Top 7 Career Opportunities in India after PhD in 2024

Top 7 Career Opportunities in India after PhD in 2024

A PhD or Doctor of Philosophy is the highest academic qualification offered to an individual following a course of study. The term PhD originates from the Latin term ‘Philosophiae Doctor’ and represents competition of individual research in a field of interest. The doctoral research degree paves the path for a wide range of opportunities. It is a 3 to 8 years course that helps you become competent at presenting your thesis based on independent research of a topic.

There is a breadth of skills students acquire while pursuing a PhD. It elevates your ability to critically analyse a subject, display intellectual maturity, gain in-depth knowledge of a specific field and publish a valid thesis. 

In this article, we’ll take a look at the best job opportunities after PhD that are available to students in different industries—academia, government sector, entrepreneurship, consultancy, and so on. If you are looking for PhD admission for 2024, please read further. 

What is the career outlook for PhD holders in 2024?  

Based on my experience and insights, job opportunities after phd in india appear promising in 2024. Their advanced research and analytical skills are in high demand across various sectors. In academia, opportunities abound as they can pursue careers as professors or researchers. The corporate sector offers avenues for success in roles related to research and development, data science, and consulting. Government agencies value their expertise in policy analysis and implementation. Additionally, for those inclined towards entrepreneurship and innovation, there are opportunities to venture into new territories. Overall, the year 2024 presents an encouraging landscape for PhD holders in India, offering diverse career paths and the potential to make meaningful contributions in their respective fields.  

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Top Job Opportunities after PhD

1. academics, a. faculty position.

One of the most commonly opted choices after a PhD is teaching, primarily due to the uncanny similarity between academia and what an individual must do to acquire the degree. The degree practice and teaching involve teaching, researching, and nurturing your acquired knowledge.

If you are interested in landing a faculty position or taking up the teaching path, plenty of institutions are keen on having a PhD holder in their faculty, especially in developing countries.

The PhD holders have a niche of their own in the domain or topic they have spent time researching about. They have made a good number of contributions to the field of study, so they have a firm hold on the subject.

So the PhD holders as faculty seem to be a natural fit, as they can impart the knowledge mentioned in the curriculum and much beyond that. They can open their students’ minds to concepts they would not usually be exposed to and thus help them develop a frame of mind that is inquisitive and has a strong foundation.

Some of the skills that the faculty must possess to impart the education smoothly are an excellent hold of the subject, communication skills, analytical skills, people management, understanding of human behavior, assessment skills, empathy, etc.

The profession of teaching is considered one of the best, high paying and most successful one. The compensation varies according to the subject, institution, experience, etc. On average, after PhD salary in India of a faculty is  12.0 lakhs per annum. The average salary bracket ranges from 1.3 lakhs per annum to 30.0 lakhs per annum (Source).

b. Post Doctorate

You can also choose to stay in the same university for varying periods (from one to four years) and get an extended project based on the one you did earlier. You might also work on publishing your erstwhile researched product.

The significance of a post-doctorate is many. They take on individual or group research projects that are impactful. Their research and findings help society, government education, industries, etc.

A post-doc has the autonomy of their day. Some of the skills that are required from a post-doc are the nature of being inquisitive, research skills, documentation, verbal and written communication, a good hold of the subject matter, people skills, team management, etc.

The salary for a post-doc may vary depending on factors such as the institution, domain, research topic, experience, etc. On average, a postdoctoral researcher procures the compensation of 10.0 lakhs per annum. The salary ranges from 3.0 lakhs per annum to 40.0 lakhs per annum (Source). People have apprehension about “ What comes after PhD ?” Post-doctorate can be considered an option.

c. Adjunct Position

An adjunct position is a non-tenure position in universities; they are professionals who don’t carry the title of a professor but make valuable contributions to the faculty. In some universities, professionals in Adjunct positions work overtime and bear numerous educational responsibilities.

d. Teaching

PhD holders can teach at institutions offering undergraduate courses where they are looking for staff with a PhD who can carry out practical research.

PhD candidates can be assistant professors by teaching undergraduate courses or being a part of committees that help form academic and organisational policies and perform research to achieve tenure.

There exists a myth that PhD courses are designed to PAVE the path for individuals to become professors at the university level. However, the horizons of a PhD degree spread farther than simply academia, so it’s wrong to assume so. 

Here’s looking at the different verticals where PhD holders can chart a rewarding career. 

2. Government Jobs

The government job sector is ideal for patriotic and passionate people who want to serve the country. Since the government is always on the lookout for creative and skilled people, professionals who love researching and put their skills to good use can rely on the government sector. 

PhD holders carry a unique, innovative perspective that allows them to view complex problems, understand them and make practical, diplomatic choices.

There are several opportunities here, starting from the military sector (e.g. military research). If you are interested in politics, you can opt for a policymaker position in state and central government. You can also be a minister if you can work your way up with innovative diplomatic ideas.

First, the PhD holders are eligible to sit in the government exam. They are highly qualified professionals who give a learned and deeper perspective to the government professionals that helps in better decision-making. They can work in various departments of the government, such as policy making, rural development, transportation, scientific research, military, international relations, etc. One can procure various PhD jobs in India in the government sector.

3. Entrepreneur

In today’s world, the entrepreneurship sector is growing exponentially. Since information and technology are accessible to everyone, there’s a growing shift towards startups, self-employment, and innovation. PhDs holders carry the potential to be first-grade innovators/entrepreneurs.

Research shows that PhDs and entrepreneurial journeys are way more similar than they seem, and hence, students who have PhD degrees are very likely to thrive when they get into entrepreneurship.

Apart from various similarities between the entrepreneurs and PhDs, there is one common similarity between these two, and that is innovation and research skills. Both of these professionals identify a problem persisting in society and develop a model that solves it. So naturally, the PhD holders seem as a fit progression to entrepreneurship.

Some of the skills required for a successful entrepreneur are identifying problems, critical thinking, problem-solving, business management, creativity,  team management, self-starter attitude, communication skills, networking, etc.

4. Consultancy

The skillset required to be a consultant includes maintaining large amounts of data. Plenty of companies rely on MBA professionals and PhD holders for consultancy due to the increasing influence of technology in the real world.

Large consultancy firms hire PhD holders from all different fields. The idea is to leverage valuable data and glean helpful insights to empower business decision-making. 

PhD and other advanced degrees help students shine in consultancy since there is a massive requirement for specialised expertise in today’s age. Therefore, if you have a PhD, consultancy is a very prominent job opportunity that can be highly rewarding.

There are various reasons for being a consultant professional as a PhD holder, as they have a high capacity for critical thinking. They are skillful for effectively and scientifically solving problems. The PhD holders can effectively analyse the data and come to conclusions. The companies hire the PhD holders for the level of expertise they bring. Usually, they are hired at the same level as MBA professionals. This may vary depending on the companies, level of skill sets, location, and other factors.

5. Digital Media Company

The job description is to prepare reports providing a comprehensive analysis and context on various topics. It also includes preparing reports on artistic and cultural events. A PhD course equips you to be an individual with excellent writing and research skills. These are extremely handy when pursuing a writing job opportunity at media company.

Unlike a regular digital marketing professional a PhD holder would come up with a much deeper perspective and understanding. They would be having the in depth knowledge of the funcitonings. 

There is an option available to do PhD in digital marketing, these professionals would come up with understanding on the culture, society, ethnicities, human behaviour and many more. There are various options available fo r phd jobs as   there are various firms and companies that employe the professionals.

6. Research Associate

As the word suggests, a research associate job position requires you to gather data to determine whether consumers or companies find a product or service desirable or appealing.

For this job position, the skills you acquire during your PhD study (presentation and research skills) prove to be highly influential; these are the skills that help you excel in research.

Switching from academic research to corporate research, where the information acquired via research is used well, is a choice most professionals make these days since academic research can get monotonous and underwhelming at times.

The research associates are responsible for various tasks such as gathering of data, preparing data, analysing, reporting, research and may more. They identify the problem and then go about their workf to find solutions for the problem.

It is considered as one of the most sought- after jobs one can go for. There are various industries and fields one can go ahead to make a career fro themselves. These researches make a positive contribution to the society in various fields such as history, science, art and culture, society, policy making, etc.

Usually there is no degree after PhD is required to become a research associate a PhD suffices. Moreover, the profession as a research associate is high paying and is a stable career. 

7. Product Manager

The job profile of a product manager includes overseeing every aspect of the development, growth, maintenance, and improvement of a product.

Companies prefer PhD holders over other UG PG holders for positions that require overseeing or handling end-to-end tasks since a PhD equips you to handle multitasking effortlessly.

The role of a product manager doesn’t stop after product formulation and release. It extends to maintenance, improving product performance, devising marketing strategies, and enhancing product efficiency by bringing in new methods that can replace older ways. Online PhD programs offer you offer flexibility to manage your work and other commitments.

 A product manager is required to be aware of the customer’s needs and manage to address the gap by innovating the product. They are responsible for making the product better that helps in taking the business forward. 

In order to all of that, they are required to be equipped with certain skill sets that understands th ehuman behavioru, mindsets of people coming from different geographies and age groups. And according to various factors, inculcate the innovations in such a way that the product feels relatable to the target audience. But most importantly, they should also be having the business acumen that helps them in aking decisions that benefits the business.

The profession as a product manager is considered as high paying and on average the salary goes up to 16.3 lakhs per annum. The average salary ranges from 6.0 lakhs per annum to 35.0 lakhs per annum (Source). This salary bracket may differ due to various factors such as geographical location, skill sets, experience, type of company, etc.

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Is it easier to find a career opportunity with a PhD degree?

Based on my own experience and observations, pursuing a PhD, although demanding in terms of time and effort, can significantly broaden your career horizons. PhD holders are highly esteemed for their specialized knowledge, exceptional research skills, and critical thinking abilities. They find ample opportunities in academia, securing coveted positions as professors and researchers. Moreover, industries such as healthcare, finance, and technology highly value PhDs, often offering them lucrative roles in research and development, data analysis, and leadership.  

However, the ease of finding suitable job opportunities after phd in india can vary based on factors like your field of study and location. In India, PhD graduates can unlock diverse and rewarding career paths with the right set of skills and effective networking. The investment in higher education pays off in the form of fulfilling and promising professional opportunities.

