ArdorComm Media News Network
January 7, 2026
The Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), a Deemed-to-be-University under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, has invited online applications for admission to its PhD programme for the 2025–26 academic year. Interested candidates can submit their applications through the official website, iimc.gov.in, by January 30, 2026.
The doctoral programme is available in full-time and part-time formats and focuses on advanced research across journalism, mass communication and related interdisciplinary areas.
Research areas and seat intake
IIMC’s PhD programme offers research opportunities in fields such as journalism, mass communication, digital media, advertising, public relations, strategic and political communication, film studies, and development communication. A total of 22 seats have been announced, including 18 full-time and four part-time positions.
Eligibility criteria
Applicants seeking full-time admission must hold a master’s degree in journalism, mass communication or allied disciplines with at least 55% marks, or a four-year bachelor’s degree with research and a minimum of 75% marks. Qualification in UGC NET (Mass Communication and Journalism) is mandatory.
For the part-time PhD, candidates must meet the same academic requirements, be currently employed, possess a minimum of three years of relevant professional experience, and submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their employer.
Important dates
- Applications open: January 1, 2026
- Last date to apply: January 30, 2026
- Entrance exam (Part-time only): February 15, 2026
- Entrance exam result: February 20, 2026
- Interview shortlist: February 23, 2026
- Interviews begin: March 9, 2026
- Final result: March 19, 2026
- Admission & document verification: March 23–27, 2026
- Coursework begins: April 1, 2026
Selection process
For full-time candidates, no written entrance test will be conducted. Applicants with valid UGC NET scores will be directly shortlisted for interviews. The final merit list will be prepared with 70% weightage to UGC NET percentile and 30% to interview performance.
For part-time candidates, an offline entrance examination will be held at the IIMC Delhi campus, unless exempted due to UGC NET qualification. Final selection will be based on 70% weightage to the entrance test or UGC NET score and 30% to the interview.
Application fee and process
The application fee is ₹2,500 for General category candidates, ₹1,500 for OBC/SC/ST/EWS/PwD applicants, and $100 for international candidates. The fee is non-refundable and must be paid online.
Applicants must complete the online registration, upload the required documents—including a statement of purpose and research proposal—and submit the form before the deadline. Candidates are advised to regularly visit the official website for further updates and notifications.
Source: Indian Express