Step 1 - The completed application form has to be submitted along with an outline of Research Proposal in prescribed word limit as mentioned below. This Research Proposal is the most important part of the Application. It will be expected to clearly set out an appropriate set of issues to be explored through research. It should include an indication of the approach that the candidate intends to undertake during research (e.g. literature-based/empirical/experimental/practice-based research) and identify what is sought to be achieved as an outcome. The proposed research can be related to any previous work/studies carried out by the candidate.

All applications must be accompanied with the research proposal. The research proposal must include -Statement of topic of research (not more than 100 words)-focus of research, research problem it will address and contribution to knowledge the topic will make.
-Review of Literature (not more than 200 words)
-Overview of key research on the topic and gap in knowledge that the topic will address.
-Objectives of research
-Research Methodology-Explain the research methods that you will employ to achieve the stated objectives and methodology for data collection and analysis.
-Expected Research Contribution to the field/industry
-List of References
-All admission applications must be accompanied with the research proposal and be submitted with the consent of the NIFT PhD supervisor (Research Proposal format 1 and consent of NIFT PhD supervisor-format 2).

Step 2 - Written test & Interview

The students who are shortlisted after step 1- will be called for the written test and personal interview.The written test and interview will examine the candidates’ communication skills, academic disposition, aptitude for research and research co-curricular activities (Subject Areas for written test are placed in the prospectus). The test shall be for two hours with descriptive/objective type questions.

The merit of candidates will be drawn up on the total score of written test.The names of qualifying candidates will be put up on NIFT website, who then have to appear for research proposal presentation and interview (as per the calendar of activities). Admission will be offered to the deserving candidates depending on the number of seats available for the academic year.

(The criteria could be changed by NIFT without prior notice. NIFT may put additional academic performance based short listing criteria. Depending on the number of applications received and considering the constraints of time and other resources for conducting Written Test and Interview).

NIFT will not provide travel and accommodation facilities for applicants appearing for the written test and interview. Candidates must bear all expenses for their travel and accommodation.

Exemptions from Written Test

• Master's Degree holders with minimum 10 years of professional experience (teaching/ working) in the areas of research relevant to NIFT.
• Master's Degree holders who have minimum 10 years of experience and have cleared and hold a valid score UGC NET, CEED, CSIR (JRF) similar tests.
Applicants meeting the above criteria will be exempted from written test.

ADMISSION ELIGIBILITY (Full Time & Part Time)

Marksheets of class X, XII, Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree (if applicable), Scanned Copies of Degree-Bachelor’s, Master’s (if applicable), work experience certificate(s) on employer letterhead (if applicable), must be uploaded along with application form.

Calendar of Activities

Note:- *These dates are tentative. Notification with final dates will be published on NIFT website i.e. www.nift.ac.in. Admit cards, results and seat allocation schedule will be available on NIFTs website only. No separate communication will be sent by post. Candidates to check website regularly for updates.