T he landscape of job opportunities after a PhD in India in 2024 appears promising and diverse. The demand for highly skilled and specialized professionals continues to grow across various sectors. Whether you aspire to excel in academia, contribute to cutting-edg e research, or significantly impac t the corporate world, a PhD opens doors to numerou s avenues. The key lies in leveragin g your unique expertis e , networking effectively, and staying attuned to emerging trends in your field. With the right strategy and dedication, you can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding career journey, making your investment in a Ph .D. an asset in the dynamic Indian job market.  

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Communication skills can effectively drive career potential since PhD holders are expected to deliver out-of-the-box thinking, management, and creative ways of solving problems via critical thinking. Developing communication skills is crucial in showcasing and presenting your ideas to technical and non-tech teams convincingly.

PhD holders have the upper hand over Master’s or Bachelors's students across industries due to their high-end skill sets that include critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective decision making. In addition, their unmatched research skills and data management abilities make them an obvious choice for a host of high-profile roles across industries.

The average salary of PhD holders ranges between ₹ 6,00,000 and ₹ 12,00,000 per year, depending on the field of choice, experience, and skillsets. The average base salary for a PhD holder working as a professor is ₹16,73,000 per year, approximately ₹90k per month).

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Category 5: Part-Time Ph.D. for Working Professionals

  • Minimum 4.5 years from date of Joining (Registration), and up to a maximum of 6 years
  • Applicants with master’s degree meeting the eligibility criteria (Refer section 4 of guidelines)
  • The applicant should be working in an organization which encourages and facilitates research
  • The applicant should have minimum of two (02) years of work experience in the related field.
  • The nature of support should be clearly described in the NOC / Letter of support

»        Financial and Non-financial

»        Number of hours, the applicant would be allowed to devote for PhD including for course work

»        Permission to use data generated within the organization as a part of PhD work of the applicant, in publications / thesis, or in other scholarly output

  • Co-guide having expertise in the domain of applicant’s Ph.D. work and meeting eligibility criteria of MAHE, should be available in organization OR university / institution in the vicinity of applicant’s organization
  • Admission Schedule: Twice in an academic year (July and January)
  • Applicants are required to contact prospective guide(s) from MAHE institutions to discuss their research interests and EOI ( Annexure 6 ).
  • Prospective guide will submit willingness to guide the applicant at Institution and submit EOI to MAHE. 
  • Applicants are required to register themselves at https://mahephd.azurewebsites.net/ and submit the application form as per the timeline (table 1).

Table 1: Tentative Timeline of Admission Process

  • During the application, the applicant will be directed to select most suitable stream and research domain from the list displayed.
  • The applicant will also self-declare his / her eligibility to appear for MET
  • MET is exempted for

»        GATE qualified applicants

»        Applicants with Assistant professorship (UGC-NET qualified) and qualified in other National Tests with valid score card

»        Applicants who have completed any research methodology course from SWAYAM portal with certificate of completion within the past 2 years

¨       MET exempted applicants MUST self-declare his / her eligibility to appear for interview and provide supporting information specified in the online application

  • Stream specific MET syllabus ( Health Sciences; Technology and Management; Law, Humanities & Social Sciences), schedule and results will be made available at https://mahephd.azurewebsites.net/  
  • PhD topics will be made available on candidate portal to MET exempted applicants and Shortlisted applicants who qualify through MET. 
  • Interview will have following components

»        Presentation by the applicant

»        Viva Voce on area of interest and basics, related to applicant’s expertise.

»        Discussion on Motivation and Goal

  • Documents to be submitted to the interview panel are as follows. The interview panel will also screen the documents submitted and confirm the eligibility of applicant and co-guide

»        NOC / Letter of Support from the current employer ( Annexure 5 )

»        Prospective co-guide (from applicant’s organization or vicinity) details

»        Curriculum Vitae (CV) of the applicant

»        Academic transcripts and Degree certificates

»        ‘Expression of Interest’/ ‘Statement of Purpose’ ( Annexure 6 ), as discussed with prospective guide at MAHE

¨       The Expression of Interest (EOI) should provide sufficient information for judgment to be made about the chosen topic by the applicant and applicant’s capacity to complete the PhD research within a relevant contextual background.

¨       EOI must include the following

§  Project title & description

·         Need, Objectives, Brief Methodology, Outcomes etc

§  Organizational context

·         Nature of the organization / profession context and applicant’s relationship and role(s) within it.

·         Availability of facilities / resources in the organization,

o   financial (if applicable) and non-financial

o   Facilities / resources required for the PhD work, but are not available in the parent organization; along with arrangements made to complete related work.

o   Number of hours / week the applicant intends to devote for PhD should be mentioned and his / her expectations in terms of guidance from Primary Guide from MAHE and Co-guide from his organization/vicinity

  • Admissions office, MAHE will issue offer letter to applicants selected for PhD admission [Weightage: 35 % for the entrance test (MET) + 65 % for interview/viva- voce].
  • Refer https://manipal.edu/phd for PhD Course fees
  • Fee Payment Link will be displayed in the candidate portal on confirmation of offer acceptance.                
  • On successful completion of fee payment, provisional admission will be granted and PhD Roll No will be generated by MAHE Admissions Office which will be intimated to the applicant.                
  • Following this, the applicant will visit the Admissions Office with following documents in originals for verification.

»        All semester / year marks / grade sheet of Bachelor’s Degree, from a recognized university

»        All semester / year marks/grade sheet of Master’s Degree from a recognized university

»        UG & PG Degree Certificates

»        2 Recent & identical passport-sized photographs 

»        Self-Attested Pan Card & Aadhaar card photocopy

»        Fee paid details

»        Experience Certificate

¨       The candidate should have minimum of two years of work experience in the related field

»        No Objection Certificate (NOC)

¨       ‘No Objection Certificate’ (NOC) / ‘letter of support’ from the current employer 

  • Admission office, MAHE will issue admission order to the applicant after verification.
  • Following this, PhD scholar will complete joining/reporting formalities at the respective institution.
  • ID card and learner Email ID will be issued to the PhD scholar after joining.
  • After completing the joining formalities at the Institution PhD scholar MUST submit the joining report to the Centre for Doctoral Studies (CDS), MAHE along with co-guide (from the applicant’s organization or vicinity) application 
  • CDS will issue registration letter to PhD scholar. The date of joining will be the date the registration of the PhD scholar.
  • Co-guide (from PhD scholar’s organization or university / institution in the vicinity) recognition

o   Following joining, PhD scholar will submit joining report to CDS along with co-guide application ( Annexure 7 ) and other supporting documents including NOC from the co-guide’s employer.

§ CDS will screen the application for eligibility as per MAHE eligibility criteria and communicate the decision to the co-guide/PhD scholar/MAHE guide/Institution.

  • There will be no financial support from MAHE
  • PhD scholars will be provided access to MAHE facilities including library and databases etc. when they are in the MAHE Campus
  • Ph.D Scholar  MUST  present for the following at MAHE and in physical mode
  • Protocol presentation to the institutional protocol Approval Committee (IPAC)
  • Half yearly report presentations to the Doctoral Advisory Committee (DAC) in the institution / department of MAHE
  • As recommended by the MAHE guide and DAC for completing course work requirements/research related discussion and training etc. 
  • PhD scholar is eligible for leaves as per prevailing leave policy of his / her parent organization
  •  If the PhD scholar avails leave over and above the eligibility, the duration of Ph.D. will be extended by leave period availed.

»        If the PhD scholar avails additional leaves with DAC permission, the minimum duration of Ph.D. will be extended by leave period availed.

¨       This requires prior approval from CDS. The request to be sent to CDS in CDS template ( Annexure 42 ).

»        Maternity leave, if availed, to be communicated to CDS along with supporting documents in CDS template ( Annexure 43 ).

¨       The minimum duration of PhD program will be extended by leave period

Annexures are available at https://manipal.edu/mu/academics/phd/annexures.html

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Ph.D. in India: Cost, Duration, and Eligibility for Admission

Complete guide to ph.d. in india: duration, costs, eligibility, and recent updates.

Dr. Somasundaram R

Embarking on a Ph.D. journey in India is a significant academic and professional pursuit. Aspiring research scholars often have questions regarding the duration of a Ph.D., the associated costs, eligibility criteria, and recent developments in the field. In this comprehensive guide, ilovephd aims to address these queries and shed light on the essentials of pursuing a Ph.D. in India.

How many years is a Ph.D. in India?

A Ph.D. program in India typically takes around 3 to 5 years to complete, depending on various factors such as the discipline, research area, individual progress, and university regulations.

The duration may vary, but it is important to be prepared for a substantial commitment of time and effort.

How much does a Ph.D. cost in India?

The cost of pursuing a Ph.D. in India varies across institutions. Generally, public universities offer Ph.D. programs with minimal or subsidized tuition fees. Private universities may have higher fees.

It’s advisable to explore funding options such as scholarships, fellowships, or research grants provided by government bodies, funding agencies , or individual institutions to support your Ph.D. journey.

What qualifications are required for a Ph.D. in India?

To pursue a Ph.D. in India, a candidate typically needs a postgraduate degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field. It is important to note that specific eligibility criteria may vary between universities and disciplines.

Additionally, universities often require candidates to clear entrance exams or interviews and meet minimum academic standards to be considered for admission.

What is the age limit for a Ph.D. in India? Is 25 too old to start a Ph.D.?

In most cases, there is no strict age limit for pursuing a Ph.D. in India. As long as you meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate the necessary academic qualifications, you can pursue a Ph.D. at any age.

Therefore, 25 is certainly not too old to start a Ph.D. Many scholars begin their doctoral studies later in life, bringing valuable experiences and perspectives to their research.

Can I do a Ph.D. without the National Eligibility Test (NET)?

While the National Eligibility Test (NET) is a common requirement for lectureships and research fellowships in India , it is not mandatory for all Ph.D. programs. Some universities may have their own entrance exams or selection processes.

It is important to check the specific requirements of the university or institution where you plan to pursue your Ph.D.

Who is eligible for direct Ph.D. admission?

Direct Ph.D. admission is a pathway for exceptional candidates who have completed their undergraduate studies and wish to pursue a Ph.D. without a Master’s degree.

However, this option is typically available to a limited number of candidates, and universities may have specific criteria and guidelines for direct Ph.D. admissions. It is advisable to consult with individual institutions to understand their policies regarding direct Ph.D. admissions.

