What is the AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF)?

ADF is a fellowship scheme by AICTE to support PhD-level research in AICTE-approved institutions, funding scholars with monthly stipend + allowances under approved research projects. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

What are the eligibility criteria for ADF 2025?

Candidates must have the required academic background (as per university norms), be enrolled or seeking admission in PhD at an AICTE-approved institution, and comply with age/qualifications and exam-qualification norms like GATE/NET where applicable. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

What is the fellowship amount and duration under ADF?

Under the 2024-25 guidelines, fellows receive a monthly stipend (e.g. JRF / SRF rates), contingency grant and HRA (if applicable). The total fellowship duration can extend up to five years. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

How can one apply for ADF 2025?

Applications are submitted through the official ADF portal (fellowship.aicte-india.org) after admission into or approval by an AICTE-approved institution. The candidate or the institution submits required documents, research proposal/NOC as per the guidelines. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

The AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF) for 2025: Steps to Apply

Author :

Shilpa Nigam

Last Updated on : 02 Dec 2025 12:22PM

Candidates can apply for the AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF) 2025, as the application window for the current academic cycle is open year-round for eligible PhD candidates.

The AICTE Doctoral Fellowship is open for application throughout the year, which is associated with the date of candidates’ admission to an AICTE-accredited institution, not just one annual period as in other scholarship programs.

Stipend Details

The AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF) for 2025 includes a monthly stipend of INR 37,000 (JRF) to INR 42,000 (SRF), a yearly contingency fund, and HRA for the qualifying PhD students in AICTE-approved institutions. The application procedure is mostly open throughout the year; however, applicants are required to apply through their future/admitted institution.

A quick overview is here:

JRF (1st–2nd year): INR 37,000/month.
SRF (3rd year onward): INR 42,000/month (limited to progress review).
Each researcher is allowed to spend INR 15,000/year as a contingency for research reasons.
HRA: According to the Central Government standards, when no hostel facility is given.

Eligibility Criteria

It is necessary to be a part of a full-time PhD program at a college or university that is approved by the AICTE.
A CGPA of at least 7.5 / 75% in both Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees (the minimum requirement is lower for SC/ST/PwD.
A valid score for GATE/GPAT/NET/CEED/GMAT/CAT obtained within the last 5 years.
The applicant's age should be no more than 30 years (there is an extension of time for SC/ST/Women/PwD by 5 years; for OBC, it is 3 years).
A candidate should not accept other fellowships/salaries and has to research on a full-time basis.
Maximum age: 30 years (5 years relaxation for SC/ST/Women/PwD candidates and 3 years for OBC candidates).

Steps to Apply

Follow these steps to apply for the AICTE Doctoral Fellowship (ADF).

Assured admission to a PhD program in an AICTE-recognised institute.
Get in touch with the Nodal Officer or the scholarship cell of the institute.
Make registration on the AICTE portal (self or institution).
Complete the online application form with individual and educational details.
Submit documents that are required (diplomas, scores, admission proof, proposal, ID, bank information)
Then, submit the form and monitor the status of your application online.
If the institute's committee selects you for an interview, you will be invited to attend it.

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