Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) PhD Admission 2025-26 notification has been officially announced for scholars seeking high-impact research opportunities. TISS is globally recognized for its contribution to social sciences and policy research, and this year’s admission cycle offers a diverse range of specializations across multiple campuses. Candidates can now apply for regular full-time PhD programs designed to address complex social, economic, and environmental challenges. This process follows the latest UGC guidelines, ensuring a transparent and merit-based selection for all aspiring doctoral students.
Important Dates for Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) PhD Admission 2025-26
| Activity | Timeline |
|---|---|
| Last Date for Online Application | 30 December 2025 |
| OPI Shortlist Announcement | Before 9 January 2026 |
| Online Personal Interview (OPI) | 12 – 21 January 2026 |
| Selection Result | Before 27 January 2026 |
Tentative Seats: Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) PhD Admission 2025-26
| Campus | Subject / Department | Seats |
|---|---|---|
| Mumbai Campus | Disaster Studies | 03 |
| Mumbai Campus | Development Studies | 10 |
| Mumbai Campus | Habitat Studies | 14 |
| Mumbai Campus | Health Service Management | 05 |
| Mumbai Campus | Public Health | 04 |
| Mumbai Campus | Management & Labour Studies | 10 |
| Mumbai Campus | Social Work | 20 |
| Mumbai Campus | Women’s Studies | 06 |
| Hyderabad Campus | Education | 03 |
| Hyderabad Campus | Public Policy | 02 |
| Hyderabad Campus | Social Sciences | 02 |
| Hyderabad Campus | Women’s Studies | 02 |
| Guwahati Campus | Social Sciences | 13 |
| Tuljapur Campus | Rural Development | 12 |
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) PhD Admission 2025-26, candidates must meet the following UGC-NET category requirements:
- Category-1: Eligible for admission to Ph.D. with JRF and appointment as Assistant Professor. (Valid JRF certificate not older than 3 years).
- Category-2: Eligible for admission to Ph.D. without JRF and appointment as Assistant Professor. (Valid NET certificate not older than 1 year).
- Category-3: Eligible for admission to Ph.D. programme only. (Valid certificate not older than 1 year).
Qualifying Degree Requirements
Applicants must have completed a 1-year/2-semester master’s degree after a 4-year bachelor’s, or a 2-year master’s degree after a 3-year bachelor’s, with at least 55% marks in aggregate. For those seeking admission directly after a 4-year/8-semester bachelor’s degree, a minimum of 75% marks in aggregate is required.
Selection Criteria for Ph.D. Admission
Applying does not guarantee an interview. Candidates are short-listed in a 1:5 ratio for the Online Personal Interview (OPI) based on NET scores and GoI reservation norms.
- For Category 2 & 3: 70% weightage is given to the NET score and 30% weightage to the personal interview performance.
- For JRF Holders: Selection is primarily based on performance in the personal interview. If not selected via interview alone, the 70/30 weightage rule may be applied.
- Research Proposal: Candidates must upload a research proposal or concept note (minimum 2000 words) covering introduction, objectives, significance, and methodology.
