What is TIFR and how to prepare for it?
About TIFR
Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, TIFR is the foremost institution for advanced research in foundational sciences based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. The institute offers a master's course, an integrated M.Sc and Ph.D. course and a Ph.D. degree in different science fields. One can get admission into this institute by clearing the TIFR Entrance Exam. It is a perfect place for pioneering scientists to commence their careers.

TIFR Entrance for Integrated M.Sc-Ph.D. Programme in Mathematics
Eligibility
The eligibility criterion to be considered for admission to the Integrated Ph.D. programme is a Bachelor's degree in any of Mathematics, Statistics, Science or Technology (B.A. / B.Sc. / B.Math. / B.Stat. / B.E. / B.Tech.) from any recognized university.
Duration of the course
The duration of integrated courses is 6 years.
Application Procedure
Candidates can fill the application form online through the university website. After filling the form, candidates can pay the application fee online through internet banking or Debit/Credit Card.
Generally, the admission process takes place in the month of December.
Candidates can secure the admission in the following colleges:
- School of Mathematics, TIFR Mumbai
- Centre for Applicable Mathematics (CAM), BengaluruÂ
Selection Procedure
The selection of the candidates will be done on the basis of the Graduate School (GS) exam. A list of selected candidates will be published on the official website, on the basis of which, interview round will take place. This interview will be conducted by the university.
TIFR GS Entrance Exam Pattern
Part | Type of Questions | Number of Questions | Duration |
I | Objective (True/ False) | 30 | 1.5 hrs |
II | Subjective | 10 | 1.5 hrs |
Total | 40 | 3 hrs |
Marking System
Part I: Two marks will be awarded for each correct answer and one mark is deducted for each incorrect answer.
Part II: Full marks will be given to correct answers and partial marks will be given to partially correct answers in the exam.
Syllabus
The syllabus includes:
- Algebra
- Analysis
- Geometry/ Topology
- General
Click here to get the full syllabus:- http://univ.tifr.res.in/gs2020/Files/Maths_Syllabus.pdf
How to prepare for TIFR Entrance
Books for TIFR Entrance
Books for Linear Algebra
- Chapter 0 of Serge Lang’s Introduction Linear Algebra
- Introduction to Linear Algebra by Gilbert Strang
- Linear Algebra: A geometric Approach by S Kumaresan
- Linear Algebra by Hoffman & Kunze
- Algebra by Artin
- Topics in Algebra by Herstein
- Linear Algebra Done Right by Axler
Books for Abstract Algebra
- Contemporary Abstract Algebra by Gallian
- SAGE Math (computation software)
- Abstract Algebra by Dummit and Foote
Books for Real Analysis
- Introduction to Real Analysis by Bartle Sherbet
- Problems in Real Analysis by Kaczor
- A basic course in Real Analysis by Kumar & Kumaresan
- Analysis 1 & 2 by Terence Tao
- Principles of Mathematical Analysis by Rudin
Books for Topology
- Topology of Metric Spaces by Kumaresan
- Topology by Munkres
Books for Vector Calculus and Differential Equation
- Calculus, Early Transcendentals by James Stewart
- Basic Multivariable Calculus by Marden
- Calculus Vol 1 and 2 by Apostle
For more information, visit the website:- http://univ.tifr.res.in/gs2020/
Preparation Tips
Go through the syllabus:-
Learning about the syllabus is an essential part of preparation. This helps to have a better understanding of the preparation strategy and what topics to focus on. It saves you time as well.
Work on your concept and solve different questions:-
Try to clear your concepts on each topic and practice questions based on that topic from different books. This way, you will be able to understand your understanding of the topic.
Solve Previous Papers:-
This will help you know the exact difficulty level of the exam and prepare accordingly. Try to solve them in a time-bound manner.
Take Mock Tests:-
Take Mock Tests to check your ability of problem-solving. If it is an online test, then it can help you know your preparation status in the competition. You will be able to know where you stand and what should be improved.
Track your progress:-
You should also track your progress. If something unimportant is stealing your time, recognise it and try to avoid it. Keep yourself surrounded by people who encourage you. Discuss your dreams and goals with them.
Take proper rest and believe in yourself:-
It is the biggest myth that studying for long hours brings productivity at your work. There should be a routine with a proper work-rest balance and then you should ritually follow it. Also having low self-esteem can ruin your performance in exams.
All the best!