INDIAN INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE · INDIA
Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 4.91/5Average Instructor Rating
- IISc Award for Excellence in Teaching 2022Teaching Award Recognition
- Industry CollaborationPartnerships
- Funded by National & International AgenciesResearch Funding
- Focus on AI for Social GoodApplication Areas
The Computational and Data Sciences program at the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) offers advanced research opportunities for PhD students. The program focuses on interdisciplinary research at the intersection of computer science, data science, and various scientific and engineering domains. Research activities are balanced between developing novel methodologies and addressing practical applications in areas such as multi-modal AI, foundation models for scientific data, physical intelligence, and neural data assimilation. Students will develop algorithms and software systems for large-scale applications in industrial, environmental, and social good sectors. The research is supported by national and international agencies, and the program encourages collaboration with industry partners and advisory roles in startups. The program aims to train researchers capable of tackling complex challenges through computational and data-driven approaches. It provides a stimulating environment for innovation and academic growth, contributing to advancements in AI and scientific research.
Curriculum
The PhD program is research-intensive, with coursework designed to provide a strong foundation in computational and data sciences. Specific module details will be determined in consultation with the student's advisor.
- Year 1
- Applied Data Science and Artificial IntelligenceUMC 301
- Numerical OptimizationDS 211
- Environmental Data AnalyticsDS 392
- Deep LearningDA 225-O
- Subsequent Years
- Advanced Research Seminars
- Specialized Topics in Data Science
Careers
Graduates from the Computational and Data Sciences program are well-prepared for diverse career paths in academia and industry. The interdisciplinary nature of the program equips them with advanced analytical, problem-solving, and research skills.
- Data Scientist
- AI/ML Engineer
- Research Scientist
- Computational Scientist
- Software Developer
- Academic Researcher/Professor
- Data Analyst
- Machine Learning Researcher
Frequently asked questions
- What are the general entry requirements for the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
- A Master's degree in a relevant field is typically required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates with a strong undergraduate background and demonstrated research potential may also be considered.
- What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
- Tuition fees for PhD programs at IISc are typically waived, and students often receive stipends. Living costs vary, but the stipend generally covers these expenses. International students should confirm funding details during the application process.
- How long is the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
- The program is research-intensive. Specific duration details are determined by the research progress and consultation with the student's advisor.
- What is the language of instruction for this program?
- The program is conducted in English. For English proficiency, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall is generally required.
- How do I apply for the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
- International students should follow the general application process via the IISc admissions portal. Prepare a portfolio showcasing proof of work, draft an email detailing a problem you solved, and include your academic performance history from Class 10 onwards.
- When are the application deadlines for the PhD program?
- Application deadlines for PhD programs are typically around April. For example, the application portal for the 2026-27 academic year PhD programs opened on May 1, 2026, and closed on June 4, 2026, for a different program; PhD deadlines are generally in April.
Entry requirements
Master's DegreeA Master's degree in a relevant field is typically required for PhD admissions.
Bachelor's Degree with Research ExperienceExceptional candidates with a strong undergraduate background and demonstrated research potential may be considered.
IELTS6.5 overall
Specific admission criteria and cutoffs are announced annually. Interested candidates should refer to the official IISc admissions website for the most up-to-date information. For PhD applications, candidates are advised to submit a portfolio showcasing proof of work rather than a CV. Emails should detail a difficult problem solved by the applicant and how it was approached. Including a time series of academic performance from Class 10 onwards is recommended.
Fees
Tuition (international)Tuition fees for PhD programs at IISc are typically waived, and students often receive stipends.
Tuition (home)Tuition fees for PhD programs at IISc are typically waived, and students often receive stipends.
LivingLiving costs vary; students typically receive a stipend to cover living expenses.
While specific tuition amounts are not provided, PhD students at IISc are generally provided with financial support through fellowships or assistantships. International students should confirm funding details during the application process.
How to apply
1. Check Eligibility and DeadlinesVisit the official IISc Admissions website for the latest information on program offerings, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines. For the 2026-27 academic year, the application portal opened on May 1, 2026, and closed on June 4, 2026, for the BS (Research) program. PhD deadlines are typically in April.
2. Prepare Application DocumentsGather academic transcripts, certificates, and any other required documents. For PhD applications, prepare a portfolio showcasing proof of work, as a CV is considered less valuable. Also, draft a concise email (around 100 words) detailing a difficult problem you've solved and how you approached it, highlighting its difficulty. Include your academic performance history from Class 10 onwards.
3. Submit Online ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form through the IISc admissions portal by the specified deadline. Ensure all information is accurate.
4. Update Entrance Exam Scores (if applicable)If admission is through national entrance exams like GATE (for M.Tech/M.Des through COAP), ensure your scores are updated on the respective portals and linked to your IISc application if required.
5. Attend Interview/Written TestShortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview or written test as part of the selection process. Prepare thoroughly for these assessments.
6. Receive Admission OfferSuccessful candidates will receive an admission offer. Review the offer details and respond within the stipulated timeframe.
Scholarships
Fellowships/AssistantshipsVaries
Accreditation
Indian Institute of Science is a premier research institution in India, recognized for its academic excellence and research output.
Frequently asked questions
What are the general entry requirements for the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
+
A Master's degree in a relevant field is typically required for PhD admissions. Exceptional candidates with a strong undergraduate background and demonstrated research potential may also be considered.
What are the tuition fees and living costs for international students?
+
Tuition fees for PhD programs at IISc are typically waived, and students often receive stipends. Living costs vary, but the stipend generally covers these expenses. International students should confirm funding details during the application process.
How long is the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
+
The program is research-intensive. Specific duration details are determined by the research progress and consultation with the student's advisor.
What is the language of instruction for this program?
+
The program is conducted in English. For English proficiency, an IELTS score of 6.5 overall is generally required.
How do I apply for the Computational and Data Sciences PhD Program?
+
International students should follow the general application process via the IISc admissions portal. Prepare a portfolio showcasing proof of work, draft an email detailing a problem you solved, and include your academic performance history from Class 10 onwards.
When are the application deadlines for the PhD program?
+
Application deadlines for PhD programs are typically around April. For example, the application portal for the 2026-27 academic year PhD programs opened on May 1, 2026, and closed on June 4, 2026, for a different program; PhD deadlines are generally in April.