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IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme

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The N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) at the Indian Institute of Management Bangalore (IIMB) stands as a pioneering initiative in the Indian academic landscape. Launched in 2018, this full-time, one-year apprenticeship program is designed to prepare talented individuals—especially from underrepresented communities—for admission to prestigious doctoral programs in management and allied disciplines.


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IIM NSR Pre-doc Programme

Introduction to the IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme

As one of India’s top-ranked institutions, IIM Bangalore has consistently promoted inclusive excellence and the development of thought leaders in management education. The NSR Pre-doc programme furthers this mission by offering aspiring scholars a structured, immersive environment to explore their academic interests, sharpen their research acumen, and successfully apply to globally competitive PhD programs.


Named after Professor N.S. Ramaswamy, a visionary and founding director of IIM Bangalore, the fellowship is rooted in values of integrity, scholarship, and social inclusivity. It is uniquely positioned to address the significant gaps in access and representation in Indian academia, particularly in management studies. By focusing on inclusion and academic rigour, the program plays a transformative role in shaping future educators and researchers.


One of the defining features of the NSR Pre-doc is its highly personalized academic mentoring. Each fellow is paired with a full-time faculty mentor from IIMB, ensuring that participants receive close guidance tailored to their area of interest. In addition to academic development, fellows also gain exposure to IIMB’s vibrant intellectual community and state-of-the-art research infrastructure.


Beyond academic preparation, the program offers 100% financial support, making it accessible to meritorious candidates regardless of their socio-economic background. Fellows live and study on IIMB’s architecturally acclaimed campus, gaining a firsthand experience of life in a premier academic institution.


Since its inception, the NSR Pre-doc has supported diverse cohorts of students, each bringing unique experiences and aspirations. The success of its alumni—many of whom go on to secure admissions in reputed doctoral programs globally—speaks volumes about the quality and impact of the fellowship.


For anyone with a passion for research, a commitment to academic excellence, and the aspiration to contribute to management knowledge, the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship at IIM Bangalore offers an invaluable launchpad. It is more than just a preparatory program—it is a gateway to a meaningful academic career.


Mission and Objectives of the Fellowship

At the heart of the N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) lies a mission grounded in inclusion, access, and academic excellence. The fellowship was conceived with the clear intent to diversify the pipeline of future faculty in Indian management academia. By addressing underrepresentation and promoting merit-based inclusion, the program plays a catalytic role in reshaping the academic landscape of the country.


Increasing Social Diversity in Academia

One of the core objectives of the NSR Pre-doc is to increase the social diversity of doctoral students in management. Historically, access to premier doctoral programs has been skewed in favor of individuals with specific socio-economic and educational privileges. The NSR Pre-doc is IIM Bangalore’s response to this imbalance — providing a structured platform for students from marginalized and underrepresented communities to prepare for and gain admission into top-tier PhD programs.

The fellowship encourages applications from those who may not have access to traditional research mentorship or preparation. By offering them a guided academic environment and one-on-one faculty mentoring, it helps level the playing field.


Bridging the Gap to Doctoral Study

The NSR Pre-doc is not merely a training program; it serves as a stepping stone to prestigious PhD admissions. The program is designed specifically to help participants:

  • Identify and refine their research interests

  • Develop a viable doctoral research proposal

  • Understand research methodologies and academic writing

  • Build a foundation in quantitative and qualitative research tools

  • Engage in graduate-level coursework and interact with IIMB’s PhD community

The goal is to ensure that fellows are not only eligible for doctoral admissions but also stand out as highly competitive applicants.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Academic and Professional Development

The fellowship fosters holistic development. While the primary emphasis is on academic preparedness, the program also builds soft skills such as critical thinking, communication, and self-directed learning — all essential for success in doctoral studies.

By the end of the program, fellows have typically achieved the following:

  • Clarity of academic focus and research alignment

  • Experience of independent and collaborative research work

  • Proficiency in academic writing and articulation

  • Familiarity with academic life and its demands


Institutional Commitment to Impact

The NSR Pre-doc represents IIM Bangalore’s deep institutional commitment to shaping a more inclusive and representative academic ecosystem. It recognizes that intellectual potential exists across social and economic strata and that inclusive initiatives are essential to harnessing this potential.

