Application call for PhD admission at Agriculture and Forestry University

Agriculture and Forestry University (AFU) invites applications for PhD programs in various departments under two categories: 

• PhD by Course and Research
• PhD by Research 

Applicants must submit the PhD Admission Application Form along with all required documents. Forms can be downloaded here: AFU PG Bulletin 2016. Incomplete applications will not be evaluated.

Key Details

• Application Deadline: Mangsir 29, 2082 / December 15, 2025 (4:00 PM)
• Application fee: NRs 3,000
• Bank Details for Application Fee
  • A/C Name: Directorate of Post Graduate Program
  • A/C Number: 08500107544433000001
  • Bank: Nepal Bank Limited, Rampur Branch, Chitwan

Eligibility and Requirements

1. PhD by Course and Research

• M.Sc. in first division or CGPA 3.25/4.0 in the relevant field. Prerequisite courses may apply.
• At least one research publication as first author in a refereed journal.
• Graduated from an English-medium institution; otherwise, IELTS/TOEFL/PTE may be considered.
• Two confidential recommendation letters required (at least one from a university professor/academic mentor).
• Submit an acceptable research proposal and proof of assured research funding.

2. PhD by Research

• Minimum 5 years of work experience in academic, research, or development field after M.Sc.
• First division / CGPA 3.25: minimum two research publications as first author.
• Second division / CGPA <3.25: minimum three research publications as first author.
• Graduated from an English-medium institution; otherwise, IELTS/TOEFL/PTE may be considered.
• Two confidential recommendation letters required (at least one from a university professor/academic mentor).
• Submitan  acceptable research proposal and proof of assured research funding.

3. Special Eligibility for Cross-Cutting Areas

• PhD in Rural Sociology, Development Studies, and Biotechnology:
  • Bachelor’s degree: B.Sc. Ag., B.Sc. Forestry, B.Sc. Fisheries, B.V.Sc. & A.H., or equivalent.
  • Master’s degree: relevant field.
  • For Biotechnology: B.Sc. + M.Sc. in Biotechnology eligible.

4. Candidates from Organizations/Universities in Nepal

• Must meet all minimum eligibility requirements.
• An official nomination letter is required if nominated by an organization/university.
• Proof of financial support required.
• Non-nominated full-time employees must submit a release letter and proof of funding.

5. International Candidates

• Must meet all admission requirements and submit proof of financial support.

Documents Required

1. PhD Admission Application Form
2. Curriculum Vitae (CV)
3. Citizenship/Passport
4. Complete academic certificates and transcripts (from a Bachelor’s degree)
5. Grade conversion certificate (if applicable)
6. Equivalent certificates (for foreign degrees)
7. Official release letter/nomination letter
8. Two recommendation letters (at least one from a university professor)
9. Work experience letters
10. Concept note/research proposal
11. Letter of sponsorship or proof of self-funding
12. Publications as first author (hardcopy)
13. Application fee: NRs 3,000 (paid receipt from AFU Post Graduate Office or original bank voucher)

Selection Process

• PhD committee will evaluate documents and decide admission by Paush 14, 2082 / December 29, 2025.
• If applications exceed available seats, selection will be competitive.
• Major advisor assigned at admission offer.
• Admission Deadline: Paush 22, 2082 / January 6, 2026 (4:00 PM)
• Orientation / Semester Commencement: Paush 22, 2082 / January 6, 2026

Note: The program will be conducted as per Postgraduate Program Guidelines 2024

Departments Offering PhD Admission

Faculty of Agriculture

• Agronomy
• Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management
• Rural Sociology and Development Studies
• Entomology
• Horticulture
• Genetics and Plant Breeding
• Center for Biotechnology
• Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering
• Agri Botany and Conservation Ecology
• Agriculture Extension and Rural Sociology
• Plant Pathology

Faculty of Animal Science, Veterinary Science and Fisheries

• Veterinary Microbiology and Parasitology
• Veterinary Surgery and Pharmacology
• Aquaculture
• Animal Breeding and Biotechnology
• Livestock Production and Management
• Animal Nutrition and Fodder Production
• Anatomy, Physiology, and Biochemistry

Faculty of Forestry

• Departments as per AFU approval

Download the notice: 

Call for PhD Notice