PhD Scholarships – As the pursuit of higher education becomes increasingly important in today’s competitive world, PhD scholarships offer a significant opportunity for Indian students to excel in their academic journeys. These scholarships not only provide financial support but also offer valuable resources and networks that can greatly enhance the research experience.
In 2023, several prestigious institutions and organizations are offering top-notch PhD scholarships exclusively to Indian students, enabling them to pursue advanced studies in diverse fields ranging from science and technology to humanities and social sciences.
This article highlights some of the most sought-after PhD scholarships available to Indian students, shedding light on the eligibility criteria, application process, and benefits associated with each scholarship.
Prime Minister Fellowship for Doctoral Research
Prime Minister Fellowship for Doctoral Research is a government-funded scheme in India that offers financial support to exceptional students pursuing PhD courses. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The scheme is supervised by the Ministry of Education, earlier known as the Ministry of Human Resource Development.
- Scholarship Amount: The scholar receives a monthly stipend of INR 70,000 in the first year of the fellowship. In the second year, the stipend increases to INR 80,000.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowship, students must have completed their post-graduation.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the Prime Minister Fellowship for Doctoral Research is typically open between April and May, although specific dates may vary.
Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships
The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships provide support to students pursuing PhD studies in fields such as Machine Learning, History, Sociology, Public Health, and more. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The fellowships are awarded by the United States-India Educational Foundation (USIEF).
- Fellowship Amount: The fellowship amount varies and is designed to help cover expenses related to tuition fees, round-trip economy class air travel, and other allowances. The specific amount will depend on the individual circumstances and needs of the selected fellows.
- Scholarship Type: The Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships are merit-based scholarships. They are awarded to exceptional students who have demonstrated academic excellence and research potential.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowships, applicants must have completed their post-graduation.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the Fulbright-Nehru Doctoral Research Fellowships is typically open between March and June. It is advisable to check the specific dates on the USIEF website or related sources for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund Scholarships
The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund Scholarships are specifically designed to support students pursuing doctoral programs in Science, Sociology, Philosophy, and other fields after completing their post-graduation. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The scholarships are provided by the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund.
- Scholarship Amount: The scholarship amount ranges between INR 15,000 to INR 18,000 per month. The specific amount may vary depending on the individual circumstances and needs of the selected scholars.
- Scholarship Type: The Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund Scholarships are merit-based, meaning they are awarded to students who have demonstrated academic excellence and research potential.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the scholarships, candidates must have completed their post-graduation with a minimum of 60% score. Additionally, they should be no more than 35 years old. It is also necessary to enroll in a recognized University or College for a PhD program.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Fund Scholarships typically opens between December and May. It is advisable to refer to the official website or relevant sources for the specific dates and any updates.
Google PhD Fellowship India Program
The Google PhD Fellowship India Program is aimed at students who have completed their master’s studies and wish to pursue PhD courses in computer science or related fields. The program’s primary objective is to provide financial support to students by offering a monthly fellowship and an opportunity to intern at Google. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The Google PhD Fellowship India Program is offered by Google.
- Fellowship Amount: The average fellowship given to candidates over a four-year period is approximately INR 26,89,160. The specific amount may vary based on individual circumstances and the duration of the fellowship.
- Fellowship Type: The Google PhD Fellowship is a merit-based program, meaning it is awarded to exceptional students who have demonstrated academic excellence and research potential.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have completed their post-graduation. Additionally, they must enroll in a recognized university or college for a PhD program in computer science or related fields.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the Google PhD Fellowship India Program typically opens between March and April. It is advisable to refer to the official website or relevant sources for the specific dates and any updates.
ICHR Junior Research Fellowships (JRF)
The Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) offers Junior Research Fellowships for candidates pursuing a PhD in the field of Historical Studies. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The Junior Research Fellowships are provided by the Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR).
- Fellowship Amount: The fellowship amount ranges between INR 16,500 to INR 17,600 per month. The specific amount may vary based on individual circumstances and the duration of the fellowship.
- Fellowship Type: The ICHR Junior Research Fellowships are awarded based on an online entrance exam. Candidates must qualify the exam and subsequently participate in a presentation-cum-interview for selection.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowships, candidates must have completed their post-graduation with a minimum of 55% marks. They should also enroll in a PhD program in Historical Studies.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the ICHR Junior Research Fellowships typically opens between November and December. It is advisable to refer to the official website or relevant sources for the specific dates and any updates.
Maulana Azad National Fellowship
The Maulana Azad National Fellowship is a scheme initiated by the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Government of India, to provide financial support to economically disadvantaged students pursuing research or doctorate courses. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The Maulana Azad National Fellowship is provided by the Ministry of Minority Affairs.
