Key Highlights
- IIT Delhi launches its first-ever special PhD admission drive exclusively for SC and ST candidates.
- The drive directly responds to persistently unfilled reserved seats in doctoral programmes.
- Reserved category candidates need only a 5.5 CGPA — relaxed from the standard 6.0 CGPA.
- Fields available include Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, Management, and Policy.
- A valid GATE or UGC-NET/JRF score is required. Monthly fellowship ranges from ₹37,000 to ₹42,000.
- Apply online at ecampus.iitd.ac.in before the deadline closes.
IIT Delhi has taken a bold step to fix a long-standing gap in doctoral education. For the first time in its history, the institute has launched a special PhD admission drive exclusively for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe candidates. This initiative is a direct response to persistent under-representation of these communities in doctoral programmes and follows a recent parliamentary panel visit reviewing the implementation of constitutional safeguards for marginalised groups.
Importantly, this is not a token gesture. It is a structured, dedicated admission window with relaxed eligibility, active outreach, and real seats waiting to be filled.
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Why Did IIT Delhi Launch This Drive?
The numbers told a story that could no longer be ignored.
Data revealed a significant shortfall in SC/ST representation in PhD courses at IIT Delhi, falling short of the mandated reservation norms. The parliamentary committee’s visit in April 2025 acted as a catalyst for this proactive effort.
Specifically, the government mandates 15% reservation for SC candidates and 7.5% for ST candidates in central institutions. However, IIT Delhi was consistently missing both targets in its doctoral intake.
As a result, the institute launched this special drive to address the gap directly, urgently, and inclusively.
Who Can Apply?
The eligibility criteria are clear, and the norms have been relaxed for reserved category candidates.
Candidates must meet both the degree requirement and a national exam qualification. SC/ST and PwD candidates receive relaxation in marks. Additionally, the Department Research Committee may set higher shortlisting standards for specific departments.
Here is a quick breakdown of what you need:
Degree Required: A Master’s degree – M.Tech, M.E., M.Sc., MA, or MBA – with minimum qualifying marks. Alternatively, B.Tech holders with an exceptional academic record can apply directly for the PhD programme.
Minimum Marks: General category candidates need 60% or 6.0 CGPA. In contrast, SC/ST candidates need only 55% or 5.5 CGPA.
Entrance Exam: A valid GATE score, UGC-NET, JRF, or CSIR qualification is required. Moreover, candidates who hold these scores are exempt from the written test at the departmental level.
Fields Available: Research areas span Management, Engineering, Sciences, Humanities, and Policy. Furthermore, both full-time and part-time modes are available. Sponsored and self-funded candidates can also apply through the official portal.
What Is the Selection Process?
IIT Delhi runs a transparent, three-step selection process.
Step 1 – Application Screening: The Department Research Committee reviews all submitted applications based on academic records and exam scores.
Step 2 – Shortlisting: Candidates are shortlisted based on marks, GATE score, and national exam scores. Departments may also apply additional criteria.
Step 3 – Written Test and Interview: A 60-minute descriptive test assesses subject knowledge and written communication. Subsequently, shortlisted candidates appear for a personal interview. Final selection depends on overall academic performance and research aptitude.
In most departments, both the written test and the interview take place on the same day. Therefore, candidates should come fully prepared for both.
What Fellowship Do You Get?
The financial support at IIT Delhi is substantial.
Full-time PhD scholars receive ₹37,000 per month for the first two years. After that, the fellowship rises to ₹42,000 per month.
Beyond the stipend, scholars also gain access to world-class laboratories, a rich library ecosystem, experienced faculty mentors, and global research collaborations. For SC and ST candidates from smaller towns or limited financial backgrounds, this fellowship makes doctoral research genuinely accessible.
How to Apply – Step by Step
Applying is straightforward. Follow these steps in order:
- Visit ecampus.iitd.ac.in
- Register and log in to the PG Admissions portal
- Select your department and research area carefully
- Fill in personal, academic details and entrance exam scores
- Upload your photograph, marksheets, GATE or NET scorecard, and research proposal (SOP)
- Pay the application fee online
- Submit the form and save or print a copy for your records
Additionally, keep all original documents ready. Shortlisted candidates must bring originals to the interview for verification.
Important Dates at a Glance
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Drive | Special PhD Admission for SC/ST Candidates |
| Application Portal | ecampus.iitd.ac.in |
| Eligibility | SC/ST — 55% / 5.5 CGPA + GATE/NET |
| Monthly Fellowship | ₹37,000 rising to ₹42,000 |
| Programme Duration | 3 to 6 years |
| Mode | Full-time / Part-time / Sponsored |
Why This Matters
Research at IIT Delhi leads to fellowships, global exposure, and rewarding careers in both academia and industry. Candidates from science, engineering, and management backgrounds can enroll in PhD programmes at one of India’s top universities. Furthermore, this initiative has made inclusive, high-quality education more accessible to students across the country.
In short — if you are an SC or ST candidate with a postgraduate degree and a valid GATE or NET score, this window is open for you. Apply before the deadline. Do not wait.
