Updated on Jul 26, 2021 05:16 IST
Mamona Majumder

Mamona MajumderAssistant Manager

Online PhD courses are flexible and easy to access. The online mode of gaining a PhD degree is a lot more convenient, especially for working professionals. The online PhD courses are offered in 2 modes – full time and part-time. With the growing demand for diverse doctorate degrees, many institutes in India are offering PhD courses online. With dependency on technology and the internet, people are now more inclined towards a hassle-free education. Thus, online courses have gained popularity at all levels be it UG, PG or PhD / doctorate.

Apparently, an online PhD degree is not offered by any Indian University as an online PhD is yet not approved by the University Grants Commission (UGC).

However, there is an option to pursue an online PhD from a foreign University. The candidates do not need to go out of the country and they can complete their PhD degree by staying in their home country. The Universities offer online PhD in various fields like engineering, nursing, education, design, medicine, science, arts, etc.

How is the online PhD Degree awarded?

This will vary from University to University that offers the online PhD course. To put it in a general manner the process can include:

  • Taking up of online modules
  • Completing the dissertation
  • Appearing for online viva-voce (oral) exam for the dissertation

Further, the PhD candidates are assessed at different points using various methods including coursework essays, critical review essays, book reviews, research proposals, research papers, conference posters, group project reports and oral presentations.

Eligibility for Online PhD course

Like the classroom programme, to enroll in the online PhD course candidates must have a relevant master’s degree. Universities can also keep a minimum marks cap in master’s programme, again this can vary from University to University.

In short, the basic qualification to pursue an online PhD course is:

  • Completion of master’s degree
  • Having minimum marks as set by the University
  • Others – candidates must visit the website of the University to check detailed eligibility criteria

How to Apply for an Online PhD Course?

The admission and application process varies from university to university. The basic requirements to apply for any online PhD course may include:

  • Applying for the course by submitting an application form
  • Written exam
  • Interview
  • Portfolio submission / sample research work

Universities / Institutes the Offer Online PhD Course

The online PhD courses are popularly offered by the following Universities / Institutes:

Name of the University / Institute

Online PhD course offered

UNICAF, Larnaca, Cyprus

Philosophiae Doctor (PhD) Business Administration

Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD)

University of Stirling, Stirling, United Kingdom

Doctor of Applied Social Research

George Washington University, Washington, USA

Education Specialist in Educational Leadership and Administration

INISEG Instituto Internacional de Estudios en Seguridad Global, Madrid, Spain

Doctorate of Research in Law, Education and Development

University of New York in Prague (UNYP), Prague, Czech Republic

Ph.D. by Research

Liberty University Lynchburg, USA

Doctor of Strategic Leadership (DSL) - Online

SMC Business School

Ph.D. in Finance

Institute of Lutheran Theology, Brookings, USA

Doctor of Philosophy

Texila American University, Lusaka, Zambia

Ph.D. in Management

Atlantic International University Honolulu, USA

PhD in education

Apart from the 10 Universities above, the online PhD course in diverse fields is also offered in many more Universities across the globe.

Popular Online PhD Courses

Online PhD courses are offered in the following fields:

Administration Studies

Health Care

Architecture Studies

Humanities Studies

Art Studies

Journalism and Mass Communication

Business Studies

Languages

Construction

Law Studies

Design Studies

Life Sciences

Economic Studies

Management Studies

Education

Marketing Studies

Energy Studies

Natural Sciences

Engineering Studies

Performing Arts

Environmental Studies

Professional Studies

Food and Beverage Studies

Social Sciences

General Studies

Sport

Technology Studies

Sustainability Studies

Tourism and Hospitality

-

Course Structure of Online PhD Courses

The course structure of Online PhD courses also varies from course to course and from University to University. However, a basic outline of the programme includes:

  • Core module
  • Optional module – students need to select any one or two, depending on the course structure.

Fees for Online PhD Course

The online PhD course fee depends on the following factors:

  • University selected for online PhD
  • The field selected for online PhD
  • Duration of the course
  • Nationality of the students

The fee can range as high as Rs 13 lakhs for the full-time online PhD courses.For part-time online PhD courses, the fee can go as high as Rs 8 lakhs.

