Delhi University sets 2026 PhD test format for four-year UG graduates

Delhi University has set a two-hour, 100-mark entrance test for its 2026 PhD admissions, with the written paper carrying 70% weightage in final selection and the interview the remaining 30%.

Applicants with a four-year, or eight-semester, UGCF 2022 degree need a minimum CGPA of 7.5 in the general category, or 7.0 for SC, ST and PwBD candidates. They must also have completed a dissertation, academic project or entrepreneurship-related work in their fourth year. Applications have been extended until October 20, 2026. DU had earlier opened PhD registration for four-year UG graduates.

The entrance paper has a 50-mark Research Methodology section of multiple-choice questions and a 50-mark subject-specific descriptive section based on the applicant’s fourth-year work. Each wrong MCQ answer will attract a deduction of 25% of that question’s marks.

Candidates need at least 50% in the test to reach the interview stage; the threshold is 45% for SC, ST and PwBD applicants. Those called for interview must submit their dissertation, project or entrepreneurship report beforehand. Applicants qualified through UGC NET, CSIR NET, GATE or CEED will use those scores through the relevant admission process. The exam date will be announced separately.