- be 40 years old or younger on the last date of application. (Note: SC/ST/Persons with Benchmark Disability candidates will be given a 5-year age relaxation.)
- possess a Ph.D. degree at the time of application
- demonstrate the necessary competence to conduct research in social sciences or the social aspects of other disciplines, in the opinion of the ICSSR
- be affiliated with an ICSSR Research Institute, an Institute of National Importance approved by the Ministry of Education, a government research institute, or a public-funded Indian university (including deemed universities and colleges) with an approved Ph.D. program in their chosen field
Note:- The selected fellow will work under the supervision of a senior social scientist, at least an Associate Professor with demonstrated experience in research supervision and publications. The supervisor must be affiliated with the institution and be approved by the ICSSR.