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MS & PhD at IIT Madras

IIT Madras welcomes all foreign nationals (Non-Indians) with strong academic record who are keen to pursue research can apply for Doctoral Programs at 19 departments at IITM. IITM offers PhD programs in Engineering, Science, Humanities and Management. To be eligible you must have a master's degree in the relevant discipline.

Application Form

About the Program

IIT Madras is internationally renowned for the quality and diversity of its research. Research at IIT Madras is nurtured through various academic programmes run by the departments. The Faculty along with the scholars of the various departments of Engineering, Science, Humanities and Management are involved in active research in frontier areas, which results in highly acclaimed International and National Journals and patents. Our faculty have strong expertise on both theoretical and experimental methods of research.

Departments Offering Research Programs

Explore the departments at IIT Madras offering research-based PhD and MS programs.

Eligibility Criteria

PhD Program

  • Candidates must have completed both their Bachelor's degree and Master's degree in the Relevant/Appropriate Discipline from a Recognized University or Institution

  • All applicants should have a Minimum CGPA of 7.0/10.0 (or its Equivalent/First class)

MS Program

  • Candidates must have completed their Bachelor's degree in the Relevant/Appropriate Discipline from a Recognized University or Institution

  • All applicants should have a Minimum CGPA of 7.0/10.0 (or its Equivalent/First class)

Application Procedure

Follow these steps to apply for MS & PhD programs at IIT Madras:

1

Verify Eligibility

Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

  • For PhD: Bachelor's and Master's degree in relevant discipline with minimum CGPA of 7.0/10.0
  • For MS: Bachelor's degree in relevant discipline with minimum CGPA of 7.0/10.0
2

Apply to IITM Portal

Submit your application through the IITM International Admission Portal. Complete all required fields and upload necessary documents including academic transcripts, statement of purpose, and recommendation letters.

3

Apply to ICCR Portal

Register and apply for the ICCR Scholarship through the ICCR Scholarship Portal.

Important: Applications without an ICCR Application Number will not be processed.

4

Await Selection Process

Once you clear the Institute eligibility norms, the department selection process will be communicated to you via email. This may include interviews, tests, or additional document requirements based on the department's criteria.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

Avail attractive scholarships offered by IIT Madras to support your studies here! For more information, please visit the Scholarships page.

Frequently Asked Questions

The M.S. (by Research) and Ph.D. programmes at IIT Madras are research-focused postgraduate programmes designed for students who wish to pursue advanced research in engineering, science, humanities, and management. These programmes allow students to work closely with faculty members on innovative research projects in cutting-edge areas.

International applicants with a strong academic background and interest in research may apply. Generally:

  • - M.S. (by Research): Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline
  • - Ph.D.: Master’s degree in a relevant field from a recognized institution

Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the department and research area.

Research programmes are offered across multiple departments at IIT Madras, including areas in:

  • - Engineering and Technology
  • - Sciences
  • - Humanities and Social Sciences
  • - Management Studies

Currently, research opportunities are available across 19 academic departments of the institute.

International students must apply through the IIT Madras International Admissions Portal managed by the Office of Global Engagement (GE). Applicants should upload academic records, research statements, and other required documents during the application process.
Yes. International students may apply through the ICCR (Indian Council for Cultural Relations) Scholarship offered by the Government of India. Applicants must complete the application on the ICCR A2A Scholarship Portal and provide the ICCR application number while submitting the IIT Madras application.

Applicants are typically required to submit:

  • - Academic transcripts and degree certificates
  • - Passport copy
  • - Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • - Statement of Purpose or Research Proposal
  • - Letters of recommendation
  • - ICCR application details (if applying under the ICCR scholarship)
Yes. Applicants may be shortlisted based on academic qualifications and research background. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an online interview or written test conducted by the respective department as part of the selection process.

Typical durations are:

  • - M.S. (by Research): approximately 2 years
  • - Ph.D.: approximately 3–5 years, depending on the research progress and programme requirements
Yes. IIT Madras offers state-of-the-art laboratories, interdisciplinary research centers, and advanced research facilities. Students work under the supervision of faculty members engaged in high-impact research leading to publications, patents, and technological innovation.
Yes. International students admitted to research programmes are generally provided on-campus hostel accommodation, subject to institute policies and availability.
Research programmes typically commence in the July semester, though admission cycles may vary depending on the department and research programme.
For more information regarding admissions and research programmes, applicants may contact the Office of Global Engagement, IIT Madras.
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Contact Person

Admissions Team

Email: intl.admissions@ge.iitm.ac.in

Telephone: +91 44 22574928, +91 44 22578865