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TIFR GS

Entrance exam for admission into PH.D

Exam Date: December 13, 2025

Test Structure

The Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Graduate School (GS) Entrance Examination is a prestigious nationwide test for admission to Ph.D., Integrated M.Sc.-Ph.D., and M.Sc. programs across various disciplines. Here's a detailed overview of the TIFR GS 2025, along with career opportunities post-graduation.


Exam Sessions & Timings

Morning Session (9:00 AM – 12:00 PM):
Physics
Chemistry
Computer Science & Learning
Information and Data Sciences
M.Sc. Wildlife Biology & Conservation 

Afternoon Session:
2:00 PM – 4:30 PM: Biology (JGEEBILS)
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Mathematics (all programs), Science Education
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Mathematics (Ph.D. at CAM)

Academic Careers
Postdoctoral Research: Engage in advanced research at TIFR or other esteemed institutions globally.
Faculty Positions: Join academic institutions as faculty members, contributing to teaching and research.

2. Industry Roles
Biotechnology & Pharmaceuticals: Work in research and development, product development, or regulatory affairs.
Technology Sector: Roles in data science, machine learning, and software development.
Finance & Consulting: Apply analytical and quantitative skills in risk management, financial modeling, and consulting.

3. Government & Research Organizations
Public Sector Research: Contribute to scientific advancements in organizations like DRDO, ISRO, and CSIR.
Policy & Advisory Roles: Engage in science policy formulation and advisory positions.

4. Entrepreneurship
Startups: Leverage research expertise to establish and lead innovative startups in science and technology domains.
TIFR's strong industry connections and emphasis on interdisciplinary research provide graduates with a robust platform to pursue diverse career opportunities. 

SYLLABUS: 
The syllabus is subject-specific and aligns with the core concepts of each discipline. Here's an overview:
Part A: General Aptitude
Reasoning: Analogies, Directions, Coding-Decoding, Classification, Alphabet Series, Analytical Reasoning, Syllogisms, Number Series, Blood Relationships, Arrangements, Statements, Symbols and Notations, Similarities and Differences, Visual Ability, Graphical Analysis, Data Sufficiency, Non-verbal Reasoning, Data Analysis
Quantitative Aptitude: Permutation & Combination, Average, Simple & Compound Interest, Time & Speed, Simplifications, Number System, HCF, LCM Problems, Algebra, Percentage, Time & Work, Bar Graph, Pictorial Graph, Pie Chart, Ratio & Proportion, Area, Profit & Loss
Data Interpretation & Graphical Analysis: Mean, Median, Graphical Analysis: Bar Graph, Line Graph, Pie-Chart, and Tabulation, Mode, Measures of Dispersion 

Part B: Subject-Specific Questions
Chemical Sciences
Core Topics: Organic Chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Physical Chemistry
Advanced Topics: Spectroscopy, Reaction Mechanisms, Coordination Chemistry, Thermodynamics, Quantum Chemistry 
Earth Sciences
Core Topics: Geology, Geophysics, Meteorology, Oceanography
Advanced Topics: Plate Tectonics, Seismology, Climate Change, Remote Sensing 
Life Sciences
Core Topics: Cell Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Physiology
Advanced Topics: Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biotechnology, Biostatistics 
Mathematical Sciences
Core Topics: Linear Algebra, Calculus, Differential Equations, Real Analysis, Complex Analysis
Advanced Topics: Abstract Algebra, Topology, Functional Analysis, Probability Theory 
Physical Sciences
Core Topics: Classical Mechanics, Electromagnetism, Quantum Mechanics, Thermodynamics
Advanced Topics: Statistical Mechanics, Solid State Physics, Nuclear Physics, Particle Physics. 


How to Prepare

Given your analytical strengths, here's a tailored strategy:

1. Deep Conceptual Understanding: Focus on mastering fundamental concepts rather than rote memorization.

2. Structured Study Plan: Allocate specific time blocks for each subject, ensuring balanced coverage. Prioritize topics based on weightage and personal proficiency.

3. Practice Previous Years' Papers: Regularly solve past year question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern and identify recurring topics.

4. Mock Tests: Simulate real exam conditions by taking timed mock tests. This will enhance your time management skills and build exam temperament.

5. Regular Revision: Schedule periodic revisions to reinforce memory retention and identify areas needing further attention.

6. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of any changes in the exam pattern or syllabus by regularly visiting the official CSIR NET website.

Important Dates

  • Online Application Portal Opens: 21st September 2024

    Application Deadline for Fee Waiver Requests: 6th October 2024 (11:00 PM)

    Application Deadline for Priority in Choice of Test Center: 13th October 2024 (11:00 PM)

    Final Application Submission Deadline: 20th October 2024 (11:00 PM)

    Hall Ticket Download Begins: Mid-November 2024

    Examination Date: Sunday, 8th December 2024

    Program Start Date: 1st August 2025

Frequently Asked Questions

TIFR GS (Graduate School Admissions) is a national-level entrance exam conducted by the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research for admission to its PhD, Integrated PhD, and MSc programs in science and mathematics.

The exam is organized by Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), one of India’s premier research institutions.

The exam is offered in multiple subjects — Physics, Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics, Computer & Systems Sciences, and Science Education.

Candidates must hold a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree (depending on the program). Final-year students can also apply if they complete their degree before admission.

Applications can be submitted online through the official website: https://gs.tifr.res.in by filling out the form, uploading documents, and paying the exam fee.

The exam usually consists of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and/or short-answer questions, testing analytical ability, conceptual understanding, and problem-solving skills.

Yes, negative marking applies to some sections (usually MCQs). The exact marking scheme varies by subject.

Candidates who qualify the written test are shortlisted for interviews, which are the final stage of selection for admission.

TIFR GS


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