ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024: Apply Online & Last Date

ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Apply Online & Application Form | ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Check Beneficiary Category & Last Date | ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Check Benefits & Features | ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Check Selection & Implementation Procedure | ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Check Eligibility & All Details | 

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship is highly competitive, and only a limited number of candidates are selected each year based on their research proposal’s quality, relevance, and potential contribution to the field of social sciences. To facilitate the dissemination of research findings through publications and conferences.
By offering financial support and research opportunities, the fellowship aims to foster a vibrant research community in the social sciences and contribute to the overall development of knowledge in the field.

This article will provide all types of information about the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024 like purpose, Eligibility Criteria, Benefits, Features, important documents, etc. Apart from this, we will share the process to apply online for this fellowship. To get complete information about this fellowship, read this article till the end.

ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 

The Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR) offers the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship to support scholars pursuing their doctoral research in the field of social sciences. This prestigious fellowship aims to encourage and promote high-quality research in various disciplines such as economics, sociology, political science, anthropology, and more. The fellowship provides financial assistance to deserving candidates, enabling them to focus on their research without worrying about financial constraints.

Applicants for the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship are required to submit a detailed research proposal that outlines the objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes of their research. The fellowship is awarded for a maximum period of three years, during which the fellows are expected to complete their doctoral research and submit their thesis. The fellowship provides a valuable opportunity for scholars to pursue their research aspirations in the field of social sciences. With its financial support and guidance, the fellowship empowers researchers to contribute to the advancement of knowledge and understanding in their respective disciplines.

Highlights of ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024

The highlights of this fellowship are as follows:- 

Objectives of ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024

The primary objectives of the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship are:-

• To promote and support research in the field of social sciences.
• To encourage scholars to pursue doctoral research in various disciplines of social sciences.
• To provide financial assistance to deserving candidates to complete their doctoral research without any financial burden.

Beneficiary Category 

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship is open to Indian nationals who have completed their post-graduation in any social science discipline. The fellowship is available to both full-time and part-time research scholars. Candidates who have already received any other fellowship or financial assistance from any other source for the same research project are not eligible to apply.

Application Enrollment Last Dates

The exact dates for the application enrollment for the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship may vary each year. Interested candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website of ICSSR or refer to the fellowship notification for the updated application enrollment dates. It is crucial to apply before the specified deadline to be considered for the fellowship.

Selection Procedure 

The selection process for the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship involves a rigorous evaluation of the research proposals submitted by the applicants. The evaluation is carried out by a panel of experts in the respective disciplines. The research proposals are assessed based on their originality, relevance, feasibility, and potential contribution to the field of social sciences. Shortlisted candidates may be called for an interview or presentation to further assess their research aptitude and clarity of the proposed research.

Implementation Procedure 

Once selected for the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship, the fellows are required to complete the necessary documentation and formalities as specified by the ICSSR. The fellowship amount is disbursed in instalments, subject to the satisfactory progress of the research work. The fellows are expected to submit periodic progress reports and attend workshops or seminars organized by ICSSR. The fellowship tenure can be extended for a maximum of six months, subject to the approval of the ICSSR.

Supervision Body 

The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship is administered and overseen by the Indian Council of Social Science Research. The council comprises eminent scholars and experts from various social science disciplines who ensure the smooth implementation and monitoring of the fellowship program. The council also provides guidance and support to the fellows throughout their research journey.

Key Guidelines 

Key Guidelines for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship:-

• The research proposal should clearly outline the research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes.
• The proposal should demonstrate the originality and significance of the proposed research.
• The applicant should have a good academic record and possess the necessary research skills.
• The fellowship is available for both full-time and part-time research scholars.
• The fellowship amount is subject to income tax as per the prevailing rules and regulations.
• The research work should be carried out in recognized institutions or universities in India.
• The fellowship can be terminated if the progress of the research work is found unsatisfactory.
• Any change in the research topic or guide should be duly informed and approved by the ICSSR.
• The research findings should be published in reputed journals or presented at national/international conferences.
• The fellowship recipients should acknowledge the support of ICSSR in their research publications and presentations.

