According to a notification issued by University on 20th November, the last date for Applications for IGNOU PhD program has been extended till 25th November 2024.
Candidates who have qualified UGC NET (with or without JRF) are eligible to apply for the program only.
The University takes students for PhD. only once a year.
IGNOU PhD Program 2024-25
The Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) offers a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) program aimed at fostering research and academic excellence across various disciplines. Established in 1985, IGNOU has grown to be a prominent institution providing distance and open learning opportunities. The IGNOU PhD program is designed to develop advanced research skills, contribute to knowledge creation, and address contemporary issues in various fields.
Important Dates for IGNOU PhD 2025 Admission Session
| Opening of IGNOU PhD Online Applications | OPEN NOW |
| Last Date for Submitting IGNOU PhD Applications | 25th November 2024 |
| IGNOU PhD Interview | Date Not Released |
Eligibility Criteria For IGNOU PhD Program
To be eligible for the PhD program at IGNOU, candidates must meet the following criteria:
UGC NET Qualification:
Candidates with valid UGC NET with JRF or valid UGC NET Score of year 2024.
Educational Qualification:
Candidates should have a Master’s degree or an M.Phil. degree in a relevant discipline related to the PhD subject with at least 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer)/PWD candidates).
OR
Candidates should have 4 Year/ 8 Semester Bachelors Degree with at least 75% marks or equivalent grade.
Interview:
Candidates who have the above qualifications can apply for the program. An interview will be conducted for all candidates. Their score weightages are given below:
| Category | Interview Weightage | UGC NET Score Weightage |
|---|---|---|
| JRF Qualified | 100% | 0% |
| Only UGC NET Qualified | 30% | 70% |
No Entrance Test Needed:
As per a notification issued by UGC NET in March 2024, the UGC NET Score Card will be considered equivalent to any entrance test for PhD from 2024 onwards. Therefore, no further entrance test needs to be taken. Candidates can be admitted to the program solely based on UGC NET Score and Interview Score.
IGNOU PhD Admission Process : How To Apply
The admission process for the IGNOU PhD program involves several stages:
1. Application: Visit the link https://ignouadm.samarth.edu.in/phd/index.php/site/index to apply for the program. In case you are a new user, you will have to register first and then proceed with login to apply.
Candidates need to fill out the online application form and submit the required documents. The Application Fee for IGNOU PhD Entrance Test is Rs 1000 (Non Refundable).
In order to apply, you must keep the below documents ready:
- Scanned passport size Photograph (less than 100 KB)
- Scanned Signature (less than 100 KB)
- All the supporting documents (like Proof of Date of Birth, relevant mark-sheets, degree certificates, caste certificate, income certificate, disability certificate, UGC NET-JRF certificate/UGC-NET Score card etc) (less than 500KB)
After the final submission of online application form, download the filled in application form, take the printout and enclose the hardcopies/photocopies of all the documents and certificates as mentioned in the prospectus to be submitted during Interview/counseling for final admission.
2. Interview: Candidates are shortlisted for an interview with a panel of experts.
3. Final Selection: Based on performance in the entrance test and interview, candidates are selected for admission. The final selection is subject to document verification and approval of the research proposal.
IGNOU PhD Program Structure and Duration
The PhD program at IGNOU is research-oriented and typically spans 3 to 6 years. It involves coursework and a research thesis. The coursework component is designed to equip students with essential research methodologies, theoretical frameworks, and subject-specific knowledge. These are available both in part time and full time modes.
1. Coursework
The initial phase of the PhD program involves coursework that is mandatory for all candidates. This phase usually lasts for one to two semesters and includes:
Research Methodology: Courses on qualitative and quantitative research methods, statistical analysis, and research ethics.
Subject-Specific Courses: Advanced courses tailored to the candidate’s research area.
Review of Literature: Training on how to conduct comprehensive literature reviews to identify research gaps.
2. Research Proposal
After completing the coursework, candidates are required to submit a detailed research proposal outlining their intended research objectives, methodology, literature review, and expected outcomes. This proposal must be approved by the university’s research committee.
3. Thesis and Viva Voce
The main component of the PhD program is the research thesis. Candidates work under the guidance of a supervisor to conduct original research. The thesis must make a significant contribution to the chosen field of study. Once the thesis is completed, candidates must defend their research findings in a viva voce examination.
IGNOU Ph.D. Course Fee
| Course Work | Fee Structure |
|---|---|
| IGNOU PhD with Course Work | Rs. 17,850/- (for First Year) + Rs. 8,400/- (Re-registration every year till thesis submission) |
| IGNOU PhD without Course Work | Rs. 9,450/- (for First year) + Rs. 8,400/- (Re-registration every year till thesis submission) |
IGNOU PhD Entrance Interview Details
Since IGNOU has removed Entrance tests from 2024 onwards, Entrance Interview is a critical part of the Ph.D. admission process at IGNOU. Here are the key details:
IGNOU PhD Interview Venue:
IGNOU Entrance Interview will be held at IGNOU Main Campus , Maidan Garhi, Delhi. The exact date for each PhD Program interview has not been released as of now. Students need to carry their valid ID proof such as Aadhar Card, Voter ID Card, Driving License, Passport etc. at the time of the interviw.
IGNOU PhD Interview Structure:
The IGNOU Entrance Interview will comprise of three parts, here are details:
| Component | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Research Methodology | 40% |
| Subject Domain | 40% |
| Communication Skills | 20% |
IGNOU PhD Interview Syllabus
| Course | Interview Syllabus (in PDF) |
|---|---|
| PhD in Psychology | Download Here |
| PhD in Anthropology | Download Here |
| PhD in History | Download Here |
| PhD in Sociology | Download Here |
| PhD in Biochemistry | Download Here |
| PhD in Geography | Download Here |
| PhD in Geology | Download Here |
| PhD in Life Sciences | Download Here |
| PhD in Statistics | Download Here |
| PhD in Mathematics | Download Here |
| PhD in Development Studies | Download Here |
| PhD in Computer Science | Download Here |
IGNOU Entrance Interview Preparation Tips
- Understand the Syllabus: Make sure to get a detailed syllabus for your specific subject.
- Refer to Standard Textbooks: Use recommended textbooks and study materials.
- Practice Previous Papers: Solve previous years’ question papers to get an idea of the subject’s important questions.
- Focus on Research Methodology: As it is a common component for all disciplines.
- Stay Updated: Keep yourself updated with recent developments in your field of study.
Click Here to Download Selected Candidates List for IGNOU PhD Fellowship Candidates 2022.
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