For 959 Vacant Seats Across Science, Arts, Commerce & Law | Last Date: 25 September 2026

The University of Allahabad (AU), a premier Central University in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, has officially issued the notification for the Combined Research Entrance Test (CRET) 2026. The university is inviting online applications for PhD admissions across a vast spectrum of subjects for the academic session 2026-27. An impressive 959 PhD seats are up for grabs across the main university campus and its constituent colleges.

Eligible postgraduates and candidates holding valid national-level fellowships (like UGC NET/JRF, CSIR NET, GATE) can fill out the Allahabad University PhD CRET Online Form 2026 via the official portal allduniv.ac.in from 02 September 2026 to 25 September 2026. Detailed information encompassing subject-wise seat matrices, application fee guidelines, examination framework, reservation criteria, and direct application links are outlined below.

Allahabad University CRET 2026 – Key Overview

Important Dates & Schedule

The online registration window for CRET 2026 is strictly time-bound. Candidates are urged to conclude their fee payments well before the final deadline to circumvent last-minute server congestion.

Allahabad University CRET Application Fee

The application fee must be remitted strictly through the online payment gateway using a Debit Card, Credit Card, or Net Banking facility. Fees are non-refundable.

PhD Admission Eligibility Criteria 2026

• Educational Qualification: Candidates must hold a Master's Degree (Post Graduation) in the relevant subject/discipline from a recognized University in India.
• Minimum Marks Requirement: Unreserved category candidates require a minimum of 55% marks (or equivalent CGPA) in their PG degree. SC, ST, OBC (Non-Creamy Layer), EWS, and PwBD candidates are granted a 5% relaxation, requiring a minimum of 50% marks.
• Final Year Students: Candidates whose Master’s Final Year result is awaited (Appearing candidates) are technically eligible to sit for the CRET 2026 exam, provided they present their final passing mark sheet during the interview/counseling stage.
• National Fellowships: Scores from UGC NET, CSIR NET, GATE, JEST, and ICAR are widely accepted as per UGC norms to establish advanced merit. However, applicants must review the official brochure to check specific Level-1 exemptions for JRF candidates.

Allahabad University CRET Vacancy Matrix (959 Seats)

The University of Allahabad has unveiled 959 doctoral seats distributed across dozens of departments. The reservation framework strictly follows the Government of India parameters: 27% OBC-NCL, 15% SC, 7.5% ST, 10% EWS, and a 5% horizontal quota for PwBD.

*There are currently zero (0) seats listed for Agricultural Microbiology, Arabic, Persian, and Theatre & Film for this session.

CRET 2026 Examination Pattern & Selection Process

The Allahabad University Combined Research Entrance Test involves a rigorous two-tier selection methodology:

• Level 1 (Written Test): Divided into two segments.
  • Paper I: Comprises 50 Objective Type Questions assessing Research Methodology (50%) and Subject Specific Knowledge (50%). Each question carries 2 marks with no negative marking.
  • Paper II: Consists of subjective, short, and medium-answer questions specifically pertaining to the core subject opted by the applicant.
• Level 2 (Interview / Presentation): Candidates clearing the Level 1 cutoff are summoned for an academic interview. Candidates must present a basic research proposal/synopsis before the Departmental Research Committee (DRC). Final merit is compiled balancing written marks, academic background, and interview performance.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Fill the AU CRET 2026 Online Form

1. Navigate to Official Website: Visit the core Allahabad University portal at allduniv.ac.in.
2. Locate CRET Section: Click on the "Admission 2026" tab, then find the specific link labeled "Ph.D. Admission CRET-2026 Online Application".
3. Initial Registration: Input your fundamental details (Name, DOB, Mobile No., Email ID) to generate your unique Application Number and Password.
4. Complete the Profile: Log in and fill out personal demography, detailed academic history from high school to post-graduation, and specify your intended PhD subject clearly.
5. Upload Documents: Upload a scanned recent passport-sized photograph (JPEG format) and your digital signature exactly conforming to the size guidelines established in the brochure.
6. Fee Processing: Move to the secure payment page and remit the ₹1800/- (or ₹900/- for reserved categories) fee using a digital payment instrument.
7. Final Output: Thoroughly verify all data in the preview phase, submit the application before 25 September 2026, and securely retain a printed hard copy of the final form for future administrative references.

Important Official Links for AU PhD Admission 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)