PhD in Psychology Eligibility (India)

September 19, 2025 | by Ananad Madhavan

PhD in Psychology admission requirements

Highlights

  • Academic: To be eligible, you must possess an MA, MSc, or MPhil in Psychology or a related field. This may include neuroscience, social sciences, and so on.
  • Marks Percentage: Most universities require a minimum of 55% marks in the PG degree or an equivalent grade. All universities offer a 5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC or differently-abled students. Some universities also accept a 4-year bachelor’s degree with experience for doctorate programs as per the new education policy.
  • Approval: Your degree must be from a university recognized by the UGC. If foreign, you may need an equivalence certificate.
  • Entrance Test: You will need to clear UGC NET, CSIR NET, or a university exam. You can skip the university exam if you have NET/JRF.
  • Interview: he interview is a common procedure that occurs after the examination and is part of admission in many universities.
  • Reserach Proposal: Some universities want a synopsis of what you want to research. But it is not mandatory in many universities.
  • Experience: Professional experience is not usually required but may be required for part-time PhD programs.

For Par time PhD Psychology Admission in NAAC A Grade universities, Admission Gudiance and other support, Please Contact Us Now.

  • To get into Ashoka University, you need a Master’s degree in Psychology or a related field with a minimum of 55% marks.
  • UGC NET/GATE qualifiers can sometimes skip the written test.
  • The candidate must have a PG degree or UGC grade B with 55%. MPhil holders have special status.To apply to Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, Delhi, you need a Master’s degree with at least 55% marks. There is a 5% relaxation if you belong to a reserved category. Also Read: PhD in Pscyhology in Chennai
  • A master’s degree in a relevant field is required.
  • You must have scored 55% or more in your post-graduation in the same or a similar subject.
  • In the case of a foreign degree, recognition from the Association of Indian Universities is required.
  • You must be a working professional.
  • A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your current employer is required.
  • A current work experience letter from the employer is required.

Optional

  • NET or JRF candidates are not required to take the entrance test.
  • Reserved categories are usually given mark relaxations.
  • Non-NET candidates can take the university entrance exam and get admission.
  • The course duration may differ but normally lasts 3 to 4 years.

Full Eligibility Checklist

  • Earned a Master’s degree in Psychology or a similar field.
  • Obtained at least 55% marks in the Master’s degree.
  • Your PG Degree (MA MSc/Mphil Psychology) must be recognized by the UGC.
  • Have cleared an entrance exam (UGC NET/University Entrance).
  • A research proposal.
  • Prepared for an interview if needed.
  • Check the relaxation rules if belonging to a reserved category.
  • Include an equivalency certificate in case of a foreign degree.

A PhD in Psychology provides you with specialist expertise in one specific area of Psychology.

  • Clinical Psychology is very popular. It helps to diagnose and manage mental disorders and behaviors.
  • Counseling Psychology involves learning how people cope with daily problems, stress, career paths, or relationship issues.
  • Industrial and Organizational Psychology focuses on workplace behavior and addresses both employees’ and employers’ needs. Staff motivation, leadership, and team efficacy are some of the areas covered.
  • Other PhD Psychology subjects include Educational Psychology, Neuropsychology, Forensic Psychology, Sports Psychology, Applied Psychology, and Counselling Psychology.

Conclusion & What You Should Do

  • Identify universities you like. Check their official PhD Psychology eligibility page.
  • Make sure your marks, degree, and documents are ready.
  • Prepare well for entrance exams and interview. Draft a strong research topic.

RELATED POSTS

View all

view all