SJMC Paediatric Hematology Fellowship FAQs
Ques. Is the Fellowship in Paediatric Haematology at SJMC recognised by the National Medical Commission (NMC) or any national body?
Ans. The fellowship at SJMC is an institutional fellowship affiliated to Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences (RGUHS), Bangalore. It is not an NMC-recognised degree/diploma but carries the academic recognition of RGUHS. Separately, the IAP Fellowship in Pediatric Haematology Oncology (offered through the ICP route at empanelled centres) is recognised by the Indian Academy of Pediatrics. Candidates should clarify the specific recognition status with the department at the time of application, as this can impact future career prospects and eligibility for certain positions.
Ques. What is the difference between the SJMC institutional fellowship and the IAP Fellowship in Pediatric Haematology Oncology via ICP?
Ans. The SJMC institutional fellowship is a 12-month programme directly offered and administered by St. John's Medical College under RGUHS. The IAP Fellowship in Pediatric Haematology Oncology (via ICP) is a 2-year programme offered at ICP-empanelled centres across India, with admission through the ICP Common Entrance Exam. SJMC is not currently listed as an ICP-empanelled centre for the Paediatric Haematology Oncology fellowship in the January 2026 seat matrix; however, it does offer its own institutional fellowship. Candidates seeking the IAP-recognised 2-year fellowship should check the ICP seat matrix for empanelled centres.
Ques. What is the stipend provided to fellows during the training period at SJMC?
Ans. Fellows enrolled in the institutional fellowship at SJMC are typically provided a monthly stipend during the training period. The exact stipend amount is determined by RGUHS norms and institutional policy and is communicated at the time of the official advertisement and joining. Candidates are advised to confirm the current stipend amount directly with the Department of Paediatric Haematology Oncology and BMT at SJMC before applying.
Ques. What kind of clinical exposure can a fellow expect during the programme?
Ans. The Department of Paediatric Haematology Oncology and BMT at SJMC is one of the most comprehensive paediatric haemato-oncology units in South India. Fellows get hands-on exposure to the management of a wide range of conditions including acute and chronic leukaemias, lymphomas, aplastic anaemia, thalassaemia, sickle cell disease, bleeding disorders, solid tumours (Wilms tumour, Ewing sarcoma, neuroblastoma), and bone marrow transplantation. The department has an active BMT programme and a strong research culture, with regular publications in international journals.
Ques. How competitive is the selection process for this fellowship?
Ans. The fellowship at SJMC is highly competitive given the department's national reputation and the limited number of seats (typically 1-2 per year). Selection is based on academic merit (MD/DNB marks) and performance in the interview. Candidates with prior research experience, publications, or sub-specialty exposure in paediatric haematology/oncology are at an advantage. It is advisable to apply as soon as the advertisement is released and to prepare thoroughly for the interview.
Ques. Can candidates from outside Karnataka apply for this fellowship?
Ans. Yes, the fellowship is open to candidates from across India who hold MD/DNB in Paediatrics from a recognised institution. There is no state domicile restriction for this fellowship. However, candidates should note that accommodation on campus may be limited and should enquire about hostel/accommodation availability at the time of application.







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