Important Instructions 

Important Instructions for ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship:-

• Applicants must carefully read and understand the fellowship guidelines before submitting their application.
• The research proposal should be written in a clear, concise, and structured manner.
• All necessary documents and certificates should be submitted along with the application form.
• Any false information or misrepresentation may lead to the rejection of the application.
• Applicants should keep a copy of the submitted application form for future reference.
• It is advisable to seek guidance from experts in the field while preparing the research proposal.
• Applicants should regularly check the official website of ICSSR for updates and notifications related to the fellowship.
• Incomplete or late applications are liable to be rejected.
• The decision of the selection committee regarding the fellowship is final and binding.
• Applicants should maintain the confidentiality of their login credentials for the online application process.

Cutting-edge Research Facilities

As an ICSSR Doctoral Fellow, you gain access to cutting-edge research facilities that are essential for conducting high-quality research. These facilities are equipped with advanced technologies, tools, and resources needed to explore complex research questions and push the boundaries of knowledge in your chosen field. Whether you require specialized laboratories, data analysis software, or access to extensive research databases, the fellowship ensures that you have the necessary resources at your disposal.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

The Fellowship encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, recognizing the value of diverse perspectives in addressing complex societal issues. Through this program, you have the opportunity to collaborate with experts from various disciplines, fostering a rich and multidimensional research experience. By working with scholars from different fields, you can gain insights that go beyond the boundaries of your discipline, leading to innovative and impactful research outcomes.

Publication and Patent Opportunities

One of the key advantages of the Fellowship is the emphasis on publication and patenting. The program encourages fellows to disseminate their research findings through scholarly publications, ensuring that their work reaches a wider audience and contributes to the academic community. Additionally, if your research has the potential for commercialization, the fellowship program supports the patenting process, enabling you to protect and monetize your intellectual property.

Networking and Conferences

The Fellowship provides ample networking opportunities, allowing you to connect with renowned researchers, scholars, and experts in your field. These connections can open doors to collaborations, mentorship, and future career prospects. Furthermore, the fellowship program facilitates participation in national and international conferences, enabling you to present your research findings, receive valuable feedback, and stay updated with the latest developments in your field. Conferences also serve as a platform for networking and forming connections with peers who share similar research interests.

Career Advancement Opportunities

One of the major benefits of the Fellowship is the career advancement opportunities it offers. By undertaking a doctoral degree, individuals can enhance their knowledge and expertise in their chosen field. This specialized knowledge can open doors to various career options, including academic positions, research positions in think tanks and research organizations, and even leadership roles in government and non-governmental organizations. Furthermore, the Fellowship provides scholars with the chance to network and collaborate with experts in their field. This exposure to renowned researchers and scholars can further enhance their career prospects and open up new avenues for professional growth.

Personal and Professional Growth

Embarking on a doctoral journey is not just about acquiring knowledge; it is also a transformative experience that fosters personal and professional growth. The Fellowship offers scholars the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, research methodology expertise, and the ability to analyze complex social issues. During their research, fellows are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary learning and explore diverse perspectives. This exposure to different schools of thought and methodologies helps them broaden their intellectual horizons and develop a well-rounded approach to their research.

Moreover, the fellowship encourages scholars to present their research work at conferences and workshops, providing them with valuable opportunities to enhance their communication and presentation skills. These skills are not only essential for academic success but also transferable to various professional settings.

Contribution to Society

The Fellowship emphasizes the importance of research that has a positive impact on society. Scholars are encouraged to choose research topics that address pressing social issues and contribute to the betterment of society. By conducting rigorous research and generating knowledge in their respective fields, fellows can contribute to policy-making, social development, and the overall well-being of communities. Through their research findings, fellows can influence public discourse, challenge existing narratives, and propose innovative solutions to complex social problems.

The Fellowship thus provides a platform for scholars to make a meaningful contribution to society and bring about positive change.

