Opportunity to pursue a PhD directly after a 4-year graduation course; DU revises admission rules..

Delhi University has amended its PhD admission rules, introducing a new system for students who have completed the Four-Year Undergraduate Programme (FYUP). Such students can now apply for direct admission to the PhD programme without first obtaining a master's degree. Previously, a postgraduate degree following graduation was mandatory for PhD admission; the new rule will save students one to two years, allowing them to enter the realm of research sooner.

The objective of this decision is to engage students in research at a younger age and promote research within higher education. However, to qualify for direct PhD admission, students must meet specific criteria, including minimum marks, an entrance exam, and an interview. The university believes this will provide talented young individuals with better opportunities to pursue a career in research.

**Eligibility Criteria for Direct Admission**
Students applying for direct PhD admission after a four-year undergraduate programme must have secured a minimum of 75% marks or an equivalent CGPA. A 5% relaxation is provided for candidates belonging to SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), EWS, and PwD categories; candidates from these categories may apply with a minimum of 70% marks.

The university has also clarified that the existing system remains in place for students who have completed a three-year undergraduate programme. Such students must complete a master's degree with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) to be eligible for PhD admission. Additionally, candidates who have completed an M.Phil. degree with 55% marks remain eligible for the PhD programme.

**Selection via Entrance Exam and Interview**
Merely meeting the eligibility criteria is not enough. Students seeking direct PhD admission must qualify in the UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, or the university's designated entrance examination. Subsequently, clearing an interview conducted by the respective department is also mandatory.

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