The Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru has announced a new flagship Integrated BS (Research)–PhD programme in Interdisciplinary Sciences beginning in the academic year 2026–27. The programme has been designed in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on strengthening foundational research and interdisciplinary learning in India.
Sharing the announcement on social media platform X, former University Grants Commission (UGC) Chairperson M. Jagadesh Kumar highlighted the initiative as an example of how universities can introduce innovative academic programmes to enhance research capabilities across disciplines.
About the JNCASR BS (Research)–PhD Programme
The integrated programme aims to provide rigorous coursework, research training, and skill development to prepare students for advanced scientific research. The course structure includes flexible exit options, allowing students to obtain different degrees depending on the stage at which they exit the programme.
Flexible Exit Options
Students enrolled in the programme can exit at different stages and receive the following qualifications:
- After Year 1: Bachelor of Science (Research) – BS (Res.) degree in a specific subject area
- After Year 2: Master of Science (MS) degree
- After Year 4 or later: Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree
This flexible structure aligns with NEP 2020’s multi-entry and multi-exit academic framework.
Eligibility Criteria
Candidates applying for the integrated programme must meet the following requirements:
- A minimum of 3 years of BSc or completion of 120 credits in a bachelor’s degree
- Minimum 55% marks in the qualifying examination
Eligible candidates with strong academic backgrounds in science disciplines are encouraged to apply.
Selection Process
The selection process involves multiple evaluation stages:
- Shortlisting based on entrance exam scores and academic performance.
- Accepted scores include:
- Joint Admission Test for Masters (JAM)
- Common University Entrance Test (CUET)
- JNCASR 2026 Entrance Examination
- Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an in-person interview, which will determine the final selection.
Research Exposure and Academic Benefits
The integrated BS–PhD programme offers extensive research opportunities and academic support, including:
- Advanced interdisciplinary research training
- Exposure to state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities
- Structured coursework designed to develop scientific thinking and analytical skills
Travel Grant and Student Support
Students who continue into the PhD phase will receive financial and institutional support, including:
- Travel grants up to ₹1,00,000 to attend national and international conferences
- Fellowships according to the centre’s norms
- Access to on-campus medical services, including doctors, physiotherapists, and counsellors
- Additional medical facilities through affiliated healthcare providers
Quick Reference Summary
| Programme Feature | Details |
| Programme Name | Integrated BS (Research) – PhD |
| Institution | JNCASR, Bengaluru |
| Academic Year | 2026–27 |
| Eligibility | 3-year BSc or 120 credits in bachelor’s degree with 55% marks |
| Entrance Tests Accepted | JAM, CUET, JNCASR Entrance Exam |
| Selection Method | Shortlisting + In-person interview |
| Travel Grant for PhD | Up to ₹1,00,000 |
| Official Website | jncasr.ac.in |
Why This Programme Matters
The Integrated BS–PhD programme at JNCASR reflects India’s push to strengthen research and innovation under NEP 2020. By allowing students to move seamlessly from undergraduate research training to doctoral studies, the programme helps build a strong pipeline of researchers in interdisciplinary science fields.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
| What is the new programme announced by JNCASR? |
| JNCASR has introduced an Integrated BS (Research)–PhD programme in Interdisciplinary Sciences starting from AY 2026–27. |
| Who is eligible for the programme? |
| Candidates with a 3-year BSc or 120 credits in a bachelor’s degree with at least 55% marks. |
| Which entrance exams are accepted for shortlisting? |
| JAM, CUET, or the JNCASR 2026 entrance exam. |
| What is the selection process? |
| Shortlisting based on exam scores and academic performance followed by an in-person interview. |
| Are there exit options in the programme? |
| Yes, students can exit after Year 1 with a BS (Res.) degree or after Year 2 with an MS degree. |
| What benefits do PhD students receive? |
| PhD students can receive fellowships and travel grants up to ₹1,00,000 for conferences. |
| Where will the programme be offered? |
| At JNCASR in Bengaluru. |
| Where can candidates find more information? |
| On the official website jncasr.ac.in. |
The Integrated BS (Research)–PhD programme at JNCASR Bengaluru represents a significant step toward strengthening India’s research ecosystem. With flexible exit options, strong research exposure, and financial support such as conference travel grants, the programme offers an attractive pathway for aspiring scientists. Interested candidates should visit the official website jncasr.ac.in for detailed admission guidelines and application updates, and bookmark this page for the latest information, for more details CLICK HERE
