The candidacy exam for PhD scholars will happen as per the timelines specified in the PhD ordinances of the Institute (R.12). The goal of the candidacy exam is to ensure that the candidate demonstrates sufficient competence in the proposed area of research, and also broader areas of data science and AI (especially those that are relevant to his/her proposed area of research).
As per the recommendations of the 305th Senate, the Candidacy Exam must have a research component. Candidacy exams in the Department of Data Science and AI, Wadhwani School of Data Science and AI will be as per the following format, as approved in the 17th DCC of the department on 18th November 2024:
Research Component
- Presentation: 45 min
- Present a comprehensive review of the literature
- Critical analysis of one key paper
- Written report covering both components
Subject Component
- The passing score in each component is 50%
- The overall pass mark is 60%
- While this is not mandated by the ordinances, we have the flexibility to include this and ensure students are “above par”.
- The subject component may be waived by the DC if performance in coursework is good (B or higher); this coursework can include UG/PG coursework also, and is not restricted to IITM coursework.
- If not waived, the student must give an examination covering key areas; the DC chair will set the question paper (in consultation with other DC members).
Broad guidelines:
- Subjects should be decided by the DC in the Zero DC meeting
- Critical review papers should be approved by the Candidacy Panel members 30 days before the date of the candidacy exam
- The scholar must turn in a written report 7 days before the date of the candidacy exam, with a plagiarism check and declaration on the use of GenAI tools
- Timeline as per PhD Ordinances: R.12.