University of Mumbai
Ph.D. Regulations 2026
(w.e.f. 1st January 2026)
A comprehensive, scholar-centric framework designed to nurture original research, uphold the highest ethical standards, and produce independent thinkers who contribute meaningfully to the advancement of knowledge.
🌟 Preamble & Vision
The Ph.D. is the University’s highest academic honour — awarded only for rigorous, original research that demonstrates depth, creativity, and ethical integrity. These regulations emphasise time-bound progress, robust mentoring, continuous monitoring, and uncompromising academic honesty. The journey transforms a student into a competent, ethical researcher ready to join the global community of scholars.
📋 Key Highlights at a Glance
| Aspect | Requirement | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Duration | 3 years (including course work) | From date of admission |
| Maximum Duration | 6 years (extendable) | +2 years (total 8); women & PwD get further relaxation (total 10) |
| Course Work | Minimum 12 credits (180 hours) | Research Methodology mandatory (≥4 credits) |
| Publications | At least 1 Scopus/Web of Science/ABDC paper + 2 presentations/patent | Joint authorship with supervisor mandatory |
| Monitoring | 6-monthly RAC presentations | Progress reports compulsory |
1. Eligibility for Admission (R.PhD.2)
Candidates must meet one of the following:
- Master’s degree (1-year/2-semester after 4-year UG or 2-year after 3-year UG) → 55% (50% for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD)
- 4-year Bachelor’s (Honours with Research) → 75% (70% for reserved categories)
- Equivalent foreign qualification or M.Phil. (as per UGC norms)
- Special provisions for Commerce & Management (M.Com/MMS/MBA or CA/CS/ICWA)
- Dual degrees not permitted simultaneously with Ph.D.
Distance-mode qualifying degrees are accepted if recognised.
2. Admission Process (R.PhD.4–R.PhD.9)
- Entrance: PET (where NET/SET/GATE not conducted) OR exemption for NET/JRF, GATE, M.Phil., INSPIRE, etc.
- Interview: Conducted at recognised Research Centres (max twice per academic year)
- Reservation: Strictly followed (subject- & guide-specific)
- Supervisor Allocation: Based on specialisation, vacancy, scholar’s interest, and reservation policy
- Max scholars per supervisor: Professor (8), Associate Prof. (6), Assistant Prof. (4)
3. Research Journey Milestones
Step 1: Research Advisory Committee (RAC)
Formed within 3 months of admission
- Chairperson: Head of Centre
- Members: Supervisor + Co-Supervisor (if any) + 1 external expert
- Responsibilities: Guide proposal, monitor progress, conduct mid-term assessment after 2 years
Step 2: Course Work
- 12 credits (Research Methodology + domain-specific advanced courses)
- Minimum 55% required
- Exemption possible only for M.Phil. or second Ph.D. in same subject
Step 3: Research Proposal Approval
- Submitted within 1 year of admission
- Scrutinised by Research & Recognition Committee (RRC)
- Minor/major modifications allowed with clear timelines
Step 4: Registration
Effective from payment of registration fee (after RRC approval)
Step 5: Regular Progress
- 6-monthly presentations before RAC
- Satisfactory progress mandatory for annual continuation
Step 6: Pre-Synopsis & Publications
- At least 1 quality research paper + 2 presentations/patent
- Joint authorship with supervisor compulsory
Step 7: Thesis Submission
- Minimum 2 months after synopsis
- Plagiarism check certificate mandatory
- Language: English (or permitted Indian/classical language with English summary)
4. Evaluation & Award (R.PhD.20–R.PhD.25)
- Two External Referees (at least one from outside Maharashtra) + Internal (Supervisor)
- Thesis evaluated → Viva-Voce (Open Defence)
- Viva conducted online (external referee & chairperson join virtually)
- Only after both external referees recommend the thesis
Possible Outcomes:
- Accepted outright
- Major modifications → resubmission to same referee
- Rejected → one-time resubmission allowed within 12 months
Final Award
- Degree conferred after successful Open Defence and University approval
- Thesis deposited with INFLIBNET (Shodhganga)
5. Ethics, Integrity & Conduct
- Strict adherence to UGC Plagiarism Regulations 2018
- Code of Conduct for Research applies
- Immediate family members cannot be supervised by the same supervisor
- Research data & records are University property
Special Provisions
- Women & PwD (≥40% disability): Extra 2-year relaxation + 240 days maternity/child-care leave
- Relocation of female scholars due to marriage allowed (data transfer permitted)
- Posthumous Ph.D. possible
- Co-Supervisor from outside permitted for interdisciplinary work
These regulations reflect the University’s commitment to quality over quantity, ethics above all, and timely completion of world-class research.
The Ph.D. journey at the University of Mumbai is not merely an academic exercise — it is a transformative quest for truth, innovation, and scholarly excellence.
“Understand the Universe” — the spirit that guides every scholar under these regulations.
Prepared as a ready reference for prospective scholars, supervisors, and research centres. All the best on your research odyssey! 🚀
By University of Mumbai
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