IGNOU Opens PhD Application Window For 2025 Session; Apply By October 31

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU) has opened the process for applying to its PhD programmes for the 2025 academic year. The interested applicants are eligible to apply online via the official website at ignou-phd.samarth.edu.in. The application process will close on October 31, 2025.

Programmes Available in 24 Subjects

IGNOU is providing PhD admissions in 24 subjects such as English, Hindi, Commerce, Education, Management, Public Administration, Political Science, Law, Physics, Chemistry, and Life Sciences, amongst others. Detailed lists of available subjects and educational guidelines are available in the university's official prospectus.

Eligibility Criteria

To be suitable for IGNOU PhD 2025, the candidate must:

- Have a Master's degree in the concerned field

- Have a minimum of 55% marks (50% in case of SC/ST/OBC–Non Creamy Layer/PwD)

- Appears in the IGNOU PhD entrance exam, although they may have qualified UGC-NET or JRF

Admission Procedure in Two Phases

The shortlisting is done in two phases. Initially, the candidates are required to appear for a three-hour entrance test consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). The test will be organised at different centers spread across India. Shortlisted candidates based on the entrance test will be invited for an interview/viva-voce, to be held by subject-specific research committees.

Application Fee Structure

- For candidates belonging to the General category: ₹1,000

- For SC/ST candidates: ₹800

Important Guidelines for Applicants

- Applicant's name and information should be the same as shown on their Class X marksheet

- Registration should be performed through the candidate's own active email id

- The email address given should be working and available for the entire admission process