Doctoral research guided by the Ph.D. Ordinance 2026, University regulations, and applicable UGC norms.
The Ph.D. Programme of Sikkim Alpine University is governed by the Sikkim Alpine University Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Ordinance, 2026, the University’s Ph.D. Regulations & Guidelines, and the applicable University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations, as amended from time to time.
Admissions shall be conducted through an official notification and in accordance with the approved admission procedure, eligibility requirements, availability of eligible Research Supervisors, research infrastructure, and approval of the Research Degree Committee (RDC) and the competent authority.
The Programme may be offered in Full-Time and Part-Time modes, subject to the University’s approved discipline-wise intake and applicable regulations. The Ph.D. Programme shall not be offered through distance mode. Research scholars are required to complete the prescribed coursework and comply with the University’s requirements relating to research progress, academic activities, evaluation, research ethics, and other applicable procedures.
Building a research culture that serves Sikkim, the nation, and the wider world.
To foster a vibrant research environment that advances knowledge, promotes innovation, encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, and contributes to the sustainable development of Sikkim, the nation, and the global community.
Durations are set under Section 7 of the Ph.D. Ordinance, subject to applicable UGC regulations.
Including coursework, from the date of admission/registration, in accordance with Section 7.1 of the Ph.D. Ordinance.
From the date of admission/registration, subject to extensions, relaxations, leave, and other special circumstances under Section 7 of the Ph.D. Ordinance, the Ph.D. Regulations & Guidelines, and applicable UGC regulations.
Any extension or relaxation shall be considered only in accordance with the applicable provisions and the recommendations/approvals of the University bodies and competent authority, wherever required.
Candidates must fulfil the educational and category-related requirements published by the University.
Candidates must fulfil any one of the following eligibility requirements:
A relaxation of 5 percentage points in the minimum qualifying marks, or an equivalent relaxation in grade, may be granted to candidates belonging to the categories recognised under the applicable UGC regulations, including SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), Persons with Disabilities (PwD), Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), and other categories as notified by the UGC from time to time.
Candidates seeking relaxation must submit valid documentary evidence supporting their claim within the prescribed timeline. The documents may be submitted along with the application form or through the University’s designated submission channel, as applicable.
Candidates possessing an M.Phil. degree or an equivalent qualification recognised by the University Grants Commission (UGC) may be considered eligible where provided for under Section 5.1 of the Ph.D. Ordinance and subject to the applicable UGC regulations and verification of the qualification by the University.
Fee is subject to revision from time to time as decided by the University.
| S.N. | Particulars | Amount (Full Time) | Amount (Part Time) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 | Registration Fee | Rs. 500/- | Rs. 500/- |
| 02 | Entrance Exam Fee | Rs. 3000/- | Rs. 3000/- |
| 03 | Registration Fee | Rs. 5000/- | Rs. 5000/- |
| 04 | Academic Fee | Rs. 70000/- (Per Year) | Rs. 75000/- (Per Year) |
| 05 | Coursework Fee | Rs. 15000/- | Rs. 20000/- |
| 06 | Pre-Synopsis Seminar | Rs. 10000/- | Rs. 10000/- |
| 07 | Viva-Voce Fee | Rs. 15000/- | Rs. 15000/- |
| 08 | Caution Money Deposit (Refundable) | Rs. 5000/- | Rs. 5000/- |
| 09 | Convocation Fee | As applicable | As applicable |
| 10 | Subject where lab work involved | Rs. 10000/- (Per Year) | Rs. 10000/- (Per Year) |
| Particulars | Amount |
|---|---|
| Registration Fee | Rs. 10,000/- |
| Security Deposit | Rs. 10,000/- |
| Academic Fee | Rs. 50,000/- per semester for full time · Rs. 1,00,000/- per semester for part time |
Candidates qualifying under the applicable NET/JRF/SET or other recognised exemption provisions shall be exempted from the entrance examination fee, where such exemption is permissible under the applicable regulations and University admission policy. The application/registration fee shall remain payable unless otherwise provided by the University.
Applicants who fulfil the minimum eligibility criteria shall ordinarily be required to appear for the University Ph.D. Entrance Test, unless exempted under Section 2.9 of the Ph.D. Regulations and Guidelines.
The test shall assess research aptitude, research methodology, analytical and critical thinking ability, subject-specific knowledge, and preparedness for doctoral research.
The examination mode, duration, question format, pattern, syllabus, and evaluation methodology shall be prescribed by the University and notified before the commencement of the admission process, in accordance with Section 2.6 of the Ph.D. Regulations and Guidelines.
| Written Test | Maximum Marks | Duration (hrs.) |
|---|---|---|
| PART-A Research Methodology (Common for all) | 50 | 2 Hours |
| PART-B (In Specialization) | 50 | 2 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
The minimum qualifying marks shall be those prescribed under the applicable UGC Regulations and University policy, including any applicable relaxation for eligible reserved categories. Only candidates meeting the prescribed qualifying criteria shall be eligible for the Interview/Research Proposal Presentation.
Exemption from the entrance test does not guarantee admission. All candidates must complete the interview and other applicable stages.
Candidates who have qualified in a recognised national-level examination or fellowship relevant to their proposed field of research may be considered for exemption from the Sikkim Alpine University Ph.D. Entrance Test (SAU-PET), subject to the applicable UGC regulations, the validity of the qualifying result, and the University’s admission policy.
Candidates qualifying in the University Ph.D. Entrance Test and candidates exempted under Section 2.9 shall appear before the Selection Committee.
For candidates admitted through the University Entrance Test, final merit shall be determined using the approved weightage of 70% for the Entrance Test and 30% for the Interview/Research Proposal Presentation.
For candidates exempted from the Entrance Test, merit shall be determined on the basis of the Interview/Research Proposal Presentation and other criteria prescribed by the University.
Recommendations are processed through the Departmental Research Committee (DRC) and Research Degree Committee (RDC). Admission is confirmed only after approval by the competent authority and completion of prescribed formalities.
Download the required forms and governing documents. Online admissions are not active; please proceed with offline admissions.
Download and fill this form to apply for Ph.D. admission.
Download PDF FORMDownload and fill this form to participate in SAU-PET.
Download PDF ORDINANCEGoverning ordinance for the Doctor of Philosophy programme.
Download PDF REGULATIONSUniversity Ph.D. Regulations & Guidelines.
Download PDF FORMATSPrescribed forms and formats for doctoral scholars.
Download PDF POLICYResearch ethics policy for scholars and supervisors.
Download PDF POLICYAcademic integrity and plagiarism policy for research work.
Download PDF
Research is the foundation of academic excellence, innovation, and societal progress. At Sikkim Alpine University, we are committed to fostering a vibrant research environment that encourages intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Our vision is to nurture a strong research culture that empowers scholars and faculty members to explore new ideas, address contemporary challenges, and contribute meaningfully to scientific advancement and societal development. We strive to promote quality research, ethical academic practices, innovation, and collaboration with national and international research institutions.
The University encourages its researchers and doctoral scholars to pursue original, impactful, and socially relevant research that aligns with emerging global priorities while addressing local and regional needs. Through academic mentorship, research-oriented initiatives, and collaborative engagement, we aim to create an environment where knowledge leads to meaningful change.
As Research Director, I invite aspiring researchers, scholars, and academic professionals to join us in advancing the frontiers of knowledge and building a future driven by discovery, creativity, and academic integrity. Together, let us make research a catalyst for innovation, excellence, and sustainable development.
Dr. Aditya Moktan TamangIn-charge, Research Director
Sikkim Alpine University, Namchi, Sikkim
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