The Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) is a premier research institute in Mumbai, India, offering part-time Ph.D. programs in development studies, economics, and related fields. Below is a detailed guide on IGIDR Part-Time Ph.D. Admission, Preparation, Practice Papers, and Top Recruiting Companies.
The part-time Ph.D. program at IGIDR is designed for working professionals who wish to pursue research while continuing their careers.
A Master’s degree in Economics, Energy, Environment, or related fields with a minimum of 55% aggregate (or equivalent CGPA).
Candidates with professional qualifications like CA, ICWA, or CS are also eligible.
Work experience is preferred but not mandatory.
Application: Submit an online application through the IGIDR website.
Entrance Exam: Candidates must appear for the IGIDR entrance exam, which tests quantitative skills, analytical ability, and subject knowledge.
Interview: Shortlisted candidates are called for an interview based on their entrance exam performance.
Final Selection: Based on the entrance exam score, interview performance, and academic/professional background.
Application opens: Typically in January-February.
Entrance exam: Usually in May-June.
Interview: Conducted in June-July.
To prepare for the IGIDR entrance exam and interview, focus on the following areas:
Quantitative Aptitude: Algebra, Calculus, Probability, Statistics, and Optimization.
Economics: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Development Economics, and Environmental Economics.
Analytical Ability: Logical reasoning, data interpretation, and problem-solving.
Quantitative Aptitude:
Quantitative Aptitude for Competitive Examinations by R.S. Aggarwal.
Mathematics for Economists by Simon and Blume.
Economics:
Microeconomic Theory by Andreu Mas-Colell.
Macroeconomics by N. Gregory Mankiw.
Development Economics by Debraj Ray.
General Preparation:
Previous years’ question papers and mock tests.
Solve previous years’ question papers to understand the exam pattern.
Focus on strengthening your quantitative and analytical skills.
Stay updated on current economic and development issues for the interview.
IGIDR provides sample question papers on its official website. Additionally, you can find practice papers from the following sources:
IGIDR Website: Download previous years’ question papers.
Online Platforms: Websites like Scribd, Testbook, and Eduncle offer practice papers.
Coaching Institutes: Institutes like IMS, TIME, and Career Launcher provide study materials and mock tests.
IGIDR graduates are highly sought after in academia, research, and industry. Some top recruiters include:
Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
National Institute of Public Finance and Policy (NIPFP)
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI)
Universities and colleges for teaching positions.
NITI Aayog
World Bank
International Monetary Fund (IMF)
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Consulting firms like McKinsey, BCG, and Deloitte.
Financial institutions like ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank, and Goldman Sachs.
Think tanks and NGOs working on development issues.
Research positions in international universities.
Roles in global organizations like the World Bank, IMF, and WTO.
Network: Attend seminars, workshops, and conferences to connect with professionals in your field.
Research Proposal: Prepare a strong research proposal for your Ph.D. application.
Stay Consistent: Balancing work and studies can be challenging, so create a structured study plan.