Raman Charpak Fellowship

The Raman Charpak Fellowship (RCF) is a prestigious bilateral program designed to strengthen scientific collaboration between India and France. Named in honour of two Nobel Laureates in Physics, Prof. C.V. Raman (India, 1930) and Prof. Georges Charpak (France, 1992), the fellowship was launched during the French President's state visit to India in 2013. Managed by the Indo-French Centre for the Promotion of Advanced Research (CEFIPRA/IFCPAR), its core mission is to facilitate the exchange of doctoral and master's students, thereby deepening future engagements in Science, Technology, and Innovation.

This fellowship provides a unique opportunity for Indian and French students to enhance their research skills by spending 2 to 5 months in a host university or R&D institution in the partner country. For the 2025–2026 academic year, the application call is open until December 10, 2025. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the eligibility criteria, application process, fellowship benefits, and key deadlines to help you secure this transformative international research experience.

The Raman Charpak Fellowship is not restricted to a single university. It allows you to conduct research at any recognized university or public research institution in France (for Indian fellows) or in India (for French fellows). The program covers a wide array of scientific disciplines for doctoral and master's level work.

Raman Charpak Fellowship Awards

The Raman Charpak Fellowship is a fully-funded research opportunity that provides comprehensive financial support, allowing you to focus entirely on your academic and research goals without monetary concerns.

The fellowship covers a wide range of expenses to ensure you can focus fully on your research. The support includes:

• A monthly subsistence allowance for daily expenses, local travel, and accommodation.
• One round-trip economy class airfare between your home country and the host country.
• Comprehensive insurance coverage (health and travel).
• Additional support for attending conferences, seminars, or workshops during the fellowship period.

Raman Charpak Fellowship Amount

The financial support is tailored differently for Indian and French fellows to account for the cost of living in the host country. The financial support is comprehensive.

Raman Charpak Fellowship Benefits

Beyond the financial coverage, the RCF offers unparalleled academic and professional advantages, setting the stage for a global career.

The eligibility criteria for the Raman Charpak Fellowship are specific and must be met fully by all applicants.

Countries Eligible Under Raman Charpak Fellowships

The fellowship is exclusively for the exchange of students between the two countries. The programme aims to build a strong Indo-French network of scientific leaders.

• Applicants from India must be Indian citizens residing in India who have registered for a PhD in a recognized university or research institution in India

The application process is completed online through the official CEFIPRA portal. It is competitive and requires careful preparation. You must follow each step carefully.

• Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the criteria, including nationality, age, and academic status.
• Find a Host: Identify and secure a consent letter from a host professor/institution in France or India.
• Prepare Documents: Download the prescribed formats for your Research Proposal and CV.
• Apply Online: Complete and submit the application via the official RCF Portal before the deadline.
• Submit References: Ensure your letters of recommendation are submitted as required.

Application Timeline for Raman Charpak Fellowship

The entire process from application to the start of your fellowship takes several months. Adhering to the timeline is critical for success. Mark these dates for the 2025 intake.

Raman Charpak Fellowship Interview

If you are shortlisted, you may be called for an interview. This interview is typically conducted online or in person at the CEFIPRA offices or associated institutions. It is a key part of the selection process.

You will be notified via email with the details if an interview is required. The interview panel will assess your research proposal, academic credentials, and the potential impact of the fellowship on your career.

You must ensure all your application documents are uploaded correctly before any interview. The interview will focus on your research skills, motivation, and adaptability.

Documents Required

You need to prepare several documents for your application. These are crucial for the assessment. Start gathering them early.

• Completed online application form.
• Research proposal (in the prescribed format).
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) (in the prescribed format).
• Invitation/Consent letter from the host institution in France/India.
• No Objection Certificate from the home institution in India/France.
• Scanned copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates.

FAQs about Raman Charpak Fellowship

Who is eligible for the Raman Charpak Fellowship?

You must be an Indian or French citizen, enrolled in a PhD (2nd/3rd year) or a Master's program (French only), and be under 30 years of age as of 1st April of the application year.

What does the Raman Charpak Fellowship cover?

It is a fully-funded research fellowship that covers a monthly living allowance, round-trip airfare, accommodation support, and insurance.

Can I apply without a host institution?

No. A prior consent or invitation letter from a recognized host university or R&D institute in France or India is mandatory for the application.

Do I need work experience for the Raman Charpak Fellowship?

No, work experience is not a mandatory requirement. The fellowship focuses on your current academic and research potential.