- Fellowship Amount: Scholars under this program receive INR 28,000 per month for a duration of 5 years. This financial assistance helps cover living expenses during the research or doctoral program.
- Fellowship Type: The fellowship is entrance exam-based and requires candidates to qualify either the UGC NET (National Eligibility Test) or CSIR NET (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test).
- Fellowship Duration: The Maulana Azad National Fellowship is awarded for a period of 5 years. This ensures sustained financial support throughout the duration of the research or doctoral program.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have completed their post-graduation. Their family income should be less than INR 6 lakh per annum. Additionally, candidates must enroll in a recognized University or college for a PhD program.
- Application Timeline: The fellowship applications are accepted twice a year, in June and December. It is recommended to check the specific dates and deadlines on the official website or relevant sources for accurate information.
| Did You Know?
Did you know that PhD programs in India began in the late 1800s? Calcutta University holds the record for granting the first PhD in 1877. The early PhDs were awarded by universities like Calcutta, Madras, and Bombay, which were established by the British in 1857. |
NCERT Doctoral Fellowship for PhD
The NCERT Doctoral Fellowship for PhD aims to provide financial support to meritorious students pursuing their PhD programs. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The fellowship is offered by the National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT).
- Fellowship Amount: The fellowship amount ranges between INR 23,000 to INR 25,000 per month, depending on whether the candidate has qualified the entrance test, such as the NET (National Eligibility Test), or not.
- Fellowship Type: The fellowship is either merit-based or awarded based on the scores obtained in the NET exam.
- Fellowship Duration: The NCERT Doctoral Fellowship is provided for a duration of 3 years. This period of financial assistance helps cover expenses such as tuition fees, accommodations, books, and other charges.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have completed their post-graduation with a minimum of 60% marks. They should also be less than 35 years old. Additionally, candidates must enroll in a recognized University or college for their PhD program.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the NCERT Doctoral Fellowship is typically open between September and November. It is advisable to check the official website or relevant sources for specific dates and updates.
CSIR-UGC JRF NET Fellowship
The CSIR-UGC JRF NET Fellowship is a fully-funded program available for candidates interested in pursuing research or doctoral courses in various fields, including Life Sciences, Chemical Science, Engineering, Earth & Atmosphere, and related disciplines. Here are the key details:
- Provider: The CSIR-UGC JRF NET Fellowship is offered by the HRD Group of the Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR).
- Fellowship Amount: The fellowship amount ranges between INR 20,000 to INR 31,000 per month, depending on factors such as the field of study and the specific regulations of the fellowship. The amount provided is intended to cover the candidate’s living expenses during the fellowship.
- Fellowship Type: The CSIR-UGC JRF NET Fellowship is based on the scores obtained in the National Entrance Test (NET) conducted by CSIR. Candidates must qualify the NET to be eligible for the fellowship.
- Fellowship Duration: The fellowship is awarded for a duration of 2 years. It provides financial support to candidates during their research or doctoral studies.
- Eligibility: To be eligible for the fellowship, candidates must have completed their post-graduation with a minimum of 55% marks. Additionally, they must have qualified the CSIR-UGC NET, which serves as the entrance test for the fellowship.
- Application Timeline: The application window for the CSIR-UGC JRF NET Fellowship typically opens between July and August. It is advisable to refer to the official website or relevant sources for the specific dates and any updates.
PhD Scholarships in India through GATE Exam
Many students in India seek scholarships through the Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering (GATE). Scholarships are awarded based on performance in the GATE entrance exam. The eligibility criteria for PhD scholarships via GATE vary across organizations.
The GATE Financial Assistance program provides scholarships for students pursuing a PhD. The duration of the scholarship is typically 5 years.
PhD Scholarship Amount
Half-time Research Assistantship: INR 25,000 to INR 28,000
Eligibility for GATE Financial Assistance
- Candidates must have a valid GATE score at the time of application to be eligible for the assistance.
- Part-time courses are not eligible, as the scholarship is for full-time study only.
- The bank account name must match the candidate’s name in a general savings account, and joint accounts are not eligible.
- Students must not be receiving any other scholarship concurrently.
- Students from non-sponsored categories admitted with valid GATE score cards are eligible.
PhD scholarships in India for Computer Science
PhD scholarships in India for Computer Science offer financial support to students pursuing research in the field. Here are two prominent scholarships available:
Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF)
The Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship recognizes academic excellence and encourages research in science and technology fields.
- Eligibility: Students in the final year of a bachelor’s degree in a science or technology-related stream with a minimum CGPA of 8 may apply.
- Amount: The fellowship provides a stipend ranging from INR 70,000 to INR 80,000.
GATE Financial Assistance
The GATE Financial Assistance program supports students with a valid GATE score to pursue their research aspirations.
- Eligibility: Students with a valid GATE score and studying computer science are eligible to apply.
