The PhD program at NCBS accepts candidates with a Masters in any basic science discipline, including biology, chemistry, physics, and mathematics; or a basic degree in any applied science such as medicine, engineering, pharmacy and veterinary science. Candidates are invited to apply in response to advertisements issued by the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai appearing nationally in the last week of August/first week of September every year. All applicants are required to take a written test conducted in December. Candidates who have qualified the CSIR/ICMR/Gate exam are also required to apply for this entrance test for admission to the PhD program at NCBS.