ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship
The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship supports full-time PhD scholars in social sciences (economics, sociology, political science, psychology, etc.) at UGC-recognised Indian universities with a monthly grant and annual research allowance for up to 2 years. Applicants must be under 40, have 55% in post-graduation, and have their PhD topic formally confirmed by their department. Apply through the ICSSR online portal (icssr.org) when the annual call is advertised.
About This Scheme
The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship supports full-time PhD scholars in social sciences (economics, sociology, political science, psychology, etc.) at UGC-recognised Indian universities with a monthly grant and annual research allowance for up to 2 years. Applicants must be under 40, have 55% in post-graduation, and have their PhD topic formally confirmed by their department. Apply through the ICSSR online portal (icssr.org) when the annual call is advertised.
Full official description
The Fellowship is aimed at promoting original, socially relevant, and policy-focused research in the social sciences. The fellowship provides financial support through a monthly grant of ₹20,000 and an annual contingency grant of ₹20,000 for up to two years, with an initial award period of one year, which is renewed for the second year subject to fulfilment of requisite criteria. It also offers institutional and short-term fellowships including a six-month short term fellowship for scholars nearing Ph.D. submission (minimum three years of completed PhD research) and a standalone contingency grant of ₹62,500 for specific research needs. Applications are invited through ICSSR’s website and social media platforms. Fellows are expected to pursue full-time research, submit regular progress reports, and provide a final submission that includes published work, a book-length thesis, and audited financial records. Given India's social science ecosystem, it seeks to promote research excellence, evidence-based research, and scholarship that is also relevant to policymakers.
Benefits
- ₹20,000/month fellowship
- ₹20,000/year contingency grant for research-related expenses
- Duration: up to 2 years (initial 1-year award, renewed for the second year based on progress)
Who Can Apply (Eligibility)
- Indian citizen
- Full-time, enrolled PhD scholar in a social science discipline at a UGC-recognised university, deemed university, institute of national importance, ICSSR Research Institute, or college with approved PhD programme
- PhD topic must be confirmed by the Departmental Research Committee (DRC) or equivalent statutory body before the application deadline
- Under 40 years of age (5-year relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD)
- Minimum 55% marks in post-graduation (5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD)
Exclusions
- Those who are not fulfilling the eligibility criteria.
How to Apply
Step 01: Visit ICSSR website - www.icssr.org - and navigate to Fellowships section.
Step 02: Click on Doctoral Fellowship Scheme.
Step 03: Register/Login to the ICSSR portal.
Step 04: Fill the online application form.
Step 05: Upload documents and submit.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the monthly fellowship amount?
₹ 20,000 per month.
What is the annual contingency amount
₹ 20,000 per annum.
What is the contingency grant used for?
Research-related expenses like books, fieldwork, computer consumables, and stationery.
Do I need to have publications?
Yes, fellows are expected to publish at least two papers in peer-reviewed journals.
How is the fellowship amount disbursed?
The amount is disbursed in instalments through the affiliating institution upon submission of the required reports and statement of accounts.
Can I apply if I am over 40?
Only if you qualify for SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PwD categories - age relaxation (up to 5 years).
Is it mandatory to have PhD topic confirmed by DRC before applying?
Yes.
What are the minimum passing marks in Post-Graduation?
The candidate must have secured a minimum of 55% marks in Post-Graduation (5 % grace for candidates from SC/ST/OBC (NCL)/PwD categories).
Can I have any other job or project during the fellowship?
No, full-time research is mandatory.
Are candidates doing research in ICSSR identified priority areas given preference?
Yes.
Where can I apply for the fellowship?
Through the ICSSR website after the call is announced.
What language can I use for the proposal?
English or Hindi (Unicode).
Can I submit multiple applications under this scheme?
No, only one application is allowed per call.
What documents are required after selection?
All the documents mentioned in the call or as communicated via phone or email.
Can I submit documents issued after last date of applications?
No
Ready to apply?
Visit the official government portal to apply for this scheme.
Apply on myScheme.gov.inDocuments Required
- The list of documents required will be given in the Application Form when the Call is announced.