TCS Research Scholar Program is one of the Best PhD funding schemes India 2025
Don’t look further if you are looking for one of the top PhD scholarships in India that offer generous stipends, international exposure, and industry mentorship? The TCS Research Scholar Program (RSP) stands out as one of the most elite private fellowships for doctoral students in computing, engineering, and information systems. This scholarship is backed by Tata Consultancy Services, that not only funds your research journey but also connects you with global innovation labs and academic leaders. Whether you’re exploring private research fellowships or aiming for high stipend PhD programs, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—from eligibility and benefits to the application process and selection criteria
- What is the TCS Research Scholar Program?
- Objectives of the Fellowship
- Eligibility Criteria & Financial Support
- How to Apply
- Selection Process
- Why TCS Research Scholar Program Matters
- FAQs
What is the TCS Research Scholar Program?
The TCS Research Scholar Program (RSP) is Tata Consultancy Services’ (TCS) signature initiative to attract and support PhD students engaged in world-class research in India. The scheme supports PhD students studying across computing, engineering, information systems and related fields, by providing financial backing and mentorship, funding for research expenses, and exposure to international research opportunities through sabbaticals. Some of the participating research centres include the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), NITK, among others.
Objectives of the Program
- Promote and foster innovative doctoral research in computer science, IT, software systems, and Engineering fields.
- Enhance the research ecosystem in leading Indian institutions through industry-academic collaboration.
- Facilitate scholars with the opportunity to experience an international exposure (abroad semester) and utilise conference participation.
Eligibility Criteria & Financial Support
Here are the verified rules and benefits for the 2025-26 cycle:
Eligibility
- Candidates must be full-time PhD students at a participating institution.
- Candidates must have completed at least two semesters and be a PhD student in Year 2 at the moment of the application.
- Maximum age limit: 28 years at the time of admission to the fellowship.
- Candidates should have a first-class record beginning from SSC.
Stipend & Benefits
- 1st year: ₹70,000/month
- 2nd year: ₹91,000/month
- 3rd and 4th years: ₹97,500/month
- In the 4th year, eligible candidates can do a 6-month semester abroad and receive an additional ₹90,000/month on top of their regular stipend (this stipend is applicable only abroad).
- Research contingency support of approx. ₹ 8.60 lakh over 4 years for travel, conferences, books, a laptop, etc.
How to Apply (Procedure)
1. Keep an Eye Out for Institutional Calls:
- Institutes involved, i.e., IISc, NITK, and others, sometimes referred to as “premier” universities, announce the TCS RSP call. The institutes announce the TCS RSP calls two times in a year (typically around January and July) based on the institution’s own timings.
2. Verify Your Eligibility
You are eligible to apply if you are:
- Enrolled as a full-time PhD scholar in a participating institution.
- Currently in your second year of a PhD (once you have completed a minimum of two semesters).
- Under 28 years of age at the time of admission.
- Consistently maintained a first-class record
4. Prepare the Application Documents
- An application will typically consist of the following:
- An application letter from the scholar
- A letter of recommendation/endorsement from the institute or department (typically signed by the Professor or Head of Department).
- A write-up describing the area of research (e.g., question/problem statement, scope, methodology)
- The CV of the scholar (e.g., education, grades, publications, other awards).
- The CV of the PhD supervisor/guide.
- Transcripts from college/university.
- In some cases, include a short video presentation (e.g., 2-5 minutes) describing the research plan.
4. Application Submission
- Applications are not submitted directly to TCS. Applications will be submitted by the candidate to their department or research office, which will submit shortlisted nominations to TCS.
- Evaluation:
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- Quality and originality of the research proposal and substantiated academic track record
- Interview or presentation performance. TCS may assign mentors from its R&I labs to provide support for the fellows as well.
- Annual Performance Review
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- Scholars will also be subject to an annual progress review. Continued funding will be based on satisfactory Annual Report and performance goals. Failure to progress or violations of guidelines could result in discontinuation.
Documents Required
- Application/offer form under the TCS RSP call of the institute.
- A letter of application by the scholar outlining research interests.
- Letter of recommendation/support from the institute.
- Research synopsis/write-up.
- Scholar’s CV.
- Supervisor’s CV.
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of age.
- 3-minute video presentation by the scholar to be uploaded on YouTube, and the link to be shared
Selection Process
- Institutions put forward candidates who fulfil the eligibility criteria.
- TCS (or its Innovation / Research & Innovation (R&I) laboratories) may shortlist candidates and arrange interviews.
- Evaluation based on: quality of proposals, academic history, potential, fit with computing/engineering research, and ability to produce research output.
Why TCS Research Scholar Program Matters
- Provides one of the highest stipends for doctoral candidates in India (> ₹90,000/month in later years).
- Facilitates international experience via the abroad semester.
- Significant research contingency support allows travel, conferences, and material costs.
- Provides mentorship connectivity with TCS R&I and serves to connect academic work to industry and vice versa.
FAQs
Q: Is someone in Year 3 eligible to apply?
Ans. No eligibility is only applicable for scholars in Year 2 of their PhD program (post-2 semesters).
Q: Is the age limit for reserved categories relaxed?z
Ans. According to reliable sources, the age limit of 28 applies at the time of admission; the latest calls don’t confirm reservations or provide relaxations.
Q: Can I hold another fellowship at the same time?
Ans. No – previous TCS RSP guidelines say that scholars can’t hold any other named external fellowship while in the TCS RSP.
Q: Are there IP obligations for the fellowship?
Ans. Institutes must inform TCS if any patents are filed under the work done in the program; TCS obtains licensing rights subject to the terms agreed upon.
Conclusion
The TCS Research Scholar Program isn’t just another scholarship—it’s a launchpad for ambitious PhD students seeking to make a mark in cutting-edge research. With monthly stipends exceeding ₹90,000, international semester opportunities, and robust mentorship from TCS R&I labs, this private fellowship rivals even the most competitive government scholarships in India. So don’t miss out and apply smart, prepare thoroughly, and take the next step toward becoming a future leader in science and technology.
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