The UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 (June Cycle) exam was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on June 26, 2025 (Shift 1). This national-level examination is a key qualifying test for aspirants looking to pursue careers as Assistant Professors or obtain the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the specialized field of Forensic Science.
What is UGC NET Forensic Science?
UGC NET Forensic Science is one of the specialized subjects offered under the UGC NET scheme. This exam assesses a candidate’s expertise in various disciplines of forensic science including biology, chemistry, toxicology, ballistics, and digital forensics.
Qualifying the UGC NET Forensic Science exam enables candidates to:
- Apply for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in recognized research institutions.
- Become eligible for Assistant Professor roles in forensic science departments across Indian universities.
It is a crucial credential that ensures academic and professional excellence in the field of forensic science.
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 – June 26 Exam Analysis (Shift 1)
The UGC NET 2025 Forensic Science exam held on June 26 in Shift 1 began with Paper 1, which is common to all subjects. This paper tested candidates on teaching and research aptitude, reasoning, general awareness, and communication skills. As per student feedback, the paper was rated easy to moderate, with questions distributed evenly across all major topics. Logical reasoning included questions on syllogism and memory sequences, while a number pattern question such as “7, 12, 122, 132… 3602, 25202” appeared. Two questions were based on fallacies, and three surprisingly revolved around Bollywood movies, which some students found out of place. Additionally, questions on carbon dioxide (environmental science) and data interpretation using Hindi–Punjabi language percentage data were included. Some students noted an unusual absence of questions from the Teaching Aptitude section. Overall, students found the paper manageable, though a few were caught off guard by non-traditional questions like those related to films.
Moving to Paper 2 (Subject Code 82), which focused specifically on Forensic Science, the overall difficulty was marked as moderate. The paper comprehensively covered key forensic domains including Introduction to Forensic Science, Forensic Biology and Serology, Toxicology, and Questioned Document Examination. Technical areas such as Ballistics and Firearm Identification, Digital Forensics, and Analytical Techniques (like spectroscopy, chromatography, and microscopy) were also assessed. The inclusion of topics like Forensic Anthropology, Entomology, Crime Scene Investigation, and Recent Advances with case studies required deep conceptual clarity and practical knowledge. According to test-takers, the paper maintained a balanced structure but challenged candidates through concept-based MCQs and subject overlap, particularly between chemistry and biology.
UGC NET Forensic Science Eligibility Criteria
Candidates aspiring to appear for the UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 exam must meet the following eligibility criteria:
Educational Qualification
- A Master’s degree in Forensic Science or a closely related field (like Criminology, Biochemistry, or Chemistry) from a UGC-recognized university.
- Minimum qualifying marks:
- General / EWS / OBC-NCL / Third Gender: 55%
- SC / ST / PwD: 50%
- Final-year postgraduate students are eligible to apply provisionally.
Age Limit
- For Junior Research Fellowship (JRF):
- General category: Up to 30 years
- OBC-NCL: Up to 33 years (3-year relaxation)
- SC/ST/PwD/Women: Up to 35 years (5-year relaxation)
- For Assistant Professor: No upper age limit.
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
UGC NET Forensic Science Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET Forensic Science exam consists of two papers, both conducted in a single session:
| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Total Marks | Duration | Type |
| I | Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 3 hours | Multiple Choice Questions |
| II | Forensic Science (Core Subject) | 100 | 200 | 3 hours | Multiple Choice Questions |
Note: There is no negative marking for incorrect answers in either paper.