Benefits of ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024

The benefits of this fellowship are as follows:-

• Financial Support: The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship provides financial assistance to deserving scholars pursuing their doctoral research. This support helps cover various expenses such as tuition fees, research materials, and living expenses.
• Research Funding: Fellows receive funding to support their research activities, including data collection, fieldwork, and travel expenses. This financial support allows scholars to conduct comprehensive and in-depth research.
• Recognition: Being awarded the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship enhances the reputation and credibility of the recipient. It signifies recognition from a prestigious organization and adds value to the scholar’s academic profile.
• Networking Opportunities: Fellows get the chance to interact and collaborate with fellow researchers, scholars, and experts in their field. This networking can lead to valuable connections, collaborations, and future research opportunities.
• Access to Resources: The fellowship provides access to a wide range of resources, including libraries, archives, databases, and research facilities. This access allows scholars to delve deeper into their research topics and gather relevant information.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Fellows receive guidance and mentorship from experienced researchers and scholars associated with the ICSSR. This mentorship helps in refining research methodologies, developing critical thinking skills, and improving the overall quality of the research.
• Publication Support: The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship offers support for publishing research papers in reputed journals and presenting findings at conferences. This support helps scholars disseminate their research and gain recognition in the academic community.
• Career Advancement: Being a recipient of the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship can significantly boost a scholar’s career prospects. It demonstrates their commitment to research excellence and increases their chances of securing academic positions or research opportunities.
• Personal and Professional Growth: The fellowship provides a conducive environment for personal and professional growth. Scholars have the opportunity to develop essential skills such as time management, critical thinking, and effective communication.
• Contribution to Society: The research conducted by ICSSR fellows often addresses pressing social issues and contributes to the development and welfare of society. The fellowship enables scholars to make a meaningful impact through their research.

Features Of ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship 2024

The features of this fellowship are as follows:-

• Research Funding: The ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship provides financial support for doctoral students pursuing research in social sciences.
• Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must have a postgraduate degree in social sciences and be registered for a PhD program in a recognized university or institute.
• Duration: The fellowship is awarded for a maximum period of five years, allowing students ample time to complete their research.
• Stipend: Fellows receive a monthly stipend to cover their living expenses and research-related costs.
• Research Allowance: A research allowance is provided to fellows to support their fieldwork, data collection, and other research-related activities.
• Guidance from Experts: Fellows have the opportunity to work under the guidance of experienced researchers and scholars in their respective fields.
• Networking Opportunities: The fellowship program offers various workshops, seminars, and conferences where fellows can interact with experts and fellow researchers.
• Publication Support: ICSSR provides support for the publication of research papers and articles in reputed journals.
• Access to Resources: Fellows have access to the extensive library resources of ICSSR and other partner institutions.
• Career Advancement: The fellowship enhances the career prospects of the fellows, opening doors to academic and research positions in prestigious institutions.

ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Eligibility Criteria 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online for this fellowship:-

Institutional Requirements:–

• Confirmed Ph.D. registration at an approved institution.
• Cleared Research Entrance Test (RET).
• Confirmed Ph.D. topic.

Age Requirements:–

• Maximum age: 40 years old.
• Age relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/persons with disability.

Academic Requirements:–

• Minimum 45% marks in graduation and 55% in post-graduation (social science disciplines).
• 5% relaxation for SC/ST candidates.
• Mandatory submission of graduation and post-graduation marksheets.

Previous Fellowship Restrictions:–

• Not eligible if you have already received scholarships like UGC JRF, Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship, etc.

Important Documents 

Some of the important documents required to apply online for this fellowship are as follows:-

• Aadhar Card
• Residence Certificate
• Income Certificate 
• Educational Certificates 
• Bank Account Details 
• Latest Passport Size Photos 
• Mobile No
• Email ID 

ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Apply Online 2024 

The applicants will need to follow the below-mentioned points to apply online:- 

• Visit the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship Official Website.

• Click on the “Login” tab to access the application form.
• Fill out the online application form, including the research proposal as per the provided format.
• No additional documents are required at this stage.
• Keep a hard copy of the application form and annexure ready, endorsed by your university/college/institution.
• Submit the hard copies within one week after completing the online application.
• Failure to submit the hard copies within 10 days may result in the cancellation of your application.
• Your research proposal can be in English or Hindi.
• You can only apply once under this specific doctoral fellowship scheme.

Contact Information

In case queries and questions come to your mind regarding the ICSSR Doctoral Fellowship, then you may contact this aforementioned office address & telephone no:- 

• Office Address:- 
  • Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR)
  • JNU Institutional Area, 
  • Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, 
  • New Delhi – 110067 (INDIA)
• Telephone No:- 91-11-26741849/50/51