Is it okay to do a Ph.D. without a Master’s degree?

While a Master’s degree is generally the standard qualification for pursuing a Ph.D., some universities in India offer integrated Ph.D. programs that allow students to directly enter the Ph.D. track after completing their undergraduate studies.

However, this option may be limited to certain disciplines or institutions. It’s important to research and identify institutions that offer such programs if you wish to pursue a Ph.D. without a Master’s degree.

What are the recent rules for Ph.D. admissions in India?

The rules and regulations for Ph.D. admissions in India are subject to change and can vary between universities and disciplines.

It is advisable to stay updated with the guidelines provided by individual universities and regulatory bodies such as the University Grants Commission (UGC) or the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to ensure compliance with the latest requirements.

25 Tips to Join PhD in India

25 tips to help you join a Ph.D. program in India:

  • Research your field of interest thoroughly to identify potential research areas and topics.
  • Explore various universities and research institutes in India that offer Ph.D. programs in your chosen field.
  • Check the eligibility criteria and admission requirements of each institution you are interested in.
  • Take note of application deadlines and ensure you submit your application well in advance.
  • Prepare a strong statement of purpose (SOP) that highlights your research interests, goals, and why you are interested in pursuing a Ph.D.
  • Contact potential supervisors or faculty members whose research aligns with your interests to discuss your research proposal.
  • Prepare for entrance exams that may be required for admission, such as the UGC-NET, GATE, or university-specific entrance exams.
  • Enhance your academic profile by participating in research projects, publishing papers, or presenting at conferences.
  • Build a strong recommendation letter portfolio by reaching out to professors or mentors who can attest to your academic abilities and research potential.
  • Seek out scholarships, fellowships, or research grants offered by government bodies, universities, or funding agencies to fund your Ph.D.
  • Familiarize yourself with the research facilities, laboratories, and resources available at the institutions you are considering.
  • Attend research seminars, workshops, and conferences related to your field to stay updated with the latest developments and network with researchers.
  • Develop good communication and writing skills, as they are essential for presenting research findings and publishing papers.
  • Create a well-structured and feasible research proposal that clearly outlines your research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
  • Be prepared for interviews or presentations as part of the selection process, where you may need to defend your research proposal or discuss your academic background.
  • Gain teaching experience by assisting professors or taking up teaching assignments to enhance your profile for future academic positions.
  • Connect with current Ph.D. students or alumni of the institutions you are interested in to gain insights into the program and research environment.
  • Stay updated with any changes in the rules, regulations, or policies related to Ph.D. admissions in India.
  • Develop a strong work ethic and time management skills, as Ph.D. programs require dedication, self-discipline, and long hours of research.
  • Consider the location and infrastructure of the institution, ensuring it suits your research needs and provides a conducive environment for learning.
  • Explore interdisciplinary opportunities and collaborations to broaden your research scope and gain different perspectives.
  • Discuss funding options and financial support with the institutions you are applying to, and be prepared to seek external funding if necessary.
  • Keep track of your research progress and maintain regular communication with your supervisor or mentor.
  • Attend preparatory courses or workshops on research methodology or academic writing to enhance your research skills.
  • Finally, be passionate, persistent, and proactive in pursuing your Ph.D. dream. Embrace the challenges, stay motivated, and enjoy the journey of knowledge creation.

Remember, each institution may have its own specific requirements and procedures, so it’s crucial to carefully review their official websites or contact the admissions offices for accurate and up-to-date information.

10 steps to join Ph.D. in India

Here are 10 steps to join a Ph.D. program in India:

  • Research your field: Explore different research areas and identify your specific field of interest for pursuing a Ph.D. in India.
  • Shortlist institutions: Identify universities or research institutes in India that offer Ph.D. programs in your chosen field.
  • Review eligibility criteria : Check the eligibility requirements of the institutions you are interested in, including minimum educational qualifications and entrance exam scores.
  • Prepare application documents: Gather the necessary documents, such as academic transcripts, recommendation letters, statement of purpose (SOP), and research proposal.
  • Prepare for entrance exams: If required, prepare for entrance exams like UGC-NET, GATE, or university-specific exams. Familiarize yourself with the syllabus and exam pattern.
  • Apply to institutions: Submit your applications to the shortlisted institutions within the specified deadlines. Pay attention to the required application fees and submission procedures.
  • Attend interviews (if applicable): Some institutions may conduct interviews or presentations to assess your research aptitude and fit for the program. Prepare well for these interactions.
  • Secure funding: Explore funding opportunities such as scholarships, fellowships, or research grants. Check if the institutions offer any financial support or external funding options.
  • Accept an offer : Once you receive acceptance letters from the institutions you applied to, carefully evaluate and select the most suitable offer based on research facilities, faculty expertise, funding, and overall fit.
  • Complete admission formalities: After accepting an offer, complete the necessary admission formalities as specified by the institution. This may include submitting additional documents, paying fees, and fulfilling any other requirements.

It’s important to note that the specific steps and procedures may vary between institutions. Therefore, always refer to the official websites and admission guidelines of the institutions you are applying to for accurate and up-to-date information.

Pursuing a Ph.D. in India is a rewarding and intellectually stimulating endeavor. Understanding the duration, costs, eligibility criteria, and recent developments is crucial to navigating the process effectively.

By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, aspiring Ph.D. scholars can embark on their academic journey with confidence and clarity.

Remember to reach out to universities or institutions directly for specific information and seek guidance from mentors or faculty members who can provide valuable insights into the Ph.D. application process in your chosen field. Good luck with your Ph.D. pursuit!

Also Read: Best 100 Institutions to Study PhD in India – 2023

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Dr. Somasundaram R

IITM & Birmingham – Joint Master Program

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iLovePhD is a research education website to know updated research-related information. It helps researchers to find top journals for publishing research articles and get an easy manual for research tools. The main aim of this website is to help Ph.D. scholars who are working in various domains to get more valuable ideas to carry out their research. Learn the current groundbreaking research activities around the world, love the process of getting a Ph.D.

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  • 501-550 in Chemistry

In ǪS Asia University Rankings 2024, BITS has been ranked 215th in Asia and at 22nd in India. Further, BITS Pilani has been ranked among the top 300 in ǪS World University Graduate Employability Rankings 2022 and within top 6 in India.

Having pioneered several curricular and pedagogic attributes, BITS Pilani has a vision to be amongst the top research-led Institutes in the country. The qualities of innovation, enterprise, commitment to excellence, adherence to merit, and transparency, have characterized the Institute during its inexorable march to eminence.

The Institute has secured over Rs 398 crores as external research funding in the last 5 years. State of the art facilities have been developed to support cutting edge research, led by students and about 930 faculty members, leading to a Scopus h-index of 156, with 221 patents filed so far, and 41 patents granted. Currently, there are 14 BITSian Unicorns and 1 Decacorn. There are over 7500 BITSian founders and co-founders of enterprises.

Doctoral Programme (Ph.D.)

List of Candidates shortlisted for Ph.D. Admission Test and/or Interview is now available

Admissions portal open 01st march 2024.

Please click here for more information.

List of Candidates shortlisted for Ph.D. Admission Test and/or Interview is now available.

  • CLICK HERE to know the Result.

Department preference with regard to the full-time and part-time Ph.D student admission is given in the table below.

Yes – A Department intends to admit students under the specified mode. No – A Department does not intend to admit students under the specified mode.

Minimum Eligibility Qualifications

ME / MTech / MPharm / MBA / MPhil (minimum of 60% aggregate)* MSc/BE/BPharm or an equivalent degree (minimum of 60% aggregate)* For admission into Humanities and Social Sciences, MA degree (minimum of 55% aggregate)* For part-time applicants, a minimum of one-year experience in the related field of study is required

[*In the Qualifying Degree examination]

In addition, Departments may set specific admission criteria for shortlisting. Meeting the minimum eligibility qualifications does not guarantee admission into the PhD program. Shortlisted candidates will have to appear for an admission test, which may comprise a written exam and/or interview. Information on specific Departments and related research activities is available on the Department homepage of respective campuses.

Full-time students

Preferably individuals who would like to pursue PhD in-house, residing on campus.

Part-time students

Preferably individuals who are working in organizations providing basic facilities and an environment for research.

Financial Assistance

Full-time PhD students admitted into the PhD program are eligible to be considered for an Institute fellowship of Rs. 34,000 or Rs. 37,000 per month in the first year based on their qualifications at the time of admission. Students admitted with M.E./M.Tech./M.Pharm./MBA/M.Phil. or an equivalent Degree are eligible to receive an Institute fellowship of Rs. 37,000/-. Students admitted with M.Sc./B.E./B.Pharm. or an equivalent degree are eligible to receive an Institute fellowship of Rs. 34,000/-. These students on successful completion of coursework will receive Rs. 37,000/- from the Semester following the one in which the course work was completed Higher fellowship may be made available in subsequent years. Consideration for Institute fellowship will be as per Institute norms. It will be obligatory on the part of every admitted full time student to undertake 8 hours (per week) of work as assigned to him/her by the institute.

Important Dates

The Institute reserves the right to change the above deadlines. Candidates will be informed in advance should there be such a change.

Department Brochures

Pilani campus – biological sciences, pilani campus – chemistry, pilani campus – chemical engineering, pilani campus – civil engineering, pilani campus – electrical & electronics engineering, pilani campus – humanities and social sciences, pilani campus – physics, pilani campus – mechanical engineering, goa campus – biological sciences, goa campus – chemistry, goa campus – computer sciences, goa campus – electrical & electronics engineering, goa campus – humanities and social sciences, goa campus – mathematics, goa campus – mechanical engineering, hyderabad campus – biological sciences, hyderabad campus – chemical engineering, hyderabad campus – chemistry, hyderabad campus – civil engineering, hyderabad campus – computer sciences, hyderabad campus – electrical & electronics engineering, hyderabad campus – humanities and social sciences, hyderabad campus – mathematics, hyderabad campus – mechanical engineering, hyderabad campus – pharmacy, top resources.

Doctoral Program (Ph.D.)

For Further Information Contact

Admissions office.

Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani Campus, Pilani, Rajasthan 333031 (INDIA).