Through this program, IIMB does not just prepare scholars — it creates future educators, researchers, and leaders who carry forward the values of access, equity, and academic excellence.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Key Features and Benefits

The N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) at IIM Bangalore stands out for its robust academic structure, individualized mentorship, and unwavering commitment to inclusion. Designed to fully prepare candidates for the rigors of doctoral study, the fellowship delivers an enriching experience that bridges academic potential with institutional excellence.


1. Full-time One-Year Fellowship

The NSR Pre-doc is a full-time residential program conducted over one academic year. Fellows commit to a rigorous schedule, mirroring the demands of a doctoral program. This immersive structure ensures they build the habits and mindset necessary for academic research and teaching careers.


2. Faculty Mentorship

Each fellow is assigned a dedicated faculty mentor from IIM Bangalore’s full-time faculty. This mentor guides the fellow’s research journey, recommends appropriate courses, supervises assignments, and provides critical feedback on the development of research proposals and academic papers. This one-on-one mentorship is a hallmark of the program, ensuring highly personalized academic development.


3. Financial Support

A distinctive benefit of the NSR Pre-doc is that it offers 100% financial support. Fellows receive funding that covers tuition, accommodation, and basic living expenses. This makes the program accessible to students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, aligning with its mission of inclusivity.


4. Research Skill Development

The program systematically builds core research skills through:

  • Coursework in doctoral or MBA-level subjects (at least two three-credit courses)

  • Math Clinics (1.5 hours/week) to reinforce quantitative foundations

  • Academic Writing Workshops (1.5 hours/week) to develop scholarly writing and critical thinking

  • Research Methodology Exposure for both qualitative and quantitative analysis

  • Guided Proposal Development that helps fellows draft PhD-level research proposals

These components prepare fellows to apply to top-tier doctoral programs with a competitive edge.


5. Doctoral Preparation Curriculum

The NSR Pre-doc is essentially a PhD preparatory program. Fellows explore their chosen discipline in depth, engage with the research work of IIMB’s doctoral students, and familiarize themselves with the expectations of international PhD programs. This exposure is critical to their success in admissions and interviews.


6. Networking and Peer Engagement

Fellows interact closely with:

  • Current IIMB PhD scholars

  • Visiting researchers

  • Fellow pre-doctoral candidates

These interactions foster academic dialogue, idea exchange, and collaborative learning — replicating the environment of a doctoral cohort.


7. Campus Experience

Fellows reside and study on IIM Bangalore’s Pritzker Prize-winning campus, enjoying access to the institute’s world-class library, computing resources, and research centers. They become part of a vibrant intellectual ecosystem that inspires scholarly excellence.


Summary of Benefits:

  • Personalized academic mentorship

  • Full financial support

  • Hands-on research and proposal development

  • Coursework in chosen specialization

  • Development of writing and analytical skills

  • Access to IIMB’s intellectual and physical infrastructure

The NSR Pre-doc is not just a program — it is a transformational academic experience that prepares socially motivated and intellectually curious individuals for high-impact doctoral journeys.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Academic Structure and Learning Components

The N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) at IIM Bangalore is purpose-built to simulate the intellectual rigor of a doctoral program. The academic structure is thoughtfully designed to equip fellows with a foundational grasp of research methodologies, discipline-specific knowledge, and the analytical competencies needed for successful doctoral studies in management and allied fields.


Structured to Build Research Competence

The NSR Pre-doc follows a carefully curated academic progression over one year, ensuring that each fellow acquires:

  • Disciplinary depth in their chosen area

  • Research readiness through coursework and applied projects

  • Exposure to PhD-level academic life through interaction with scholars and faculty

Fellows are expected to work under close academic supervision and maintain a rigorous schedule — a direct simulation of the workload in top doctoral programs.


Core Academic Requirements

  1. Mentor-Guided Research Direction

    • Each fellow is assigned a faculty mentor who plays a pivotal role in academic planning.

    • The mentor helps define the fellow’s area of interest, guides literature review, and supervises early research formulation.

  2. Coursework

    • Fellows are required to complete at least two doctoral or MBA-level courses, each worth three credits.

    • Courses are selected based on the fellow’s area of interest and must be approved by their mentor.

    • These courses are designed to deepen domain knowledge and build familiarity with advanced theoretical frameworks.

  3. Math Clinic

    • Conducted weekly for 1.5 hours, this clinic focuses on enhancing quantitative and analytical skills.

