The Department of Clinical and Rehabilitation Psychology and Research (DCRPR), NIEPVD, Dehradun, has invited applications for its MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) and PsyD in Clinical Psychology programmes. NIEPVD, Dehradun, offers RCI-recognized clinical psychology programmes, MA & PsyD, under the affiliation of Shri Dev Suman Uttarakhand University.
NIEPVD is among the seven other National Institutes under the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwDs), Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, Government of India, dedicated to the empowerment, rehabilitation, and welfare of persons with disabilities across India.
Programmes Offered by NIEPVD Dehradun
NIEPVD Dehradun offers the following programmes:
MA Clinical Psychology (RCI)
Course Duration and Number of Seats
- Duration: 2 years
- Number of Seats:
| Category | Seats |
|---|---|
| UR (General) | 5 |
| SC | 1 |
| ST | 1 |
| OBC | 3 |
| Total | 10 |
Note: Reservation is applicable as per the prevailing GOI norms. A 10% reservation for EWS candidates is subject to approval by the affiliated University and the RCI. The number of seats may be revised in accordance with any subsequent notifications.
Eligibility Criteria for MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) Admission
Candidates applying for the MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) program at NIEPVD Dehradun must have one of the following qualifications from a UGC-recognized university:
- A four-year BA/BSc in Psychology.
- A three-year BA in Psychology along with a one-year bridge course (PGDRP/PGDCP).
- A BA in Psychology provided the first year of the MA in Psychology has been successfully completed.
- A BA in Psychology with a completed MA in Psychology.
Applicants must also have secured a minimum of:
- 55% marks for candidates belonging to the General category.
- 50% marks for candidates belonging to the SC, ST, or OBC categories.
Important Note #1: Candidates who hold only an MA in Psychology without an undergraduate degree in Psychology are not eligible for admission to the program.
Important Note #2: Candidates awaiting the results of their qualifying examination are not eligible to apply. Applicants must possess their final qualifying result and supporting documents on or before the date of the entrance examination, unless otherwise permitted under the regulations of the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), the affiliated University, or the Institute.
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
Admissions to the MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) program of NIEPVD Dehradun will be based on an Entrance Examination. The entrance test consists of:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Questions | 100 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
| Total Marks | 100 |
| Negative Marking | No |
The program is offered as a full-time, on-campus course.
PsyD Clinical Psychology
Course Duration and Number of Seats
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Years (Regular Entry) / 2 Years (Lateral Entry) |
| Total Intake | 3 Seats |
NOTE: Since the total intake is limited to three seats, the reservation has not been applied to the PsyD Clinical Psychology program for the 2026 admission cycle.
Eligibility Criteria for PsyD Clinical Psychology Admission
NIEPVD Dehradun offers admission to the PsyD Clinical Psychology program through two admission routes,
- Direct Entry and
- Lateral Entry
Candidates must meet the eligibility requirements for their chosen admission route.
Eligibility Criteria for Direct Entry
Candidates applying through the Direct Entry route must fulfil the following requirements:
| Particular | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | MA or MSc in Psychology from a UGC-recognized university |
| Minimum Marks | 65% for General category candidates and 60% for SC, ST, and OBC candidates |
| Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) | Two Letters of Recommendation from permanent faculty members of the institution where the Master’s degree was completed |
Eligibility Criteria for Lateral Entry
Candidates applying through the Lateral Entry route must meet the following criteria:
| Particular | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | MPhil in Clinical Psychology, recognized by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) |
| Minimum Marks | Minimum 55% aggregate marks |
| Additional Requirements | Part I and Part II of the MPhil program must have been completed on the first attempt |
| RCI Registration | Valid RCI registration as a Clinical Psychologist |
| Letters of Recommendation (LoRs) | Two Letters of Recommendation from permanent faculty members of the institution where the MPhil degree was completed |
Selection Process and Exam Pattern
Admission to the PsyD Clinical Psychology program at NIEPVD Dehradun is based on a multi-stage selection process designed to assess applicants’ academic knowledge, practical skills, and professional aptitude.