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Home » Career Guidance » A Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a PhD in India [2024]

A Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a PhD in India [2024]

phd in india

Quick Summary

  • A PhD is a postgraduate research degree in India. It’s the highest academic degree in the country. 
  • The cost of a PhD course in India differs based on the kind of university people choose. However, if you take estimates, it can cost you around 80k to 2 lacs.
  • For admission in PhD in India, students require a Master’s degree in a relevant field. An overall grade point average of at least 55% (or equivalent) is required.

Table of Contents

Did you know that India produces over 20 thousand PhD holders , making it one of the top 5 countries with the most PhD holders?

Sounds great right?

And this number of PhD holders is only going to increase in upcoming years, with the rise in new technologies and scientific research more and more people will pursue a PhD in India.

If you are also thinking about pursuing PhD degree, then read this article till the end to know all about doing PhD in India. 

what is PhD

PhD in India- Course Highlights

Reasons to pursue a phd in india.

It is known that the purpose of a PhD is to teach individuals how to conduct research in a field. Candidates learn how to write scholarly papers and present findings, along with gaining skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. However, there are career-related reasons to choose PhD course, and these reasons are:

  • Getting monthly allowances from the government to fund research.
  • A PhD student is seen as an expert in their field, thus, making them eligible for job openings related to teaching and research.
  • A chance to go to other countries for Academic Exchange Programs and learn various things.
  • Getting complete control over what you want to study and how you wish to continue with your research.
  • A PhD student gets to interact and work with the best academicians in their field and the professional experts who will guide them during their research.

Types of PhD Courses in India

There are different types of PhD degrees, some are based on distance and some are based on stream. Here is the list of major types of PhD in India.

Common PhD Degrees

Stream-wise phd degrees.

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Major PhD in India Entrance Exams

Every university takes its entrance exam for admission and checks the qualification for a PhD of every applicant. However, some entrance exams are conducted on a national level and have more importance. These are the major PhD course entrance exams.

Have a read at a Comprehensive Guide to Entrance Exams after Graduation .

PhD in India- Eligibility Criteria

Getting admission in PhD course is not an easy task, and if you are trying to get admission to any PhD program, check for these PhD eligibility criteria beforehand.

  • The candidate must have completed a Master’s degree i.e. (MTech/ MSc/ MA/ MPhil/ MBA). And it must be a full-time Master’s course from a recognised university by the government.
  • The overall grade point average of the candidate’s Master’s program must be at least 55% (or equivalent).
  • Candidates under SC, ST, and OBC categories will be given 5%- or 10%-mark relaxations. Applicants must present their reservation certificate to use these benefits.
  • The candidate must pass the PhD entrance exam.
  • A No Objection Certificate (NOC) f rom the educational institution or company where candidates are employed is required. Candidates must have job experience in a related field for a part-time PhD.

PhD Course Structure

1. coursework.

In PhD courses, students take a set have to take core courses or seminars in their field of study to build foundational knowledge. The coursework varies according to university but does includes both required and elective courses.

2. Research proposal

After completing the core courses, students must develop a research proposal outlining the problem they plan to investigate, the research questions they aim to answer, and the methods they will use to collect and analyze data.

3. Comprehensive exams

Before beginning their research for PhD course, students need to pass certain comprehensive exams covering their field of study to demonstrate their competence in the subject matter.

4. Research

Once students have completed their coursework and passed their comprehensive exams, they can begin their research. This typically involves conducting experiments, collecting data, or engaging in other research activities to answer the questions outlined in their research proposal.

5. Dissertation

The final requirement for a PhD course completion is the dissertation, which is a book-length document outlining the student’s research findings, conclusions, and contributions to their field of study. The dissertation has to be defended in front of a committee of faculty members and other experts in the field.

Read more: Complete Guide to Writing a Research Paper

steps to write phd dissertation

5 Step PhD Course Admission Process

There is Candidates must take the following seven steps to apply for a PhD in India:

Step 1 Find a Mentor

PhD students should find a supervisor willing to support them through their PhD journey. After finding a supervisor, candidates can apply offline or online. Almost all colleges and universities accept online applications now. However, if you wish, you can apply via the offline process by visiting the office of the university.

Step 2 Fill Online Admission Form

Candidates must complete the online PhD admission form before applying on the university or college website. All the needed qualification for PhD is listed on the university’s official website and should be met. The online application is rejected if candidates fail to meet these requirements.

Step 3 Submit Necessary Documents

After completing the online application form, candidates must provide all necessary papers. These documents may include your passing certificate, degree, and migration certificate. Check the list of papers on the website before applying for the PhD admissions.

Step 4 Pass the Entrance Exam

The college/university needs PhD entrance exam. This exam must be taken after completing the application form. Fill out the form for the entrance exam and appear for it.

Step 5 Pass the Interview

Upon passing the PhD entrance exam, candidates will be invited for a doctoral academic interview. Admission is based on the academic doctoral interview and PhD entrance exam results. The institution or college decides the grades of students at each level and after passing the interview and fulfilling some other requirements you get admission.

Top Colleges for PhD in India

Top 10 career options after phd in india.

Source: Ambition Box

Plan Your Career in PhD

Being known as PhD holder is something to be proud of, not just because it’s a symbol of great knowledge but also a great future. If you want a career like this then doing PhD in India is the best choice and if you are confused about how you are going to get admission in PhD, then re-read the article. Do your research, know which specialization you want to choose and excel in your PhD course.

Make sure you carefully explore all your professional options because your career is extremely important. Before making the right decision, look over our  career advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

The cost of a PhD course in India differs based on the kind of university people choose. However, if you take estimates, it can cost you around 80k to 2 lacs. This figure can go up or down based on whether you choose a private institute or a government one.

A PhD program lasts for three to five years. Candidates have a maximum of five to six years to finish the program. The course length may be different for different institutes and the time taken by student in completing their thesis.

For admission in PhD in India, students require a Master’s degree in a relevant field. An overall grade point average of at least 55% (or equivalent) is required. In addition to this, candidates must know the language in which the course is taught and evaluated. Now, an MPhil degree is not a must for PhD admissions.

Getting a PhD in India is not easy. Candidates pursuing PhDs in India must pass the entrance exams such as NET. This written exam checks if they have the relevant subject knowledge to conduct advanced research. Candidates must further clear a PhD interview exam. Candidates must clear these rounds before pursuing PhDs in their chosen areas of specialization.

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Doctoral Fellowship

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1. introduction.

1.1 Doctoral Fellowships are awarded to selected Indian scholars, who are registered for Ph.D. in UGC recognized universities / deemed universities, institutes of national importance, ICSSR research institutes and colleges having approved Ph.D. programme with requisite infrastructure as defined by MoE / UGC to pursue and complete their doctoral research in any social science discipline.

1.2   The broad disciplines of study within the domain of social sciences identified by ICSSR are:​

(1) Economics / Development Studies (2) Management (3) Commerce (4) Sociology (5) Social Work (6) Social Anthropology (7) Cultural Studies (8) Sanskrit Studies (9) Socio-Philosophical Studies (10) Sociolinguistics (11) Gender Studies (12) Health Studies (13) Political Science (14) International Relations/Geopolitics (15) Public Administration (16) Diaspora Studies (17) National Security and Strategic Studies (18) Education (19) Social Psychology (20) Legal Studies (21) Social Geography (22) Environmental Studies (23) Modern Social History (24) Media Studies (25) Library Science (26) Language Studies

Note : Support may also be provided to persons belonging to a discipline other than the ones mentioned above provided he/she is interested in and has in the opinion of the ICSSR the necessary competence to conduct research in social sciences or social aspects of other sciences. Projects that span across disciplinary boundaries also fall within the areas of the Council’s interests.

1.3 . Categories of Doctoral Fellowship

ICSSR is providing Doctoral Fellowships under its three ‘Centrally-Administered Doctoral Fellowship Schemes’ and ‘Institutional Doctoral Fellowship Scheme’ in accordance with the prescribed guidelines. In case of Centrally-Administered schemes, the fellowships are awarded and monitored directly by ICSSR and the concerned doctoral fellows are affiliated to a university or college. Under the Institutional Fellowship Scheme, the doctoral fellows are affiliated to and monitored by an ICSSR sponsored / recognized research institute. The scholar can avail anyone of the fellowships under the following categories:

A. Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship

B. Institutional Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship (administered by the ICSSR research institutes)

C. Centrally Administered Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship

D. Centrally Administered Contingency Grant

2. Eligibility

A) Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship

2.1 The candidate must have a confirmed Ph.D. registration (Research Advisory Committee (RAC) approved) at any of the institutions mentioned at 1.1. It includes the requirements of clearance of Research Entrance Test (RET); The Ph.D. topic must have been confirmed.

2.2 The candidate must not be more than 40 years of age on the last date of application. There shall be an age relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/OBC-(NCL) candidates & Persons with benchmark disability (PWD).

2.3 The candidate must have secured a minimum 45% marks in Graduation and 55% in Post-Graduation or equivalent grades in any social science disciplines. Five per cent (5%) relaxation of marks will be given to SC/ST/ OBC-(NCL) candidates & Persons with benchmark Disability (PwD). The submission of marks sheets, particularly of Graduation and Post-Graduation are mandatory otherwise the candidate shall be considered as Not Eligible.

2.4 NET will carry weightage in the assessment of research proposal. But NET qualification is not mandatory for eligibility purposes. However, the submission of the NET Certificate is mandatory to secure weightage in assessment.

2.5 Candidates who have already availed UGC Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) / Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship (RGNF) / Maulana Azad National Fellowship (MANF) / ICSSR / ICAR / CSIR / ICPR / ICMR / ICHR / Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Foundation Fund Fellowship (JNMF) or any such major doctoral fellowship are not eligible to apply. Candidates drawing UGC Non-NET Fellowship are eligible.

B)   Institutional Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship

All the conditions of the Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship (2.1 to 2.5) shall apply to this category also and the fellowship shall be administered through the ICSSR research institutes.

C) Centrally Administered   Short-Term Fellowship

2.7 All the conditions of the Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship (2.1 to 2.5) shall apply and, in addition, the candidate should have completed at least two years of research work for Ph.D degree at any of the institutions mentioned at 1.1 above.

D) Centrally Administered   Contingency Grant

2.8 Under this scheme, a one-time grant is awarded to a registered Ph.D scholar at any of the institutions mentioned at 1.1 above, who is at an advanced stage of his/her research work. The candidate meeting all conditions of the Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship (2.1 to 2.5) is eligible to apply for Contingency Grant for the purposes of field trip, stationery and computer consumable related expenses.

