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Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research: Admission 2026, Courses, Fees, Ranking & Mumbai Campus Life
location
Mumbai, Maharashtra
author
Abhijeet Chatterjee
Updated on 10 January 2026

More About IGIDR Mumbai

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), Mumbai, is widely recognized as a premier institution dedicated to advanced research and postgraduate education in economics and development studies. Established in 1987 by the Reserve Bank of India and granted Deemed University status in 1991, IGIDR has cultivated a distinguished legacy of academic excellence and impactful research, making it a pivotal center for economic thought in India.

The institute offers highly specialized academic programs, including a rigorous M.Sc. in Economics with an intake capacity of 60 students and a comprehensive Ph.D. in Development Studies. These programs are meticulously designed to equip students with advanced theoretical foundations and quantitative analytical skills, preparing them for leadership roles in various sectors. IGIDR’s commitment to quality is reflected in its ranking 67th among universities by NIRF 2023.

Its campus, spread across 14 serene acres in Goregaon, Mumbai, provides a focused and stimulating environment. With a dedicated team of 24 faculty members for 206 students, IGIDR maintains a healthy faculty-student ratio of 1:8.5 (2022-23 data), ensuring close mentorship and collaborative learning within a vibrant intellectual community.

The career outcomes for IGIDR graduates are consistently strong. In 2022-23, M.Sc. Economics postgraduates achieved a median salary of ₹14.00 LPA, while Ph.D. graduates secured a median package of ₹15.50 LPA. Alumni excel in diverse roles across top-tier financial institutions, government bodies, international organizations, research think tanks, and academic positions, highlighting the institute''s profound impact on professional development and societal contribution.

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Campus Area

14

Total Seat

60

Faculty Student Ratio

1:8.5

About Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research - [IGIDR] Mumbai

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), established in 1987, is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a deemed-to-be university and an autonomous advanced research institute fully funded by the Reserve Bank of India, focusing on multidisciplinary development research.

IGIDR holds an "A" grade accreditation from NAAC and is ranked 6th among deemed universities in the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) 2025. It offers postgraduate and doctoral programs primarily in Economics and Development Studies, with a strong emphasis on research in economics, energy, environment, and policy. The institute has a faculty strength of around 28 and hosts one of Asia's largest social sciences libraries.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameIndira Gandhi Institute of Development Research
Established1987
TypeDeemed University, Autonomous
AffiliationAutonomous (Deemed to be University)
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeA (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 20256th in Deemed Universities (IIRF Ranking)
Campus11 acres, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Courses0 UG + 1 PG (M.Sc. Economics) + PhD
Popular ProgrammesM.Sc. Economics, Ph.D. in Development Studies
StudentsApprox. 150
Faculty28 (Professors, Associate and Assistant Professors)
Websitehttp://www.igidr.ac.in

Courses Offered at IGIDR Mumbai

Specializations

Master of Science in EconomicsMaster of Science in Economics

Specializations

Ph.D. in Development StudiesPh.D. in Development Studies

Overview

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), established in 1987, is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is a deemed-to-be university and an autonomous advanced research institute fully funded by the Reserve Bank of India, focusing on multidisciplinary development research.

IGIDR holds an "A" grade accreditation from NAAC and is ranked 6th among deemed universities in the Indian Institutional Ranking Framework (IIRF) 2025. It offers postgraduate and doctoral programs primarily in Economics and Development Studies, with a strong emphasis on research in economics, energy, environment, and policy. The institute has a faculty strength of around 28 and hosts one of Asia's largest social sciences libraries.

Key Highlights

ParameterDetails
Full NameIndira Gandhi Institute of Development Research
Established1987
TypeDeemed University, Autonomous
AffiliationAutonomous (Deemed to be University)
Approved ByUGC
NAAC GradeA (Valid till 2027)
NIRF 20256th in Deemed Universities (IIRF Ranking)
Campus11 acres, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Courses0 UG + 1 PG (M.Sc. Economics) + PhD
Popular ProgrammesM.Sc. Economics, Ph.D. in Development Studies
StudentsApprox. 150
Faculty28 (Professors, Associate and Assistant Professors)
Websitehttp://www.igidr.ac.in

Admission Dates 2026

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) Mumbai offers admission primarily to M.Sc. Economics and Ph.D. Development Studies programs. Admission involves an online entrance examination (CUET PG for M.Sc.) followed by a personal interview. The application process is conducted online through the official IGIDR website.