The selection process consists of the following components:
| Stage(s) | Marks |
|---|---|
| Objective Examination | 100 |
| Written Test | 40 |
| Practical Assessment | 40 |
| Group Discussion | 10 |
| Personal Interview | 10 |
Stage 1: Objective Examination
The first stage of the selection process is an Objective Examination comprising:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Maximum Marks | 100 |
| Duration | 2 Hours |
Based on the merit list of the Objective Examination, only the top six candidates will be shortlisted to appear for the next stages of the admission process.
Final Selection
The final merit list will be prepared based on the cumulative score obtained across all stages of the selection process, including:
- Objective Examination
- Written Test
- Practical Assessment
- Group Discussion
- Personal Interview
The PsyD Clinical Psychology program is offered as a full-time, on-campus program.
Application Process and Fee
Applications for admission to the clinical psychology programmes offered by NIEPVD Dehradun must be submitted only through the online application form made available by the Institute. Applications submitted through any mode other than the prescribed online application portal will not be considered.
- Application Form for MA Clinical Psychology (RCI): The form
- Application Form for PsyD Clinical Psychology: The form
Follow the steps below to complete your application:
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Candidates should fill out the online application form for their desired program and carefully review the eligibility criteria, admission guidelines, and application instructions before submission.
Step 2: Pay the Application Fee
Applicants must pay the prescribed application fee online through the following bank account or pay directly at the Institute’s Accounts Department.
- Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | Rs 5,000 |
| OBC | Rs 3,000 |
| SC | Rs 3,000 |
| ST | Rs 3,000 |
| Economically Weaker Section (EWS) | Rs 3,000 |
| Persons with Disabilities (PwD) | Exempted (No Fee) |
NOTE: The application fee is charged per course. Candidates applying for more than one program must pay the prescribed application fee separately for each application.
- Bank Details
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Account Name | NIVH |
| Account Number | 6185000100023598 |
| Bank | Punjab National Bank |
| IFSC Code | PUNB0618500 |
Step 3: Upload Payment Proof
After completing the payment, candidates must upload a clear copy of the payment receipt or transaction confirmation while submitting the online application form. Applications without valid proof of fee payment, wherever applicable, will not be considered.
Failed Transaction: What to Do?
If you experience a technical issue while paying the application fee, please do not make multiple payment attempts. Instead,
- Take a screenshot of the payment error, upload it in the designated section of the online application form, where the payment receipt is to be uploaded, and email the Entrance Examination Help Desk with a clear screenshot and details of the issue.
- Upon verification, the Institute may permit eligible candidates to pay the application fee in person on the day of the entrance examination before it begins. This facility is available only in genuine cases of technical payment failure and is subject to the Institute’s approval.
Step 4: Submit the Application
After verifying all the information entered in the application form, candidates should submit the application before the mentioned deadline. It is advised to keep a copy of the submitted application form and payment receipt for future reference.
Important Dates and Other Details
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Last Date of Application Submission | Thursday, August 13, 2026 by 05:30 PM |
| Release of Admit Cards | Tuesday, August 18, 2026 by 05:30 PM |
| Date of Entrance Exam (MCQs) for MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) and PsyD Clinical Psychology | Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 Noon |
| Declaration of MCQ Result | Saturday, August 22, 2026, 01:45 PM |
| Descriptive Written Examination for only the top 6 shortlisted candidates (Applicable only for PsyD Clinical Psychology candidates) | Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 2:00 Noon to 3:00 PM |
| Practical Assessment, Group Discussion, and Personal Interview (Only the six candidates, based on merit in the written examination, shall be shortlisted) | Monday, August 24, 2026, 9:30 AM onwards |
| Document Verification & Final Admission Procedure for the Selected Candidates of MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) | Monday, August 24, 2026, 09:30 AM onwards |
| Document verification and final admission procedure for the selected candidates of PsyD Clinical Psychology | Tuesday, August 25, 2026, 9:30 AM onwards |
| Commencement of Academic Session 2026 | Tuesday, September 1, 2026 |
Examination Centre & Reporting Time
Candidates should report to the examination center as per the schedule below:
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Examination Centre | NIEPVD, 116 Rajpur Road, Dehradun |
| Reporting Time | 09:00 AM, Saturday, 22 August 2026 |
| Gate Closing Time | 09:30 AM, Saturday, 22 August 2026 |
Important Note: No candidate will be permitted to enter the examination center after 09:30 AM under any circumstances. Since Dehradun may experience heavy traffic, especially during the monsoon season, candidates are advised to plan their travel accordingly and arrive well before the gate closing time. The Institute will not be responsible for delays caused by traffic, adverse weather conditions, transportation issues, or any other unforeseen circumstances.