3. How to Apply

3.1 Applications will be invited through open advertisement on ICSSR website and its social media platforms and should be received before the deadline mentioned in the advertisement.

3.2.1 The candidates shall submit an online application which includes the Research Proposal Format, namely, ‘Section IV: Details of Research Proposal’ given in the Application Form. The proposal must be submitted in the given proforma along with the attachments mentioned in the application form.

3.2.2 They are also required to submit the hard copies of their application and annexures, duly forwarded by the Competent Authorities of the affiliating university/college/institute, within 10 days of the prescribed last date of online submission.

3.2.3 In case, the hard copy of application is not received within 10 days of asking, the candidature of applicants shall be treated as withdrawn/cancelled.

3.3 The Research Proposal should be either in English or Hindi.

3.4 One applicant can apply only once under a particular Doctoral Fellowship scheme. However, he / she can apply separately for another scheme.

B. Institutional Doctoral Full-Term Fellowship

3.5 The applicants seeking consideration under Institutional Doctoral Fellowship scheme must apply at the respective ICSSR research institute against their Call for Applications for Institutional Doctoral Fellowship in the prescribed format along with the annexures within the given deadline.

3.6 The ICSSR research institutes are required to follow the guidelines of the ICSSR Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship. The institutes must send the applications of their short-listed candidates to ICSSR for evaluation by ICSSR Expert Committee(s) within the specified timeline.

C) Centrally Administered Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship 

D) Centrally Administered Contingency Grant

3.7 The Application procedure for both of the schemes mentioned at C and D above shall also be the same as per the conditions at Clauses 3.1 to 3.4

4. Procedure for Award

4.1 Applications are scrutinized and short-listed.

4.2 Expert Committee(s) give their assessment, in terms of grades and scores.  Based on the assessment of Expert Committee(s), subject-wise merit lists are prepared for award of fellowship with the approval of the competent authority.

4.3 In case ICSSR feels the need, it may invite any short-listed applicant for presentation before an Expert Committee of ICSSR.

4.4 The recommendations of the Expert Committee(s) are placed before the requisite Committee(s) of ICSSR for their consent / approval.

4.5 The Subject-wise merit lists of selected candidates of Centrally-Administered Doctoral Fellowships are placed on the ICSSR website, normally within four to six months.

4.6 Only the selected candidates and their affiliating universities are informed individually through Award letter.

B) Institutional Doctoral Full-Term Fellowship

4.7 The ICSSR research institutes are required to follow the rules of the ICSSR Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship. The institutes are required to send, within the specified timeline, the applications of their short-listed candidates to ICSSR for evaluation by ICSSR Expert Committee(s).

4.8 The institutes shall inform the selected candidates individually through their Award letters.

C) Centrally Administered Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship

4.9 The procedure of award of these fellowships shall be same as per the conditions at Clauses 4.1 to 4. 6

5. Duration and Value

5.1 The duration of the fellowship is strictly for two years or till the date of Ph.D submission at the university, whichever is earlier.

5.2 The value of the fellowship is Rs.20,000/- p.m. and contingency grant is Rs.20,000 /- p.a.

5.3 Doctoral Fellow should be a full-time bonafide Ph. D student at the affiliating university throughout the duration of fellowship tenure.

5.4 The duration and value of fellowship will be the same as mentioned under the Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship. (5.1 to 5.3)

C) Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship

5.5 The duration of the Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship is strictly for six months or till the date of Ph.D. submission at the university, whichever is earlier.

5.6 The value of fellowship is Rs.20,000/- per month plus contingency grant of Rs.10,000 /- for the six-month duration of the Fellowship.

D) Contingency Grant

5.7 This scheme provides for a consolidated grant for meeting the contingency expenses of Ph.D., not exceeding Rs.62,500/-, that are incurred during the period of joining the fellowship and date of submission of thesis at the university.

6. Joining and Release of Fellowship

6.1 The scholar must join the fellowship within two weeks of the date of the award letter by submitting the prescribed documents to ICSSR.

6.2 The sanction of the fellowship will be issued initially for a period of one year, effective from the date of joining of the Fellowship. The renewal of the Fellowship for the subsequent year shall be subject to the receipt of satisfactory Annual Progress Report and Statement of Expenditure for the entire fellowship grant released for first year.

6.3 The first-year fellowship and contingency grant will be released in two equal instalments. The first instalment will be released after receiving the documents prescribed in the Award letter along with the Grant-in-aid-Bill (GIB) and Registration Mandate Form of PFMS Account of those affiliating / administering institutions, which have not linked their accounts to PFMS for ICSSR grant. The second instalment shall be released after receiving a satisfactory Six-Monthly Progress Report in the prescribed format along with Statement of Expenditure.

6.4 The second-year fellowship grant will be released in three instalments:

6.4.1 The first instalment of second year will be released on receiving the Grant-in-Aid Bill (GIB).

6.4.2 The second instalment will be released on receipt of satisfactory First Six-Monthly Progress report of the Second Year in the prescribed format along with Statement of Expenditure.

6.4.3 The third and final instalment will be released on receipt of a Thesis Submission Certificate issued by the Controller of Examination/Competent Authority of the University, a summary in 3000 to 4000 words along with the audited Statement of Accounts and Utilization Certificate for the admissible grant (in GFR 12A Form).

6.5 The Statement of Accounts and Utilization certificate should be signed by the Finance Officer / Registrar / Principal / Director in case the accounts of the institution are audited by the CAG/AG. Otherwise, they need to be signed both by the competent authority of the affiliating institution along with the chartered accountant.

6.6 The requisite documents at every stage should be submitted within the prescribed time frame.

6.7 Same as mentioned under the Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship. (6.1 to 6.6)

C) Centrally Administered Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship and

6.8 The Short-Term Fellowship and Contingency Grant are released in two instalments. The first instalment of upto 70% is released on receipt of the documents prescribed in the Award letter along with the grant-in-aid bill (GIB) and Registration Mandate Form of PFMS Account of concerned affiliating / administering institution. The second and final instalment of the admissible grant shall be released after receiving a Thesis Submission Certificate issued by the Controller of Examination/Competent Authority of the University, a summary in 3000 to 4000 words along with the audited Statement of Accounts with Utilization Certificate (in GFR-12A Form) for the admissible amount duly signed by the competent authority of the affiliating institution.

6.9 The Statement of Accounts and Utilization Certificate will be signed by the Finance Officer / Registrar / Director in case the accounts of the Institution are audited by the CAG/AG. Otherwise, they need to be signed by the competent authority of the affiliating institution along with a chartered accountant.

7. Monitoring of Fellowship

7.1. Regular monitoring of Fellowship is done on the basis of Six Monthly and Annual Progress Report in the prescribed format submitted by the scholar and duly forwarded by the supervisor.

7.2. The fellowship may be discontinued / terminated if research progress is found to be unsatisfactory or any ICSSR rules are violated or the research topic is changed without the permission of ICSSR.

7.3 The ICSSR may ask for annual presentation / mid-term appraisal of the research work.

7.4 In cases of delayed Progress Reports the scholar will be required to give the justification of the delay on which the final decision shall be taken by ICSSR. The scholar may be asked to furnish an Undertaking specifying the date of Ph.D. submission to ICSSR.

7.5 During the course of the fellowship, the scholars are required to publish at least two research papers in reputed journals preferably in SCOPUS / UGC CARE journals and / or edited books by reputed publishers, on the theme of the research undertaken and submit a copy of these to ICSSR.

7.6 The scholars must acknowledge ICSSR while getting their research paper published.

7.7. Same as mentioned under the Centrally Administered Doctoral Fellowship.

C) Centrally Administered Short-Term Doctoral Fellowship and D) Centrally-Administered Contingency Grant

7.8. The fellowship may be discontinued / terminated if any of the ICSSR rules are violated or the research topic is changed without the permission of ICSSR.

8. Completion of the Fellowship

A)   Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship

8.1 If a fellow leaves the fellowship before its full-term, he/she has to inform ICSSR in advance.

8.1.1 The scholar shall be permitted to retain the grant released from date of Joining till the date of leaving / discontinuing the ICSSR fellowship subject to submission of the following:

(i) An updated Progress Report for the said period duly forwarded by the Supervisor.

(ii) An Undertaking to submit a Thesis Submission Certificate within a reasonable time on a Non-Judicial stamp paper of Rs. 100/- (in prescribed format).

(iii) Statement of Accounts and Utilization Certificate (in GFR-12 A form) for the admissible amount.

(iv) Refund of the unspent balance, if any, the payment may be made by sending a cheque/ DD in favour of ICSSR, New Delhi or through PFMS /RTGS.

8.1.2 In such cases, the ICSSR may consider to pay contingency grant subsequent to submission of thesis to ICSSR.

8.1.3 In other cases, the scholar can leave the fellowship by refunding the entire amount already released by the ICSSR.

8.1.4 The scholars leaving the fellowship before completion of their fellowship tenure without informing ICSSR shall be required to refund the entire amount of fellowship released with penalty/penal interest.

8.2 The fellows are required to submit a Ph D Thesis Submission Certificate issued by the Controller of Examinations/Competent Authority immediately after submission of the Ph D Thesis to the University for award of the Ph D Degree, failing which the fellow has to refund the amount of fellowship to the ICSSR.

8.3 If, as a special case, a scholar remains on leave due to maternity / medical / extra ordinary circumstances (not exceeding six months) with due approval by the ICSSR, the tenure of fellowship shall be deferred by that period but the total amount of fellowship sanctioned shall not exceed 24 months.

8.4 Again, as a special case, a scholar can avail a foreign fellowship and re-join ICSSR Fellowship on return with due approval by the ICSSR, the tenure of fellowship may be deferred by that period.

8. 5 After the thesis is submitted to the concerned university, the scholar must submit the following to ICSSR at the earliest within a year:

(i) A Ph D Thesis Submission Certificate issued by the Controller of Examinations/Competent Authority immediately after submission of the Ph D Thesis to the University for award of the Ph D Degree along with a copy of summary (in 3000 to 4000 words and research papers published.

(ii) The audited Statement of Account and Utilization Certificate (in GFR-12A Form) for the admissible grant as per clause 6.5 and 6.9.

8.6 ICSSR gets every report checked for plagiarism and the Similarity Report is also generated. As a policy, ICSSR does not accept contents beyond 10 percent on Similarity Index. Scholars are required to get their final report checked on their own for Similarity Index and attach a report of the same at the time of submission.

