Joint PhD program
The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), an Institute of Eminence in India and Deakin University, ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, have established a strategic research alliance to offer a Joint PhD program with research tackling global challenges in science, engineering and technology.
Joint PhD
What does the program offer?
Together, we will embark on pioneering, cross-disciplinary research endeavours poised to make a profound impact on India, Australia, and the global community. Our objective is to cultivate a cohort of highly skilled postgraduate research scholars hailing from South Asia and Australia.
By pursuing your PhD through the IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy, you will contribute to advancing the socio-economic prosperity of both India and Australia on a global scale. You will actively engage in cutting-edge research endeavours aimed at addressing pressing global issues ranging from climate change and smart manufacturing to energy, future infrastructure, critical technology, and healthcare.
About Program
Hear from the experts
Prof Bas Baskaran
Associate Dean, International and Partnerships
Prof. Raghunathan Rengaswamy
Dean, Office of Global Engagement
Co-Supervised
PhD Journey Across Australia and India
The IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy presents co-supervised PhD programs (Cotutelle PhD) jointly conferred by Deakin University and IIT Madras. Through this unique opportunity, you will engage in collaborative research across borders, with access to supervision, state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and funding opportunities offered by both institutions. Plus, you will have the chance to seamlessly integrate travel with your research pursuits, enriching your academic journey.
Program Benefits
Through the Joint PhD Program, you stand to gain
Upon successful completion, you will be offered a jointly awarded degree in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from both IIT Madras and Deakin University
- International joint PhD degree
- A generous scholarship
- Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources
- Exposure to a vibrant research network and ecosystem
- Joint supervision by IITM and Deakin
- Possible input from industry partners
Academic Journey
Choose your starting point based on your citizenship and explore our collaborative dual degree program.
Deakin University and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) have partnered to offer a unique educational experience combining Australian and Indian academic excellence.
Start at IITM
For Indian & International Applicants
Indian passport holders and international applicants (excluding Australian citizens) begin at IITM and complete their one year at Deakin University in Australia.
Program Benefits
- HTRA Stipend Provided
- Relocation Grant, Health Cover & Stipend
Start at Deakin
For Australian & International Applicants
Australian citizens and international applicants begin their journey at Deakin University and complete one year at IITM in Chennai.
Program Benefits
- Relocation Grant
- Annual Stipend
IITM Home Scholarship
Comprehensive support package for students beginning their journey at IITM
- Monthly stipend
- Rs 37,000* in year 1 and Rs 42,000* in years 3 and 4 at IITM.
- Annual stipend
- AUD $35,500* (per annum tax exempt) in year 2 at Deakin
- Relocation grant
- AUD $5,000* for Chennai – Melbourne – Chennai travel.
- Health cover
- Overseas student health cover (single policy) for Melbourne stay in year 2.
- Tuition Fee
- Students pay the IITM tuition fee for the duration of the study; the Deakin tuition fee is waived.
Deakin Home Scholarship
Comprehensive support package for students beginning their journey at Deakin
- Annual stipend
- AUD $35,500* (per annum tax exempt)
- Relocation grant
- AUD $5,000* for Melbourne – Chennai – Melbourne travel.
- Travel Insurance
- Deakin travel insurance for up to 12 months in Chennai.
Ready to start?
Submit your applications today
How to Apply
Check your eligibility
Detailed information of the entry requirements for the PhD programs are listed under eligibility page
Find a research project
Students can choose up to two projects, complete a statement of purpose form, and list them in order of preference.
Prepare your documentation
Required documents: academic CV, transcripts, award certificates, statement of purpose, English proficiency (IELTS), two academic referees' contacts, scanned competitive exams (JEE, GATE, UGC-NET, CSIR, ICAR, ICMR, DST-INSPIRE, GRE, etc.). Additional requirements may apply for some schools/institutes.
Apply online
The information you provide in your application will be used to assess your eligibility for pursuing the PhD program at IIT Madras - Deakin University Research Academy