Marwadi University Rajkot Ph.D Political Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. No, UGC-NET is not mandatory. Marwadi University conducts its own PhD Entrance Test (online MCQ-based, 1 hour) for candidates who do not hold a valid UGC-NET/CSIR-NET/GATE/SLET score. Candidates who qualify these national-level exams are directly exempted from the entrance test and are called for the Personal Interview. However, having a UGC-NET/JRF score is highly beneficial as it also makes you eligible for the UGC-JRF fellowship, which provides a monthly stipend of Rs. 37,000 during your PhD, significantly reducing the financial burden.

Ans. The Faculty of Arts at Marwadi University supports research in Political Science across a wide range of areas including political theory and thought, Indian politics and governance, comparative politics, international relations, public policy and administration, electoral politics, federalism, constitutional studies, and political economy. The specific research topic is finalized in consultation with the allocated supervisor based on the scholar's interest, the supervisor's expertise, and the feasibility of the proposed research. Scholars are encouraged to work on contemporary and policy-relevant political issues.

Ans. The tuition fee is Rs. 37,500 per semester, totalling Rs. 2,25,000 for the standard 3-year (6-semester) duration. Additionally, a one-time application fee of Rs. 600, a miscellaneous fee of Rs. 11,000 (charged in Year 1), and a refundable security deposit of Rs. 10,000 are charged. Examination fees, synopsis submission fees, and open defense fees are charged separately at the time of the respective events. Hostel accommodation (optional) costs between Rs. 96,000 to Rs. 2,05,000 per year depending on room type. The total academic cost (excluding hostel) for 3 years is approximately Rs. 2,46,600.

Ans. Yes. Marwadi University offers a Part-Time PhD option specifically for working professionals including government employees, college lecturers, policy researchers, and others employed in relevant organizations. Candidates must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer. The maximum duration for part-time scholars is 7 years. This is particularly relevant for Political Science graduates working in government departments, think tanks, or educational institutions who wish to pursue doctoral research alongside their careers.

Ans. As per Marwadi University PhD regulations, every research scholar must publish a minimum of two research papers in SCOPUS or Web of Science Core Collection indexed journals before submitting the synopsis (which precedes thesis submission). The scholar must be the first author of these publications, and the papers must be based on the research work done for the PhD thesis. Alternatively, one granted Indian or international utility patent (with the scholar, supervisor, and Marwadi University as applicants) can substitute for the publication requirement.

Ans. The PhD Entrance Test at Marwadi University is subject-specific. For Ph.D. Political Science, the test consists of 90% subject-specific questions (covering political theory, Indian politics, international relations, comparative politics, and public administration) and 10% questions on research methodology. The syllabus is aligned with the UGC-NET syllabus for Political Science. The test is computer-based (MCQ format), 1 hour in duration, and candidates must score at least 50% to qualify for the interview stage. Candidates who have already cleared UGC-NET in Political Science are exempted from this test entirely.