Are you planning to pursue a Doctorate degree from a reputed state university? The wait is almost over. Bankura University is gearing up to release the official notification for PhD Admission 2026 for various Arts and Science subjects.
For research scholars, getting into a state university is a dream because of the low fee structure and high-quality guidance. Whether you are a NET/SET qualified candidate or a fresh Post-Graduate student willing to appear for the RET (Research Eligibility Test), this guide covers every single detail you need to know.
📢 Latest Status: Notification Coming Soon
The official PhD admission notice is expected to be published in the 2nd or 3rd week of January 2026. Keep your documents ready.
Bankura University PhD Admission 2026: Highlights
Before applying, check the quick overview of the admission process.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| University Name | Bankura University (State Govt) |
| Session | 2026 (Winter Session) |
| Entrance Exam | RET (Research Eligibility Test) |
| Selection Process | Written Test + Viva Voce |
| Application Fee | ₹1000 (Gen) / ₹500 (Reserved) *Approx |
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
As per the latest UGC (Minimum Standards and Procedures for Award of PhD Degree) Regulations, candidates must fulfill the following conditions:
- Master’s Degree: You must hold a Master’s Degree (MA/M.Sc/M.Com) with at least 55% marks in aggregate.
- Relaxation: A relaxation of 5% marks (from 55% to 50%) is allowed for SC / ST / OBC-A / OBC-B / PWD candidates.
- Final Year Students: If you have appeared for your final PG semester exams and are awaiting results, you are also eligible to apply (Subject to fulfilling the marks criteria later).
- Age Limit: There is no upper age limit for applying to the PhD programme.
The Selection Procedure: How to Get In?
Getting a PhD seat at Bankura University is a two-stage process. However, not everyone has to follow the same path. The university divides applicants into two distinct categories: Exempted and Non-Exempted.
Understanding which category you belong to is crucial because it decides whether you need to study for the entrance exam or prepare directly for the interview.
1. Exempted Category (Direct Interview)
If you fall into this category, you are exempted from appearing in the written Research Eligibility Test (RET). You qualify directly for the Viva-Voce (Interview) round.
Who is Exempted?
- Candidates who have qualified UGC-NET (including JRF) or CSIR-NET (including JRF).
- Candidates who have cleared WB-SET (State Eligibility Test).
- Holders of GATE (Graduate Aptitude Test in Engineering) or CEED certification.
- Candidates who already hold an M.Phil Degree (through regular mode with coursework).
- Teachers Fellowship holders.
*Note: Even if you are exempted, filling out the online application form is mandatory.
2. For Non-NET Students: The RET Exam Strategy
If you do not have NET/SET, you must clear the Research Eligibility Test (RET). This is a written examination conducted by Bankura University. The competition here is tough, and you need a solid strategy to score above the qualifying cutoff.
📄 Bankura University RET Question Pattern 2026
The RET exam is usually of 100 Marks and is divided into two parts. Both parts are conducted in a single session.
| Exam Section | Syllabus Content | Marks |
|---|---|---|
| Part A (General) | Research Methodology | 50 Marks |
| Part B (Subject) | Subject Specific (PG Level) | 50 Marks |
| Question Type | MCQ + Short Descriptive | — |
| Qualifying Marks | 50% (45% for Reserved) | — |
📚 Detailed Syllabus Breakdown
This section tests your aptitude for research. Topics include:
- Types of Research (Qualitative vs Quantitative).
- Data Collection & Sampling Methods.
- Research Ethics & Plagiarism.
- Basic Computer Applications in Research (Excel/SPSS).
The syllabus for Part B is exactly the same as the Bankura University Post-Graduate (Master’s) Syllabus. Whether you are from English, Bengali, History, or Physics, you need to revise your MA/M.Sc notes thoroughly.
3. The Viva-Voce: The Final Hurdle
Whether you come through RET or NET, everyone meets at the Viva-Voce (Interview). This is the most critical part of the admission process.
The interview panel does not test your bookish knowledge (that was tested in RET/NET). Instead, they test your Research Potential.
📝 The “Research Proposal” (Synopsis) Requirement
All candidates must bring a Research Proposal (Synopsis) to the interview. This is a mandatory document. Your proposal should cover:
- Title: A clear, specific title of your proposed research.
- Introduction: Why did you choose this topic?
- Literature Review: What research has already been done on this?
- Objectives: What do you aim to find out?
- Methodology: How will you conduct the research?
Length: Keep it between 1000 to 1500 words.
How is the Final Merit List Prepared?
The final selection is based on a combined score. Bankura University follows the UGC formula for weightage:
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70% Weightage: Given to your Entrance Score (RET Marks) OR NET/SET Score.
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30% Weightage: Given to your Viva-Voce (Interview) performance.
This means even if you have a low score in NET/RET, a brilliant interview and a strong Research Proposal can still get you a seat!
📚 Subjects Offering PhD (Expected 2026)
Based on previous years’ vacancy trends, Bankura University is likely to accept research scholars in the following departments. (Exact seat count will be available in the official PDF).
Application Fees & Payment
The application form is accepted in Online Mode only. The expected fee structure for the 2026 session is as follows:
| Category | Fee Amount |
|---|---|
| General (UR) / OBC | ₹ 1,000/- |
| SC / ST / PWD | ₹ 500/- |
| Payment Mode | Credit Card / Debit Card / Net Banking |
How to Apply for Bankura University PhD 2026?
- Registration: Visit the official portal bankurauniv.ac.in and click on “PhD Admission 2026”. Register using your Email and Mobile No.
- Form Filling: Login and fill in your Personal Details, Master’s Marks, and NET/SET details (if applicable).
- Document Upload: Upload scanned copies of your Photo, Signature, Marksheets, and Caste Certificate (if any).
-
Fee Payment: Pay the application fee online.
⚠️ Note: Keep the Payment Receipt safe. It is required during the interview. - Final Print: Download and print the “Application Form”.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will I get a stipend/fellowship at Bankura University?
Yes. If you are JRF qualified, you will get the full UGC fellowship. If you are a Non-NET scholar, you can apply for the SVMCM (Swami Vivekananda) Scholarship (Kanyashree K3 for girls), which offers ₹5000-₹8000 per month.
Can school teachers apply for Part-Time PhD?
Yes, working professionals can pursue a Part-Time PhD. However, they must submit a “No Objection Certificate” (NOC) from their employer at the time of the interview.
Is the application fee refundable?
No, the application fee is non-refundable under any circumstances, even if your application is rejected due to ineligibility.
Don’t Miss the Notification PDF!
We will upload the official Subject-Wise Vacancy List on our Telegram Channel as soon as it is released.
Join Telegram Group ✈️Disclaimer: We are an informational portal helping students. We are not affiliated with Bankura University. Please check the official website for final verification.
Hi, I am Ashish Goswami, the Lead Editor at Saldiha College Info. I am an education enthusiast and content creator passionate about helping West Bengal students with the latest updates on Scholarships, University Results, and Exam Routines. My goal is to simplify official notices for everyone.

I want to pursue my dream of involving myself in PhD in English course in Bankura University.