs, clubs, competitions
- Keep a clean, safe and dedicated room ready
- Name a committed ATL in-charge teacher
- Give accurate, complete details — incomplete forms are a common reason for rejection
Not selected or waiting for the next round?
Talk to our lab team for a free site visit, equipment list matched to AIM guidelines and a quote for your school.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can a school apply for Atal Tinkering Lab?
Apply online through the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) portal on aim.gov.in when an ATL application round is open: register the school, fill the form, upload documents and lab photos, and submit.
Is there an application fee for ATL?
AIM has not charged schools an application fee for ATL in past rounds. Be careful of anyone asking for money to “guarantee” selection.
When are ATL applications open?
AIM opens ATL applications in rounds. Dates are announced on aim.gov.in and AIM social media channels.
Can private schools apply for ATL?
Yes, private schools with classes 6–12 have been eligible in past rounds, along with government and aided schools. Check the eligibility for the current round.
What if our school is not selected for ATL?
You can still set up an ATL-style tinkering lab with your own budget and apply again in the next round. An active lab with student projects also strengthens a future application.
Does Techradiance help with the ATL application?
We guide schools on preparing the lab space and details, and after selection we handle equipment, installation, training and curriculum.