8.7. Same as mentioned under the Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship including the conditions mentioned in the Clauses 8.1 to 8.6. Further, the concerned research institute must submit the Thesis Submission Certificate and other prescribed documents to ICSSR well in time.

8.8. Same as mentioned under the Centrally Administered Full-Term Doctoral Fellowship including the conditions mentioned in the Clauses 8.1 to 8.6.

9. Expectation from the Affiliating Institution  

9.1 The affiliating institution is required to provide the requisite research infrastructure to the scholar and maintain proper accounts.

9.2 The affiliating institution is required to give a Forwarding letter in the prescribed format contained in the Application Form to administer and manage the ICSSR fellowship grant.

9.3 The affiliating institution shall open / maintain a dedicated bank account for ICSSR grant (Scheme Code 0877) that is duly registered at PFMS portal for release of the Doctoral Fellowship Grant without any delay.

9.4 The affiliating institution is expected to immediately release the sanctioned fellowship grant released by ICSSR to the scholar.

9.5 The affiliating institution is expected to ensure a Thesis Submission Certificate and audited Statement of Accounts and Utilization Certificate with respect to admissible grant, (in the prescribed GFR- 12A) duly certified by the Competent authority including the refund of any unspent balance within one year.

9.6 In case a scholar leaves / discontinues his fellowship before completion of fellowship tenure, the affiliating institution shall inform ICSSR within 15 days and settle the accounts including the refund of any unspent balance within three months.

10. Other Conditions

10.1. The ICSSR will follow the ceiling imposed by the UGC on number of doctoral supervisions under a particular category of guide (Professor/Associate Professor/Assistant Professor).

10.2. The Doctoral Fellows must stay and work full time at the affiliating university / institute. However, they may go on field work with the express approval of their supervisor but for rest of the period, they must continue to work at the concerned university / institute and follow their rules.

10.3. The Fellow shall not accept or hold any appointment (paid or otherwise) or receive any emoluments, salary, stipend etc., from any other source during the tenure of the award of fellowship. However, a fellow may undertake teaching assignments of not more than six hours a week.

10.4 The tenure of fellowship is strictly for two years. Any extension can be granted under exceptional circumstances without any additional financial implications to ICSSR. The ICSSR reserves the right to determine exceptional circumstances.

10.5 The contingency grant may be utilized for books, stationery, computer consumable costs and field work expenses related to the research work.

10.6 The ICSSR reserves the first right to publish the Ph.D thesis funded by it, provided the work is recommended for publication by the ICSSR expert(s).

10.7 Defaulters of any previous ICSSR fellowship / project / grant will not be eligible for consideration until the applicant obtains the clearance from the concerned administrative division.

10.8. A fellow is not entitled for same type of fellowship more than once.

10.9 While accepting Doctoral fellowships from the ICSSR, a fellow should not accept job or any other fellowship from any other university / institute. However, ICSSR, shall encourage and support the ICSSR fellowship awardees getting prestigious foreign fellowships. Therefore, they shall be permitted to re-join their fellowships after their return from abroad as special cases, provided they had sought prior approvals.

10.10 During the tenure of fellowship, the fellow will be governed by the rules of the affiliating/ administering institution in all matters including drawls of TA, attendance, holidays/leave and contingency grant, etc.

10.11 The selected fellows are expected to do full-time research in India. They could, however, undertake data collection outside India, if warranted by the needs of the proposal. For this, they are required to apply separately for consideration under the Data Collection Scheme of the International Collaboration Division of ICSSR. However, ICSSR will not be bound to support such data collection from abroad and the decision of the ICSSR will be final. In either case, the completion of study should not be consequent upon such data collection support.

10.12 The scholar should not have been subjected to any disciplinary / legal action / proceedings/ financial penalties in his/her research career.

10.13 Application submitted against a Call will not be considered for the subsequent Calls on its own.

10.14 ICSSR reserves the right to reject any application without assigning any reason. It is also not responsible for any postal delay / loss.

10.15 Incomplete applications / applications not accompanied by its hard copy when asked by ICSSR shall not be considered for fellowship.

10.16 No queries regarding the awards will be entertained by the ICSSR secretariat until the final declaration of results which will be placed on ICSSR website.

10.17 The final authority for the interpretation of the guidelines or any such issue is vested with the ICSSR.

Research Proposal Format

The complete format for research proposal consisting of the following contents/sections is a part of the Application Form, namely, Section IV: Details of Research Proposal.

In all, the research proposal shall be in about 3,000 words comprising of the following sections:

i.   Title of the Research Proposal: The research proposal should have a clear, meaningful and confirmed topic reflecting the scope of the study.

ii. Abstract of the research proposal should be summarized (in about 300 words).

iii. Introduction: The introduction should clearly state the research problem to be investigated in the light of its theoretical and/or empirical context in the relevant area. The proposal should include a statement on the relevance of the study and the anticipated outcomes (in about 300 words).

iv.Review of Literature: (National and International): A Survey should have been undertaken involving at least 20 major research literature related to the theme of study under investigation and their list must be given in this section (in about 400 words).

v. Identification of Research Gaps:  The scholar should summarize the current status of research in the area and major findings, including the researcher’s own work in the area. Existing empirical findings may also be discussed. The overview should clearly demonstrate the inadequacies/ gaps in the existing findings or approaches and its relevance (in about 200-300 words). 

vi.   Objectives of the Study: The general aim of the study alongwith the specific objectives to be accomplished should be clearly stated while providing a rationale of the proposed study in the present context (in about 100-150 words).

vii. Research Questions or Hypotheses: Given the conceptual framework and the specification of dimension, the specific questions to be answered through the proposed research should be sharply formulated. In case of an explanatory research design, specification of variables and positing of relationship among them through specific hypotheses must form a part of the research proposal (in about 250-300 words).

viii. Research Methodology: The researcher must describe in detail (a) the scope and coverage of his/her study; and (b) approach and methodology with adequate justification to conduct the research. The details of the methodology may include research design, data to be collected and empirical and analytical methods to be used. The description of the methodology must be clearly linked to the aims of the research and the research questions/hypotheses of the study (in about 300 words).

ix.   Innovation/Pathbreaking aspect of the research: Here, the emphasis should be laid to spell out the innovativeness in approach and novel concepts that have been envisaged in the study (in about 150-200 words). 

x.    Proposed Outcomes of the Study:  A brief note on the proposed plan of publications, during the course of research and after its completion, must be provided, in that, the section should enlist the proposed outputs from the study in terms of publications in the form of research papers / articles in journals, particularly Scopus/ UGC’s Care-listed journals, books, monographs, etc.) (in about 150 words).

xi.   New Data to be Generated:  A note on deficiencies/inadequacies found in the existing data and description of the new data to be generated for the proposed research (in about 100 words).

xii. Expected Contribution of the Study: A concise note needs to be given on the significant contributions the research work is expected to make to the theory and methodology on the subject as well as its practical importance to the society and its implications for policy-making (in about 300 words).

xiii.  Duration of the Study with Quarterly Timelines: A note on the present stage of doctoral work, expected duration for the completion of the work. Timelines must be set for each successive quarter and its completion (in about 200 words).

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HOW TO APPLY FOR PH.D. ABROAD

How to apply for Ph.D. abroad

Ph.D. in Abroad with Scholarship

Ph.d. abroad: top countries, ph.d. abroad: top careers, what is ph.d., why do your ph.d. abroad, how to apply for ph.d. in foreign universities, studying for a ph.d. program, the teaching assistantship, the thesis and dissertation, research the programs and decide on specialization, zero in on your supervisor and start networking, complete the application and plan ahead, is it difficult to apply to phds abroad, will i need a student visa, ph.d. in different countries, ph.d. abroad: eligibility criteria.

If you are interested in applying for a Ph.D. program abroad with scholarship funding, there are several options available to international students. Some common types of Ph.D. scholarships include:

  • Full scholarships: Full scholarships typically cover all costs associated with the Ph.D. program, including tuition, housing, and food.
  • Partial scholarships: Partial scholarships provide partial financial aid for specific expenses, such as tuition, housing, or other designated costs.

It is worth noting that scholarship opportunities may vary based on the country and university you are applying to. Scholarship opportunities are provided to students by some universities and organizations, while others may have more general funding opportunities available. It is recommended to research and apply for as many scholarship options as possible to increase your chances of securing funding for your Ph.D. program.

Here are some of the top countries for Indian students to study Ph.D. abroad:

  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America

Ph.D. Abroad: Top US Universities

Here are some top universities for Ph.D. Abroad:

Ph.D. Abroad: Top Australian Universities

Ph.D. Abroad: Top European Universities

Ph.D. Abroad: Top German Universities

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A PhD is a research degree that signifies the completion of a program of advanced study and is the highest level of academic qualification that can be obtained. PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. It typically takes between three and four years of full-time work to earn a PhD and involves the production of a thesis, which represents an original contribution to the field of study.

There are many benefits to studying abroad for a Ph.D. degree. For some students, the opportunity to learn a new language, immerse them in a different culture, and make new connections may be appealing. In other cases, pursuing a Ph.D. degree abroad may be necessary due to limited opportunities in the student's home country for their chosen area of research.

Studying abroad may also offer more favorable funding options, affordable tuition fees, access to advanced laboratory equipment, and experienced supervisors, which can enhance the overall Ph.D. experience and benefit the student's career.

  •  It is important to communicate your specific area of interest to the admissions committee, demonstrating your passion and readiness for a Ph.D. degree. It may also be helpful to have a specific topic in mind and to show that you have done your research on the subject.
  •  To apply for a Ph.D. program at a foreign university, it is important to perform well on general GRE exam and the subject GRE with preparation tips.
  • To enroll in a Ph.D. program abroad, you will first be enrolled as a Ph.D. student. After completing the required coursework and passing qualifying exams, which may include written and oral components, you will become a Ph.D. candidate.
  • The majority of your time will be spent working on your dissertation, which will be overseen by a dissertation advisor.
  • It is typically expected that it will take 3 to 10 years to complete a Ph.D. program, depending on your field of study, previous experience, and training, and your progress in your studies.
  • In some fields, such as certain branches of physics, a doctoral degree is almost necessary for employment.
  • When applying for a Ph.D. program abroad, it is important to carefully consider your area of interest and to prepare for the GRE.

