Content Curator | Updated on - Apr 8, 2026

GITAM's PhD in Political Science programme at the Bengaluru campus offers a rigorous academic experience that delves into the complexities of political philosophy, systems, and practice. This full-time doctoral programme combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of political theory and its applications in governance, economics, sociology, international relations, and psychology. The 3-year programme is designed for candidates with a Master's degree in Political Science or closely related fields like International Relations, Public Administration, Public Policy, or Security and Strategic Studies. The programme emphasizes original research, critical thinking skills, and contribution to the advancement of knowledge in political science, making it particularly valuable for students seeking to influence policy decisions and shape political discourse in India and globally.

PhD admissions for 2026-2027 are currently under preparation, with the official portal expected to launch soon. Based on the 2025-2026 admission cycle, applications typically open in April-May with a deadline around May 12th. The selection process involves the GITAM Research Admissions Test (GReAT) or exemption through valid CSIR/UGC-NET, GATE/GPAT, INSPIRE, ICAR, or DBT-JRF scores, followed by interviews. Candidates are advised to monitor the official research admissions portal (researchadmissions.gitam.edu) for 2026-2027 dates and registration details.

Key Points

Comprehensive curriculum covering Western Political Thought, Indian Political Thought, Indian Constitution, Indian Political System, International Relations, Public Administration, Identity Politics, Comparative Politics, Political Theory, and Gender Studies
Faculty expertise in Public Policy, Indian Politics, Political Theory, Global Policies, International Relations, and Journalism
Access to research opportunities through collaborations with Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Coventry University, Institute for Development Studies, and Green Valley Foundation
Opportunity to earn 24 credits across different schools (Business, Engineering, Sciences) through the Liberal Education Model
Mandatory 2-credit venture development course transcending disciplinary boundaries with hands-on learning and innovative product creation
Specialization options in South Asian Studies, Policy Studies, Global Politics, Electoral Politics, and Foreign Policy
Eligibility for Honours Degree Programme with 1+ year of research focus

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Highlights
Fees
Admission
Scholarships
FAQs

GITAM University Bengaluru Latest Updates and News

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06 Jan, 2026 GITAM University Bengaluru Ph.D Political Science Fee Structure 2026 has been released. The total academic fee is ₹ 90,000 . Read more.

GITAM PhD Political Science Fees

The PhD in Political Science programme at GITAM Bangalore follows a transparent fee structure designed to make quality doctoral education accessible. Full-time Indian nationals pay an annual fee of INR 30,000 for the 3-year programme, with a one-time application fee of INR 1,200 and no processing charges. Foreign nationals and NRI candidates have a different fee structure with annual fees in USD. The total tuition investment for Indian nationals over the complete 3-year duration is INR 90,000, making it one of the most affordable PhD programmes in India.

Fee Structure Table

Fee Component	Amount (INR)
Application Fee (One-time)	1,200
Annual Fee (Year 1)	30,000
Annual Fee (Year 2)	30,000
Annual Fee (Year 3)	30,000
Total Fees (3 Years)	90,000

The application fee is non-refundable.
Annual fees are subject to revision by the university as decided from time to time.
Foreign nationals and NRI candidates pay fees in USD (approximately USD 2,500 annually plus USD 300 processing fee).
Eligible PhD scholars admitted under the Full-Time programme are eligible for GITAM PhD Fellowship of INR 33,000 per month for a maximum period of three years.

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GITAM PhD Political Science Admission 2026

The PhD in Political Science programme at GITAM Bangalore follows a merit-based selection process designed to identify candidates with strong research aptitude and commitment to political sciences. The admission process is transparent and competitive, with multiple pathways for eligible candidates. Candidates with valid national-level examination scores can bypass the entrance test and proceed directly to interviews, while others must clear the GITAM Research Admissions Test (GReAT).

Admission Timeline and Key Dates

Event	Tentative Date
Application Portal Opens	April 2026
Last Date for Application Submission	May 12, 2026
GReAT Examination (All Disciplines except Pharmacy)	May 25, 2026
GReAT Results Announcement	May 30, 2026
Online Interviews of Qualified Candidates	June 5-20, 2026
Final Admission Results	June 30, 2026
Release of Admission Offer Letters & Fee Payment	July 1-15, 2026
Offline Document Verification & PhD Supervisor Selection	July 1-15, 2026
Induction Programme & Lab Visits	July 16-31, 2026
PhD Coursework Classes Begin	August 1, 2026

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

Master's degree in Political Science or closely related fields (International Relations, Public Administration, Public Policy, Security and Strategic Studies) with minimum 55% marks in aggregate or equivalent grade
Candidates with 4-year Bachelor's degree should have minimum 75% marks in aggregate
M.Phil. degree holders with minimum 55% marks in aggregate are eligible
Valid CSIR/UGC-NET, GATE/GPAT, INSPIRE, ICAR, or DBT-JRF examination scores exempt candidates from GReAT