Duration of Online PhD Courses

The duration of the online PhD course will depend on the field selected for the course. This duration can range from 3 to 8 years.

Why Pursue Online PhD Course?

There are numerous benefits of pursuing an online PhD course. An online course provides the below-given advantage:

Flexible: The online PhD course is more flexible than the classroom courses. The course can be completed without having to compromise on other responsibilities like professional life, personal commitments, etc.

Easy to access: Online mode of education is always easier to access. Since most of the online PhD degree is offered by the foreign Universities, accessing the same becomes easier if they are online. With the help of a decent internet connection and basic technology, candidates can complete their PhD course online. The course material is also offered online and can be easily accessed.

Effective: With online mode, the candidates can save many expenses like living expenses, travelling expenses, and much more. Candidates can complete their online PhD course without any extra expenses apart from the course fee and the basic internet charges.

Jobs after Completing Online PhD Course

The following Job profiles are available once the online PhD degree is completed:

  • Research scientists
  • Professor
  • Analyst
  • Advisers
  • Business Consultants
  • Entrepreneur, etc

Online PhD FAQs

Q: What is the duration of Online PhD courses?

A: The duration varies based on the field of PhD and the University that offers the PhD. In a nutshell the Online PhD course can range from 3 to 8 years.

Q: Is online PhD recognised in India?

A: Unfortunately, no. The University Grant Commission (UGC) does not recognise MPhil/PhD Degree gained in online or distance mode. Only the regular mode of obtaining these degrees are valid as per the UGC guidelines.

Q: Does IGNOU offer online PhD courses?

A: No, even IGNOU does not offer online PhD courses. UGC only accepts PhD / MPhil courses offered in regular mode – part time / full time even from IGNOU.

Q: Can I do PhD online?

A: Not from any Indian University, but there are plenty of foreign universities that offer online PhD courses. Candidates can enroll with them to pursue the online PhD courses.

Q: What universities offer online PhD in India?

A: UGC has barred any Indian Institute to offer PhD degree online or in distance mode. Hence there is no Indian University / Institute that grants online PhD degree.

Q: What is a PhD course?

A: A PhD course is the highest degree offered in education and full form of PhD is Doctor of Philosophy.

Q: What is the eligibility for pursuing online PhD course?

A: The eligibility of the online PhD course is that the candidates must have completed their Master’s degree.

Q: What are some of the Universities that offer online PhD course?

A: No Indian University provides online PhD course. However foreign universities like George Washington University, University of Stirling, University of New York in Prague (UNYP), etc offer online PhD course.

Q: How to apply for online PhD courses?

A: The universities offering the online PhD course have their own specific process of selecting candidates for online PhD admissions. The process mostly starts with application form, then interview, the submission of sample research. Some selection process might also include a written test.

Q: What can be the fees for online PhD course?

A: The fees for online PhD course can go as high as upto Rs 13 lakh for the regular mode. However, it can go upto Rs 8 akh for the part time course.

Q: What are the job prospects after pursuing PhD?

A: After completing PhD candidates can become University professors, R & D Lab professionals, entrepreneurship, government jobs, etc.
Table of contents
  • Popular Online Ph.D. Colleges in India
  • Popular Private Online Ph.D. Colleges in India
  • Course Cutoffs
  • Popular Online Ph.D. Specializations

Popular Online Ph.D. Colleges in India

Following are the most popular Online Ph.D. Colleges in India. Learn more about these Online Ph.D. colleges (Courses, Reviews, Answers & more) by downloading the Brochure.
2.03 L - 8 L
15 - 19.63 LPA

#1 India Today

54 Courses
1 L - 8.28 L
4.2

Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

91 Courses
70 K - 8 L
15.59 - 24.3 LPA

#2 India Today

24 Courses
12.93 L - 25.85 L
16.15 LPA

Popular Private Online Ph.D. Colleges in India

2.25 L - 13.6 L
3.35 - 3.84 LPA

Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

1.6 L - 20.36 L
6 - 6.5 LPA

Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

2.35 L - 8 L
7.78 LPA
17 Courses
1.5 L - 4.02 L
5 LPA
84 K - 4.8 L
2.5 - 3.5 LPA

Engineering Applications open. Apply Now

Course Cutoffs

The cutoffs of popular Online Ph.D. colleges is given below:

Popular Online Ph.D. Specializations

Following are the most popular Online Ph.D. Specializations . You can explore the top Colleges offering these Specializations by clicking the links below.

