# Joint PhD program

**Source**: https://ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdu
**Parent**: https://ge.iitm.ac.in/programs/joint-degree

IIT Madras - Deakin University Research Academy

# Joint PhD program

The Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM), an Institute of Eminence in India and Deakin University, ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide, have established a strategic research alliance to offer a Joint PhD program with research tackling global challenges in science, engineering and technology.

Applications close

February 20, 2026

[Apply Now](https://admissions.ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdura-jdp)

[View Projects](https://ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdu/projects)

Joint PhD

# What does the program offer?

Together, we will embark on pioneering, cross-disciplinary research endeavours poised to make a profound impact on India, Australia, and the global community. Our objective is to cultivate a cohort of highly skilled postgraduate research scholars hailing from South Asia and Australia.

By pursuing your PhD through the IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy, you will contribute to advancing the socio-economic prosperity of both India and Australia on a global scale. You will actively engage in cutting-edge research endeavours aimed at addressing pressing global issues ranging from climate change and smart manufacturing to energy, future infrastructure, critical technology, and healthcare.

## Co-Supervised

PhD Journey Across Australia and India

The IIT Madras – Deakin University Research Academy presents co-supervised PhD programs (Cotutelle PhD) jointly conferred by Deakin University and IIT Madras. Through this unique opportunity, you will engage in collaborative research across borders, with access to supervision, state-of-the-art facilities, resources, and funding opportunities offered by both institutions. Plus, you will have the chance to seamlessly integrate travel with your research pursuits, enriching your academic journey.

## Program Benefits

Through the Joint PhD Program, you stand to gain

Upon successful completion, you will be offered a jointly awarded degree in Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) from both IIT Madras and Deakin University

International joint PhD degree

A generous scholarship

Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources

Exposure to a vibrant research network and ecosystem

Joint supervision by IITM and Deakin

Possible input from industry partners

## Academic Journey

Choose your starting point based on your citizenship and explore our collaborative dual degree program.

Deakin University and the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) have partnered to offer a unique educational experience combining Australian and Indian academic excellence.

IITM Home Students

### Start at IITM

For Indian & International Applicants

Indian passport holders and international applicants (excluding Australian citizens) begin at IITM and complete their one year at Deakin University in Australia.

Program Benefits

- HTRA Stipend Provided
- Relocation Grant, Health Cover & Stipend

[Apply Now](#)

Start at IITM

### IITM Home Scholarship

Comprehensive support package for students beginning their journey at IITM

Monthly stipend
:   Rs 37,000\* in year 1 and Rs 42,000\* in years 3 and 4 at IITM.

Annual stipend
:   AUD $35,500\* (per annum tax exempt) in year 2 at Deakin

Relocation grant
:   AUD $5,000\* for Chennai – Melbourne – Chennai travel.

Health cover
:   Overseas student health cover (single policy) for Melbourne stay in year 2.

Tuition Fee
:   Students pay the IITM tuition fee for the duration of the study; the Deakin tuition fee is waived.

Start at Deakin

### Deakin Home Scholarship

Comprehensive support package for students beginning their journey at Deakin

Annual stipend
:   AUD $35,500\* (per annum tax exempt) a 4 year tuition fee waiver.

Relocation grant
:   AUD $5,000\* for Melbourne – Chennai – Melbourne travel.

Travel Insurance
:   Deakin travel insurance for up to 12 months in Chennai.

Deakin’s registration details
:   CRICOS Provider Code: 00113B. TEQSA Provider ID PRV12124.

## Ready to start? Submit your applications today

[Apply Now](https://admissions.ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdura-jdp)

[View Application Process](https://ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdu/#steps)

## How to Apply

1

Check your eligibility

Detailed information of the entry requirements for the PhD programs are listed under eligibility page

[Check Eligibility](https://ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdu/eligibility/ip)

2

Find a research project

Students can choose up to two projects, complete a statement of purpose form, and list them in order of preference.

[Check Projects](https://ge.iitm.ac.in/iitmdu/projects)

3

Prepare your documentation

Required documents: academic CV, transcripts, award certificates, statement of purpose, English proficiency (IELTS), two academic referees' contacts, scanned competitive exams (JEE, GATE, UGC-NET, CSIR, ICAR, ICMR, DST-INSPIRE, GRE, etc.). Additional requirements may apply for some schools/institutes.

4

Apply online

The information you provide in your application will be used to assess your eligibility for pursuing the PhD program at IIT Madras - Deakin University Research Academy