    • It includes topics such as statistics, probability, optimization, and algebra — key tools for empirical research.

  4. Writing Workshop

    • Also held for 1.5 hours weekly, the writing clinic emphasizes:

      • Academic writing norms

      • Argument construction

      • Clarity and structure in research proposals

      • Grammar and citation practices

  5. Weekly Workload

    • Fellows must commit to at least 40 hours per week, combining coursework, mentorship meetings, research exercises, and workshops.

    • This ensures a full-time, immersive experience aligned with international doctoral standards.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Research Exposure and Deliverables

Throughout the year, fellows are involved in several key activities:

  • Developing a Research Proposal: With faculty guidance, fellows conceptualize and draft a doctoral-level research proposal.

  • Participation in Academic Events: Fellows are encouraged to attend seminars, lectures, and doctoral colloquia to broaden their exposure.

  • Collaborative Projects: Opportunities exist for fellows to assist mentors or doctoral students in ongoing research projects, providing hands-on experience.


Flexibility and Accountability

Although the program is structured, there is room for flexibility based on individual needs. In some cases, the math or writing workshops may be waived, but only upon the recommendation of the faculty mentor and approval of the Pre-doctoral Faculty Committee.


Institutional Support

Fellows also benefit from:

  • Access to IIMB’s library and digital databases

  • Research support through software and tools

  • Opportunities for feedback and review by senior faculty members



The NSR Pre-doc’s academic design is a fine balance between structure and mentorship. It ensures that every fellow not only understands what a doctoral journey entails but also experiences its pace, expectations, and intellectual challenges—making them exceptionally well-prepared candidates for future PhD programs.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Areas of Specialization

One of the key strengths of the N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) is its comprehensive coverage of academic disciplines within management and related fields. The fellowship enables candidates to focus on a specific area of research, thereby building subject-matter expertise aligned with their future doctoral aspirations.


Disciplinary Breadth at IIM Bangalore

For the 2025–26 academic cycle, the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship at IIMB is open to candidates interested in the following ten major disciplinary areas:

  1. Decision Sciences

    • Focuses on optimization, operations research, machine learning, and decision-making frameworks.

    • Ideal for candidates interested in data-driven managerial research.

  2. Economics

    • Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics.

    • Suitable for those interested in policy research, behavioral economics, and financial systems.

  3. Entrepreneurship

    • Emphasizes innovation, startup ecosystems, venture funding, and new venture creation.

    • A strong fit for individuals with entrepreneurial experience or research interests in SME development and innovation management.

  4. Finance & Accounting

    • Includes financial markets, corporate finance, banking, behavioral finance, and accounting theory.

    • Preferred by candidates targeting careers in finance academia or capital markets research.

  5. Information Systems

    • Covers digital transformation, data analytics, technology management, and AI in business.

    • Appeals to those from IT backgrounds or with interests in digital strategy and analytics.

  6. Marketing

    • Encompasses consumer behavior, branding, market analytics, and strategic marketing.

    • Ideal for researchers interested in psychological and behavioral aspects of business.

  7. Organizational Behaviour & Human Resources Management

    • Focuses on leadership, motivation, workplace culture, team dynamics, and talent management.

    • Suitable for candidates from psychology, sociology, or human resources domains.

  8. Production & Operations Management

    • Deals with supply chain management, process optimization, quality control, and operations strategy.

    • Attracts candidates interested in manufacturing, logistics, or systems engineering.

  9. Public Policy

    • Includes governance, public administration, regulation, social impact, and policy evaluation.

    • Best for candidates with interests in development studies, social science, or government systems.

  10. Strategy

    • Covers corporate strategy, competitive advantage, innovation, and international business.

    • Fits aspirants with interdisciplinary backgrounds or interests in long-term business decision-making.


Selecting a Specialization

Applicants can indicate up to two areas of interest while applying. These selections should be carefully aligned with:

  • Academic background

  • Career aspirations

  • Research interests

  • Previous work or study experience

IIM Bangalore encourages thoughtful selection, as this determines mentor assignment, course registration, and research planning during the fellowship.


Interdisciplinary Exposure

While fellows choose one or two primary areas of specialization, they are encouraged to engage across disciplines. For instance, a candidate in Strategy may collaborate with peers in Marketing or OBHRM, reflecting the cross-functional nature of real-world business problems.