Important Admission Notes
Applicants should keep the following points in mind:
- Candidates must carry a printed admit card and a valid government-issued photo ID to the examination center.
- For PsyD Clinical Psychology, the Practical Assessment, Group Discussion, and Personal Interview are applicable only to candidates shortlisted on merit after the Objective Examination.
- Admission will remain provisional until all original documents are verified, eligibility requirements are fulfilled, and the prescribed First-Year Tuition Fee and Caution Money are deposited on the day of admission.
- Incomplete, incorrect, misleading, or fabricated information may result in cancellation of candidature or admission.
- Failure to complete the admission formalities may result in cancellation of the provisional admission. The Tuition Fee and Caution Money are non-refundable, except where otherwise permitted under the applicable rules or directions of the Institute or other competent statutory authorities.
- The Institute reserves the right to revise the admission schedule in exceptional circumstances. Any changes will be notified through the official website.
Guidelines for Reservation Certificates & Document Verification
Candidates claiming reservation under any category must ensure that they have valid and prescribed certificates at the time of the entrance examination and admission. Failure to produce the required documents in the prescribed format may result in cancellation of candidature or denial of reservation benefits.
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) Candidates
Candidates applying under the OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) category must ensure that:
- The OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) certificate has been issued within the last three years preceding the date of admission.
- The certificate clearly indicates Non-Creamy Layer status.
- Expired or invalid OBC certificates will not be accepted, and such candidates may be considered under the General category, subject to fulfilment of the prescribed eligibility criteria.
Economically Weaker Section (EWS) Candidates
Candidates applying under the EWS category should note that:
- The EWS certificate must be issued during the current financial year (1 April to 31 March).
- For the 2026–27 admission cycle, only certificates issued for the applicable financial year will be accepted.
- Certificates issued for previous financial years will not be considered valid.
SC, ST, and Other Reserved Categories
Candidates belonging to the SC, ST, or other reserved categories must ensure that:
- Their reservation certificate has been issued by a competent authority recognized by the Government of India or the respective State Government.
- The certificate clearly specifies the applicable reservation category and remains valid at the time of admission.
- Wherever applicable, the certificate should also comply with the prescribed statutory and regional requirements.
Tie-Breaking Policy
If two or more candidates obtain the same score in the entrance examination and other selection components (where applicable), NIEPVD Dehradun will prepare the merit list using program-specific academic criteria.
MA Clinical Psychology (RCI)
Preference will be given based on the applicant’s qualifying pathway:
- Four-year BA/BSc in Psychology: Fourth-year marks/CGPA.
- Three-year Bachelor’s degree + Bridge Course (PGDRP/PGDCP): Combined average marks/CGPA of the Bachelor’s degree and Bridge Course.
- Three-year Bachelor’s degree + First Year of MA/MSc Psychology: First-year Master’s marks/CGPA.
- Completed MA/MSc Psychology: Final Master’s marks/CGPA.
PsyD Clinical Psychology
- Direct Entry: Preference will be based on the final percentage/CGPA obtained in the completed MA/MSc Psychology program.
