Vellore Institute of Technology has begun accepting applications for its PhD and PhD in Deep Technology programmes

Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) has launched the application process for its PhD, Direct PhD, and PhD in Deep Technology programs for the January 2026 session. Admission is through the mandatory VITREE 2026 entrance exam, scheduled for December 7, 2025. The strict online application deadline is November 20, 2025, with a fee of ₹1200. Aspiring researchers are urged to apply immediately, ensuring meticulous accuracy as no correction facility is provided. Explore the differentiated eligibility criteria and exam patterns for each program.

For engineering aspirants and post-graduates determined to carve a niche in cutting-edge research, the Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) has opened the highly anticipated admission window for its PhD programs for the January 2026 session. This intake includes the standard PhD, the accelerated Direct PhD (for exceptional B.Tech/B.E. graduates), and the specialized PhD in Deep Technology programs, solidifying VIT's commitment to advanced, future-ready research.

​Admission to these prestigious doctoral programs across all four VIT campuses (Vellore, Chennai, AP, and Bhopal) is routed through the VIT Research Entrance Examination (VITREE) 2026. The application process commenced recently, but with a critical closing date looming. Interested candidates must submit their online applications by the strict deadline of November 20, 2025. The application fee is ₹1200. Given that VIT enforces a strict 'no correction' policy post-submission, candidates are strongly advised to meticulously verify all details, particularly academic scores and personal information, before the final submission. This opportunity is essential for those seeking a globally recognized research fellowship with a strong focus on indexed publications.

​ VITREE 2026: Critical Dates and Application Essentials

​The January 2026 admission cycle is compact and fast-paced, demanding prompt action from candidates. Missing the application deadline will disqualify a candidate from appearing in the highly competitive VITREE.

• ​Key Dates for the January 2026 Session:
  • ​Issue of Online Application: August 27, 2025 (Ongoing)
  • ​Last Date for Online Application Submission: November 20, 2025
  • ​Application Fee: ₹1200 (Non-refundable)
  • ​VITREE 2026 Exam Date (CBT):December 7, 2025 (Sunday)
  • ​Personal Interview (Hybrid Mode): December 13 or 14, 2025 (Tentative)
  • ​Declaration of Results: December 20, 2025 (Tentative)
• ​Eligibility and Program Differentiation:
  • ​PhD: Minimum 60% marks or a CGPA of 6.5 on a 10-point scale in the relevant Master's degree (M.E./M.Tech./M.Sc./M.Phil./M.A., etc.).
  • ​Direct PhD: For exceptional B.E./B.Tech. graduates. Requires a minimum of 75% marks or a CGPA of 7.5 on a 10-point scale in the relevant undergraduate degree. This pathway fast-tracks research entry.
  • ​PhD in Deep Technology: Minimum of 75% marks or a CGPA of 8.0 on a 10-point scale in the relevant Master's degree. This program is tailored for advanced research in frontier technologies like AI, Blockchain, and Quantum Computing.
• ​Application Advisory: The entire process, including fee payment, must be completed online via the official VIT admissions portal. Ensure all scanned documents—including degree certificates and photographs—meet the specified format and size requirements before starting the registration.

​ Unpacking the VITREE 2026 Exam Structure

​The VITREE is a two-hour, online Computer-Based Test (CBT) consisting entirely of 100 Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs), carrying a total of 100 marks. Notably, the test maintains a candidate-friendly policy: one mark is awarded for each correct answer, and there is absolutely no negative marking. However, the structure is differentiated based on the program applied for.

• ​Exam Pattern for PhD and PhD (Deep Technology): 
  • ​Total Questions: 100 MCQs (100 Marks)
  • ​Technical Section: 70 Questions (Focus on the candidate's core Engineering/Science discipline).
  • ​English Communication Skills: 15 Questions.
  • ​Statistics and Probability: 15 Questions (Assessing quantitative aptitude essential for research).
• ​Exam Pattern for Direct PhD: 
  • ​Total Questions: 100 MCQs (100 Marks)
  • ​Technical Section: 80 Questions (Higher focus on core B.E./B.Tech. concepts).
  • ​English Communication Skills: 20 Questions.
  • ​Note: The Direct PhD paper does not include the Statistics and Probability section, placing greater emphasis on foundational engineering knowledge.
• ​Selection Process Beyond VITREE:
  • ​Candidates must score above zero in VITREE to be considered eligible.
  • ​Shortlisting is based on a combined evaluation of the VITREE score, qualifying degree marks, and a mandatory research proposal.
  • ​Final selection is determined by performance in the Personal Interview (PI), which is typically conducted in a hybrid (online/offline) mode.

​ Funding and Future: Scholarship and Fee Details

​Pursuing a PhD at a premier institution like VIT is a significant investment in one's career, and understanding the financial aspects is crucial for planning.

• ​Annual Tuition Fees (Per Annum):
  • ​PhD Internal Full-Time / Direct PhD / PhD (Deep Technology): ₹40,000
  • ​PhD External Part-Time (Teachers): ₹60,000
  • ​PhD External Part-Time (Industry): ₹75,000
  • ​Note: A refundable caution deposit of ₹3,000 is typically required, and a Thesis Fee is paid only at the time of submission.
• ​Research Fellowships and Financial Support:
  • ​VIT offers competitive internal fellowships, often reaching up to ₹50,000 per month for eligible full-time PhD scholars, subject to performance and scheme. This fellowship is a major incentive for bright engineering graduates to choose a research career.
  • ​The institution strongly supports indexed publications and research projects, which can provide additional financial benefits and career acceleration.
  • ​Candidates with national fellowships (e.g., UGC-JRF, CSIR-NET, DST-INSPIRE) are also encouraged to apply, as they are often exempted from the VITREE and receive substantial financial aid.

​Conclusion

​The opening of the VITREE 2026 application window marks a golden opportunity for research enthusiasts to join one of India’s leading technology universities for the January session. The specialized programs, coupled with a transparent, non-negative marking entrance test and significant financial aid opportunities, make VIT an attractive destination for advanced engineering and technology research. Aspirants must prioritize the November 20, 2025, deadline and ensure their applications are impeccable, as this single step is the gateway to a rewarding research career.

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