[ Read More: Know How to Book GRE Slot in 4 Simple Steps ]

  • A Teaching Assistantship (TA) is a position assigned to Ph.D. candidates and some graduate students to teach undergraduate courses in their field at a university.
  • This type of position can provide practical experience that is useful for a future career in academia.
  • If being a TA is not desirable, there are other fellowships available, such as Research Assistantships (RA), where students can assist senior researchers and professors in a laboratory setting.

When considering a Ph.D. program, it is important to take into account various factors before choosing a university and mentor that you will work with to complete your dissertation.

Choosing a Mentor and University

  • Choosing the right mentor for your Ph.D. studies is crucial.
  • It is important to find a professor who is interested in your area of research and whose interests align with yours.
  • It is helpful to do your homework and thoroughly research professors and departments to find the best fit.
  • It is also important to make sure that the university or department you are applying to specializes in your field of study.

Obtaining a Ph.D. degree from a foreign university can greatly enhance your career prospects and allow you to make meaningful contributions to your field of study. Many Indian students seek Ph.D. programs at respected universities around the world. After completing a master's degree, a Ph.D. program allows students to delve deeper into their area of interest. Currently, numerous universities worldwide offer a wide range of Ph.D. programs.

Countries such as the US, UK, Canada, Germany, and Australia are among the leading destinations for international students seeking Ph.D. programs , provided they have good grades and research experience. However, before applying to a university, there are several steps to consider.

The journey of an overseas Ph.D. program starts with thorough research on the universities in a given nation that provide the specific course combined with their eligibility/entry requirements. You must also keep in mind the deadlines for applying to the degree of your choice and the topic or specialization in which you want to do the doctorate. Proper research of the universities, the facilities, the faculty (in the subject you've selected), and their areas of specialization must be done before deciding on the specialization.

When selecting a supervisor for your research at a university, it is important to carefully consider the supervisor's knowledge and experience in the field of your chosen specialization and ensure that their research interests align with yours. Your potential supervisor should also have experience guiding similar thesis projects and be able to provide support throughout your Ph.D. program.

Keep in mind that established supervisors may receive numerous requests from Ph.D. applicants but can only accept a limited number of students each semester, so it is important to reach out to them formally (via email) to express your interest and reserve a spot.

[ Read More: Indians to benefit from visa cap removal for PhDs in UK ]

It is advisable to research the supervisor's academic and research background, the number of students they typically work with, and the level of support they can provide. It is also advisable to follow up with the supervisor regularly and ask relevant questions about your Ph.D. program to help you prepare a strong university application.

Your university application is a crucial document that can determine whether or not you are accepted into the program of your choice. It is important to carefully craft your application to highlight your background, strengths, passions, and aspirations.

In addition to considering the curriculum and your academic accomplishments, you should also think about your future goals and consider what you hope to do after earning your Ph.D. degree. Whether you want to pursue a career in academia, research, or another field, it is important to prepare yourself to meet the requirements of your desired role to succeed in the industry you hope to join.

There are generally some similarities in the process of applying for a Ph.D. program at universities in different countries. However, there may be some differences between the specific documents required and the language proficiency tests that you need to take. For example, some universities may require you to provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement, while others may have additional or different requirements.

It is important to carefully review the requirements for each university you are considering and ensure that you have all the necessary documents and meet any language requirements before submitting your application. Similarly, you may need to take a language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL or IELTS , to demonstrate your ability to communicate in the language of instruction at the university.

Whether you need a student visa to study abroad for a Ph.D. program will depend on the country to which you are applying. In some countries, such as the United Kingdom, non-EU students may need to apply for a Tier 4 Visa to pursue a full-time Ph.D. program. In Germany, students may need a residence permit rather than a student visa. In the United States, students typically need to apply for an F-1 student visa.

The requirements for obtaining a student visa in Asian countries may vary. For example, in China, you may need an X1 Student Visa, while in Singapore, you may need a Student Pass. It is recommended to check the government website of the specific country you are interested in studying in to learn about the specific requirements for obtaining a student visa or other documentation needed for studying abroad.

If you are thinking about applying for a Ph.D. program abroad from India, it is important to research the specific requirements of the country and university you are applying to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the procedure and what you have to do.

[Read More: Best Places For Pursuing Your Higher Education]

Doctoral candidates are typically required to submit a thesis or project that includes their original research as part of their final course requirements. However, universities in different countries may have slightly different requirements for the admission process and criteria for passing. For example, in New Zealand, students may need to participate in an oral examination based on their thesis.

In the United Kingdom, Ph.D. candidates do not typically need to take written exams but must produce an externally examined thesis. In the United States, universities may require letters of recommendation and an essay outlining the purpose of the Ph.D. program. In Australia, students may need to provide a review of relevant research literature and an original research project in addition to their thesis to be awarded a Ph.D. degree.

How to Apply for Ph.D. Abroad from India in EU Countries

There are typically two ways to apply to universities in the United Kingdom : by applying directly through the university's website or by using the UCAS Postgraduate system. In Spain, Italy, and Germany, you may need to complete a pre-application process before you can apply for a Ph.D. program. This process is intended to ensure that your qualifications meet the eligibility requirements to study in the UK.

It may be helpful to consult with your government before beginning this process to get guidance on how your country's qualification system compares to the host country's system. Once you have completed the pre-application process, the university will review your application and contact you if you are approved to move forward. EU institutions may also interview you via Skype or phone.

How to Apply for Ph.D. Abroad from India in the USA

International students who are applying for Ph.D. programs in the United States may need to take additional exams beyond language proficiency tests, such as the GRE General Exam and the GRE Subject Exam. Studying in the United States can be competitive , so it is advisable to apply to a variety of institutions to increase your chances of being accepted. Applying to at least nine different institutions is generally recommended as part of your Ph.D. application process.

How to Apply for Ph.D. Abroad from India in Asia

The application process for Ph.D. programs in Asian countries, such as China, Hong Kong, Singapore, South Korea, the United Arab Emirates, and India, may vary from one university to another. To ensure that you have the most accurate information, it is important to carefully review the specific application process for each university you are interested in applying to. This will help you understand the requirements and steps you need to follow to apply successfully.

How to Apply for Ph.D. Abroad from India to Australia

You must first find and email an appropriate supervisor if you intend to apply for a Ph.D. in a foreign nation like Australia. If you apply to the school as an international student without taking this action, your prospects of Studying in Australia would be reduced.

After reviewing the proposal with them, the supervisor will provide you with instructions on how to submit a formal application. Similar to EU institutions, if an Australian university believes you're a strong candidate, they'll probably invite you to a Skype or phone interview.

Eligibility criteria for pursuing a Ph.D. degree in a foreign country:

  • A high GPA score
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Undertaken Ventures
  • Scores of tests like the GRE, TOEFL, etc.
  • Papers Posted, if any,
  • If submitted, dissertations
  • Participation in co-curricular activities related to the research subject you have selected
  • Letters for Recommendation

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is an international higher education better than studying at a domestic university.

The common notion is that foreign universities are expensive, although with scholarships this is an exaggerated issue. What many fail to consider are time and effort. Studying in an Indian college leads to a lower average salary than earned by our western counterparts. This salary sets the tone for all future promotions since companies often look at your previous salaries during compensation appraisals. Additionally, most senior positions tend to be scooped up by individuals who have an international outlook through global exposure.  Finally, studying in a foreign country is an incredible learning experience helping students get a better academic as well as soft skill development.

Why has Canada become such a popular destination for education?

Canada has been one of the market leaders in education for decades. However, what currently sets Maple Country apart is immigration. Canada is wholeheartedly inviting students to study in their universities to fill job vacancies that are always growing in the country. Students who study in Canada (especially a Master’s Degree) are practically assured of a Permanent Residency Visa.

Is a good entrance test score important for a scholarship?

A good score doesn’t automatically qualify a candidate for a scholarship, however, it is one of the primary factors that the admissions department looks for in a scholarship application. There are other attributes such as a candidate’s academics, extra-curricular, financial background, and application essays (SOPs).

How do I choose the right university for me?

We get this question a lot. Many candidates know which career path they want to take, but are at a loss for how to take that journey. Understanding the job role and the industry that you want to get into is the first step to picking the right university.

Where should i study abroad?

Carefully consider the immigration options of the country that the university that you are considering is in. This is more important when you intend to stay back in the country after the completion of your course.

Also, review the placement history of the university as well.

The first step is to list your preferences. By listing your preferences and strengths, describe your course of preference. Extensive research on the modules, software and its length for your preferred subject is necessary.

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  • Abroad PhD , Study Abroad

The Key Differences between Pursuing a PhD in India and Abroad

  • Published on May 4, 2023

PhD in India vs Abroad

Pursuing a PhD is a significant academic achievement that requires a considerable amount of time, effort, skills, hard work and dedication. While some students choose to pursue their doctoral degree in their home country such as India in our case, others may opt to explore opportunities abroad. However, there are several differences between pursuing a PhD in India and abroad, from the admission process to the curriculum and research culture. In this article, we will go deep into the various aspects of an Abroad PhD and a PhD in India, highlighting the differences between the two in this article. 

PhD in India vs. PhD in Abroad, the key differences.

Table of Contents

  • 1 Admission Process:
  • 2 Research Funding:
  • 3 Duration of PhD:
  • 4 Curriculum and Coursework:
  • 5 Research Culture:
  • 6 Career Opportunities:

Admission Process:

In India, admission to a PhD program typically involves clearing an entrance exam conducted by National Test Agency (NTA) and an interview. This exam makes students eligible for pursuing PhD in India. This is not the only way to get enrolled in the PhD programme in India, there are other National entrance exams for PhD in India as well through which anyone can get admission in the PhD programme in India (Example: GATE).

However, admission to a PhD program abroad is generally more competitive and may involve a variety of criteria such as academic records, research experience, recommendation letters, statement of purpose (SOP), and standardized test scores such as GRE, TOEFL or IELTS to evaluate English speaking, listening, and writing skills.

Research Funding:

PhD in Indian universities are often funded by the government or universities, and students may also receive a monthly stipend through different private scholarships. Central Government scholarships can be availed directly through the JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) programme.

However, PhD programs abroad are usually not funded by the government, and students are often required to secure their own funding through scholarships, grants or fellowships. Abroad PhD can be Partially or Fully funded. Students can get a direct fellowship from their enrolled university or Supervisor fund. 

