IIMC Opens PhD Admissions for 2025–26: Important Details You Should Know
The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) has started the online application process for its IIMC PhD Admissions 2025–26 for the academic year 2025–26. IIMC is a Deemed-to-be-University under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India. Candidates who are interested can apply through the official website, iimc.gov.in.
The PhD programme is available in full-time and part-time modes. It is meant for students and professionals who want to do advanced research in journalism, mass communication, and related fields.
This programme is ideal for those looking to build a career in teaching, research, media studies, policy work, or other advanced professional roles in communication-related fields.
Research Areas Covered
Students can choose research topics from many areas related to media and communication. Some of the main research areas include:
- Journalism
- Mass communication
- Digital and new media
- Advertising
- Public relations
- Strategic communication
- Political communication
- Film and media studies
- Development communication
- Media and society
Applicants are encouraged to select research topics that match current trends and real-world media issues.
Total Number of Seats
For the 2025–26 academic session, the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) has announced a total of 22 seats for its prestigious PhD programme. Of these, 18 seats are designated for full-time PhD candidates, while 4 seats are allocated for part-time candidates. Given the limited number of available seats, admission to the programme is expected to be extremely competitive. As the demand is expected to be high, aspiring candidates will need to demonstrate exceptional academic qualifications and research potential to secure a place. With such a highly selective process, only the most qualified and determined individuals will be able to gain admission to this coveted programme.
Eligibility Criteria
For Full-Time PhD
To begin with, to apply for the full-time PhD programme under IIMC PhD Admissions 2025–26, candidates must hold a master’s degree in journalism, mass communication, or a related discipline with at least 55 per cent marks. Alternatively, applicants may possess a four-year bachelor’s degree with a research component and a minimum of 75 per cent marks. Moreover, candidates must have qualified the UGC NET examination in Mass Communication and Journalism, which serves as a key requirement for eligibility. There is no separate entrance examination for full-time candidates, as selection is based on the UGC NET score and performance in the interview.
For Part-Time PhD
The part-time PhD programme is specifically designed for working professionals. Firstly, applicants must meet the same educational qualifications as full-time candidates and should be currently employed in a relevant field. Additionally, they are required to have at least three years of professional work experience and must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. Furthermore, candidates who do not hold a valid UGC NET qualification must appear for an entrance examination. Consequently, this process ensures that all part-time candidates meet the rigorous academic standards required for the programme. Overall, these measures are intended to maintain the quality and credibility of research undertaken in the PhD programme.
Important Dates to Remember
Here are the key dates for IIMC PhD admissions:
Applicants should regularly visit the official website for updates.
Selection Process
Full-Time PhD Selection
To clarify, there is no written entrance examination for full-time PhD candidates. Instead, applicants who have qualified UGC NET will be shortlisted and invited for an interview. Thereafter, the final selection will be made through a weighted evaluation process, with 70 per cent weightage given to the UGC NET score and 30 per cent weightage assigned to the candidate’s interview performance.
Part-Time PhD Selection
For part-time candidates, those who do not hold a UGC NET qualification must appear for an offline entrance examination, which is conducted at the IIMC campus in Delhi. Subsequently, the final selection will be determined through a weighted evaluation, with 70 per cent weightage given to either the entrance exam score or UGC NET score, and 30 per cent weightage assigned to the interview performance. Only shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the interview stage.
Application Fee
For part-time candidates, specifically, those who do not hold a UGC NET qualification must first appear for an offline entrance examination, which is conveniently conducted at the IIMC campus in Delhi. Following this, the final selection will be determined through a carefully weighted evaluation, with 70 per cent weightage given to either the entrance exam score or the UGC NET score, and 30 per cent weightage assigned to the interview performance. Additionally, only shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend the interview stage, ensuring that the process is both fair and rigorous. Moreover, candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for both the exam and interview, as each stage significantly impacts the final selection. Finally, the process is designed to identify the most qualified and capable researchers, thereby maintaining the high standards of the IIMC PhD programme.
How to Apply?
Candidates can apply online by following these steps:
1. Visit the IIMC Website
- Go to the official IIMC website: iimc.gov.in.
- Navigate to the Admissions section and look for the PhD Admission Notice.
2. Register Online
- Create an account using your email ID and mobile number.
- After registration, you will receive login credentials to access the application form.
3. Fill in Personal and Academic Details
- Provide your personal details (name, address, date of birth, etc.).
- Enter your academic qualifications, including your undergraduate and postgraduate details.
4. Upload Required Documents
- Academic certificates (degree and mark sheets).
- UGC NET certificate (if applicable).
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining why you want to pursue a PhD.
- Research Proposal detailing your research topic, methodology, and objectives.
- Work experience certificate (for part-time candidates).
- Employer NOC (for part-time candidates, confirming approval for study).
5. Pay the Application Fee
- Pay the required application fee online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI.
6. Submit the Application
- Review your application to ensure all details are correct.
- Submit your application before the deadline to complete the process.
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. When does the IIMC PhD 2025–26 application start?
Applications start on January 1, 2026, and the last date to apply is January 30, 2026.
2. What are the eligibility criteria for full-time PhD?
Candidates need a master’s in journalism/mass communication (55%+) or a 4-year bachelor’s with research (75%+), and must have UGC NET qualification.
3. Can working professionals apply for a part-time PhD?
Yes, part-time PhD is for professionals with 3+ years of work experience and a No Objection Certificate from their employer.
4. How many seats are available?
There are 22 seats in total: 18 full-time and 4 part-time.
Final Advice for Applicants
Overall, IIMC PhD Admissions 2025–26 offer an excellent opportunity for students and working professionals who are interested in pursuing advanced research in media and communication. Firstly, prospective candidates should carefully review the eligibility criteria. Next, they should thoroughly prepare a well-structured research proposal. Then, applicants must ensure the timely submission of their application before the deadline. Moreover, it is equally important to double-check all supporting documents and adhere to the guidelines provided. Additionally, staying informed about updates and notifications throughout the admission process can further enhance the likelihood of a successful application. Ultimately, by following these steps systematically and diligently, candidates can maximize their chances of securing admission into this prestigious PhD programme.
In addition, staying updated with the latest announcements, notifications, and possible changes in the admission process is crucial. Therefore, candidates are strongly advised to regularly visit the official website, iimc.gov.in, for accurate and up-to-date information. Furthermore, more updates and guidance on research and higher education opportunities, candidates can also follow Kenfra Research.
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