Popular Specializations

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 3 days ago

MIT School of Architecture accepts GATE scores for admission to PhD programme. MIT-ADT University also conducts PhD Entrance Test for admission. Aspirants must have scores in either of the accepted entrance exams. Candidates also need to meet the eligibility to get a seat in PhD programme. Selected

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 3 days ago

Aspirants with exceptional abilities and have passed graduation in relevant discipline with at least 60% aggregate with at least 15 years of professional experience after graduation in the related field can apply for PhD programme at MIT School of Architecture. However, there eligibility is subject

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 4 days ago

Candidates applying toPhD programmes at IIIT Kota should have completed B.E./B.Tech./Equivalent and/or M.E./M.Tech./Equivalent should be in relevant
discipline. The “minimum specified” CGPA/marks implies a minimum of 6.0 on the
10-point scale (60% marks only where CGPA is not awarded) for M.Tech. and

...Read more

R

Raj Priya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 4 days ago

You can sign up for our free Shiksha Abroad Counselling. After you sign up, our team of experts shall get in touch with you via mail/phone based on your shared contact details. 

S

Sreetama Sinha

Contributor-Level 6

Answered 4 days ago

The PhD programme at IISER Pune is a blend of classroom curriculum, mentoring under-graduate students along with a major research component. The research scholars are expected to complete at least 16 credits of coursework within the first two semesters followed by a comprehensive examination to asse

...Read more

S

Shruti Manchanda

Contributor-Level 9

Answered 4 days ago

The below are the Research programmes leading to PhD/MSc (Engg.) that are available in the following departments.

  • Civil Engineering
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Electrical and Electronics Engineering
  • Electronics and Communications Engineering
  • Industrial Engineering And Management
  • Chemical Engineering
  • Master Of B

...Read more

L

Liyansha Jain

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Every fee component in the PhD fees charged National Law School of India University, Bangalore remains the same except for the tuition fees after the third year. The tuition fees after the third year is INR 15,000 per annum for the remaining duration for PhD at National Law School of India Universit

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

In order to apply for the National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD admissions, candidates are required to provide digital copies of the following documents:

  • Class 10th and Class 12th marksheet as well as passing certificate
  • UG-level degree
  • PG-level degree
  • No objection certificate
  • Scanned im

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Yes, candidates who wish to apply for National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD admissions can do so while waiting for their final year results. Such candidates will be offered provisional admissions if they manage to clear all admission rounds.

They will be granted final admission if th

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Yes, the NLSAT-PhD registrations 2026 are still open for National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD admissions. The registrations are scheduled to stay open until March 23, 2026. Candidates can apply until 11:59 pm on the aforementioned date to appear for the NLSAT-PhD 2026.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

No, the National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD admissions are not open for the academic year 2026. The institute usually opens the PhD admissions from the month of July. However, there is no fixed date on which the PhD admissions will be opened by National Law School of India Univers

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

No, PhD admissions at National Law School of India University, Bangalore are not open for direct admissions. Candidates who wish to apply for PhD admissions at 
NLSIU Bangalore must appear for the NLSAT-PhD in order to qualify for the PhD admissions.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

No, completing a post graduate level course is not a mandatory requirement to be eligible for National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD admissions. Candidates who have cleared their UG level courses can aslo apply for the PhD admissions.

However, for PhD in Law, candidates must clear eit

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Yes, NLSAT-PhD is a mandatory entrance exam for all candidates applying for the National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD course. Before registering for the NLSAT-PhD, candidates should ensure their compliance with the set eligibility criteria. The registrations are done on the website

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

No, National Law School of India University, Bangalore does not offer any concession on the PhD course fees to any student. The fees for both PhD courses is the same at National Law School of India University, Bangalore. 

Candidates who require financial assistance are required to apply for either st

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

The total fees for the National Law School of India University, Bangalore PhD course will differ based on the duration of PhD pursued.