Duration of PhD:

PhD in Indian universities typically takes between 3 to 5 years to complete. First-year of the Indian PhD programme is known as Pre-PhD, in this period usually students go through research coursework and other skill development courses essential for their research. After that, the duration of the PhD programme depends on the student and supervisor. 

However, PhD programs abroad may take longer, and the duration can vary depending on the field of study, the research topic, and the country of study. Sometimes the duration of an Abroad PhD purely depends on the funding period, which means for how many years the PhD candidate is getting funding for his/her research. 

Curriculum and Coursework:

PhD in Indian universities are generally required to complete coursework in addition to their research work. However, in many countries abroad, such as the United States, students may not be required to complete coursework and can focus solely on their research. 

Research Culture:

PhD in Indian universities place more emphasis on coursework and examinations. PhD programs abroad often have a more research-focused culture, with greater emphasis on independent research and publication. Research culture can vary depending on the institution.

Research Culture, The Key Differences between Pursuing a PhD in India and Abroad

Career Opportunities:

Completing a PhD abroad can open up a more comprehensive range of career opportunities, both in India and abroad. PhD graduates from reputable international universities have better job prospects and higher salaries compared to graduates of Indian universities. 

phd based on work experience in india

The decision of pursuing a PhD in India or abroad requires careful consideration of various factors such as the admission process, research funding, duration, curriculum, and career opportunities. While pursuing a PhD in India is more accessible due to government-funded scholarships and a structured academic curriculum, studying abroad may offer better career prospects and a more research-focused culture. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, resources, and aspirations. Whatever the choice may be, pursuing a PhD is a commendable achievement that can open up new dimensions and opportunities in the academic and professional world.

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phd based on work experience in india

UGC to consider time spent on Ph.D research as teaching experience

Job aspirants and teachers can now consider their Ph.D research period as teaching experience for the purpose of direct recruitment or promotion.

Listen to Story

UGC to consider time spent on Ph.D research as teaching experience

According to media reports, the University Grants Commission (UGC) recently made the announcement asking all the universities to start considering the Ph. D research period as equivalent to teaching experience.

''The period of active service spent on pursuing Research Degree i.e. for acquiring Ph.D. degree simultaneously without taking any kind of leave may be counted as teaching experience for the purpose of direct recruitment/promotion to the post of Associate Professor and above,'' the new circular by UGC committee stated.

The UGC's move is being seen by the academia as an effort to primarily facilitate filling up of vacant posts across India's universities and other higher educational institutions which require at-least two - three years of teaching experience for faculty positions.

"We have large number of unemployed meritorious PhD holders. The decision to treat the period spent by them in acquiring a PhD degree as teaching experience will not only open doors of employment to many of such degree holders, but also facilitate institutions fill up their teaching positions lying vacant for years," official sources said.

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IMAGES

  1. How to Apply for PhD in India? PhD Enrollment Process India

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  2. How to Apply for a PhD in India/Abroad: Check the complete Complete Guide

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  3. phD in India or abroad

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  4. My PhD interview experience at IISC Bangalore

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  5. 9 PhD Resume Examples & Guide for 2023

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  6. Most Competitive PhD Programs

    phd based on work experience in india

VIDEO

  1. Ph.D. From Universities in India: Is it Worth? Ph.D. Guide

  2. PhD in Foreign vs PhD in India #shorts #phd

  3. PhD Life Experience in India or Abroad

  4. #phd #iit #research #onlinelearning #study #depression #motivation

  5. Fellowships for PhD in India

  6. Top 10 universities to try PhD admission

COMMENTS

  1. PhD Study in India

    An Indian PhD will qualify you well for further work related to your research area, in India or elsewhere. The expansion of the Indian university sector is creating many opportunities for academic work in the country and your experience of Indian higher education will prepare you well for these kinds of roles.

  2. Can you get a PhD based on work or life experience?

    In my experience, you won't get a Ph.D. degree with just work experience. You need to contribute to the community by producing journal articles and research papers. So as long as you have significantly contributed to the academic or social environment and the university recognizes your talent, yes you can get a Ph.D. on successful review of ...

  3. Pursuing a PhD in India: Navigating the Pros and Cons Today

    The Pros. 1. Intellectual Exploration: Think of a PhD as a quest to explore the uncharted territories of knowledge. Just as Dr. Gagandeep Kang is doing with her groundbreaking research on vaccines ...

  4. Top 7 Career Opportunities in India after PhD in 2024

    The average salary of PhD holders ranges between ₹ 6,00,000 and ₹ 12,00,000 per year, depending on the field of choice, experience, and skillsets. The average base salary for a PhD holder working as a professor is ₹16,73,000 per year, approximately ₹90k per month). Schedule 1:1 free counselling Talk to Career Expert.

  5. Part-time Ph.D. for Working Professionals

    Category 5: Part-Time Ph.D. for Working Professionals. The applicant should have minimum of two (02) years of work experience in the related field. » Financial and Non-financial. » Number of hours, the applicant would be allowed to devote for PhD including for course work.

  6. Ph.D. in India: Cost, Duration, and Eligibility for Admission

    Summary. Pursuing a Ph.D. in India is a rewarding and intellectually stimulating endeavor. Understanding the duration, costs, eligibility criteria, and recent developments is crucial to navigating the process effectively. By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, aspiring Ph.D. scholars can embark on their academic journey ...

  7. Doctoral Program (Ph.D.)

    QS World University Subject Rankings 2024 has ranked BITS Pilani globally at. 101-150 in Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 301-350 in 4 subjects namely, EEE, Computer Science, Mechanical and Chemical Engineering. 451-500 in 3 subjects, namely, Mathematics, Business & management Studies and Physics & Astronomy. 501-550 in Chemistry.

  8. A Comprehensive Guide to Applying for a PhD in India [2024]

    The cost of a PhD course in India differs based on the kind of university people choose. However, if you take estimates, it can cost you around 80k to 2 lacs. For admission in PhD in India, students require a Master's degree in a relevant field. An overall grade point average of at least 55% (or equivalent) is required.

  9. Ph. D. in Sustainable Development

    This PhD program will take 3 years to complete when enrolled as a full-time student. Specialized Part-time Program. Currently offered in Sustainable Development and Interdisciplinary Studies. Offered exclusively to Central Agencies and National Research Institutes' employees. Apply Now (India) Apply Now (International)

  10. DOING PH.D. IN INDIA. A Step-by-Step Guide

    This is the single most important reason for making doctoral-level research flexible wherein the scientific and scholarly world gives autonomy to Ph.D. scholars to formulate their question and ...

  11. Ph. D. in Management

    Andhra Pradesh-522503, India. E Mail ID: [email protected]. Ph.D. Coordinator (Amritapuri) Dr. Avinash Shivdas Chair, PhD Programme School of Business Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham Amritapuri Campus Kollam 690 525, Kerala. E Mail ID: [email protected]. Baiju Sankar Asst. Administrative Officer, School of Business Amrita Vishwa ...

  12. Part-time PhD: Admission Process, Fees, Courses, Job and ...

    PhD Scholarships. Part-Time PhD is available in various colleges such as IIT, or JNU and other top Universities in India. The average fee for Part Time PhD is around INR 2,00,000 to INR 7,00,000. Admission to the Part-Time PhD program is based on merit and an entrance test followed by an interview conducted by the various Universities.

  13. Doctoral Fellowship

    5.1 The duration of the fellowship is strictly for two years or till the date of Ph.D submission at the university, whichever is earlier. 5.2 The value of the fellowship is Rs.20,000/- p.m. and contingency grant is Rs.20,000 /- p.a. 5.3 Doctoral Fellow should be a full-time bonafide Ph.

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    More specifically, this article argues whether the work experience of a Ph.D. graduate in a research lab be counted as "work experience" when determining one's job level (salary is generally ...

  15. Ph.D. abroad for Indian students

    A PhD is a research degree that signifies the completion of a program of advanced study and is the highest level of academic qualification that can be obtained. PhD stands for Doctor of Philosophy. It typically takes between three and four years of full-time work to earn a PhD and involves the production of a thesis, which represents an ...

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    The following are the steps for writing an impressive Ph.D. resume: 1. Understand the job description. The first step is to read and understand the job description well. This helps you identify what the recruiters are looking for in the ideal candidate and the most relevant information to include on your resume.

  17. The Key Differences between Pursuing a PhD in India and Abroad

    While pursuing a PhD in India is more accessible due to government-funded scholarships and a structured academic curriculum, studying abroad may offer better career prospects and a more research-focused culture. Ultimately, the choice depends on individual preferences, resources, and aspirations. Whatever the choice may be, pursuing a PhD is a ...

  18. Do Indian PhDs have Scope for Employment Abroad?

    If you plan to work abroad with an Indian PhD degree, this students' exchange program can not just help you add to your resume but also help gain real-time experience of studying and making your ...

  19. UGC to consider time spent on Ph.D research as teaching experience

    VVPAT. PM Modi. The UGC's move is being seen by the academia as an effort to primarily facilitate filling up of vacant posts across India's universities and other higher educational institutions which require at-least two - three years of teaching experience for faculty positions. "We have large number of unemployed meritorious PhD holders.

  20. List of PHD Programs in Social Work in India

    Find the list of all PHD Programs in Social Work in India with our interactive Program search tool. Use the filters to list programs by subject, location, program type or study level.

  21. How do I refer to my PhD studies in my CV; under education or experience?

    Surely, you do research during your PhD, but that is still a part of your education - you are being taught how to do research, and are (at least formally) being supervised in doing so. Generally, the experience part refers to the work experience you possess, over and above the experience you have acquired as a part of your education.

  22. PhD Social Work Course Admission, IGNOU, Colleges, Syllabus, Jobs

    Institutes also offer direct admission to candidates who have work experience of 5 minimum years in the field of social work. The average tuition fee charged for PhD Social Work programs in India ranges between INR 1,000 to INR 2,00,000. ... PhD Social Work is a research-based course of 2-3 years but it may extend up to 4-6 years depending on ...

  23. 43 Phd computer science jobs in India

    slow financial growth is the worst thing. 7 Mar 2024. Former Account Manager in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Benefits of a good Work life balance. Search work from home Phd computer science jobs. Get the right remote Phd computer science job with company ratings & salaries. 44 open work from home Phd computer science jobs. Get hired!