The PhD in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research — South Asian Studies at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth, rigorous research training program designed for scholars specializing in the languages, cultures, history, and politics of South Asia. This doctoral programme provides students with the opportunity to develop original research under the guidance of world-renowned experts in the field. The programme emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, integrating perspectives from history, literature, anthropology, politics, and linguistics to offer a comprehensive understanding of South Asian societies.

Candidates admitted to this programme undertake a substantial research project that aims to contribute significantly to academic knowledge in their chosen area of specialization. The research process is supported by specialized workshops, seminars, and supervision sessions that facilitate critical engagement with existing scholarship and nurture independent thinking. Students are encouraged to engage with primary sources, employ innovative methodologies, and produce high-quality research outputs suitable for publication.

The programme also includes opportunities for professional development, enabling doctoral candidates to acquire essential academic skills such as academic writing, teaching, and conference presentation. The University of Cambridge provides access to extensive resources, including exceptional library facilities, digital archives, and research centers dedicated to Asian and Middle Eastern studies. Students benefit from an intellectually vibrant academic community that offers a stimulating environment for collaboration and debate.

Completion of this PhD program typically takes three to four years, culminating in the submission of a doctoral thesis that demonstrates original research and contributes new insights into South Asian studies. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, government, NGOs, and other sectors requiring expertise in South Asian affairs. The programme’s flexibility allows candidates to tailor their research focus according to their interests, supported by the university’s commitment to fostering innovative and impactful scholarship in Asian and Middle Eastern studies.

Even though there are no taught courses, students taking the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (South Asian Studies) may attend a weekly graduate seminar and other reading groups with PhD students and post-doctoral researchers, thus having an opportunity to interact with their peers and seniors in a supportive environment. They may also receive training in codicology, manuscriptology, and other skills. Where relevant, they are also encouraged to attend advanced undergraduate lectures and language courses. Students can also benefit from access to Hindi language literary sources under the guidance of the Faculty's Teaching Officer in Hindi.

All prospective MPhil applicants are advised to peruse the staff profiles on our website to familiarise themselves with the research and teaching interests of staff members. Applicants should contact prospective supervisors by email and discuss potential MPhil dissertation topics.

Feedback

Students taking the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (South Asian Studies), i.e. working on a 25,000 word dissertation to be submitted in mid-August, will receive feedback on their work throughout the year from regular one-on-one supervisions with their supervisor. Supervisors will produce feedback via termly CGSRS reports on CamSIS. Students will receive feedback on their MPhil dissertation results and overall Degree results after the final Degree Committee meeting in September.

Assessment

Thesis

For the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (South Asian Studies), students will submit a thesis of not more than 25,000 words, including footnotes and appendices but excluding bibliography on a subject approved by the Degree Committee. All MPhil dissertations must include a brief Abstract at the start of the dissertation of no more than 400 words.

Those students who take the MPhil by research will be required to take a viva examination.

Essays

Students taking the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (South Asian Studies) will not be required to submit essays, projects or written papers as they are taking the MPhil by research only.

Written examination

Students taking the MPhil in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research (South Asian Studies) will not be required to take any written examinations as they are taking the MPhil by research only.

Practical assessment

There is no practical assessment associated with this course.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Research Proposal 
• Attainments in languages. Good reading knowledge of Classical Arabic will be expected.Applicants are required to list the languages they know and their level of competence.
• Sample of Work
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship. Applicants who wish to be considered for the Gates Cambridge (USA) and Gates Cambridge (International) must include a personal reference with their GRADSAF and other supporting documentation.

The PhD in Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research—South Asian Studies at the University of Cambridge typically offers a range of financing options to support prospective and current students throughout their research tenure. Funding opportunities may include scholarships, research council awards, university-funded bursaries, external grants, and potentially stipends provided through specific projects or departmental funds. Applicants are encouraged to explore various sources of financial support early in their application process, including pursuing competitive scholarships such as those offered by the Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) or the Cambridge Trusts. These awards often cover tuition fees partially or in full, provide maintenance stipends to cover living expenses, and sometimes include research costs.

The university also provides internal funding schemes aimed at supporting research activities, conference travel, and publications, which may be accessible to enrolled PhD students. Additionally, students are advised to seek external funding from government bodies, cultural institutes, or foundations dedicated to Asian or Middle Eastern studies. Teaching or research assistantships within the department are sometimes available, offering a combination of financial support and academic experience. Applicants are strongly encouraged to connect with the university’s Graduate Funding Office and the Department of Oriental Studies for detailed and personalized advice regarding available financial pathways.

Completing the application for funding often involves demonstrating excellent academic potential, a viable research proposal, and sometimes, an interview process. Successful applicants typically receive comprehensive financial support that spans the standard duration of the research program, subject to satisfactory progression and engagement in departmental activities. The university commits to providing transparent information about eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines, ensuring that students are well-informed about the financial support mechanisms that can help them pursue their academic goals without undue financial hardship.

The Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research — South Asian Studies at the University of Cambridge is a specialized postgraduate program designed for scholars pursuing in-depth research in the history, culture, languages, and contemporary issues of South Asia. This programme offers a unique opportunity for students to work closely with leading academics and experts in the field, gaining a comprehensive understanding of South Asian societies, politics, religions, and languages. The research focus allows for an individualised study plan tailored to the student's interests, encompassing areas such as Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and Sri Lankan studies, among others. Students conduct original research under the supervision of experienced faculty members, contributing new insights to the academic community. The programme encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating history, anthropology, political science, and cultural studies to provide a holistic perspective on the region. Participants benefit from Cambridge’s extensive resources, including access to a vast library collection, archives, and digital resources pertinent to South Asian Studies. The duration of the research programme typically spans several years, during which students develop a thesis that advances understanding of South Asian societal dynamics. The university also offers opportunities for participation in seminars, workshops, and conferences, fostering academic dialogue and collaboration. Graduates of the programme often pursue careers in academia, government, cultural institutions, or international organizations, leveraging their specialised knowledge of South Asia. The programme is ideal for individuals aiming to deepen their scholarly expertise or to develop a career related to South Asian affairs, policy analysis, or cultural preservation. Overall, the Asian and Middle Eastern Studies by Research — South Asian Studies at Cambridge is a rigorous and enriching scholarly endeavour dedicated to advancing knowledge of South Asia through comprehensive, original research conducted in a supportive academic environment.