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Overview

The Fellow Programme in Management (FPM) at SPJIMR, is a doctoral programme, approved by AICTE and recognised by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU) as equivalent to a Ph.D. degree. FPM is a distinguished programme designed to cultivate world-class researchers and faculty in various management disciplines. The programme emphasises rigorous interdisciplinary research in contemporary management areas, concentrating on relevant, contextual research that addresses pressing business challenges. Its mission is to generate knowledge that contributes to a better and more sustainable future. The programme is committed to developing independent, top-quality management thinkers, thought leaders, and consultants who will make substantial contributions to the management field.

Key highlights

Creating original research

Capable of creating original research questions relevant to business and society

Disseminating knowledge

Capable of disseminating knowledge through research and teaching

Crafting research

Capable of crafting research using appropriate research methodology

Programme objective

FPM aims to develop world-class academic researchers and thought leaders to conduct industryrelevant research that addresses real-world issues. The programme trains prospective scholars and helps them to become innovative and skilled researchers and prepares them to teach in various fields of management. The programme is aligned with the following competency goals (CGs)

Areas of research

FPM curriculum is designed in collaboration with experts from leading international business schools with a high focus on contemporary methods and enhancing domain knowledge. The programme’s rigorous curriculum provides ample training for an academic career and enables participants to make exemplary intellectual contributions in their respective field of research.

Economics and Policy Finance and Accounting Information Management Marketing Operations and Supply
Chain Management Organisation Behaviour and Human Resources Strategy

FPM admission process

Application deadline: February 10, 2026

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Personal interviews (F2F) :
Mid-March – 1st Week of April 2026

Result announcement :
Mid-April 2026

Batch inauguration and commencement 1st Week of June 2026

Eligibility criteria

  • A master’s degree/equivalent in any discipline, with first-class or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) OR five-year/four-year integrated master’s degree in any discipline, with first class or equivalent Grade Point Average (GPA) or a professional qualification like CA, ICWA, or CS, with at least 55% marks.
  • Entrance exam CAT/GMAT/GRE/GATE/ATMA/UGC-NET/UGC-JRF scores are required.
  • Alternatively, the applicant may be exempted from submitting the entrance exam scores if they hold PGDM/MBA degree from the following institutions/colleges: SPJIMR, MDI, IIMs, IIT depts. of management, XLRI, IRMA, TISS, ISI, XIMB, FMS or IIFT.
  • Candidates without work experience can apply if they have the motivation and background to pursue a rigorous research programme.
  • Candidates with significant work experience (over ten years) are also welcome as long as they have the motivation and background to pursue a rigorous research programme.

Selection process

The FPM selection process at SPJIMR encourages bright aspirants who are the right fit and are motivated to join the programme.

  • The process begins with reviewing the application forms and research proposal.
  • The shortlisting panel considers academic qualifications, work experience, profile, motivation, recommendations, and fit with the institute’s research profile and mission.
  • Shortlisted applicants will attend in-person interviews at the SPJIMR’s Mumbai campus, conducted by the institute’s distinguished panel. Travel expenses will be reimbursed up to the cost of III AC train fare. The details of travel reimbursement will be shared with the shortlisted candidates.
  • Provisional admission letters are issued to the selected candidates.

Application process

  • Submit the application form online through SPJIMR's website only.
  • The non-refundable application processing fee of Rs. 1000 to be paid online through credit card/debit card or net banking.
Details to be submitted with the application form:
  • Academic grades for class X, XII, Graduate and Postgraduate Degrees
  • A Statement of Purpose (SOP) stating the motivation to pursue the programme
  • Research Proposal (RP) - An indication and elaboration of Research interests
  • Recommendation letters (academic and professional)

Important dates

Process Date
FPM application window opens November 18, 2025
Application closes February 10, 2026
Personal interviews (F2F) Mid-March – 1st Week of April 2026
Result announcement Mid-April 2026
Batch inauguration and commencement 1st Week of June 2026

Testimonials