- Lateral Entry: The Institute will give preference to candidates who have secured a higher aggregate percentage/CGPA in the MPhil Clinical Psychology program.
If the tie still remains, the Institute will give preference to the older candidate based on the date of birth. If the tie, even then, cannot be resolved, the Admission Committee will determine the final merit through a draw of lots.
Important Admission Conditions
Candidates offered admission must submit all prescribed declarations, undertakings, affidavits, and supporting documents in the formats provided by the Institute at the time of admission. This includes an Anti-Ragging Undertaking, employment-related declarations (where applicable), and other documents required under the Institute, affiliated University, and Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) regulations.
Applicants must comply with the Institute’s academic, clinical training, attendance, examination, and professional ethics requirements throughout the programme. Submission of false or incomplete information, or failure to comply with the prescribed undertakings, may result in cancellation of admission or disciplinary action.
Waiver of Entrance Examination
NIEPVD Dehradun may waive the entrance examination for a program if the number of eligible applicants is equal to or less than the approved intake.
In such cases, admissions will be granted based on:
- Verification of educational qualifications and original documents.
- Verification of reservation and category certificates (where applicable).
- Fulfilment of the eligibility criteria prescribed by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI), the affiliated University, and the Institute.
- Successful completion of document verification and other admission formalities.
The Institute’s decision regarding the conduct or waiver of the entrance examination shall be final and binding.
Need More Help?
If you need more information regarding the application process, dates, or any other aspect of the program, or require guidance with preparation, application strategy, or admission planning, you can connect with UPS Education using the details below:
Contact Number: +91-9899599967
Website: upseducation.in
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Does the RCI recognize the MA Clinical Psychology program at NIEPVD Dehradun?
Yes. The Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) recognizes the MA Clinical Psychology program offered by NIEPVD Dehradun.
2. What is the duration of the MA Clinical Psychology and PsyD Clinical Psychology programmes?
The MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) program is of 2 years’ duration, and NIEPVD Dehradun offers the PsyD Clinical Psychology programme through two admission routes:
- Regular Mode: 4 years
- Lateral Mode: 2 years
3. How many seats does NIEPVD Dehradun offer for MA Clinical Psychology and PsyD Clinical Psychology programmes?
For the 2026 admission cycle, NIEPVD Dehradun offers:
- MA Clinical Psychology (RCI): 10 seats
- PsyD Clinical Psychology: 3 seats
4. What is the eligibility criteria for MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) at NIEPVD Dehradun?
Candidates must possess a qualifying degree in Psychology as prescribed by the Institute, including a four-year Bachelor’s degree in Psychology or other approved pathways. Applicants must also satisfy the prescribed minimum percentage requirements and other eligibility conditions mentioned in the admission notification.
5. Who is eligible for PsyD Clinical Psychology admission?
The PsyD programme offers Direct Entry and Lateral Entry.
- Direct Entry: Candidates with an M.A./M.Sc. in Psychology meeting the prescribed eligibility criteria.
- Lateral Entry: Candidates with an RCI-recognized M.Phil. in Clinical Psychology, valid RCI registration, and fulfilment of the additional eligibility requirements.
6. What is the selection process for MA Clinical Psychology and PsyD Clinical Psychology?
The following is the selection process for both of the programmes:
- Admission to MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) is based on a 100-mark objective entrance examination.
- Admission to PsyD Clinical Psychology involves a multi-stage selection process, including an Objective Examination, Written Test, Practical Assessment, Group Discussion, and Personal Interview.
7. Is there negative marking in the NIEPVD entrance examination?
No. As per the official admission notification, there is no negative marking in the objective entrance examination.
8. Can candidates awaiting their qualifying examination results apply?
No. Candidates awaiting the declaration of their qualifying examination results are not eligible to apply.
9. Where will NIEPVD Dehradun conduct the entrance examination?
NIEPVD Dehradun will conduct the entrance examination at its campus located at 116 Rajpur Road, Dehradun. Candidates should report to the examination centre as per the reporting schedule mentioned in the article.
