Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

About

Tata Institute of Social Sciences, commonly known as TISS, is located in Mumbai and is a deemed-to-be university established in 1936 by the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust. Its primary goal is to provide education, research, and training in social sciences and social work, aiming to contribute to society through development, policy, and social justice initiatives.

The institute is situated in Deonar, in the northeastern part of Mumbai, with an urban campus spanning approximately 21 acres. TISS follows a field-based and experiential learning approach, combining classroom teaching with community engagement and practical training to address real-world social issues.

TISS is a deemed university recognized by the University Grants Commission of India and holds accreditation for its programs in social sciences and management studies. The institute is widely ranked among India’s top universities for social work and development studies and enjoys national and international recognition for its research and academic contributions.

The Mumbai campus comprises multiple schools and centers, including the School of Social Work, School of Public Health, School of Management and Labour Studies, and other specialized institutes focusing on gender, education, media, and development studies. Each faculty works collaboratively on teaching, research, and field projects.

The institute offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programs across social sciences, management, public health, law, education, and media studies. Admission is typically through entrance exams such as TISSAT for undergraduates and TISSNET for postgraduate programs, followed by written tests and personal interviews. Eligibility depends on prior academic qualifications, and scholarships are available for students under various government and institutional schemes.

TISS provides modern infrastructure, including lecture halls, research labs, a central library, hostels, sports facilities, computer labs, and spaces for cultural and extracurricular activities, supporting both academic and personal development.

The institute has a strong placement record, with graduates employed in NGOs, government agencies, multinational organizations, research institutions, and international development organizations, reflecting the practical orientation and professional training provided during the programs.

Overall, TISS Mumbai is a premier institution for social sciences and development studies in India, combining rigorous academic programs with practical field engagement, strong research orientation, and a commitment to social transformation and public service.

Some Highlights of Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

Why Choose Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai?

Academic Excellence
TISS Mumbai is one of India’s premier institutes for social sciences, social work, public policy, and development studies. It combines rigorous classroom learning with practical fieldwork, giving students a strong academic foundation and real-world experience.

Experienced Faculty
The institute has highly qualified faculty members who are experts in their fields, with extensive research, policy, and field experience. Students benefit from mentorship and exposure to cutting-edge knowledge.

Field-Based Learning
TISS emphasizes experiential learning through community engagement, internships, and field projects. This hands-on approach ensures students are prepared for professional challenges and social interventions.

Diverse Courses and Specializations
TISS offers a wide range of programs at undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, covering social work, management, public health, education, media, law, and development studies. Students can choose programs aligned with their interests and career goals.

Research and Innovation
The institute is recognized nationally and internationally for research in social sciences, policy, and development. Students have opportunities to contribute to impactful research and policy projects.

Campus and Facilities
The Mumbai campus provides modern infrastructure, including lecture halls, libraries, research labs, hostels, sports facilities, and spaces for cultural activities, fostering both academic and personal growth.

Career Opportunities
TISS graduates have strong placement prospects in NGOs, government agencies, research institutions, multinational companies, and international development organizations, reflecting the institute’s professional and practical training.

Commitment to Social Impact
Choosing TISS means joining an institution dedicated to social justice, equity, and human development, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society.

Vision & Mission Of Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

Vision

• To be a leading institution in education, research, and field action in social sciences.

• To contribute to social development, equity, and justice through knowledge and practice.

• To serve as a national and global hub for innovative social research and policy formulation.

Mission

• To provide interdisciplinary education and training in social work, public policy, health, management, and social sciences.

• To engage in research and field action that addresses societal problems and influences policy and practice.

• To promote social justice, equity, and human rights through academic and community initiatives.

• To collaborate with communities, government, and organizations for sustainable development and social change.

• To foster an environment of innovation, inclusivity, and critical thinking in students and faculty.

Admission procedure

TISS Mumbai admissions for 2026 are primarily entrance-based, utilizing CUET PG for Master’s (MA) and CUET UG for Bachelor’s (BA) programs, along with CAT for specific PG courses. Applicants must register on the TISS website and the NTA/Samarth portal, meet eligibility criteria, and pay fees to apply

Admission Criteria:

B.A / B.Sc - 3-4 Years Course

Admission Process

• TISS Admission Test (TISSAT) for UG

  • Online computer-based test

  • Focus on: General Awareness, English Proficiency, Mathematical & Analytical Ability, and Social Awareness

• Personal Interview / Written Ability Test

  • Shortlisted candidates appear for an interview and/or essay writing

• Merit List & Seat Allocation

  • Based on TISSAT score + performance in interview

• Reservation

  • Reserved seats for SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD as per government norms

