
The Indian government continues its strong push for innovation in education. With the Union Budget 2025 announcing the setup of 50,000 new Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) over the next five years, schools across India have a golden opportunity to empower students with practical STEM learning.
If your school is interested in applying, here’s a simple guide to the Atal Tinkering Lab Registration 2025 process.
Table of Contents
What is Atal Tinkering Lab?
An Atal Tinkering Lab is a dedicated innovation workspace set up in schools under the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) by NITI Aayog. These labs encourage students to explore and innovate using tools in electronics, robotics, 3D printing, IoT, and more. The aim is to flourish creativity, critical thinking, and a problem-solving mindset among our young students.
Who Can Apply For Atal Tinkering Lab Registration?
Before you begin, check your school’s eligibility:
- Government or Trust-Affiliated Schools
Only schools recognized by government bodies or affiliated with a private trust or registered society can apply. - Basic Infrastructure
The school must have stable electricity, internet connectivity, and safe premises for conducting practical learning. - Dedicated Space
Schools should be able to dedicate a minimum of 1500 sq. ft. of space exclusively for the ATL lab setup. - Willingness to Co-Fund
Schools must show their commitment to managing and maintaining the lab infrastructure by contributing time, effort, and partial funding as needed. - You can refer to our blog for detailed criteria.
What Does the ATL Grant Cover?
Each selected school receives ₹20 lakh over 5 years:
- ₹10 lakh One-time Setup Grant
This amount is meant for purchasing ATL equipment, such as 3D printers, robotics kits, DIY electronics, and laptops, and setting up basic infrastructure like furniture and safety systems. You can get detailed information about ATL Equipment here. - ₹10 lakh Operational Grant (₹2 lakh/year)
This is used for yearly expenses like faculty/student travel, consumables, events, competitions, ATL In-charge honorarium, training sessions, and maintenance.
Atal Tinkering Lab Registration- Last Date to Apply
The official Atal Tinkering Lab’s last date to apply for 2025 is expected to be announced soon. Typically, applications open in the first half of the year and remain active for a limited period. Schools are advised to start preparing documentation and keep checking aim.gov.in or trusted partners like atalup.com for timely updates.
Step-by-Step Atal Tinkering Lab Registration 2025 Process
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Before applying, your school must ensure it meets all the requirements set by NITI Aayog:
- School Type: Must be a recognized school managed by the government, local bodies, or a registered private trust/society.
- Location: Preference is often given to schools in semi-urban or rural areas to promote inclusive innovation.
- Infrastructure: Basic amenities like electricity, internet access, and secure school premises are mandatory.
- Dedicated Space: A minimum of 1000–1500 sq. ft. of space must be earmarked for the ATL setup. This should be well-lit and ventilated.
- Commitment to Innovation: Schools should show readiness to support ATL operations beyond grant funding, like assigning ATL in-charge, engaging students, and conducting regular activities.
Step 2: Gather Documents
Schools must collect and digitize the following documents:
- School Registration Certificate – Proof of the school’s legal recognition.
- Trust/Society Registration Certificate – If applicable, for privately managed schools.
- Photographs – Clear images of the proposed ATL space from multiple angles.
- Principal’s Declaration – A letter of intent confirming the school’s commitment to establish and run the lab as per ATL guidelines.
- Bank Details – Bank account details with an official letterhead for grant disbursal.
- Basic School Information – Student strength, grades offered, existing lab facilities (if any), and faculty details.
All documents should be scanned clearly and named properly to avoid confusion during application review.
Step 3: Submit Online Application
- Visit the official ATL application page on aim.gov.in.
- Register your school and fill in all the required details carefully.
- Upload the scanned documents in the prescribed format and size.
- Write a compelling vision statement explaining why your school deserves an ATL and how you plan to nurture student innovation.
- Review the form thoroughly before submitting. Incomplete or incorrect applications are likely to be rejected.
Step 4: Prepare for Evaluation
Once submitted, applications are reviewed by the ATL evaluation committee based on:
- School readiness – Infrastructure and willingness to execute ATL activities.
- Vision for innovation – The school’s approach to promoting STEM and creative learning.
- Inclusivity – Plans to involve all students, including girls and those from diverse backgrounds.
- Sustainability – How the school plans to run and maintain the ATL beyond grant support.
Shortlisted schools may be contacted via email or call for additional details or clarifications.
Step 5: Approval & Grant Disbursement
- Upon approval, schools receive a formal communication from AIM.
- The grant is released in two installments:
- First: ₹10 lakh for setup and initial expenses.
- Second: ₹10 lakh over the 5 years (₹2 lakh/year) for operations & maintenance.
- Schools must sign an MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) with NITI Aayog, confirming adherence to ATL guidelines.
- Regular updates, reports, and activity tracking are required to continue receiving the yearly operational grant.
How ATALUP Helps You With Atal Tinkering Lab Registration in 2025
Setting up an ATL is not just about applying; it’s about managing approvals, setup, equipment, calendar, learning programs, and reporting.
ATALUP is a tech-enabled platform that makes this entire journey smooth and manageable for schools:
Helps you apply for ATL
From form-filling to documentation support, ATALUP offers step-by-step assistance in applying for the ATL grant.
Tracks application and reminders
Get timely alerts and status updates on your application so you never miss a deadline.
Supports lab setup and procurement
ATALUP guides schools on what to buy, from where, and how to install ATL equipment as per NITI Aayog norms.
Automates ATL calendar and activities
Plan and manage ATL sessions, innovation challenges, and exhibitions through an easy calendar interface.
Integrates structured learning
Offers STEM curriculum and learning paths that align ATL activities with school timetables.
Provides government-compliant reports
Generate real-time usage reports, impact assessments, and compliance-ready formats for NITI Aayog or CSR submissions.
Conclusion:
We can help you register with our expertise. ATALUP has helped a renowned school in Pune, and the school achieved a rise from just 100 activities in six years to an astonishing 3,158 in just 27 days. Don’t miss this chance to transform your school into an innovation hub. The Atal Tinkering Lab Registration 2025 is your gateway to future-ready education. Start early, and let ATALUP guide you every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to register for ATL?
To register for Atal Tinkering Lab (ATL), your school must fill out the online application form on the official Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) website, submit the necessary documents, and showcase your vision for fostering innovation among students.
ATALUP simplifies the entire process. From checking your eligibility to preparing documents, filling out the form, and submitting it correctly, the ATALUP team offers complete hand-holding support to ensure your school doesn’t miss out on this opportunity.
What is the last date to apply?
The official last date for ATL Registration 2025 hasn’t been announced yet, but it is expected anytime in the coming days. Schools must stay prepared in advance, as the window is usually short.
With ATALUP, your school gets proactive alerts, document prep assistance, and complete readiness for submission the moment the application window opens.
What documents are required?
– You’ll need basic documents like:
– School registration certificate
– Trust/society registration (if applicable)
– Principal’s declaration letter
– Photographs of ATL space
– Bank details
The ATALUP team connects with your school, checks everything needed, helps you prepare missing documents, and ensures they’re uploaded in the right format, making the registration stress-free and successful.