IIT Kharagpur launches Platinum Jubilee PhD Fellowship for top GATE 2026 rankers; offers up to ₹90,000 stipend: Check details

The Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur has introduced a prestigious new opportunity for research aspirants through its Director’s Platinum Jubilee Excellence Ph.D. Fellowship (DPEF) scheme. Targeted at high-performing candidates in GATE 2026, the fellowship aims to attract top-tier talent into advanced research programmes at the institute.

Under this initiative, candidates securing a rank within the top 50 in GATE 2026 and opting for a Ph.D. at IIT Kharagpur will be eligible for enhanced financial support. Selected fellows will receive a monthly stipend of ₹80,000 for the first two years, followed by ₹90,000 per month for the next three years, subject to meeting all admission criteria.

Rolling PhD admissions open across disciplines

Alongside the fellowship announcement, IIT Kharagpur has also opened rolling admissions for its Ph.D. programmes. Applications are accepted throughout the year, with processing conducted at least once every quarter by respective academic departments.

The institute is inviting applications across a wide range of disciplines, including:

• Engineering and Technology
• Sciences
• Architecture and Regional Planning
• Humanities and Social Sciences
• Law and Public Policy
• Management and Medicine
• Rural Development

Candidates can apply under multiple categories such as Institute Assistantship, Individual Fellowships (CSIR/UGC/DBT/ICMR/INSPIRE), Sponsored, and Working Professionals.

Application process and guidelines

Applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria outlined in the official information brochure before applying. Since shortlisting is based entirely on the data submitted in the application form, candidates are advised to carefully verify all details.

Follow the guidelines mentioned below:

• Applications must be submitted online only
• Only one application per candidate is permitted
• No edits or resubmissions are allowed after final submission
• Any incorrect or false information may lead to cancellation of candidature

For more information about the application process, aspiring candidates are advised to visit the official website.

Direct link to visit IIT KGP PhD programme website.

Application fee details

The non-refundable application fee is structured as follows:

• ₹1000 for Unreserved/OBC/EWS/Transgender candidates
• ₹500 for SC/ST/PwD/Women candidates

What makes DPEF significant

The DPEF scheme stands out as one of the highest-paying Ph.D. fellowships in India, reflecting IIT Kharagpur’s push to strengthen research output and global competitiveness. By directly linking the fellowship to top GATE performance, the institute is creating a strong incentive for meritorious students to transition into academia and research.