MA CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY RCI - 2026 | Clinical Masters Crash Course | Online coaching by Careers Adda

Your path to MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) (Earlier known as M.Phil Clinical Psychology)

If you want to become a Clinical Psychologist in India, things have changed.

From 2026, the MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) is the main and approved route. After completing this course, you can register with the Rehabilitation Council of India and start practicing.

This also means that getting into this program is now more competitive than before.

WHAT IS MA CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGY (RCI) PROGRAM?

From the 2026 academic session, the 2-year full-time M.A. in Clinical Psychology (RCI-regulated) replaces the M.Phil. as the primary, approved pathway for licensure as a Clinical Psychologist in India. This program provides RCI-recognized training in diagnosis and therapy, allowing graduates to register with the Central Rehabilitation Register.  Currently, there are 25+ institutions offering MA Clinical Psychology (RCI) including NIMHANS, IHBAS, Amity University etc. 

Duration: 2 years (4 semesters)

Eligibility:

• A four-year BA/B.Sc degree in Psychology from a UGC-recognised university with a minimum of 55% marks (50% for SC/ST candidates).
• Candidates with a three-year undergraduate degree in Psychology must either:
  Complete fourth-year Bridge Course, OR
  Pass the first year of a master’s program in Psychology with a minimum of 55% marks.

Admission Process

Each university or institute may follow its admission procedure, but the general admission process includes:

1. Submission of Application – Candidates need to apply/register at RCI-recognised institutes.
2. Entrance Exam – Institutions will conduct an entrance test for the eligible students.
3. Interview or Counselling – Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or counselling rounds.
4. Final Selection – Based on entrance scores, interviews, and document verification.