Have you ever wanted to pursue research but felt that committing to a five-year PhD is too long? The MS by Research at IIT Delhi is the perfect middle ground. It gives you the opportunity to experience research at a world-class institute, without the extended duration of a PhD.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about MS by Research at IIT Delhi, including eligibility, subjects, fees, fellowships, career scope, and admission timelines.
What is MS by Research?
MS by Research is a Master’s program that focuses primarily on research work instead of heavy coursework. Unlike M.Tech, which emphasizes classroom learning, MS Research allows you to:
- Work on real-world research problems.
- Gain flexibility to either join industry or pursue a PhD later.
- Test your research aptitude without committing to a full five-year PhD.
In short, MS by Research sits between M.Tech and PhD—ideal for those curious about research but unsure about a long-term doctoral commitment.
Why Choose MS by Research at IIT Delhi?
While MS by Research is offered worldwide and by most IITs, IIT Delhi is one of the most sought-after institutes due to:
- Global reputation and academic excellence.
- Flexibility to switch from MS by Research to PhD.
- Strong industry and academic collaborations.
Both Full-time and Part-time modes, catering to fresh graduates and working professionals.
MS by Research Subjects Offered at IIT Delhi (2025–26)
IIT Delhi offers MS by Research in 19 different subjects across engineering, sciences, and interdisciplinary areas.
- Applied Mechanics
- Biochemical Engineering & Biotechnology
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science and Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Energy Science and Engineering
- Materials Science and Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Technology
- Telecommunication Technology and Management
- Biological Sciences
- Healthcare Technology
- Automotive Research and Tribology
- Atmospheric and Oceanic Sciences
- Machine Intelligence & Data Science
- VLSI Design Tools & Technology
- Sensors, Instrumentation and Cyber-physical Systems Engineering
- Transportation Safety and Injury Prevention
Eligibility for MS by Research at IIT Delhi
The eligibility criteria for MS by Research IIT Delhi are as follows:
Academic Qualification: B.E., B.Tech., M.Sc., or equivalent with minimum 60% marks or 6.0 CGPA. (5% relaxation for SC/ST/PwD candidates).
Full-Time Mode:
- Requires a valid GATE score.
- GATE is waived for CFTI graduates with 80%+ marks.
Part-Time Mode:
- GATE is not required.
- Work experience is mandatory:
- CFTI graduates – 6 months.
- Others – 1 year.
- Must work within 50 km of IIT Delhi.
- Classes are held in the morning (8–10 AM).
- Need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from employer.
Fellowship & Financial Support for MS by Research IIT Delhi
Full-time MS Research students at IIT Delhi receive a Teaching Assistantship (Fellowship) if they qualify through GATE or CEED.
- Fellowship Amount: ₹12,400 per month.
- Work Requirement: About 8 hours/week assisting the department.
This financial support makes the program highly attractive for students interested in research.
MS by Research Duration at IIT Delhi
- Full-time: 2 years (4 semesters).
- Part-time: 3 years (6 semesters).
Admission Timeline for MS by Research at IIT Delhi
Admissions at IIT Delhi happen twice a year:
- March intake → Tests & interviews in May.
- October intake → Selection process in December.
This dual admission cycle gives candidates more flexibility to apply.
MS by Research IIT Delhi Fees Structure (2025–26)
Full-time:
- General/OBC/EWS: ~₹39,900
- SC/ST/PwD: ~₹22,400
Part-time:
- General/OBC/EWS: ~₹95,150
- SC/ST/PwD: ~₹20,150
Flexibility of Transition: MS by Research to PhD
One of the biggest advantages of MS by Research at IIT Delhi is the option to smoothly transition to a PhD program.
This saves valuable time if you decide to continue your research journey further.
Career Scope After MS by Research from IIT Delhi
An MS by Research degree from IIT Delhi opens multiple doors:
- PhD Opportunities in India and abroad.
- Industry Roles in R&D, data science, AI/ML, automotive, VLSI, healthcare, and more.
- Teaching & Academic Careers.
Startups & Innovation (leveraging IIT Delhi’s entrepreneurial ecosystem).
Conclusion – Is MS by Research at IIT Delhi Right for You?
If you are passionate about research but not ready to commit to a long PhD, then MS by Research at IIT Delhi is the perfect stepping stone. It combines:
- Hands-on research exposure.
- Credibility of an IIT degree.
- Flexibility to choose industry or PhD.
- Financial support & fellowships for eligible candidates.
Whether you want to work in industry or pursue a PhD, this program gives you the skills and exposure to excel in both.
So, if research excites you, MS by Research IIT Delhi (2025 admissions) could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for.
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By Dr. Ritika Gauba– PhD Mentor & Advisor
CEO & Founder ZPTC
Dr. Ritika Gauba
Dr. Ritika Gauba the Founder & CEO of Zenith Ph.D. Training & Consultancy is a Ph.D. Coach, Mentor & Guide. She has an in-depth knowledge of all the Ph.D. rules by UGC and the New Education Policy. She has done an unfathomable study of the Ph.D. regulations of more than 1000 Indian and international universities, including institutions of national importance like IIMs, IITs, IIITs, IVY League colleges & so on, making her a specialist in the area.