Guidance from Faculty Mentors

Once selected, fellows work with a faculty mentor who is an expert in the chosen domain. Mentors guide reading lists, academic deliverables, and research direction, ensuring that each fellow builds a strong foundation for PhD applications in that field.


The diverse disciplinary offerings within the NSR Pre-doc allow aspiring scholars to pursue focused and impactful research preparation. With access to world-class faculty and a supportive academic ecosystem, fellows are empowered to explore questions that matter — in business, policy, and society.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Requirements and Evaluation

The N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) is not a passive academic program — it is a rigorously structured apprenticeship that demands sustained intellectual effort, discipline, and active engagement. IIM Bangalore has defined clear programmatic requirements to ensure that fellows are adequately prepared for the challenges of doctoral study.


Core Programme Commitments

The fellowship is full-time and residential, requiring fellows to dedicate a minimum of 40 hours per week to academic work. These hours are distributed across coursework, mentorship meetings, workshops, and research activities. The immersive nature of the program helps build habits and workflows aligned with doctoral-level study.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Academic Requirements

Fellows are required to fulfill the following academic obligations:

  1. Mentored Learning

    • Each fellow works under a faculty mentor who supervises and evaluates academic progress.

    • The mentor guides reading assignments, proposal development, and research exploration.

    • Regular one-on-one sessions are held to review goals and provide feedback.

  2. Course Completion

    • Fellows must complete at least two doctoral or MBA-level three-credit courses in their area of specialization.

    • These courses are selected in consultation with the mentor and are assessed via assignments, exams, and participation.

  3. Workshops and Clinics

    • Math Clinic (1.5 hours/week): Reinforces quantitative and statistical fundamentals critical for research in management.

    • Academic Writing Workshop (1.5 hours/week): Focuses on scholarly writing, citation formats, literature reviews, and proposal construction.

    • Exemptions from these workshops are rare and must be approved by both the faculty mentor and the Pre-doctoral Faculty Committee.

  4. Research Deliverables

    • Development of a doctoral-level research proposal is a central output of the program.

    • Fellows may also be involved in faculty-led projects, offering hands-on research experience.

    • Deliverables include literature reviews, concept notes, research frameworks, and oral presentations.


Evaluation and Feedback

Assessment is continuous and multidimensional. Evaluation is based on:

  • Performance in coursework (grades and assignments)

  • Quality of participation in workshops and clinics

  • Progress in research thinking and proposal development

  • Written and oral communication skills

  • Weekly engagement and time commitment

Mid-year and end-of-program reviews are conducted by the mentor and program coordinators to assess the fellow’s growth and readiness for doctoral applications.


Code of Conduct and Professionalism

Fellows are expected to adhere to the academic code of conduct at IIM Bangalore. This includes:

  • Integrity in research and citation

  • Punctuality and participation in all academic sessions

  • Respect for the mentorship process and academic community

Violations of academic integrity or prolonged disengagement from program activities may result in warnings or withdrawal of the fellowship.


Certificate and Recognition

Completion of the N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) at IIM Bangalore is marked not just by academic achievement, but also by formal recognition that validates a fellow’s preparedness for rigorous doctoral study. The Certificate of Completion awarded at the end of the fellowship is a key credential that sets participants apart in the competitive global landscape of PhD admissions.


Certificate of Completion

Upon successfully meeting all academic and participation requirements of the program, fellows are awarded an official Certificate of Completion by IIM Bangalore. This certificate acknowledges that the fellow has:

  • Completed a full-time, one-year academic fellowship at one of India’s premier institutions

  • Demonstrated competence in graduate-level coursework in management disciplines

  • Developed a doctoral-level research proposal under expert faculty mentorship

  • Participated in research skill-building workshops and academic development activities

While the NSR Pre-doc is not a degree program, the certificate serves as evidence of scholarly readiness and commitment to academic research. It is particularly valuable when applying to competitive PhD programs across India and abroad, where admissions committees look for indicators of research potential and training.


Institutional Recognition and Reputation

IIM Bangalore’s reputation as a top-tier business school adds significant weight to the certificate. As a globally respected academic institution, IIMB’s endorsement signals:

  • The fellow’s ability to engage with complex theoretical and empirical research

  • A proven commitment to academic excellence, collaboration, and integrity

  • Preparedness for doctoral coursework and independent research responsibilities

Fellows often include the certificate and details of the program in their CVs, applications, and academic statements, using it as a differentiating asset in the competitive application process.


