Kumaraguru Doctoral Fellowship (KDF)
Build impactful research. Grow as a scholar. Shape industry and society.
KDF is a full-time, residential / non-residential doctoral fellowship for aspirational researchers who want to advance engineering, technology, and management through high-quality, interdisciplinary work. Fellows deepen research capability while contributing solutions to real scientific and technological challenges that matter to industry and society.
RESEARCH PRIORITY AREAS :
Why KDF?
Who can apply?
Mandatory eligibility :
Freshers or candidates with up to 3 years’ experience who hold :
Desirable :
Preference for GATE-qualified candidates.
Fellowship duration :
The fellowship is awarded for 3 years, with progress determined through continuous reviews and assessments. The fellowship may be withdrawn if research goals are not met.
Stipend & categories :
Category A | Monthly Fellowship ₹25,000 | Eligibility Guide : UG & PG with min CGPA 6.5
Category B | Monthly Fellowship ₹35,000 | Eligibility Guide : UG & PG from NIRF Top 100
Category C | Monthly Fellowship ₹50,000 | Eligibility Guide : UG or PG from NIRF Top 25 institutions / Industry R&D
Compensation includes subsidized living expenses and institutional fees.
Your 3-year research journey :
Year 1 — Foundation & proposal
Year 2 — Depth & delivery
Year 3 — Translation & thesis
Research ethos & objectives
FAQs (quick answers)
1. Is KDF only for engineering backgrounds?
2. No. Eligible candidates include Engineering / Technology / Management postgraduates and M.Sc. in Math / Stats / Physics / Chemistry; candidates from government / industry research labs may also apply.
3. Is the fellowship strictly 3 years?
4. Yes, the designed duration is 3 years, governed by continuous reviews; non-attainment of goals can lead to withdrawal.
5. Are there categories for the stipend?
6. Yes—₹25k / ₹35k / ₹45k per month based on academic background and NIRF-ranked institutions, with subsidized living and institutional fees covered.
Fellowship • India