For those who dream of building a career in research or wish to continue academic pursuits after graduation, there is good news. The National Law School of India University (NLSIU) has opened applications for various research scholarships for intake in January 2027.
These scholarships are open to both recent graduates and experienced researchers. The university is currently accepting applications for three types of scholarships: the Graduate Research Fellowship, the NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship, and the University Research Fellowship. Qualification and experience requirements differ for each program, so it is important to study which scholarship best suits the development of academic and research activities.
Application Deadlines
The application process has already begun. Interested candidates can apply until October 30th at 17:00. Applications must be submitted online via the official NLSIU website using the form corresponding to the candidate's category.
Number of Available Positions
NLSIU has launched three separate research scholarships for the January 2027 intake, and the number of positions in each program differs. The Graduate Research Fellowship includes 10 positions. Five positions have been allocated for the NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship and five for the University Research Fellowship.
According to the university, the goal of these scholarships is to stimulate research in the fields of law, social sciences, public policy, and related disciplines, as well as to provide research opportunities for scholars at different levels.
Candidates holding a bachelor's degree in law may apply for the Graduate Research Fellowship. Candidates who have obtained a master's degree in social sciences, public policy, or related fields are also eligible to apply. This program offers 10 positions.
The NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship is intended for researchers who have completed studies in law, social sciences, public policy, or related disciplines at the PhD level. The candidate must have obtained their doctoral degree within three years prior to the application date. Furthermore, the candidate must not have prior postdoctoral experience at any other university, making this opportunity suitable for those wishing to continue an academic career after obtaining a PhD.
Candidates with extensive teaching or professional experience along with a doctorate may apply for the University Research Fellowship. This fellowship requires a PhD from a recognized institution, as well as a minimum of 10 years of experience in teaching or related professional activities. A strong portfolio of publications and research work is also a crucial requirement. This fellowship provides 5 positions.
NLSIU has set different starting monthly stipends for each of the three scholarships. According to the established rates: the Graduate Research Fellowship provides 50,000 rupees per month; the NLSIU Postdoctoral Fellowship provides 120,000 rupees per month; and the University Research Fellowship provides 200,000 rupees per month. However, the university emphasizes that this is only a starting amount, and the final payment may vary for each candidate.
Selected participants in the scholarship programs must reside on the NLSIU campus in Bangalore for the entire duration of the scholarship. Nevertheless, the university maintains some flexibility regarding on-campus presence, offering such an option in special circumstances at the university's discretion after reviewing all details of the case.