Alumni Outcomes

Graduates of the NSR Pre-doc program have successfully secured admissions into:

  • IIM Bangalore’s own PhD program

  • Doctoral programs at other IIMs and top management institutes in India

  • Prestigious international universities offering fully funded PhD tracks

Many fellows have credited the structured mentorship, proposal-building exercises, and rigorous academic preparation during the fellowship as key factors that enabled their admissions success.


First Batch Success Story

The program’s first cohort in 2018–2019 included seven fellows across diverse specializations like Economics, Entrepreneurship, and OBHRM. These fellows came from varied professional backgrounds — from business development to research support roles — and successfully completed the program, receiving their certificates in March 2019. Their journey reflects the transformative power of this program in opening academic pathways to motivated, underrepresented scholars.


Beyond Certification: A Long-Term Academic Identity

The NSR Pre-doc certificate is not just a paper credential — it reflects a year-long commitment to academic discipline, critical thinking, and research excellence. Fellows leave with more than a document; they emerge with a clear academic focus, a mentor’s guidance, and an affiliation with one of India’s most respected academic institutions.


Recognition through IIMB’s Certificate of Completion strengthens a fellow’s academic identity and significantly enhances their prospects in doctoral admissions. For many, it is the first formal step in what becomes a long, impactful journey in academia.


IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Admissions Process and Eligibility Criteria

Admission to the N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship (NSR Pre-doc) at IIM Bangalore is highly selective and aimed at individuals who demonstrate academic potential, research curiosity, and a commitment to pursuing a doctoral career. The process is designed to be inclusive, merit-based, and aligned with the program’s mission of increasing diversity in academia.


Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship, candidates must meet the following criteria:

  • Educational Qualification: A bachelor’s or master’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university. While there is no minimum percentage specified, strong academic performance is expected.

  • Interest in Research: Applicants must express a clear intent to pursue a doctoral program in management or related fields after the fellowship.

  • Academic and Social Inclusion Goals: Preference may be given to candidates from historically underrepresented or economically disadvantaged backgrounds, in alignment with the program’s focus on inclusion.

  • Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English is essential, as the medium of instruction and communication throughout the fellowship is English.


Admissions Process

The application process is comprehensive and includes the following steps:

  1. Online Application:

    • Candidates must complete the application form available on the official IIMB website.

    • Applicants may choose up to two areas of specialization.

  2. Statement of Purpose (SOP):

    • A critical component of the application, the SOP should explain:

      • The candidate’s academic background

      • Motivation to pursue a PhD

      • Research interests

      • Reasons for applying to the NSR Pre-doc program

  3. Supporting Documents:

    • Educational transcripts

    • Resume/CV

    • Any prior research work (if applicable)

    • Caste/income certificates (if applying under inclusion criteria)

  4. Letters of Recommendation:

    • Two academic or professional references attesting to the candidate’s research aptitude and academic abilities.

  5. Evaluation and Shortlisting:

    • Applications are reviewed by the Pre-doctoral Faculty Committee.

    • Shortlisted candidates may be invited for a personal interview (in-person or online).

  6. Final Selection:

    • The final list of selected candidates is released via official communication.

    • Selected fellows are matched with mentors based on their specialization and interests.

The entire selection process reflects IIM Bangalore’s commitment to academic excellence, transparency, and inclusive opportunity creation.



IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme Important Dates and How to Apply

Candidates aspiring to join the 2025–26 NSR Pre-doc Fellowship must keep track of the following key dates and application requirements.


Important Dates

  • Application Opens: September 2024

  • Application Deadline: 7 February 2025 (5:00 p.m. IST)

  • Shortlisting for Interviews: February 2025

  • Interviews Conducted: February to March 2025

  • Final Results Announcement: March 2025

  • Program Commencement: June–July 2025

These dates are indicative and may be updated.


Application Portal

  • Online application

  • Applicants must register, fill out the form, upload documents, and submit before the deadline.


Application Tips

  • Start Early: The SOP and recommendation letters take time to prepare.

  • Be Clear in Research Interest: Highlight your academic motivation and alignment with your chosen area.

