Crack IIT Bombay’s PhD Admissions with This Step-by-Step Guide
Are you dreaming of a PhD in Management from IIT Bombay? Confused about eligibility, proposal writing, or the application process? This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything—from deadlines to writing a winning research proposal.
Official Link: IIT Bombay PhD in Management – Official Website

When Can You Apply for IIT Bombay’s PhD in Management?
The Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management (SJMSOM) at IIT Bombay opens PhD applications twice a year:
January Intake: Applications open in October – November
July Intake: Applications open in March – April
Pro Tip: Set Google Calendar reminders for these windows and begin preparing your documents early!
Bonus: Apply to 3 different departments with a single application fee.

PhD Research Areas at IIT Bombay
Before applying, ensure your interests align with IIT Bombay’s key PhD domains:
- Finance & Accounting
- Marketing & Consumer Behavior
- Operations & Supply Chain Management
- Entrepreneurship & Business Strategy
- Technology & Innovation Management
- Strategic Management & Competitiveness
- Interdisciplinary Research Areas
Insider Tip: Research faculty profiles and align your proposal with ongoing work in your chosen area.

Who is Eligible for the IIT Bombay PhD in Management?
You are eligible if you meet any one of the following:
Master’s Degree (MBA, M.Tech, M.Sc, MA) with 60% marks (55% for SC/ST)
Four-year Bachelor’s Degree + 2 years of work experience + 60% marks
CA/CS + Bachelor’s Degree with 60% marks
Foreign Students: 60% + valid TOEFL score
Scholarship Note: A valid GATE, CAT, GMAT, or GRE score is required to qualify for financial support.
Related Post: PhD vs MBA – Which One Should You Choose?
Your Research Proposal – The Most Critical Component
Unlike many institutes, IIT Bombay does not ask for a generic SOP. Instead, you must submit a 1000–1500-word research proposal.
What to Include:
- Problem Definition – What gap does your research address?
- Review of Literature – Showcase understanding of the domain.
- Proposed Methodology – Clear plan of action for your study.
- Pro Tip: A crisp, focused proposal increases your chances significantly!
Related Read: How to Write a PhD Research Proposal That Gets Noticed
Also Read: 9 Common SOP Mistakes to Avoid for PhD Admissions

IIT Bombay PhD Admission Process
IIT Bombay follows a rigorous 3-step selection process:
Online Application + Research Proposal Submission
Aptitude Test – Focused on:
- English Comprehension
- Quantitative Aptitude
- Analytical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
Personal Interview with domain-specific faculty
Note: Aptitude test & interview are conducted on the same day. Prepare well!
Can Working Professionals Apply? Yes!
IIT Bombay offers a part-time PhD for:
- Industry Professionals
- Entrepreneurs & Executives
- Faculty Members
Note: On-campus coursework is mandatory during the first year.
Financial Support & Scholarships
IIT Bombay offers Teaching Assistantships (TAs) under MoE/UGC:
- ₹37,000/month for the first 2 years
- ₹42,000/month for the next 3 years
Eligibility:
- Valid GATE, CAT, GMAT, or GRE score
- Willingness to assist in research/teaching duties
Explore: Postdoctoral Fellowship Opportunities at IIT Bombay (Insert actual link to your postdoc blog/video)
Quick Recap – Perfect for Your Notes or a Reel!
Want to get into IIT Bombay’s PhD in Management? Here’s what matters:
- Applications open twice a year: Oct–Nov & Mar–Apr
- Eligibility: Master’s / 4-Year Bachelor’s + 2 Yrs Work / CA-CS
- Must submit a 1000–1500 word research proposal
- Selection: Aptitude Test + Interview
- Fellowship: ₹37K–₹42K per month

Need Expert Guidance? We’re Here to Help!
At Zenith PhD Training & Consultancy, we specialize in helping PhD aspirants:
- Write Research Proposals that get shortlisted
- Prepare for Aptitude Tests & PhD Interviews
- Select the Right Research Topic & Institute
- Build a Strong, Competitive Application
Ready to begin your PhD journey?
Book a 1-on-1 Mentoring Session
Download Our Brochure for PhD Mentorship
Final Thoughts
A PhD from IIT Bombay is not just a degree—it’s a doorway to impactful research, academic leadership, and innovation. Start early, be strategic, and if needed, reach out for expert guidance. Your research journey deserves to begin with clarity and confidence.
Want to know about the phd program om other IITs & IIM read our other blogs – IIT Delhi , IIT Madras & IIM Bangalore
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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.