The selection procedure for a direct Ph.D. in IIT Madras varies as per the department. Usually, there is a primary election that is based on the CGPA that you obtain after clearing any national-level entrance exam like GATE.

After this, you need to give an interview and a written test round.

If you want to go for MS by research or Ph.D., you will have to appear for a written test which is followed by an interview. These tests are conducted twice a year, in May and in November. Check the IIT Madra website regularly. Once you apply for the Ph.D. position, and you get shortlisted, and then you can appear for the written exam. The written exam is similar to what the GATE exam is and there is no difference for MS and Ph.D. aspirants. Your interview will be conducted only if you clear the written test.

However, if you do not clear the written or the interview round, and you are interested in some particular work that is being carried out by any professor, you can approach them directly and ask for a research or project assistant’s position. If the professor is impressed by your work, they may convert you to a full-time Ph.D.