LJ University Ph.D Computer Science: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Sarkhej, AhmedabadEstd 1980 GTU, Ahmedabad NAAC Grade B++
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LJ University (Lok Jagruti Kendra University), Ahmedabad, offers a full-time Ph.D. in Computer Science under its Doctoral Program, designed for researchers and technology professionals who wish to contribute original knowledge to areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, computer networks, cybersecurity, and software engineering. The programme spans a minimum of 3 years and a maximum of 6 years, with fees payable for up to 8 semesters. The total programme fee (excluding hostel) amounts to approximately Rs. 2,97,700 for 8 semesters, making it an affordable doctoral option in Gujarat. Admission is based on valid scores in GATE/JEST (for Engineering and Computer Applications field) for full-time scholars, or the LJU PhD Entrance Test for part-time candidates, followed by a personal interview. The programme is open to both full-time scholars and working professionals (part-time mode), with seat intake decided annually. The Ph.D. in Computer Science at LJ University is popular among M.Tech/MCA graduates, IT professionals, and faculty members seeking to advance their research expertise in emerging technology domains.

Admissions for the 2026 batch are currently open at LJ University. Based on the 2025 tentative schedule, the application process typically begins in March, with the entrance exam held in May. For the 2026 cycle, tentative dates are expected to follow a similar pattern (March-May 2026). Candidates are advised to monitor the official website (ljku.edu.in) for the 2026 admission notification and exact dates.

Key Points

  • The programme covers research areas including artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science, computer networks, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and software engineering.
  • Scholars are required to publish a minimum of 2 research papers indexed in Scopus/Web of Science/ABDC/EBSCO and present at least one paper at an international conference before thesis submission.
  • The programme is open to both full-time scholars and working professionals (part-time mode), with coursework classes held in evenings and weekends at the LJ University campus.
  • GATE/JEST qualified candidates are exempted from the LJU PhD Entrance Test for full-time admission.
  • Coursework of 12 credits includes Research Methodology (generic and specialized), Discipline-Specific Computer Science Courses, and components from SWAYAM/UGC-recognized platforms.
  • A minimum of 6 Research Advisory Committee (RAC) meetings (held every 6 months) must be completed before submitting the final synopsis.
  • The university disbursed Rs. 10.33 lakh in research incentives in 2024-25, with the School of Engineering and Computer Applications being among the top contributors to research publications.
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LJU Ph.D. (Computer Science) Fees

The Ph.D. (Computer Science) programme at LJ University is structured with a per-semester tuition fee of Rs. 35,000, along with one-time charges for registration, coursework, and registration certificate. The total fee payable across 8 semesters (the maximum fee-paying period) comes to approximately Rs. 2,97,700, excluding the Viva-Voce exam fee of Rs. 20,000 charged in the last semester. A refundable security deposit of Rs. 15,000 is also collected at the time of admission. LJ Faculty and Staff are eligible for a reduced tuition fee of Rs. 15,000 per semester.

Fee Components

Fee ComponentAmount (Rs.)
Application Fee (Non-Refundable)1,500 + Taxes
Registration Fee (One Time)2,500
Course Work Fee (One Time)1,200
Registration Certificate Fee (One Time)1,000
Tuition Fee Per Semester35,000
Tuition Fee Per Semester (LJ Faculty/Staff)15,000
Refundable Security Deposit (One Time)15,000
Viva-Voce Exam Fee (Last Semester Only)20,000
Total Fee (8 Semesters, General Category)2,97,700
Total Fee (8 Semesters, LJ Faculty/Staff)1,57,700
  • The Refundable Security Deposit of Rs. 15,000 is returned upon successful completion of the programme.
  • Fees are payable semester-wise. Non-payment for 3 consecutive semesters will lead to cancellation of registration.
  • Scholars are required to pay fees for a maximum of 8 semesters only, even if the programme extends up to 6 years.
  • Viva-Voce Exam Fee of Rs. 20,000 is charged additionally in the last semester.
  • LJ Faculty/Staff pursuing PhD pay Rs. 15,000 per semester as tuition fee; the difference is refunded upon programme completion, provided they continue with LJ University throughout.
  • Hostel (PG) facility is available separately at Rs. 72,000 to Rs. 1,44,000 per year (not mandatory).
  • Fees can be paid via NEFT/IMPS or through the QR code provided by the university.

LJU Ph.D. (Computer Science) Admission 2026

Admissions to the Ph.D. (Computer Science) programme at LJ University are open year-round, with entrance tests conducted in January and July each year. The 2025 admission cycle followed a March-May schedule for applications and entrance exams. For 2026, admissions are currently open and candidates should apply through the official admissions portal (admissions.ljku.edu.in). The admission process involves a written entrance test (unless exempted) followed by a personal interview/viva-voce.

LJ University PhD Admission Dates

EventTentative Date (2026)
Start of Application ProcessMarch 1, 2026
Last Date to Submit Application FormApril 21, 2026
LJU PhD Entrance ExamMay 3, 2026
Declaration of Entrance Exam ResultMay 10, 2026
Personal Interview / Viva-VoceMay 12-17, 2026
Declaration of Shortlisted StudentsMay 25, 2026

Relevant Entrance Exam Dates

ExamEventDate
GATE 2026RegistrationAugust 28 - October 13, 2025
GATE 2026Admit CardJanuary 13, 2026
GATE 2026Exam DateFebruary 7, 8, 14, 15, 2026
GATE 2026ResultMarch 19, 2026

Note: GATE scores are valid for 3 years for PhD admission in Engineering and Computer Applications field at LJ University. JEST is also accepted. Candidates should check official GATE and JEST websites for the most current dates.