ProgrammeEventDate
M.Sc. EconomicsApplication Start01 May 2026
M.Sc. EconomicsApplication Deadline23 May 2026
M.Sc. EconomicsAdmit Card ReleaseJune 2026
M.Sc. EconomicsComputer Based TestJune 2026
M.Sc. EconomicsInterviewAugust 2026
M.Sc. EconomicsAdmission ConfirmationAugust 2026
Ph.D. Development StudiesApplication Start01 May 2026
Ph.D. Development StudiesApplication Deadline23 May 2026
Ph.D. Development StudiesEntrance TestJune 2026
Ph.D. Development StudiesInterviewAugust 2026
Ph.D. Development StudiesAdmission ConfirmationAugust 2026

Nearest Attractions at IGIDR Mumbai

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Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA)

17 km

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Malad Bus Depot

4 km

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Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital

7.5 km

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Malad Railway Station (Western Line)

4.5 km

Admission Process

Admission to Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) Mumbai is primarily through the CUET-PG entrance exam for the M.Sc. Economics program and a separate entrance test followed by an interview for the Ph.D. program. Candidates must apply online, appear for the entrance test, and participate in the interview and counselling process.

M.Sc. Economics Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Register online on the IGIDR official website by filling out the application form for the M.Sc. Economics program after CUET-PG results are announced.
  2. Upload scanned photographs and signatures specifications.
  3. Pay the application fee online and take a printout of the e-receipt and application form.
  4. Appear for the CUET-PG entrance exam and await the merit list publication.
  5. If shortlisted, attend the online interview and counselling session as scheduled by IGIDR.
  6. Complete document verification by submitting attested copies of required documents.
  7. Pay the admission fee to confirm the seat and complete the admission process.

Ph.D. Admission

Steps to Apply

  1. Check eligibility and register online on the IGIDR website by filling the Ph.D. application form.
  2. Upload necessary documents and pay the application fee online.
  3. Appear for the IGIDR-conducted entrance test.
  4. Attend the interview/viva voce if shortlisted based on the entrance test score.
  5. Submit required documents for verification.
  6. Pay the admission fee to finalize enrollment.

Eligibility Criteria & Fees

ProgrammeQualificationEntrance ExamMin %Fees (per year)
M.Sc. EconomicsBA/BSc Economics with 55% or BCom/BStat/BSc (Physics/Maths)/BTech/BE with 60%CUET-PG55% (Economics), 60% (Others)₹1,00,000 approx.
Ph.D. Development StudiesMA/MSc Economics/MStat/MSc (Physics/Maths/Env Sci/Operations Research)/MBA/MTech/ME/BTech/BE with 55% (Economics) or 60% (Others)IGIDR Entrance Test + Interview55% (Economics), 60% (Others)₹1,00,000 approx.

Documents Required

  • Class 10th and 12th mark sheets and certificates
  • Bachelor’s degree certificate and mark sheets (for M.Sc. admission)
  • Master’s degree certificate and mark sheets (for Ph.D. admission)
  • CUET-PG scorecard (for M.Sc.) or IGIDR entrance test scorecard (for Ph.D.)
  • Passport size photographs
  • Migration certificate
  • Transfer certificate
  • Character certificate
  • Caste/category certificate (if applicable)
  • Proof of identity (Aadhar card, passport, PAN, voter ID)
  • Disability certificate (if applicable)

Campus Facilities at IGIDR Mumbai

Academic Spaces

Classrooms

Main Auditorium

Seminar Rooms

Accommodation for Parents

Guest House

Basic Services

ATM Facility

General Store/Stationery Shop

Utilities and Power Backup

Disability Services

Accessibility Features

Entry/Exit Rules

Access Control and Visitor Management

Food Options

Hostel Mess

Main Canteen/Cafeteria

Hostel Facilities

Boys Hostel

Girls Hostel

Incubation Centers

Research Centers and Initiatives

IT Facilities

Campus-wide Wi-Fi Connectivity

Central Computer Centre

Laboratories

Computer Labs

Library

Dr. C. Rangarajan Library

Medical Facilities

Medical Centre

Recreational Areas

Hostel Common Rooms

Safety & Security

Campus Security Services

Sports & Fitness

Gymnasium

Indoor Games Area

Outdoor Sports Complex

Student Help Desks

Grievance Redressal Cell

Student Counseling Services

Transport Services

Parking Facilities

Placements 2025

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), Mumbai achieved a strong placement performance in 2025 with 20 students placed, a median salary of ₹20.2 LPA, and a highest package reaching ₹46.5 LPA. The institute maintains robust industry connections, especially in banking, finance, and research sectors, with top recruiters including American Express, Bank of America, and ICICI Bank.

Placement Statistics

ParameterValue
Highest Package₹46.5 LPA
Average Package₹15 LPA
Median Package₹20.2 LPA
Placement Rate80-90%
Students Placed20/25
Companies Visited20+

Top Recruiters

IT: TCS, Accenture, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC

Consulting: Deloitte, EY, KPMG, PwC, Boston Analytics

Core: American Express, Bank of America, ICICI Bank, IDBI First Bank, RBI, NABARD

Branch-wise Placement

BranchHighestAverage%Placed
M.Sc Economics₹15 LPA₹7.5 LPA70-80%
Ph.D Development Studies₹18 LPA₹10 LPA40-50%

Student Reviews & Testimonials

Bhavesh Patel

5

One of the Best institute in Economics Research. Beautiful campus with best amenities. Especially IGIDR library is best.

