Admission to Doctoral Programme

The admissions process for the University’s Doctoral Programme consists of a written application for all applicants, and an online entrance exam and in-person interview for shortlisted applicants. For more details, refer to the Prospectus.

Written application: Complete the online application form and upload the required documents. The form includes the following:

• Personal and professional details
• A writing sample (mandatory)
• List of up to three published pieces (optional)
• Choice of supervisor
• Contact details of two referees

Stage 1: Entrance Examination

The Entrance Examination will be held online on 2 May 2026. The exam includes the following. All responses will be anonymised for review.

• Multiple choice questions (general logic, reading comprehension, and thematic knowledge)
• Questions on thematic areas and on research methods
• Research proposal (a short description of the proposed doctoral research)
• An intellectual statement (a description of motivation and preparation to pursue a Doctoral degree)

Stage 2: Interview

• On the basis of the written entrance exam, shortlisted applicants will be invited to an in-person interview at the IIHS, Sadashivanagar Campus in Bengaluru.
• Applicants must ensure that referees submit their recommendation letters before the interview.

Admission

• Final selection will be based on combined scores from the written exam and interview. A minimum of 40% is required to be considered.
• Admission offers will be made after supporting documentation and transcripts have been verified, and other administrative requirements and checks are completed.