Guru Nanak Dev University Begins PhD Applications January 2026; Check Details Here

Guru Nanak Dev University (GNDU), Amritsar, has started the application process for PhD Admission January 2026 across several disciplines. Eligible candidates can submit the online application form till January 10, 2026.

A key highlight is that many fellowship holders and national-level qualified candidates are exempted from the PhD Eligibility Test, though online application is still mandatory. The GNDU university has also announced the PhD Eligibility Test date, counselling schedule, and department-wise availability for this admission cycle.

GNDU PhD January 2026 Dates

Candidates will not be required to appear for the PhD Eligibility Test if they hold valid qualifications such as UGC NET (including Category-3), UGC-CSIR (JRF), SLET, GATE, GPAT, ICAR, INSPIRE, Rajiv Gandhi Fellowship, Teacher Fellowship, Direct Fellowship, or have completed M.Phil from GNDU or possess a valid GNDU PhD Eligibility Test certificate.

Important: These candidates must still apply online for PhD admission.

Read More: GNDU Hostel Fees 2026, Facilities, Rooms, Food, Photos

PhD Eligibility Criteria for January 2026

Applicants must hold a Master’s degree with at least 55% marks or equivalent CGPA. For SC/ST/OBC (non-creamy layer) and differently-abled candidates, the minimum requirement is 50% marks.

Candidates who completed their Master’s degree through Distance/ODL/Lateral Entry modes or from Deemed/Private Universities must verify equivalence with GNDU before applying. Admission without equivalence confirmation may lead to cancellation later.

The PhD Eligibility Test will be conducted on January 19, 2026, from 10:30 am to 1:00 pm at the Lecture Theatre Complex, GNDU Campus.

The test is qualifying in nature and does not guarantee admission. Minimum qualifying marks are 55% ( 50% for reserved categories ). The validity of the test is two years, subject to meeting all admission conditions.

Counselling will be held on January 27, 2026, in the respective departments. PhD admissions are open across multiple departments at GNDU campuses and Khalsa College, Amritsar, including Agriculture, Chemistry, Physics, Biotechnology, Engineering, Humanities, Management, and Social Sciences.

Candidates exempted from the eligibility test can apply directly to the notified departments as per GNDU guidelines.

Also Read

• GNDU Placement 2025: Highest Package, Average Package, Top Recruiters
• GNDU Courses & Fees 2026