Eligibility

• Minimum qualification: 10+2 / Higher Secondary from a recognized board

• Minimum marks: Usually 50% aggregate (relaxation for reserved categories as per government norms)

M.A - 2 Years Course

Admission Process

• TISS National Entrance Test (TISSNET)

  • Conducted online

  • Duration: 100 minutes, multiple-choice questions

  • Sections: English Proficiency, Mathematical & Logical Reasoning, General Awareness

• Pre-Interview Test (PIT) & Personal Interview (PI)

  • Shortlisted candidates from TISSNET appear for PIT & PI

  • PIT is usually a written ability test or case study

• Final Selection

  • Weighted score from TISSNET + PIT + PI

• Reservation

  • SC/ST/OBC/EWS/PwD as per government norms

Eligibility

• Bachelor’s degree in any discipline from a recognized university

• Minimum marks: 50% (general category)

• Some programs may require specific backgrounds:

  • Clinical Psychology → Psychology or allied subjects

  • Public Health → Science or Health background

Scholarship

Benifits

Merit-Based Scholarships

• Awarded to students with outstanding academic performance or exceptional achievements in entrance exams like TISSNET or TISSAT.

Need-Based Scholarships

• Provided to students from economically weaker sections to cover tuition fees, hostel charges, or other academic expenses.

• Eligibility typically requires proof of income and financial need.

Government Scholarships

• National Scholarship Schemes for SC/ST/OBC/EWS students, including fee reimbursement and stipends.

• State Government Scholarships for residents of Maharashtra and other states.

Reservation-Based Fee Waivers

• Tuition fee concessions for students from reserved categories (SC, ST, OBC, PwD) as per government norms.

Research Fellowships and Assistantships

• For M.Phil and Ph.D. students, financial support is offered through research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or project-based fellowships.

• Includes monthly stipends, contingency grants, and funding for fieldwork or travel related to research.

External Funding and CSR Scholarships

• TISS also collaborates with corporates, NGOs, and trusts to provide scholarships or sponsorships for students in social work, public health, and development programs.

Special Scholarships

• Scholarships may be available for students from tribal communities, differently-abled students, or students demonstrating social commitment.

• Sometimes merit-cum-need scholarships are offered for exceptional contributions in social initiatives or community projects.

Placement

TISS Mumbai has a strong placement record, reflecting its focus on practical training and field-based learning. Graduates find opportunities in a wide range of sectors, including non-governmental organizations, government agencies, public health institutions, international development organizations, research institutions, and corporate social responsibility divisions of private companies. The institute provides placement support through its dedicated Career Services and Alumni Relations office, which organizes recruitment drives, internships, workshops, and networking events. Students benefit from guidance on resume building, interview preparation, and professional skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for their careers. Many programs also integrate fieldwork and projects, giving students practical experience that enhances their employability and helps them secure roles aligned with their academic training and social impact goals.

Facilities Of Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Mumbai

TISS Mumbai offers a well-equipped campus that supports both academic and personal development. The institute has modern lecture halls, seminar rooms, and computer labs to facilitate learning and research. Its central library, the Sir Dorabji Tata Memorial Library, provides extensive collections of books, journals, and digital resources for social sciences and allied fields. The campus also includes hostels for students, sports and recreation facilities, auditoriums for cultural and academic events, and dedicated spaces for student activities and clubs. Additional amenities such as cafeterias, medical services, and Wi-Fi-enabled learning spaces ensure a comfortable and engaging environment for students, fostering both intellectual growth and community life.

Hostel

TISS Mumbai provides well-maintained hostel facilities to ensure comfortable living for its students. The campus has separate hostels for boys and girls, accommodating undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral students. Hostels are equipped with furnished rooms, common areas, study spaces, and internet connectivity to support both academic work and personal activities. Mess facilities offer hygienic and nutritious meals, and there are provisions for dietary preferences. The hostels also include recreational spaces, indoor games, and access to sports facilities, creating a balanced environment for learning, social interaction, and overall well-being. Security and maintenance are regularly managed, providing a safe and supportive residential experience for students.

Transport

TISS Mumbai provides convenient transport facilities to ensure easy accessibility to and from the campus. The institute is located in Deonar, which is well-connected by Mumbai’s local train network, buses, and roads. Students and staff can access the campus via nearby railway stations such as Govandi and Chembur, as well as various BEST bus routes. While the campus does not operate its own large fleet of buses for all students, it is well-served by public transport, and many students use shared cabs, two-wheelers, or private vehicles. The institute also facilitates transport arrangements for official field visits, internships, and off-campus academic activities, ensuring that students can participate safely and efficiently in practical learning and community engagement programs.