ISM - JRF

Eligibility Criteria

• Educational Qualification: Candidates should have a Master’s degree in Engineering/Technology or a Master’s degree in Science (for specific disciplines) with a minimum of 60% marks or equivalent CGPA.
• Age Limit: There is generally no age limit prescribed for admission to the Ph.D. program. However, candidates should verify any specific departmental requirements.
• Nationality: Only Indian nationals are eligible to apply. Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) and Foreign Nationals can apply under certain categories as specified in the official notification.

Exam Pattern

• Mode of Exam: The Ph.D. Entrance Test (PET) is usually conducted in offline (pen and paper) mode, but candidates should check the latest notification for updates on mode.
• Number of Questions: Typically, the test comprises around 50-100 questions depending on the department and specialization.
• Marking Scheme: Generally, each question carries one mark with no negative marking, but candidates should verify in the official notification.
• Subjects Covered: Questions are based on the candidate’s qualifying degree core subjects related to their desired Ph.D. discipline, such as Engineering, Science, or Management.
• Exam Timing: The entrance exam is usually conducted once a year, generally in the month of April or May.
• Notification Release: The official notification for the Ph.D. program entrance test is usually released between February and March.

Syllabus

The syllabus for the Indian School of Mines - Ph.D Programme entrance exam varies as per discipline. Here is a general overview:

• Engineering Disciplines: Core subjects of the respective engineering branch studied at Master's level, including advanced topics and research methodologies.
• Sciences (Physics/Chemistry/Mathematics): Master's level in-depth topics including theories, applications, and research concepts.
• Management: Research methodology, quantitative techniques, and subject-specific advanced topics related to the candidate's Master's studies.
• Candidates are advised to refer to their respective department’s detailed syllabus as published in the official notification.

Application Process

1. Visit the official IIT (ISM) Dhanbad website at https://www.iitism.ac.in.
2. Navigate to the "Admissions" or "Ph.D. Program" section.
3. Download and read the official Ph.D. program notification carefully.
4. Register online by creating an account on the portal.
5. Fill the application form with the required academic and personal details.
6. Upload scanned copies of required documents such as photograph, signature, and academic certificates.
7. Pay the application fee through the available online payment options.
8. Submit the application form and take a printout for future reference.

Courses Offered

• Ph.D. in Engineering disciplines (Mining, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Computer Science, etc.)
• Ph.D. in Applied Sciences (Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics)
• Ph.D. in Management

Facts about the Entrance Exam

• It is a national-level entrance exam designed to assess subject knowledge and research aptitude.
• Screens candidates for rigorous research programs and Ph.D. candidature.
• Performance in the PET and interview are both considered for final selection.

Admit Card

• Admit cards are released online through the official website approximately 1-2 weeks before the exam.
• Candidates must log in using their credentials to download the admit card.
• Important instructions regarding the exam center, timing, and documents to carry are mentioned on the admit card.

Results & Cut-Offs

• Results are announced on the official IIT (ISM) website after the entrance test and interview process.
• Cut-off marks vary by department and category and are based on the total marks scored in the entrance exam and personal interview.
• Qualified candidates are called for further admission processes including interviews.

Preparation Tips

• Understand the core subjects from your Master’s degree thoroughly.
• Review previous years' question papers if available.
• Focus on research methodology and logical reasoning topics.
• Refer to standard textbooks and research journals related to your field.
• Join online forums and study groups for peer discussion.

FAQs

• Q: Can I apply if I have a Master’s degree in a discipline different from my proposed Ph.D. field?
  A: It depends on the department’s criteria; check the specific eligibility conditions in the official notification.
• Q: Is there an age limit for the Ph.D. entrance exam?
  A: Generally, no age limit is prescribed but verify with the department.
• Q: Are candidates from non-Indian nationalities eligible?
  A: Foreign nationals and OCI cardholders may apply under specified categories.
• Q: How important is the interview for final selection?
  A: The interview along with the entrance test score plays a critical role in final admission decisions.
• Q: Is this exam conducted every year?
  A: Yes, usually once a year.