HOME / UGC NET 2026

UGC NET 2026

UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is an examination in India that assesses candidates’ eligibility for the role of Assistant Professor and awards JRF.

Explore JRFAdda Exams

Discover a wide range of competitive exams with JRF Adda. Explore detailed study materials, subject-wise preparation, mock tests, and expert guidance for UGC NET, JRF, SET, and more. Start your journey towards success with the best resources designed to help you achieve your goals.

Featured Blog

Explore UGC NET

Daily Quiz

Paper 1 Notes

PYQs

Online Batches

Books

Test Series

UGC NET is a prestigious national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to determine the eligibility of candidates for the posts of Assistant Professor and for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. The exam assesses candidates’ teaching aptitude, research skills, and subject-specific knowledge, making it a gateway to promising careers in academics and research.

Also Read: UGC NET 2026

What is UGC NET?

The UGC NET is a qualifying exam that evaluates a candidate’s research, teaching, and subject-specific knowledge skills. It covers 85 subjects and is held twice a year in June and December. In order to be hired as an assistant professor at Indian colleges and universities and to be eligible for JRF grants for research, candidates must pass this exam.

Clearing the UGC NET 2026 makes candidates eligible for:

  • The post of Assistant Professor in Indian universities and colleges.
  • The prestigious Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), which provides financial support for doctoral and post-doctoral research.

UGC NET Full Form

UGC NET stands for University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test. It is a national exam conducted by NTA on behalf of UGC, a statutory body under the Indian government’s Ministry of Education. Eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions in Indian colleges and universities is determined by the exam.

Features

Description

Full Form

University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test

Conducting Body

National Testing Agency (NTA)

Organising Authority

University Grants Commission (UGC), India

Exam Frequency

Twice a Year (June & December)

Mode of Examination

Online (Computer-Based Test)

Exam Duration

3 Hours (No Break Between Papers)

Number of Papers

2 No. of Papers: Paper I (General) & Paper II (Subject Specific)

Total Marks

300 (Paper I – 100, Paper II – 200)

Eligibility Criteria

Master’s Degree with 55% (50% for SC/ST/OBC)

Age Limit for JRF

Max 30 Years (Relaxation for Reserved Categories)

Age Limit for Assistant Professor

No Age Limit

UGC NET Important Dates: June & December Sessions

Event

December 2025 Session

June 2026 Session (Expected)

Notification Release Date

7 October 2025

3rd week of April 2026

Exam Dates

31 Dec 2025- 7 Jan 2026

25 June – 29 June 2026

Result Declaration

February 2026 (Expected)

Last week of July 2026

UGC NET 2026 Eligibility Criteria

The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is a highly competitive exam that sets the standard for determining eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions.

UGC NET 2026 Educational Qualification

  • Candidates must have a Master’s degree or its equivalent with 55% marks (50% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD/Third Gender).
  • Final year/semester candidates awaiting results can also apply.

UGC NET 2026 Exam Pattern

Aspect

Details

Mode of Exam

Online (Computer-Based Test)

Number of Papers

2 Papers (Paper I & Paper II)

Total Marks

300 (Paper I: 100, Paper II: 200)

Negative Marking

None

FAQs

JRFAdda is an online learning portal providing study materials, mock tests, and expert guidance for UGC NET, CSIR NET, SET, TET, and other competitive exams. It helps aspirants to prepare for teaching and research jobs in India.
UGC NET is for the subjects of humanities, social sciences, and commerce, whereas CSIR NET is for science subjects like Life Sciences, Physical Sciences, Chemical Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, and Earth Sciences.
Yes, JRFAdda has study material and practice tests, along with the guidance, for SET exams including MH SET, KSET, WBSET, APSET, and TSTET.
TET is for teaching positions in schools of primary and secondary levels, whereas UGC NET is for Assistant Professorship and Junior Research Fellowship in colleges and universities.
Check the official NTA websites and JRFAdda’s portal regularly for updates. You may also subscribe to JRFAdda’s notification for timely alerts.

Get in Touch with JRFAdda for All Your Needs!


All Blog

Download India's Best Learning App

We’re available on Android devices and platforms. Study from anywhereat your convenience.