ICMR Short Term Studentship 2026: Eligibility, Stipend, How to Apply, Dates

Introduction

ICMR’s Short Term Studentship (STS) funds medical and dental students to conduct guided research projects during summer. This 2026 guide summarizes eligibility, stipend norms (indicative), timelines, and application mechanics. Dates reflect prior cycles—confirm on the official portal.

About the Organization / Institute

The Indian Council of Medical Research drives biomedical research in India. STS supports early research exposure for MBBS/BDS students under approved faculty guides at recognized institutions.

Overview of the Research Fellowship Programme

STS is a 2-month research engagement requiring proposal submission, ethics compliance where applicable, data collection/analysis, and a final report. Stipend is released on successful completion and approval of the report as per ICMR norms.

Research Domains / Areas Offered

• Clinical research across specialties
• Public health and epidemiology
• Basic/translation science with clinical relevance
• Dental research topics

Eligibility Criteria

• MBBS/BDS students from MCI/DCI recognized colleges.
• Faculty guide required; guide must meet ICMR eligibility.
• One project per student; ethics approval mandatory for human/animal studies.

Who Should Apply

Students serious about clinical/public health research who can design a feasible 2-month study with proper approvals. Prior exposure to study design/biostatistics is helpful.

Stipend & Funding

• Expected/Indicative: STS stipend (~INR 10,000) after report approval as per official norms.
• No separate accommodation/travel support—use home institute resources.

Duration & Timeline

• Duration: Minimum 8 weeks.
• Application deadline: Typically in January (Expected/Indicative: Jan 25, 2026).
• Results: Usually released in April/May (Expected/Indicative).

Selection Process

1. Submit proposal online via STS portal with guide details.
2. Proposal review for feasibility, ethics, and relevance.
3. Provisional selection subject to approvals.
4. Conduct study, submit midterm (if asked) and final report.
5. Stipend released on approval of report.

How to Apply (step-by-step)

1. Identify a guide and feasible 2-month research question.
2. Draft proposal with objectives, methods, sample size, and analysis plan.
3. Secure ethics approval if required (IEC/IAEC) and attach proof.
4. Submit via https://sts.icmr.org.in before the deadline with all documents.
5. Track status; respond to queries.
6. Execute study, document rigorously, and submit final report for stipend release.

Documents Required

• Proposal (per portal format)
• Guide details and consent
• Proof of college recognition
• Ethics approval (if applicable)
• Student ID, photo, and declaration

Competition Level / Acceptance Reality

Highly competitive; proposals must be feasible in 8 weeks, ethically sound, and well-designed. Weak or generic proposals are usually rejected.

Past Year Insights (Expected/Indicative)

• Clear methodology and realistic scope were decisive.
• Ethics approvals delayed weak applications; start early.
• Biostatistically sound sample size plans improved acceptance odds.

FAQs

1. What is the stipend? As per ICMR STS norms; historically around INR 10,000 after completion.

2. Do I need ethics approval? Yes, for human/animal studies. Lack of approval can void selection.

3. Can I partner with another student? STS is typically individual; check portal rules.

4. Can I change my guide after submission? Generally no; avoid changes unless officially permitted.

5. Are public health topics allowed? Yes—epidemiology and community research are common.

6. How long must I work? Minimum 8 weeks with a complete report.

7. When is the deadline? Expected January 2026; confirm on the portal.

8. How is the stipend paid? Post-approval of the final report via the portal.

Final Advice for Applicants

Design a tight, ethics-cleared study that fits 8 weeks. Work closely with your guide, keep meticulous data, and adhere to portal formats. Submit early to avoid deadline congestion and follow up politely on approvals.