Shubham Singh

5

The facilities of this institute is amazing at very low cost. I love this college even hostel is also well furnished... For Economics it's one of the best college...So please go for it if possible...

Tamil Mani

5

Mind blowing place and any time favourite place 😍

Pradeep Kumar Panda

5

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) is one of the best Institute for Economics in the country. The Institute is located in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The Institute offers M.SC in Economics and Ph.D programme. IGIDR regularly organises seminar, workshop and Conference on various topics related to Economics, Finance, Indian Economy and Development Research etc.

Rankings & Accreditations

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR), Mumbai, holds a strong position among Indian deemed universities, ranking 4th in the IIRF 2025 Deemed University category. It is also ranked within the #551-700 band globally by QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, reflecting its recognized research and academic contributions in development studies and economics.

NIRF 2025

CategoryRankScore
Deemed University (IIRF)#4Not specified

Other Rankings

AgencyRankYear
QS World University Rankings by Subject#551-7002025

Accreditations

  • NAAC: Accredited (Grade and validity not specified)

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) offers various scholarships and fellowships primarily for M.Phil, Ph.D., post-doctoral researchers, and visiting scholars, with stipends ranging from ₹17,000 to ₹43,750 per month. Additionally, IGIDR participates in specialized fellowship programs for select Asian countries and provides need-based financial aid for master's students. Government scholarships applicable through the National Scholarship Portal may also be accessible to eligible students.

Institute Scholarships

ScholarshipEligibilityAmount
M.Phil ScholarshipNeedy M.Phil students₹25,000/month for first two years
Ph.D. StipendPh.D. students fulfilling registration terms₹31,000/month (first two years), ₹43,750/month (after Ph.D. registration)
Post-Doctoral FellowshipPh.D. holders under 40 years, with strong academic record₹70,000/month with additional benefits
Visiting Scholars ProgramMaster’s degree holders registered for Ph.D. in economics-related fields₹17,000/month + travel and accommodation support
IGIDR-IDRC Visiting Doctoral Fellowship (Asian countries)Ph.D. students from select Asian countries₹26,000/month + up to ₹50,000 travel + ₹25,000 medical coverage + book and conference travel grants

Government Scholarships

SchemeForAmountPortal
Central and State Government ScholarshipsEligible Indian students based on category and meritVaries by scheme and categoryNational Scholarship Portal (NSP)

External Scholarships

  • International Development Research Centre (IDRC): Funding support for IGIDR-IDRC fellowships targeting students and scholars from select Asian countries focusing on inclusive development and labor market policy.

Comparison

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) Mumbai is compared with Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai) and Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai as all three are premier autonomous institutes in Mumbai specializing in social sciences, management, and development research, attracting students interested in economics, policy, and management studies.

ParameterIndira Gandhi Institute of Development Research - [IGIDR] MumbaiIndian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai)Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai
TypeAutonomous (Deemed University)Autonomous (Institute of National Importance)Autonomous (Deemed University)
Established198719611936
NIRF 2025Not in top 100 overall; ranked 250th in India (QS India Ranking)#6 in Management category101-150 in Overall; 72nd in University category
NAACA GradeNot applicable (IIMs not NAAC accredited)A Grade
Fee (Total)₹15.15 L (approx. for full course)₹23-25 L (approx. for flagship MBA)₹3-5 L (approx. for MA/MSc courses)
Highest Package₹30 LPA (approx.)₹70 LPA (approx.)₹15 LPA (approx.)
Average Package₹12 LPA (approx.)₹30 LPA (approx.)₹6 LPA (approx.)

Key Strengths

  • Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research - [IGIDR] Mumbai: Focused on advanced research and education in economics and development studies with strong emphasis on policy-oriented research.
  • Indian Institute of Management Mumbai (IIM Mumbai): Premier management institute with strong industry connections, high placement packages, and leadership in business education.
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) Mumbai: Renowned for social sciences, social work, and public policy education with strong community engagement and social impact focus.

Campus & Infrastructure

Indira Gandhi Institute of Development Research (IGIDR) is situated on a 14-acre hillside campus in Goregaon East, Mumbai. The campus architecture draws inspiration from the Elephanta and Jogeshwari caves and includes academic, residential, and recreational facilities designed to support research and student life.

