CUSB PhD FAQs
Ques. Is M.A. in English Literature sufficient for PhD English at CUSB, or is M.A. in Linguistics also accepted?
Ans. Both M.A. in English Literature and M.A. in English Linguistics are accepted for PhD English admission at CUSB. The eligibility criterion specifically mentions M.A. English (Literature/Linguistics), so candidates from either specialisation are eligible. The key requirement is a minimum of 55% marks (General/OBC/EWS) or 50% marks (SC/ST/PwD) in the qualifying degree, along with a valid UGC-NET score in English from the June 2024 cycle onwards.
Ques. What research areas can I pursue in the PhD English programme at CUSB?
Ans. The Department of English and Foreign Languages at CUSB offers research opportunities across a broad range of areas including British and American literature, postcolonial and diaspora literature, Indian writing in English, comparative literature, linguistics and language studies, translation studies, cultural and gender studies, and English language teaching (ELT). Candidates are strongly advised to visit the CUSB website, review faculty profiles, and identify a potential supervisor whose research interests align with their proposed topic before applying.
Ques. How competitive is PhD English admission at CUSB given the limited seats?
Ans. With only 5 seats available in AY 2025-26 (UR: 1, OBC: 2, SC: 2, ST: 0, EWS: 0), PhD English at CUSB is highly competitive. The unreserved category has only 1 seat, making it extremely selective for general category candidates. The selection process involves both NET score (70% weightage for non-JRF candidates) and interview performance (30% weightage), so candidates must have a strong NET score and a well-prepared research proposal to improve their chances.
Ques. Can I apply for PhD English at CUSB if my M.A. is from a state university with a grading system instead of percentage?
Ans. Yes. CUSB accepts equivalent grade/CGPA in place of percentage marks, in line with UGC guidelines. If your university uses a grading system, your CGPA will be converted to an equivalent percentage as per the UGC 10-point scale or your university's conversion formula. Candidates should carry their university's official grade-to-percentage conversion certificate at the time of document verification and interview.
Ques. What documents are required at the time of the PhD English interview at CUSB?
Ans. At the time of the interview, candidates must bring: 5 copies of a 1,000-word research proposal on a topic of their choice; original mark sheets and degree certificates for Class 10, 12, graduation, and post-graduation; original UGC-NET certificate; Aadhaar card (original and photocopy); category certificate (OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwD, if applicable) in the Government of India prescribed format; character certificate from the last institution attended; 4 recent passport-size photographs; and a leave sanction/relieving order from the employer (if currently employed).
Ques. Does CUSB offer any foreign language courses alongside the PhD English programme?
Ans. The Department of English and Foreign Languages at CUSB, as the name suggests, has a focus on both English and foreign languages. While the PhD programme is specifically in English, the department's broader academic environment includes exposure to foreign language studies. PhD scholars may also benefit from SWAYAM-based online courses in foreign languages and interdisciplinary electives offered by other departments. However, the PhD programme itself is focused on English literature and linguistics, and foreign language proficiency is not a mandatory requirement for admission.


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