Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship 2025
The Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) is a prestigious initiative by the Ministry of Education, Government of India, aimed at attracting the best talent from across the country to pursue doctoral studies at premier institutions. The scheme emphasizes research excellence and aims to nurture innovation through structured support.
Released on 14th January 2025, the updated guidelines cover both Direct and Lateral Entry channels for admission into the fellowship.
Key Features of PMRF 2025
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | Prime Minister’s Research Fellowship (PMRF) |
| Launch Authority | Ministry of Education, Government of India |
| Objective | To attract and retain top-tier talent in doctoral programs |
| Eligibility Routes | Direct Entry & Lateral Entry |
| Fields Covered | Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics |
| Duration | 5 years |
Eligibility Criteria
Direct Entry Channel
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Academic Background | Final year or completed UG/Integrated PG degree from PMRF granting institutions |
| Minimum CGPA | 8.0 on a 10-point scale |
| Admission Requirement | Must have taken admission in a Ph.D. program at a PMRF granting institution |
Lateral Entry Channel
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Ph.D. Enrollment | Must be enrolled in a Ph.D. program at a PMRF granting institution |
| Ph.D. Duration | ≤12 months (with Master’s) or ≤24 months (with Bachelor’s) |
| Academic Performance | Minimum CGPA of 8.5 in Ph.D. coursework |
| Additional Requirements | Strong research proposal, recommendation, and publication evidence |
Fellowship Grant and Financial Support
| Year | Monthly Stipend |
|---|---|
| Year 1-2 | ₹70,000 |
| Year 3 | ₹75,000 |
| Year 4-5 | ₹80,000 |
Annual Research Grant: ₹2,00,000 per year for consumables, travel, etc.
Medical & Contingency: Medical coverage and travel allowance included.
Application Process
Applicants must submit their applications online through the official portal:
Website: https://www.pmrf.in
Documents Required:
| Document | Notes |
|---|---|
| CV / Resume | With academic details and research experience |
| Statement of Purpose / Research Proposal | Clearly outlining research goals and novelty |
| Publications (if any) | Preferably indexed or peer-reviewed |
| Recommendation Letter | From the host institute’s research guide or faculty |
| Valid ID | Passport / Aadhaar / Government-issued ID |
| English Proficiency Certificate | If education not undertaken in English |
Selection Process
The PMRF Selection Committee evaluates applications based on:
- Academic record
- Research aptitude and proposal
- Prior publications or project work
- Institutional recommendation
Shortlisted candidates will be informed via email only. The process may take several weeks depending on the volume of applications.
Accommodation Support
| Centre | Facility Description |
|---|---|
| ICGEB Trieste | No in-house housing, but support provided to find external options |
| ICGEB New Delhi | On-campus Guest House (twin sharing) available |
| ICGEB Cape Town | Accommodation support is arranged prior to arrival |
Important Dates
| Activity | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Application | 30th September 2025 |
| Review & Shortlisting | October – November 2025 |
| Final Notification | By December 2025 |
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