Campus Details

ParameterDetails
Area14 acres
LocationGoregaon East, Mumbai, Maharashtra
Nearest RailwayGoregaon Railway Station (approx. 15 minutes by bus)
Nearest AirportMumbai International Airport (approx. 20 km)

Academic Facilities

  • Library: Over 100,000 printed documents, 406+ national and international journals
  • Labs: State-of-the-art Computer Centre with latest software and networking equipment
  • Classrooms: 4 classrooms, 2 seminar rooms, 1 conference hall, 1 auditorium (500 seating capacity) equipped with projector, document camera, Wi-Fi, digital class, and video conferencing system

Hostel

TypeCapacityFee/Year
BoysData not specifiedData not specified
GirlsData not specifiedData not specified

Other Facilities

  • Swimming pool (20 meters)
  • Tennis court
  • Indoor badminton court
  • Table tennis room
  • Jogging track
  • Fully equipped gymnasium
  • Children’s park
  • Guest house with 50 rooms
  • Cafeteria
  • Free 24×7 internet service with 150 Mbps leased line and backup ISP
  • Barrier-free access with ramps, lifts, and disabled-friendly facilities

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the admission process for the M.Sc. Economics program at IGIDR Mumbai?

Admission to the M.Sc. Economics program is based solely on the CUET-PG 2025 score. Candidates must register on the IGIDR website by May 23, 2025, and no interview is required. The program has 75 seats with reservation government norms.

What are the eligibility criteria for Ph.D. admissions at IGIDR?

Ph.D. applicants must hold a relevant master's degree with at least 55% marks in Economics or 60% in other disciplines and have studied Mathematics at higher secondary or above. Valid UGC-JRF/CSIR-JRF or equivalent scholarships are required for some categories.

How much is the application fee for IGIDR admissions?

The application fee is ₹500 for the general category and ₹100 for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/EWS candidates, payable online during the application process on the IGIDR website.

What is the fee structure for the M.Sc. Economics program at IGIDR?

The tuition fee is charged annually, with detailed fee structure available on the official website. Additional costs include accommodation, meals, and study materials, which students must budget for separately.

Are scholarships or financial aid available at IGIDR?

IGIDR offers stipends and scholarships primarily for Ph.D. students based on merit and government guidelines. M.Sc. students may explore external scholarships, but institute-specific scholarships are limited.

What is the placement scenario for IGIDR graduates?

IGIDR graduates typically secure roles in research institutions, government agencies, and international organizations. Placement rates are high for Ph.D. and M.Sc. Economics students, with competitive packages reflecting the research-oriented training.

Which companies or organizations recruit from IGIDR?

Recruiters include RBI, World Bank, IMF, government ministries, economic research institutes, and consulting firms, reflecting IGIDR’s focus on development economics and policy research.

How is the curriculum structured for the M.Sc. Economics program?

The two-year curriculum emphasizes quantitative economics, econometrics, and development studies, integrating rigorous coursework with research projects guided by experienced faculty.

What research areas does IGIDR specialize in?

IGIDR focuses on development economics, environmental economics, energy policy, climate change, and quantitative methods, supported by faculty with strong academic and policy backgrounds.

What are the hostel facilities like at IGIDR Mumbai?

IGIDR provides on-campus hostel accommodation with single and shared rooms, mess facilities, and Wi-Fi. Hostel admission is limited and allocated based on merit and availability.

How is the food quality in the IGIDR mess?

The mess offers vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals with a focus on hygiene and balanced nutrition. Feedback from students indicates satisfactory food quality with regular menu rotations.

What student clubs and extracurricular activities are available at IGIDR?

IGIDR hosts academic seminars, cultural events, and student-run clubs focusing on economics, environment, and social issues, fostering a collaborative and intellectually stimulating campus life.

Is IGIDR campus safe for students, especially for women?

The campus maintains strict security protocols including CCTV surveillance and security personnel. The institute promotes a safe environment with zero tolerance for harassment.

What is the daily commute like to IGIDR Mumbai?

IGIDR is located in Goregaon East, Mumbai, well-connected by local trains, buses, and auto-rickshaws. Many students prefer living in nearby suburbs for easier daily commute.

Are part-time jobs or internships available for IGIDR students?

While IGIDR encourages internships related to economics and development research, part-time jobs on campus are limited. Students often pursue internships during semester breaks.

Is there a dress code at IGIDR for students?

IGIDR does not enforce a formal dress code; however, students typically dress in smart casual attire suitable for academic and professional settings.

How does IGIDR compare with other economics research institutes in India?

IGIDR is highly regarded for its research focus and affiliation with RBI, offering specialized programs in development economics, making it competitive with institutes like IIMs and Delhi School of Economics.

What is the return on investment (ROI) for an M.Sc. Economics degree from IGIDR?

Given the institute’s strong placement record in research and policy roles, the ROI is favorable, with graduates securing well-paying jobs in reputed organizations within 6-12 months post-graduation.

How strong is the alumni network of IGIDR?

IGIDR has an active alumni network engaged in academia, government, and international organizations, facilitating mentorship, networking, and career opportunities for current students.

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