For three year PhD course, the National Law School of India University, Bangalore fees is INR 2.55 Lacs in 2026. However, the instalments will be different for candid

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 6 days ago

Candidates can check the table below to know about the eligibility and selection process for applying to PhD programmes at Malla Reddy University:

Course 

Common Eligibility 

Selection Process 

PhD

Masters Degree or equivalent in the relevant field

NET/GATE

R

Raj Priya

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Yes, vast majority of faculty members at IIM Ahmedabad hold a PhD from top tier Indian or international institutions. They are accomplished scholars and researchers.

R

Rakshit Prabhakar

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

In terms of average package, AE branch students received the best average package of 31.4 LPA during PhD placements 2025. With respect to median package, CH and MA branch students received the highest median package of 25 LPA in 2025.

M

Manashjyoti Piplani

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

IIT Madras offers good placements to PhD students. The median package recorded during PhD placements 2025 for all branches was between 14.5 LPA and 25 LPA. The average package recorded was from 15 LPA to 31.4 LPA.

K

Krishnendu Chatterjee

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Center for Biomedical Research, University of Delhi seat intake is 76. The college offers a three years PhD course at the Doctorate level. The duration of combined course is five years. 

G

Gaurika Chhabra

Contributor-Level 10

Answered a week ago

Aspirants must pass Master's degree in Engineering/Technology or a Master's degree by Research in Engineering /Technology to apply for PhD programme at IIT Jammu.

Candidates who have completed a four-year UG degree with GATE score or Master's degree in Science (with a good academic record) and a vali

...Read more

N

Nishtha Shukla

Guide-Level 15

Answered 2 weeks ago

Yes, IIT Hyderabad does accept UGC NET scores to decide admissions to the PhD courses. Several IIT Hyderabad departments also accept the GATE scores as well to decide the PhD admissions of candidates.

In addition to the aforementioned entrance exams, candidates are also required to fulfill the specif

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

IIT Hyderabad has six research verticals available for interdisciplinary PhD courses while the regular PhD is available in 19 different research verticals. Some of these research verticals include the following:

  • PhD in Artificial Intelligence
  • PhD in Biotechnology
  • PhD in Civil Engineering
  • PhD in Climate

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

IIT Hyderabad PhD admission fees is refundable for candidates who decide to cancel their admissions. The institute follows the UGC guidelines to offer refunds to such candidates.

The UGC guidelines provide for refunds to candidates who decide to cancel their admission within 30 days of the commenceme

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

IIT Hyderabad PhD tuition fees is INR 1 lakh for the academic year 2026. This component is charged on per semester basis at INR 10,000, each for all PhD courses. For external category students, the PhD course fees at IIT Hyderabad is INR 3.5 lakh.

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

There is no mention of IIT Hyderabad offering PhD admissions to candidates who are yet to receive their final exam scorecard. Generally, PhD admissions are not offered to students who are still in their final year of the PG course.

Hence, candidates can assume that they can only apply for IIT Hyderab

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

IIT Hyderabad PhD admissions require candidates to present the following documents in both online and offline forms at the appropriate stage of the admission process:

  • Class 10th and Class 12th passing certificate and marksheet
  • UG course graduation degree
  • PG course graduation degree
  • GATE scorecard
  • No obje

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

No, GATE registrations have been closed for IIT Hyderabad PhD admissions to the academic year 2026. However, GATE is not a mandatory entrance exam for all PhD admissions at IIT Hyderabad.

Thus, candidates can still apply for PhD courses at IIT Hyderabad into the departments which accept candidates wi

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Answered 2 weeks ago

No, IIT Hyderabad PhD admissions are yet to be opened for the academic year 2026. 

IIT Hyderabad's website claims that the admissions to regular PhD courses is scheduled to begin from the first week of the month of March. 

Hence, candidates should go to the website of IIT Hyderabad during the month of

...Read more

S

Saurabh Khanduri

Contributor-Level 10

Find insights & recommendations on colleges and exams that you won't find anywhere else

On Shiksha, get access to

  • 66k Colleges
  • 1k Exams
  • 687k Reviews
  • 1800k Answers