UGC PhD Regulations 2025 – Comprehensive Guide for PhD Scholars in India

A doctorate in India is designed for individuals passionate about advanced research. PhD studies often lead to groundbreaking discoveries or significant scientific advancements. Some findings enhance our understanding of the world, while others spark scientific revolutions that are recognized for decades.

The University Grants Commission (UGC) governs the standards for pursuing a PhD in India through its UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedure for Award of Ph.D. Degree) Regulations, 2022, updated with new guidelines effective 2025. These regulations apply to:

• Universities established by Central, Provincial, or State Acts
• Colleges
• Institutions deemed universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956

For the official guidelines, refer to the UGC website.

Key Guidelines for Pursuing a PhD Program

Eligibility Criteria

1-Year Master's Degree:

Candidates with a one-year, two-semester master's degree must have completed a four-year undergraduate program with at least 55% marks or a 'B' grade on the UGC 10-point scale. Equivalent degrees from accredited foreign universities are also accepted.

2-Year Master's Degree:

Candidates must meet the same eligibility criteria as above.

Bachelor's Degree:

Candidates with a four-year, eight-semester bachelor's degree require a minimum CGPA of 7.5/10 or 75% marks in graduation. Three-year bachelor's degrees are not eligible.

M.Phil Candidates:

Those who have completed M.Phil coursework with at least 55% marks or equivalent can be provisionally admitted to a PhD program before the viva voce if their dissertation is recommended for award.

Relaxations:

• 5% relaxation in marks or equivalent grade for SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer), differently-abled, and EWS categories.
• CGPA relaxation of 0.5 (from 7.5 to 7.0) for the same categories.

Admission Procedure

PhD candidates may apply via:

• UGC NET (new requirement starting 2025)
• National Admission Test or university-specific exams

NET Scores and Categories:

• JRF & Assistant Professor Appointment: Eligible for Junior Research Fellowship and PhD admission.
• Assistant Professor & PhD Admission: Eligible for PhD and Assistant Professor appointment, no JRF.
• PhD Admission Only: Only eligible for PhD admission.

Weightage:

• NET score: 70%
• Interview: 30%

NET score valid for one year from the date of passing.

Universities must publicize seat availability, admission criteria, and follow reservation policies. Merit lists are prepared separately for NET/JRF and university-exam candidates.

Program Duration and Coursework

Minimum Duration: 2 years (excluding coursework)

Maximum Duration: 6 years; extensions of up to 2 additional years allowed for women and persons with disabilities (>40%)

Maternity/Child Care Leave: Up to 240 days for women scholars

Coursework Requirements:

• Minimum of 12 credits, maximum 16 credits
• Includes Research Methodology, quantitative & qualitative methods, computer applications, research ethics, and review of literature
• Teaching assistantship: 3–4 hours per week
• Credits transferable via Academic Bank of Credits
• M.Phil graduates may be exempt from coursework

Evaluation, Thesis Submission & Defense

• Research must be approved by the Research Advisory Committee (RAC)
• Scholars must submit progress reports every six months
• Originality report using UGC-approved plagiarism software required
• Thesis evaluated by at least two external examiners (one may be international)
• Viva-voce conducted post-assessment
• Intellectual Property (IP) rights must be reported; thesis defense can be postponed up to one year if required
• Thesis assessment should be completed within three months of submission

PhD Through Distance or Online Mode

• PhD programs cannot be fully online or distance mode
• Working professionals can pursue a PhD provided they meet eligibility criteria
• Online alternatives: Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), which is a doctorate and allows using the "Dr." title

Provisional Certificate

Before the official degree is awarded, universities issue a provisional certificate confirming the degree has been granted in line with UGC regulations.

Top Colleges Offering PhD in India

Conclusion

Before applying to a PhD program, it is crucial to understand the UGC regulations. They outline eligibility, duration, coursework, evaluation, and other essential aspects that ensure quality and transparency in doctoral studies.

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