NIT Rourkela Ph.D Architecture and Planning: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The AR (Architecture and Planning) GATE paper is required for PhD admission in Architecture and Planning at NIT Rourkela. A valid GATE AR score is mandatory for candidates who wish to receive the institute fellowship of INR 37,000-42,000 per month. Candidates who clear the GATE AR paper are shortlisted and called for a written test or personal interview conducted by the Department of Planning and Architecture.

Ans. The total fee for the minimum 3-year PhD programme in Architecture and Planning at NIT Rourkela is INR 3,42,000 for general category students. This includes INR 67,000 for the first semester, INR 54,500 per semester for the remaining five semesters, and a one-time admission fee of INR 2,500. SC/ST scholars pay INR 59,000 in the first semester and INR 47,000 in each subsequent semester. Hostel charges are billed separately.

Ans. NIT Rourkela offers an institute fellowship of INR 37,000 per month for Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in the first two years and INR 42,000 per month for Senior Research Fellows (SRF) from the third year onward. The fellowship is available to PhD scholars below 32 years of age (35 for SC/ST/Women) who hold a valid GATE AR score. Fellowship seats are limited and subject to availability at the time of admission.

Ans. The Department of Planning and Architecture at NIT Rourkela has active research groups working in vernacular architecture, climate-responsive building design, urban heat island mitigation, urban morphology, green infrastructure, landscape design, environmental planning, construction management, and sustainable development. The department has research scholars working on both architectural design and urban planning topics, making it suitable for candidates from B.Arch and B.Plan backgrounds seeking interdisciplinary doctoral research.

Ans. The PhD programme in Architecture and Planning at NIT Rourkela has a minimum duration of 3 years for full-time scholars. The actual duration depends on the progress of the research, the complexity of the dissertation, and the department’s evaluation. Most full-time PhD scholars complete the programme in 4 to 5 years. Admission is available in both Autumn (July) and Spring (January) semesters, giving candidates two entry points each academic year.

Ans. Yes, the Department of Planning and Architecture at NIT Rourkela offers a part-time Executive PhD option for working professionals. Part-time PhD scholars are required to spend a minimum number of days on campus each semester as per the institute’s norms. Working architects, urban planners, or faculty members at recognised institutions can pursue this route. The fee structure and GATE requirement are the same as for full-time PhD scholars, and all enrolment is through the central NIT Rourkela admissions portal.