What is a PhD?

A PhD is a doctoral research degree and the highest level of academic qualification you can achieve. A PhD involves students taking on independent and significant research culminating in a publishing-worthy thesis. The degree normally takes between three and four years of full-time work towards an original contribution to your subject.

This page explains what a PhD is, what it involves and what you need to know if you’re considering applying for a PhD research project, or enrolling on a doctoral programme.

What is a doctorate?

A doctorate is any qualification that awards a doctoral degree. In order to qualify for one you need to produce advanced work that makes a significant new contribution to knowledge in your field. Doing so earns you the title 'Doctor' – hence the name.

So, is a PhD different to a doctorate? No. A PhD is a type of doctorate.

The PhD is the most common type of doctorate and is awarded in almost all subjects at universities around the world. Other doctorates tend to be more specialised or for more practical and professional projects.

Essentially, all PhDs are doctorates, but not all doctorates are PhDs.

Documents Required for PhD Admissions

When it comes to pursuing your PhD dreams, ensuring that you have all the necessary paperwork is crucial. The documents required for PhD Admissions serve as the foundation of your application process. To successfully apply for a PhD program, you'll typically need to submit several documents. These documents required for PhD Admissions typically include your academic transcripts and other such documents furnished by educational authorities, the entire list is available below. It's essential to carefully review the specific requirements outlined by your chosen university or institution to ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready and in order to increase your chances of securing admission to your desired PhD program.

The following are the documents required for PhD admissions, and candidates are expected to submit them along with the completed application form:

● Photocopy of marks sheet / Grade card of the secondary, higher secondary board and other university examinations.● Attested copy of the first page of your SSLC/SSC/Matriculation certificate.One set of Photocopy of Degree certificates towards proof of qualification.● Photocopy of proof of date of birth.● Copies of Passport size photographs.● SC/ST/OBC community certificate original, issued by the respective State government, with an attested copy, if the candidate belongs to any of such category. OBC candidates should submit the community certificate (Non creamy layer certificate) in the prescribed format.● Original GATE Score Card/NET (UGC-JRF/Lectureship/CSIR/DAE-JEST) award letter for admission to PhD programme, if applicable.● Candidates falling under the Sponsored category are required to submit a sponsorship letter from the concerned organization/ authority.● No-objection certificate from the Head of the University, if applicable for Project-Staff category.● No- objection certificate from the Present Employer, if applied for Part-time PhD Programme.● Authorised Doctor’s Certificate with disability descriptions in the case of Person with Disabilities (PD) candidates.● Copy of Migration Certificate.● Copy of Certificate of Conduct.● Medical Certificate.

Documents to be submitted at the time of interview

● Printed copy of submitted application forms mailed to the candidates after online registration.
● Photocopies of all Mark sheets / Grade cards and degree certificates towards proof of qualification with Original copies.
● Testimonials/References from at least two persons.
Brief note stating the candidate’s area of specialisation.
● A research proposal of around 500 words may also be asked by the Selection Committee to be submitted by the candidate at the time of Interview.
● Date of Birth certificate in original.