Dive in details of IIM FPM 2025 – This is a full-time, residential PhD program at IIM Ahmedabad – Eligibility,. Application Process
The IIM Ahmedabad Fellow Program in Management (FPM) which is officially known as Ph.D. Programme in Management at IIM Ahmedabad, is the institute’s premier doctoral course for people interested in careers in research, academia, and advanced level consulting work. This is a full-time, residential program over 4 to 5 years, which incorporates rigorous coursework and comprehensive evaluations and original dissertation work with one of the eminent faculty at IIMA. The FPM program has been granted equivalence with the Ph.D. degree of Indian universities. Scholars undertake in-depth research throughout the program in the areas of management theory, management policy, economics, and applied.
- Objectives of IIM Ahmedabad Fellow Program in Management
- Eligibility Criteria
- Benefits, and Financial Support
- How to Apply
- Documents Required
- Selection Process
- Importance of the FPM at IIM Ahmedabad
- FAQs
Objectives of the FPM
IIMA’s Ph.D. programme is developed with a set of specific aims in mind. The following is the rationale for the fellowship:
- To educate future scholars, faculty and research leaders in management, consulting, and policymaking.
- To succeed in developing a strong basis in management theory, analytical methods, and interdisciplinary areas.
- To encourage independent, innovative research which can address major managerial, economic and social challenges.
- To build a talent bank of evidence-based thinkers who can bridge academia and industry.
- To continue to create research that has an impact in India and globally.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for admission to the 2025–26 cycle, applicants must meet one of the following criteria:
- A Master’s Degree or a two-year Post Graduate Diploma (after a Bachelor’s degree) with at least 55% marks (or equivalent).
- A five-year integrated Master’s degree (after 10+2) with at least 55%.
- Professional qualifications such as CA, CS, or CMA, as long as a bachelor’s degree is also acquired with at least 55%.
- A four year / eight semester Bachelor’s degree with at least 65% marks or equivalent CGPA.
Relaxation: Candidates for SC, ST, PwD, EWS, NC-OBC are eligible for a 5% marks relaxation. Furthermore, final year students may apply provisionally if they provide proof of qualification prior to joining.
Benefits & Financial Support
IIM Ahmedabad offers competitive financial support packages for Ph.D. scholars thereby allowing them to focus on research without financial burdens.
Stipend (monthly):
- ₹42,000 for Years 1 & 2
- ₹45,000 after clearing Comprehensive Examinations
- ₹50,000 after successfully submitting the Thesis Proposal
- Contingency Grant: ₹35,000 per annum as a research grant (for 5 years)
- Conference / Presentation Grant: Up to ₹4,00,000 to attend domestic / International conferences
- Fieldwork / Data Collection Support: Up to ₹2,00,000
- Start-Up Grant: ₹1,00,000 to buy computing equipment or academic resources
- Accommodation / HRA: Housing available on campus or HRA (₹15,000/month for singles, ₹20,000/month for those with family) for non-residential phases
- Total fee waiver which includes tuition fee, study material, lodging during the program
How to Apply for the FPM (Ph.D.)
The 2025-26 application cycle will be conducted completely online via the IIMA PhD admissions portal.
Steps to Apply
- To register and submit an online application, please go to the IIMA PhD admissions page.
- Register and fill out the online form.
- Select a maximum of two specializations.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the application fee of ₹500 (for general) and ₹250 (for SC, ST, PwD, EWS, and NC-OBC).
- Submit on or before the deadline (for 2025, deadline extended to January 31, 5:00 pm IST)
Important Dates
- Opening: early (varies)
- Close for application: January 31, 2025 (deadline extended)
- Interviews: March-April 2026 (tentative)
Documents Required
You must submit the following items as part of your application:
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or equivalent)
- Valid test scores (CAT / GRE / GMAT / GATE / UGC-NET JRF)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Current CV / Resume
- Research proposal (if applicable)
- Picture ID (Aadhaar / Passport)
- A recent passport size photograph
- Category certificate (if applicable)
Selection Process
The process for gaining admission to the FPM is highly competitive and consists of multiple stages:
- Test Score – As per specialization requirements, valid scores of CAT, GRE, GMAT, GATE or UGC-NET JRF should be submitted with the application.
- Shortlisting – Shortlisting is based on academic record, test scores, advantage of statement of purpose and indication of research potential.
- Interview / Viva – Shortlisted applicants are interviewed (in person or audio-visual) in March–April.
- Final Decision – Based on interview performance, alignment of research topic and academic record.
Importance of the FPM at IIM Ahmedabad
The Fellow Program in Management (FPM) is one of the leading doctoral programs in management in India. Its objective is to train scholars who will push frontiers in research, teaching, and policy-making. The FPM attracts and supports scholars through a combination of financial support, constructive and rigorous academic exposure, and international relevance. As an outcome, FPM graduates are accepted into faculty positions in leading business schools and think-tanks in India and internationally. The program exemplifies IIMA’s growth as a hub of management research and innovation.
FAQs
Q: What is the duration of the program?
Ans: Typically 4 to 5 years, depending on progress.
Q: Is FPM equivalent to a Ph.D.?
Ans: Yes, it carries equivalence to a UGC-recognized Ph.D.
Q: Can working professionals apply for this program?
Ans: They can, but must commit to full-time residential study.
Q: Is there an upper age limit?
Ans: No, IIMA does not specify a maximum age.
Q: Can you choose more than one specialization?
Ans: Yes, up to two specializations allowed.
Conclusion
IIM Ahmedabad’s Fellow Program in Management (Ph.D.) continues to be a great source of research-oriented intellectual capital. By providing world-class mentoring, extensive financial support, and exposure to real-world challenges, it develops enthusiastic scholars into educators, policymakers, and management consultants. If you are someone who wants to contribute to high-quality research in contemporary organizations, this is one of the best programs in India.
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