Admission Process

Submit online application at researchadmissions.gitam.edu with required documents (Master's degree certificate, consolidated marks statement, Bachelor's degree certificate, 10th and 12th certificates, Aadhaar card)
Pay non-refundable registration fee of INR 1,200 through debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI
Appear for GITAM Research Admissions Test (GReAT) - a 2-hour written test with 50% coverage on Research Aptitude/Methodology and 50% on specific subject area (maximum 160 marks)
Candidates with valid national-level exam scores are eligible for direct interview
Participate in personal interview assessing research competence, suitability of research work at the institution, and potential to contribute new knowledge
Merit-based admission offers based on interview performance and seat availability

GITAM PhD Political Science Scholarships 2026

GITAM offers comprehensive financial support to PhD scholars through its fellowship programme and merit-based scholarships. The university recognizes the financial commitment required for doctoral studies and provides multiple avenues for financial assistance to deserving candidates.

Available Scholarships and Financial Support

Scholarship Type	Amount	Duration	Eligibility
GITAM PhD Fellowship (Full-Time Programme)	INR 33,000 per month	Maximum 3 years	All Full-Time PhD scholars admitted to the programme
Merit-Based Scholarship	Up to 100% tuition fee waiver	Course duration	Based on entrance exam performance and merit
Need-Based Scholarship	Additional support	Course duration	Eligible merit scholars with combined parental income below prescribed limits

Scholarship Details and Conditions

GITAM PhD Fellowship of INR 33,000 per month is available for all Full-Time PhD scholars for a maximum period of three years, providing substantial financial support during the research period
Merit-based scholarships up to 100% of tuition fees are offered based on performance in GReAT or valid national-level examination scores
Need-based scholarships are available for eligible merit scholars whose combined parental income falls below prescribed limits (Tier A: Less than 12 LPA for courses with tuition fee >= 2 LPA)
Scholarship continuation in subsequent years is subject to maintaining minimum CGPA of 8.0 and compliance with university regulations
Scholarship award is on a first-come, first-served basis with limited seats available under scholarship quota
Candidates can avail of scholarships subject to timely fee payment and maintaining disciplinary standards

Application Deadline and Process

Scholarship applications must be submitted during the online application process at researchadmissions.gitam.edu
Candidates seeking need-based scholarships must upload tax documents (Form-16 or Income Tax Return acknowledgement) of both parents/guardians before the closure of the admission cycle
Scholarship awards are finalized after merit evaluation and interview performance assessment

GITAM PhD Political Science FAQs

Ques. What career opportunities are available after completing a PhD in Political Science from GITAM?

Ans. PhD graduates in Political Science from GITAM can pursue diverse career paths including university professor, senior policy advisor, political strategist, research director, consultant for international organizations, government advisor, chief political analyst, public policy consultant, think tank leader, director of NGOs or advocacy groups, and political commentator. The growing complexity of Indian and global political arenas creates substantial demand for highly skilled political scientists, researchers, and advisors to navigate and shape future political discourse.

Ques. Can I pursue a PhD in Political Science if my Master's degree is in International Relations or Public Administration?

Ans. Yes, GITAM's eligibility criteria specifically mention Master's degree in Political Science or closely related fields including International Relations, Public Administration, Public Policy, and Security and Strategic Studies. You must have a minimum of 55% marks in your Master's degree to be eligible for admission.

Ques. What is the difference between the GReAT exam and having a valid national-level exam score?

Ans. If you have a valid CSIR/UGC-NET, GATE/GPAT, INSPIRE, ICAR, or DBT-JRF examination score, you are exempted from taking the GReAT (GITAM Research Admissions Test) and can proceed directly to the interview stage. This exemption recognizes your performance in nationally recognized competitive examinations and streamlines the admission process for qualified candidates.

Ques. Is the PhD programme full-time only, or are there part-time options available?

Ans. GITAM offers both Full-Time and Extramural PhD programmes. The Full-Time programme is 3 years with an annual fee of INR 30,000 for Indian nationals and is designed for candidates who can dedicate themselves entirely to research. The Extramural programme is 4 years with an annual fee of INR 1,00,000 and is designed for industry professionals working in research institutions with a minimum of 2 years of experience. Both programmes require mandatory coursework with 75% attendance.

Ques. What research facilities and collaborations are available for PhD students in Political Science?

Ans. PhD students have access to research opportunities through collaborations with the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR), Coventry University, Institute for Development Studies, and Green Valley Foundation. The university provides access to research facilities and encourages students to work on research projects offered by accomplished faculty. Students also receive support for attending conferences and workshops, and can participate in collaborative research initiatives with national and international institutions.

Ques. What specialization options are available within the PhD in Political Science programme?

Ans. The PhD in Political Science programme offers specialization options in South Asian Studies, Policy Studies, Global Politics, Electoral Politics, and Foreign Policy. Additionally, students can earn 24 credits across different schools (Business, Engineering, Sciences) through the Liberal Education Model, allowing for interdisciplinary research and learning. The programme also includes a mandatory 2-credit venture development course that encourages innovative thinking and product creation with business potential.