AU Ph.D. Clinical Psychology FAQs
Ques. Is RCI (Rehabilitation Council of India) registration required for Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University?
Ans. The Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University is a research programme and does not directly require RCI registration for admission. However, if you wish to practice as a Clinical Psychologist after completing your Ph.D., RCI registration is mandatory in India. RCI registration requires completion of an M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology (RCI-approved) or an equivalent qualification. If you do not have an M.Phil. (RCI), you may need to complete it separately to practice clinically. The Ph.D. programme is primarily for research and academic careers in clinical psychology.
Ques. What is the total cost of Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University for 3 years?
Ans. The minimum total cost for the 3-year full-time Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology is Rs. ₹4,70,000, which includes the Course Registration Fee (Rs. ₹10,000), Academic Fee for 6 semesters at Rs. ₹75,000 per semester (Rs. ₹4,50,000), and Thesis Submission Fee (Rs. ₹10,000). The application fee of Rs. ₹2,000 is additional and non-refundable. If the thesis is not submitted within 3 years, additional semester fees of Rs. ₹75,000 per semester are payable until submission, up to a maximum of 6 years.
Ques. What research areas are available for Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University?
Ans. The Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University covers a wide range of research areas including psychopathology and mental disorders, cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based psychotherapies, neuropsychology and cognitive assessment, child and adolescent psychology, geriatric psychology, health psychology and psychosomatic disorders, community mental health, positive psychology and well-being, trauma and stress-related disorders, and addiction psychology. The specific research area depends on the availability of a supervisor with expertise in that area. Candidates are advised to contact the department to identify potential supervisors before applying.
Ques. Can I pursue Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University without UGC-NET?
Ans. Yes, you can pursue Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University without UGC-NET. Candidates without UGC-NET/JRF need to appear for the Apex University Ph.D. Entrance Test (Online CBT) and a Personal Interview. Selection is based on performance in the written test and interview. However, qualifying UGC-NET with JRF has significant advantages: it exempts you from the entrance test, and you receive a monthly fellowship of Rs. ₹37,000 (increasing to Rs. ₹42,000 from the 3rd year), which can substantially offset the course fees.
Ques. What is the difference between M.Phil. Clinical Psychology and Ph.D. Clinical Psychology?
Ans. M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology (RCI-approved) is a 2-year programme that qualifies graduates to practice as Clinical Psychologists in India (RCI registration). It focuses on clinical training, psychological assessment, and supervised clinical practice. Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology is a research-focused doctoral programme (minimum 3 years) that focuses on original research, theory development, and academic contributions to the field. Ph.D. graduates are qualified for academic positions (Assistant Professor), research roles, and senior clinical positions. For clinical practice in India, M.Phil. (RCI) is the required qualification, while Ph.D. is required for academic and research careers.
Ques. How many seats are available for Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology at Apex University and how competitive is the admission?
Ans. Apex University offers 4-6 seats per session for Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology (based on the June 2025 and December 2025 intake notifications). The admission is competitive, with selection based on the Ph.D. entrance test (written CBT) and personal interview. Candidates with UGC-NET/JRF qualifications are exempt from the written test and directly appear for the interview, giving them a significant advantage. Given the limited seats and the growing interest in clinical psychology research in India, candidates are advised to prepare thoroughly for the entrance test and have a clear research proposal ready for the interview.


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