So, you may be someone who has either recently finished your PhD or about to submit your thesis and are probably asking yourself, “what do I do now.” I was in the same situation not long ago, and that’s when I stumbled across the ANRF National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) 2025. Honestly, if you’re interested in continuing in research and want the opportunity to think and develop your own ideas—really it’s the best fellowship for post PhD.
About ANRF National Post Doctoral Fellowship
The N-PDF, now overseen by ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation) under the Indian government, is meant for fresh PhD holders who are ready to do serious research but need support and a bit of freedom. What I liked about it is that you aren’t just stuck helping your mentor’s projects—you actually get to propose and lead your own research (with guidance, of course).
It’s backed by the Indian government and open to researchers across all disciplines—sciences, engineering, and even interdisciplinary fields.
Fellowship Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Fellowship Name | ANRF National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) 2025 |
| Duration | 2 years (non-extendable) |
| Monthly Stipend | ₹55,000 (with PhD degree) / ₹35,000 (if thesis submitted) |
| Research Grant | ₹2 lakh per year (for contingency, travel, minor equipment) |
| Host Institution | Any recognized academic or R&D institution in India |
| Eligibility | Indian citizens with a PhD or thesis submitted |
| Age Limit | Maximum 35 years (relaxation for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/Women candidates) |
| Organizing Body | ANRF (Anusandhan National Research Foundation), Govt. of India |
| Application Mode | Online via www.serbonline.in |
Who Can Apply?
You’re eligible for the ANRF N-PDF 2025 if:
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You’re an Indian citizen
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You’ve already completed your PhD or submitted your thesis (you’ll need to submit the actual degree within 6 months if selected)
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You’re under 35 years of age as of the application closing date
(Relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/OBC/PWD and women applicants) -
You don’t already hold another fellowship or full-time academic/research job
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You’ve got a mentor and host institution lined up who are ready to support your project
Basically, if you’re serious about research and not just looking to tick a postdoc box, this is a solid opportunity.
Selection Process
Now, the selection is competitive—but fair. Here’s how it typically goes:
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Initial shortlisting based on your research proposal, academic profile, and mentor’s credibility
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Expert review of your project proposal (this step really matters—so don’t rush your write-up)
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Some candidates may be asked for a short interview (usually online)
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Final results are published after committee approval
The proposal is the heart of your application. Make sure it’s clear, original, and doable in two years.
Fellowship Benefits
Besides the decent stipend, what stood out for me were:
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Monthly support: ₹55,000/month if your PhD is complete; ₹35,000 otherwise
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Annual research grant: ₹2 lakh/year for your project needs—consumables, small equipment, travel, etc.
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Mentorship: You get to work with experts while still pursuing your own line of research
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Recognition: A completion certificate from ANRF/SERB adds serious value to your CV
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Independence: It’s not a lab assistant role—you’re leading your own mini-research journey
Documents Required
Here’s a checklist I used while applying—hope it helps:
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Passport-size photo
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PhD degree or provisional certificate
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CV (with publication list, if any)
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Detailed research proposal (up to 10 pages)
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Mentor’s consent letter + CV
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Host institute’s endorsement (format provided on the portal)
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Age proof (like Aadhaar or DOB certificate)
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Caste/disability certificate (if applicable)
Scan and upload everything clearly—don’t risk rejection due to blurry docs!
How to Apply Online
The application is entirely online and actually quite user-friendly. Here’s how I did it:
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Head to www.serbonline.in
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Register or log in
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Choose the National Post Doctoral Fellowship (N-PDF) section
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Fill in your details, upload the documents, and attach your proposal
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Double-check everything before hitting submit
Make sure your mentor and institute also confirm their part online—your application won’t be considered complete without their endorsements.
Important Dates (Tentative for 2025)
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Starts | July 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | August 2025 |
| Screening & Review | Sept–Oct 2025 |
| Results Announcement | Nov 2025 |
| Fellowship Begins | Jan 2026 onwards |
Keep checking the official portal for updates—dates can shift a little.
FAQs – ANRF N-PDF Fellowship 2025
• What is the last date to apply for ANRF N-PDF 2025?
→ Expected to be in August 2025, but keep checking the official portal.
• Who is eligible for the fellowship?
→ Indian citizens under 35 with a PhD (or thesis submitted) and a research proposal with mentor & host institution ready.
• Is there an age limit or experience required?
→ Yes—35 years max, but relaxation for reserved categories. No work experience needed.
• What’s the stipend amount under N-PDF 2025?
→ ₹55,000/month (PhD holders), ₹35,000/month (provisional degree holders).
• How do I apply online for ANRF N-PDF?
→ Visit serbonline.in, fill out the online form, upload docs, and get endorsements.
• Is the N-PDF open to international students?
→ No, it’s only for Indian citizens.