Archive · 26 Jul 2026
Delhi University Approves Direct PhD Admissions
The University of Delhi's Academic Council has made a big change.
Now, students who finish a four-year undergraduate program can apply directly for a PhD without needing a master's degree first.
This change was suggested by a council that focuses on research and innovation.
However, not everyone agrees.
Some members are worried about how reservation policies will work for these new PhD students and want more financial support for all PhD students.
The council also decided to rename a part of the university and create new scholarships and courses.
They even congratulated their leader for getting another term and noted that the university is doing better in global rankings.
Delhi University's Academic Council approves direct PhD admissions for four-year undergraduate graduates.
Decision aligns with higher education reforms and RIEC recommendations.
Dissenting members raise concerns over reservation policies and financial support for PhD students.
University renames School of Open Learning to Centre for Distance and Online Education.
New scholarship and courses introduced, including Sanskrit Buddhism and Occupational Therapy programs.
- Who
- University of Delhi's Academic Council
- What
- Approved direct PhD admissions for four-year undergraduate graduates
- When
- Friday
- Where
- University of Delhi
- Why
- To align with recent higher education reforms and recommendations by RIEC
Supporters of the Change
Opponents of the Change
Eligibility for PhD
Supporters of the Change
Supports direct PhD admissions for four-year undergraduate graduates, aligning with higher education reforms.
Opponents of the Change
Opposes the lack of clear guidelines on reservation policies for direct PhD admissions.
Financial Support for PhD Students
Supporters of the Change
Maintains the current policy of limiting non-JRF fellowships to 16+1 scholars per department.
Opponents of the Change
Advocates for extending financial support to all eligible non-JRF PhD students.
- Institution
- University of Delhi
- Decision Body
- Academic Council
- Meeting Date
- Friday
- Key Recommendations
- Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Council (RIEC)
- Scholarship
- Late Shri Arun Jaitley Scholarship
- Scholarship Amount
- Rs 50,000 annually for 20 years
- New Courses
- Certificate and diploma in Sanskrit Buddhism, Master of Occupational Therapy, five new Skill Enhancement Courses