The dates mentioned above are tentative and subject to change.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Candidates must hold a Master's degree in Computer Science/Computer Applications/Information Technology (M.Tech/MCA/M.Sc. CS) or equivalent with a minimum of 55% marks in aggregate (50% for SC/ST/OBC/Differently Abled candidates).
  • For Full-Time PhD: Candidates must have a valid score in GATE/JEST (for Engineering and Computer Applications field) within the last 3 years.
  • For Part-Time PhD: Candidates must qualify the LJU PhD Entrance Test, unless exempted (GATE/JEST/JRF holders or M.Phil. degree holders are exempt from the entrance test).

Admission Process

  • Apply online at admissions.ljku.edu.in and pay the non-refundable application fee of Rs. 1,500 + taxes.
  • Candidates with valid GATE/JEST/JRF scores or M.Phil. degree are exempted from the LJU Entrance Test.
  • Appear for the LJU PhD Entrance Test (if not exempted): Single paper with 50% Domain Knowledge and 50% Research Methodology; minimum 50% marks required to qualify.
  • Shortlisted candidates appear for a Personal Interview/Viva-Voce before the Board of Studies (weightage: Written Test 70%, Viva-Voce 30%).
  • Final selection is based on combined performance in the written test and interview.
  • Admitted scholars must deposit fees within the stipulated deadline and submit required documents to the PhD Section (phdsection@ljku.edu.in).

LJU Ph.D. (Computer Science) Scholarships 2026

LJ University offers a unique internal scholarship for its own faculty and staff pursuing a PhD, along with the opportunity to avail government fellowships. The university's research incentive programme further supports scholars financially through publication rewards and project grants. Scholars qualifying for national fellowships such as UGC-JRF can also avail monthly stipends during their doctoral tenure.

Scholarship Details

Scholarship / FellowshipEligibilityAmount / Benefit
LJ University Faculty/Staff ScholarshipLJ University full-time faculty/staff enrolled in PhDTuition fee reduced to Rs. 15,000/semester (57% reduction); full difference refunded on programme completion
UGC-JRF (Junior Research Fellowship)Candidates qualifying UGC-NET with JRFRs. 31,000/month (first 2 years), Rs. 35,000/month (remaining tenure) + annual contingency grant
LJU Research IncentivePhD scholars publishing in Scopus/WoS/ABDC/EBSCO indexed journalsCash incentive per publication (part of Rs. 10.33 lakh disbursed in 2024-25)
LJU Student Project GrantInnovative student-led research projectsUp to Rs. 1 lakh per project (Rs. 17 lakh awarded to 16 projects in 2024-25)
Digital Gujarat ScholarshipSC/ST/OBC/Minority/EWS students (Gujarat domicile)As per government norms; applied through Digital Gujarat portal
  • The LJ Faculty/Staff scholarship requires the scholar to remain employed at LJ University throughout the PhD programme; the refund is made only upon successful completion.
  • UGC-JRF fellowship is awarded to candidates who qualify UGC-NET with JRF rank; the upper age limit is 35 years for men and 45 years for women as on July 1 of the application year.
  • Research incentives are disbursed annually by the university based on publications and research output.
  • Government scholarships (Digital Gujarat, etc.) are subject to state government norms and annual renewal.

LJU Ph.D. (Computer Science) FAQs

Ques. What are the research areas available under the Ph.D. in Computer Science at LJ University?

Ans. The PhD in Computer Science at LJ University covers research areas including artificial intelligence, machine learning, deep learning, data science, computer networks, cybersecurity, cloud computing, Internet of Things (IoT), software engineering, and natural language processing. The specific research topic is finalized in consultation with the assigned Research Supervisor based on the scholar's interest and available expertise.

Ques. Is a GATE score mandatory for PhD admission in Computer Science at LJ University?

Ans. For full-time PhD admission in Computer Science, candidates must have a valid GATE or JEST score (valid for 3 years). For part-time PhD, candidates need to qualify the LJU PhD Entrance Test, unless they already hold GATE/JEST/JRF or an M.Phil. degree, in which case they are exempted from the entrance test.

Ques. Can I pursue a Ph.D. in Computer Science at LJ University while working as a software engineer or IT professional?

Ans. Yes. LJ University offers the PhD in Computer Science in part-time mode for working professionals. Coursework classes are scheduled in evenings and weekends at the LJ University campus, allowing you to continue your job while pursuing doctoral research. You will need to attend mandatory RAC meetings physically at the campus, held every 6 months.

Ques. What is the minimum number of publications required before submitting the PhD thesis in Computer Science at LJ University?

Ans. Scholars must publish a minimum of 2 research papers related to their research topic, indexed in Scopus, Web of Science, ABDC, or EBSCO databases. Additionally, they must present at least one paper at an international conference. These are mandatory requirements before thesis submission at LJ University.

Ques. Does LJ University have strong research infrastructure for Computer Science PhD scholars?

Ans. Yes. LJ University has well-equipped computer labs and research facilities. The university's School of Engineering and Computer Applications is among the top contributors to research publications, with 74 Scopus/WoS indexed publications recorded in 2024-25. The university also supports 8 new patents granted in 2024-25 and has an active incubation centre supporting technology startups.

Ques. What is the difference between GATE and JEST for PhD admission in Computer Science at LJ University?

Ans. Both GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) and JEST (Joint Entrance Screening Test) are accepted for PhD admission in Engineering and Computer Applications at LJ University. GATE is more widely recognized and covers Computer Science as a specific paper (CS), while JEST is primarily for Physics and Theoretical Computer Science. GATE scores are valid for 3 years at LJ University, making it the more commonly used exam for Computer Science PhD admissions.

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