CSIR-UGC NET Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Exams held twice a year (June and December). Check NTA portal for dates.
- Amount
- ₹37,000 per month for first 2 years + HRA
- Who can apply
- MSc or equivalent degree holders in Science subjects who qualify the CSIR-UGC NET exam.
- Income limit
- No income limit
- Study level
- PhD / Research
- Apply through
- NTA CSIR NET portal
- Notes
- Premier fellowship for science doctoral research in India.
About this scholarship
The Joint CSIR-UGC Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) is one of India's most prestigious funding avenues for scholars pursuing doctoral research in science and engineering. Conducted by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, it targets students who clear the highly competitive National Eligibility Test (NET) in subjects like Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Earth Sciences. The fellowship is aimed at identifying and supporting the sharpest scientific minds to undertake advanced PhD research at Indian universities and national laboratories. Selection is entirely merit-based, determined by the candidate's rank in the bi-annual CSIR-NET exam. It provides a substantial monthly stipend and a contingency grant. The fellowship is initially awarded for two years as a JRF. If the scholar's research progress is deemed excellent by an expert committee, it is upgraded to a Senior Research Fellowship (SRF) for an additional three years.
Documents you need
- CSIR-NET JRF award letter
- Postgraduate marksheet
- Proof of PhD enrollment
- Joining report signed by the research guide
- Aadhaar card
- Bank passbook
How to apply
- Qualify for the JRF through the Joint CSIR-UGC NET examination.
- Enroll in a full-time PhD program at a recognised university or research institute within two years of receiving the award letter.
- Submit your joining report and required documents through the dedicated CSIR fellowship portal or UGC portal, depending on the specific award track.
- Coordinate with your university's nodal officer to ensure monthly attendance is verified online.
Why applications get rejected
- Missing the two-year validity window of the JRF award letter to secure PhD admission.
- Failing to submit the annual progress report and the committee evaluation report required to upgrade from JRF to SRF.
- Applying while employed full-time; the fellowship strictly requires full-time dedication to research.
Common questions
What is the difference between CSIR NET for Assistant Professor and JRF?
The JRF cut-off is higher. Only candidates who clear the JRF cut-off receive the fellowship funding; the other only qualifies you to apply for teaching jobs.
Can I receive a salary and the CSIR JRF at the same time?
No, scholars are not permitted to hold any regular employment while receiving the fellowship.
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