  • Document Verification: Ensure that all certificates and transcripts are accurate and legible.

For queries, contact: Email: predocadm@iimb.ac.in Phone: +91-80-26993013 / 3017



Conclusion and Expert Insights

The N.S. Ramaswamy Pre-doctoral Fellowship at IIM Bangalore is more than just a preparatory program — it is a pivotal academic experience that opens the door to a world of possibilities in management research and education. With its unique focus on inclusion, structured mentorship, and research training, the program serves as a transformative launchpad for aspiring scholars across India.


IIM Bangalore’s commitment to academic excellence and equity shines through every aspect of the NSR Pre-doc. From personalized faculty mentorship and financial support to its well-structured curriculum, the program provides fellows with the resources and guidance needed to pursue competitive PhD programs globally.


For candidates from underrepresented backgrounds or those who have the academic drive but lack access to traditional research ecosystems, the NSR Pre-doc stands as a beacon of opportunity. The success of past cohorts — many of whom have secured PhD admissions in premier institutions — is a testament to the program’s quality and impact.


Expert Insight: If you’re considering a career in academia, research, or policy, and you have the passion to explore management questions deeply, the NSR Pre-doc offers a rare and valuable chance to prepare with the best. Start early, refine your research interest, and use this program to shape your academic identity.



FAQ IIM Bangalore NSR Pre-doc Programme

  1. What is the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship at IIM Bangalore? 

    The NSR Pre-doc is a one-year, full-time apprenticeship program designed to prepare students for doctoral studies in management and related disciplines. It includes coursework, faculty mentorship, and research training.


  2. Who is eligible to apply for the NSR Pre-doc? 

    Graduates with a strong academic background and an interest in pursuing a PhD can apply. While there's no minimum percentage, applicants should demonstrate motivation for research and academic excellence.


  3. Is the NSR Pre-doc a degree program? 

    No, it is not a degree program. Upon completion, fellows receive a Certificate of Completion from IIM Bangalore, which supports PhD applications.


  4. How long is the NSR Pre-doc program? 

    The program runs for one academic year and is structured as a full-time residential fellowship at IIM Bangalore.


  5. What areas of specialization are offered?

     Fellows can specialize in disciplines like Economics, Strategy, OBHRM, Finance, Marketing, Decision Sciences, and more, depending on their academic interests.


  6. What does the program include?

     It includes faculty mentorship, coursework, writing and math workshops, research proposal development, and full financial support.


  7. What kind of financial support is provided? 

    The program offers 100% financial assistance, covering tuition, campus accommodation, and living expenses.


  8. Is there a work requirement during the program? 

    Yes, fellows must commit at least 40 hours per week to academic work, including coursework, research, and workshops.


  9. How competitive is the admission process?

     The process is selective, involving an online application, SOP, recommendation letters, and interviews. IIMB looks for motivated, research-oriented candidates.


  10. Are there any reserved categories or inclusion criteria?

     Yes, the program aims to increase social diversity in academia and encourages applicants from underrepresented and economically disadvantaged communities.


  11. When does the application process open? 

    Applications for the 2025–26 batch typically open in September 2024 and close on February 7, 2025.


  12. What documents are required for the application? 

    Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a resume, an SOP, and two recommendation letters. Inclusion category applicants may also need caste/income certificates.


  13. Do fellows have to take any entrance exams? 

    No entrance exam is required. However, strong academic background and motivation for research are essential.


  14. How are fellows evaluated during the program? 

    Evaluation is continuous and includes course performance, mentor feedback, research progress, and participation in workshops.


  15. Can I choose more than one area of interest? 

    Yes, applicants can choose up to two areas of specialization during the application process.


  16. Will I get help with my PhD applications after the program? 

    Yes, fellows receive guidance from faculty mentors and the program team to draft compelling research proposals and PhD applications.


  17. Can international students apply? 

    The program primarily targets Indian applicants focused on diversity and inclusion in Indian academia.


  18. Is accommodation provided on campus? 

    Yes, fellows are offered on-campus housing, covered under the fellowship’s financial support.


  19. What are the outcomes for previous fellows? 

    Many alumni of the NSR Pre-doc have secured admissions into top PhD programs at IIMs and international universities.


  20. Where can I apply for the NSR Pre-doc Fellowship?

    Applications can be submitted online at IIMB’s official admissions portal.

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