UGC NET Forensic Science Marking Scheme
The marking scheme for UGC NET Paper I and Paper II is as follows:
| Paper | Questions | Marks | Marks/Question | Negative Marking |
| I | 50 | 100 | 2 | No |
| II | 100 | 200 | 2 | No |
| Total | 150 | 300 | – | No |
UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 Minimum Qualifying Marks
To be eligible for JRF or Assistant Professor roles, candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks:
| Category | Paper I | Paper II |
| General / Unreserved | 40% | 40% |
| OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD | 35% | 35% |
UGC NET Forensic Science Syllabus 2025
The UGC NET Forensic Science syllabus is comprehensive and spans various domains. Here is a quick overview:
Paper I: General Aptitude (Common to All Subjects)
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Reading Comprehension
- Communication
- Mathematical Reasoning
- Logical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
- ICT (Information & Communication Technology)
- People and Environment
- Higher Education System
Paper II: Forensic Science (Subject-Specific)
- Introduction to Forensic Science
- Analytical Techniques in Forensic Science
- Biological Evidence
- Toxicology
- Firearms Examination
- Fire and Explosive Analysis
- Trace Evidence
- Identification Methods
- Document Examination
- Forensic Medicine and Death Investigation
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025
UGC NET Forensic Science Syllabus PDF Download
You can download the official syllabus for UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 from the NTA website or search online for a direct PDF link.
| Subject | Link |
| Paper I (General Aptitude) | Download Syllabus |
| Paper II (Forensic Science) | Download Syllabus |
UGC NET Forensic Science Previous Year Question Papers
Practicing previous year papers is essential to understand:
- The types of questions asked
- Topic-wise weightage
- Level of difficulty
- Time management
| Year | Download Link |
| 2023 | Download PDF |
| 2022 | Download PDF |
| 2021 | Download PDF |
| 2020 | Download PDF |
| 2019 | Download PDF |
These papers also help in time management and identifying frequently asked topics.
UGC NET Forensic Science Career Scope
Clearing the UGC NET Forensic Science exam unlocks numerous academic and professional opportunities:
Academic Sector
- Assistant Professor roles in universities and colleges
- Research Fellowships (JRF/SRF) in funded projects
- Admission to Ph.D. programs in forensic and allied sciences
Government Sector
- Employment in Central/State Forensic Science Laboratories (FSLs)
- Recruitment by CBI, IB, NIA, and other investigating agencies
- Roles in law enforcement, legal advisory, and crime scene analysis
Private Sector
- Jobs in cybersecurity firms, private labs, and toxicology centers
- Careers in biotech companies, pharma industries, and insurance fraud detection
- Opportunities in academic publishing, technical writing, and consultancy
UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 Preparation Tips
Maximize your success chances with these actionable strategies:
- Understand the Complete Syllabus: Thoroughly study all units in Paper II along with general aptitude in Paper I.
- Practice Regularly: Solve at least 5–10 previous year papers and take weekly mock tests.
- Make Short Notes: Prepare summary notes for key topics, theories, and case studies.
- Use Authentic Study Materials: Refer to NCERTs, IGNOU notes, standard forensic science textbooks, and online lectures.
- Join Online Communities: Engage in Telegram groups, forums, and YouTube channels for updates and free practice content.
Conclusion
The UGC NET Forensic Science 2025 exam continues to be a pivotal step for aspirants aiming for a career in academia, research, or forensic services. With the June 26 (Shift 1) exam maintaining a moderate difficulty level, well-prepared candidates had a fair opportunity to excel. While Paper 1 tested general aptitude with some unexpected elements like film-related questions, Paper 2 demanded in-depth knowledge of core forensic subjects. Whether you aim to become an Assistant Professor or secure a JRF, a disciplined preparation strategy, familiarity with the syllabus, and consistent practice with previous year papers can significantly enhance your chances of success.
UGC NET Forensic Science FAQs
Can I apply for UGC NET Forensic Science without a forensic science degree?
You can apply if your Master’s degree is in a closely related subject like Criminology, Chemistry, or Biochemistry, subject to UGC guidelines.
Is there any negative marking in the UGC NET Forensic Science exam?
No, there is no negative marking in either Paper I or Paper II.
How should I prepare for Paper I of UGC NET Forensic Science?
Focus on teaching aptitude, research methods, comprehension, and reasoning. Practice MCQs and solve mock tests regularly.
What jobs can I get after qualifying UGC NET Forensic Science?
You can become an Assistant Professor, join research projects with JRF funding, or work in forensic labs, government agencies, and cybersecurity companies.