- Amount: The financial assistance amount ranges from INR 25,000 to INR 28,000.
PhD Scholarships in India by Ministry of Education
PhD scholarships offered by the Ministry of Education in India provide financial support for ongoing PhD students. Here are some Ministry of Education PhD scholarships:
Ministry of Education PhD Fellowships for ASEAN Students 2023
- Eligibility: PhD applicants from ASEAN countries are eligible to apply.
- Amount: INR 35,000 per month
Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF)
- Eligibility: Candidates must have completed an M.Tech. degree and apply for a PhD.
- Amount: INR 70,000 per month for the first 2 years, INR 75,000 per month in the third year, and INR 80,000 per month in the fourth year
ICSSR Doctoral Research Fellowship
- Eligibility: Candidates must have a master’s degree from a recognized university with either a first class or second class, and be registered for a doctoral degree in social science.
- Amount: INR 20,000 per month
Note: To know about the PhD scholarships available for students from reserved category, please visit – PhD Scholarships for Indian Students Belonging to Reserved Categories.
PhD scholarships in India for International Students
PhD scholarships in India are also available for international students, offering opportunities for them to pursue their degrees in the country. Here are some such scholarships:
John Monash Scholarships 2023
- Open to: Australian nationals
- Amount: AUD 70,000 per year
Tan Kah Kee Postgraduate Scholarships 2023
- Open to: Citizens and permanent residents of Singapore
- Amount: SGD 12,000
Women In Finance Scholarship 2023
- Open to: All nationals
- Amount: USD 20,000
Tata African Scholarships In Science, Engineering And Technology, 2023
- Open to: Female citizens and permanent residents of South Africa
- Amount: Not specified
IMU Breakout Graduate Fellowship Program, 2023
- Open to: Students from developing countries
- Amount: Covers tuition fees and other benefits
Note: To know more about PhD Scholarships, please read the following article – Scholarship for Phd students in India – Scholarships for PhD applicants.
PhD scholarships in India for Single Girl Child
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Awards |
| Prime Ministerial Fellowship for Doctoral Research | Registered for a PhD course | INR 6 lakh per annum |
| NCERT Doctoral Fellowship for PhD | 50% aggregate marks in masters | INR 12,000 to INR 16,000 |
| Jawaharlal Nehru Scholarship for Doctoral Research | Minimum 60% aggregate marks in masters, age below 35 | INR 15,000 to INR 18,000 |
| Maulana Azad National Fellowship | Minimum 50% marks in graduation from a recognized institute | INR 16,000 to INR 25,000 |
| IIT Bombay Phd Admission Fellowship | First class in Masters, valid GATE score or 2 years of experience | INR 2.24 lakhs |
| Homi Bhabha Center for Science Education Scholarships for PhD in Science Education | M.Sc./M.S.W./M.A./B.Tech./B.E./M.B.B.S. or equivalent degree | INR 16,000 to INR 20,000 |
PhD Scholarships – Important Links
PhD Scholarships – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the top PhD scholarships available for Indian students in 2023?
The top PhD scholarships available for Indian students in 2023 include the Prime Ministerial Fellowship for Doctoral Research, NCERT Doctoral Fellowship for PhD, Jawaharlal Nehru Scholarship for Doctoral Research, Maulana Azad National Fellowship, and more.
How can Indian students apply for PhD scholarships?
Indian students can apply for these scholarships by following the application guidelines provided by the respective scholarship providers. They may need to submit their applications, academic transcripts, research proposals, recommendation letters, and other required documents as specified by each scholarship program.
What is the eligibility criteria for PhD scholarships?
The eligibility criteria for these scholarships vary depending on the scholarship program. Generally, candidates must have completed their post-graduation with a minimum specified percentage, be enrolled or planning to enroll in a PhD program, and meet any additional criteria set by the scholarship providers.
Can international students apply for PhD scholarships?
The availability of these scholarships for international students may vary. Some scholarships may be open to international students, while others may have specific eligibility criteria for Indian nationals only. It is advisable to review the eligibility requirements of each scholarship program to determine if international students are eligible to apply.
What is the application timeline for PhD scholarships?
The application timeline for PhD scholarships can vary. It is recommended to refer to the official websites or relevant sources of each scholarship program to obtain accurate and up-to-date information regarding the application opening and closing dates.
How are the recipients selected for PhD scholarships?
The selection process for PhD scholarships varies across programs. Typically, the scholarship providers assess the applicants based on their academic achievements, research proposals, statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and sometimes through interviews or entrance exams. The selection committees evaluate the overall merit and potential of the candidates.
What is the duration of PhD scholarships?
The duration of PhD scholarships can vary depending on the program. It is important to review the specific details of each scholarship to determine the duration for which the financial support is provided.