So you’ve cleared (or planning to clear) the CSIR-UGC NET JRF exam, and you’re curious about the CSIR JRF fellowship amount — right? Totally fair. After all, research life is tough, and knowing what kind of financial support you’ll get matters a lot.
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Let’s break it down in simple terms — how much stipend you’ll receive, how long it lasts, and what extra benefits you can expect as a CSIR JRF fellow in 2025.
🧪 First, What is CSIR JRF?
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) offers Junior Research Fellowships (JRFs) to candidates who qualify through the CSIR-UGC NET exam in subjects like Life Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Physical Sciences, Earth Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, etc.
Once selected, you can join research institutes, universities, or CSIR labs as a JRF and work under a guide — while getting paid monthly to do your research.
💸 CSIR JRF Fellowship Amount (2025)
Here’s the part you’re waiting for — the monthly fellowship amount:
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₹31,000 per month for the first two years (Junior Research Fellow phase)
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₹35,000 per month for the next three years (Senior Research Fellow or SRF phase), subject to performance and review
So basically:
| Period | Fellowship Amount |
|---|---|
| JRF (1st–2nd year) | ₹31,000/month |
| SRF (3rd–5th year) | ₹35,000/month |
🏠 What About HRA (House Rent Allowance)?
Good question. If your institute doesn’t provide hostel accommodation, you’re eligible for HRA as per government norms.
HRA rates vary by city category:
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X (Metro cities): 27% of basic
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Y (Tier 2 cities): 18%
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Z (Other towns): 9%
So, if you’re in a metro city like Delhi or Bangalore and not using hostel facilities, you could get around ₹8,370 extra with your ₹31k JRF amount!
Note: HRA is only given if you submit a declaration of not using hostel.
💻 What Other Benefits You’ll Get?
Besides the monthly stipend, CSIR JRF fellows also enjoy:
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Contingency Grant: ₹20,000 per year for books, conferences, chemicals, etc.
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Leave Benefits: 30 days leave annually + maternity/paternity leave
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Medical Support: Some institutions provide basic medical facility
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Eligibility to Apply for SRF or PhD registration after 2 years
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Preference in CSIR labs and other fellowships
So yeah, it’s not just money — it’s a well-rounded support system.
📆 How Long Does the Fellowship Last?
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Total duration: Up to 5 years
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2 years as JRF
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3 years as SRF (after successful review by committee)
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But remember, after 2 years, your performance will be reviewed before upgrading to SRF — so stay focused and consistent in your work!
🧠 Who Gives the Fellowship?
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If you get selected through CSIR-UGC NET for JRF (CSIR): Fellowship is funded by CSIR
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If selected for JRF (UGC): It’s funded by UGC, but the amount is mostly the same
The money is directly transferred to your bank account every month via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
Final Thoughts
The CSIR JRF Fellowship is not just a financial cushion — it’s a recognition of your potential to become a scientist or researcher. ₹31,000 per month might not sound like a corporate package, but for someone doing full-time research with passion — it’s a solid start.
So if you’re preparing for the CSIR-UGC NET, keep going. It’s worth it.
And if you’ve already cleared it — big congrats! Your journey’s just beginning.