ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26: Eligibility, Amount, Duration & Apply Online

Introduction

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26 is a prestigious Government of India PhD fellowship aimed at supporting research scholars pursuing doctoral studies in social science disciplines. Offered by the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), this fellowship provides financial assistance to help scholars focus entirely on research without monetary pressure.

This fellowship is especially beneficial for students who wish to build a strong academic and research career in social sciences.

🔍 What is ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26?

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship is a central government research fellowship awarded to eligible PhD scholars enrolled in recognized Indian universities and institutions. The fellowship offers a monthly stipend along with a contingency grant to cover research-related expenses such as books, fieldwork, surveys, and travel.

The main objective of this scheme is to promote high-quality social science research in India and encourage young researchers to contribute to academic development and evidence-based policymaking.

🏛️ Conducting Authority for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

• Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)

• Under the Ministry of Education, Government of India

ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship

✅ 1. Selection Process for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

The selection for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship is usually based on:

• Quality of Research Proposal

• Academic performance in Postgraduate degree

• Relevance of topic to social science research priorities

• Recommendation from PhD supervisor

• Availability of fellowship slots

👉 There is no written exam; selection is purely merit and research-based.

✅ 2. Research Proposal Importance  for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

A well-structured research proposal significantly improves selection chances.
ICSSR prefers proposals that:

• Address contemporary social issues

• Have policy relevance

• Use clear research methodology

• Show originality and academic depth

(This point is rarely explained in blogs but very useful for applicants.)

✅ 3. Fellowship Renewal & Continuation for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

The fellowship is not automatic every year.
Continuation depends on:

• Submission of annual progress reports

• Certification by research supervisor

• Satisfactory research output

Failure to submit reports on time may lead to temporary suspension or cancellation.

🎓 ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Eligibility Criteria 2025–26

Candidates applying for the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26 must meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Must be registered for a PhD (Doctoral Programme) in a recognized Indian university or institution

• Research work should fall under Social Science disciplines, including:
  • Economics

  • Sociology

  • Political Science

  • History

  • Education

  • Psychology

  • Geography

  • Social Anthropology

• PhD admission must follow UGC guidelines

• The fellowship is primarily for full-time research scholars

👉 Preference is generally given to candidates not receiving any other major fellowship or financial assistance.

💰 ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Amount for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship amount includes the following benefits:

• Monthly Fellowship (Stipend) as per ICSSR norms

• Contingency Grant to support:
  • Purchase of books and journals

  • Fieldwork and data collection

  • Research-related travel

  • Thesis preparation

The fellowship amount is directly transferred to the scholar’s bank account through the prescribed government process.

⏳ Duration of ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26

• The fellowship is awarded for a fixed research duration, generally up to 2–3 years

• Continuation of the fellowship depends on:
  • Satisfactory academic and research progress

  • Submission of progress reports

  • Compliance with ICSSR fellowship guidelines

📝 How to Apply Online for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26?

Follow these steps to apply online for the fellowship:

1. Visit the official ICSSR website

2. Click on ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26 Apply Online

3. Complete the registration using a valid email ID

4. Fill in personal, academic, and research details carefully

5. Upload required documents, including:
   • Proof of PhD registration

   • Research proposal

   • Academic certificates

   • Supervisor’s recommendation

6. Submit the application form

7. Save the application acknowledgment for future reference

👉 Applications are accepted only through online mode.

⭐ Why Choose ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship?

✔ Government-funded and highly reputed fellowship
✔ Dedicated support for social science PhD research
✔ Helps scholars complete research without financial stress
✔ Encourages quality academic and policy-oriented research
✔ Enhances career opportunities in teaching and research

📌 Who Should Apply?

• PhD scholars in social science subjects

• Students aiming for careers in academics, research, and policy studies

• Scholars looking for a government fellowship for PhD in India
  

📢 Final Note

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2025–26 is an excellent opportunity for social science PhD scholars to receive structured financial support while conducting meaningful research. Eligible candidates are encouraged to apply and take a step forward in strengthening India’s social science research ecosystem.

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