Programme durations

The periods for part-time and full-time postgraduate research students are given in the below table.

The Duration of the Programme: This is the period between the effective date of registration (date of commencement as explained below) of the research programme and the final examination including corrections.

The maximum duration to complete the Degree: This usually corresponds to the permitted duration. However, in special situations, this duration may be extended by the Senate on the recommendation of the Faculty for up to ten years (or 120 months) for PhDs and up to six years (or 72 months) for MPhils, on a case by case basis, giving reasons for such recommendation by the Faculty. Under exceptional circumstances, the Senate at its discretion may grant a period not exceeding 12 months, over and above the maximum duration.

Change of full-time/ part-time modes: On the written application of a candidate, he may be allowed to change over from full-time registration to part-time registration of the programme or vice-versa. In such situations, the minimum and permitted durations required for completing the remaining part of the programme shall be decided by the Senate.

Presence at the university:  Full-time candidates are expected to be present during the working days and based at the postgraduate research room in the registered department. They may undertake teaching at the University with the permission of Supervisors and the HOD, for a maximum of eight hours per week. Part-time candidates shall be present at the University for a minimum period of time prescribed by the Faculty and approved by the Senate and at particular hours prescribed by the Supervisor and the HOD.

Date of commencement: Since the faculty admit students to the research degrees in quarterly intakes the date of commencement will be regarded as the 1st day of the particular intake. For example, the date of commencement for January intake will be 1st of January.

Leave taken during the period of study: Students may take leave during their study period and should inform the Senate in advance to get necessary approval for the period of leave. Normally,  the period of maternity leave; period of absence due to medical reasons concerning student or immediate family members; and, period of absence due to overseas assignments, will be added to extend the minimum, permitted and maximum durations. Period of leave taken due to other reasons (e.g. due to personal reasons) will not be considered for such extensions.