UGC NET 2025 is a highly important national-level test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to evaluate the merit of the candidates for the Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) posts in Indian universities and colleges. The test tests the teaching ability, research ability, and subject matter of the candidates, resulting in promising teaching and research careers. With a well-designed pattern of the test and numerous subjects, UGC NET 2025 offers an opportunity for aspiring teachers and researchers to begin a successful career in higher education.
The UGC NET 2025 exam is scheduled to take place from June 25 to June 29, 2025, as per the official notification released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on April 16, 2025. In order to evaluate applicants for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions in Indian colleges and universities, this exam is conducted twice a year.
| Feature | Details |
| Exam Name | UGC NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Cycle | June 2025 Session |
| Exam Dates | June 25 to June 29, 2025 |
| Mode of Exam | Computer-Based Test (CBT) |
| Duration | 3 Hours (No break between Paper 1 and Paper 2) |
| Papers | Paper 1 (General Aptitude), Paper 2 (Subject Specific) |
| Total Questions | 150 (Paper 1: 50, Paper 2: 100) |
| Total Marks | 300 (Paper 1: 100, Paper 2: 200) |
| Marking Scheme | +2 for each correct answer, No Negative Marking |
| Languages | English & Hindi (except for language-based subjects) |
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Date 2025
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 makes candidates eligible for:
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. Two papers—Paper 1 (teaching/research aptitude) and Paper 2 (subject-specific knowledge) are used to assess postgraduate candidates. In India’s higher education system, UGC NET is essential to maintaining academic standards and encouraging high-caliber research and instruction.
| Exam Detail | 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) |
| Subjects Offered | 85+ Subjects |
| 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 |
| Official Website | ugcnet.nta.ac.in |
| Event | June 2025 Session | December 2025 Session (Tentative) |
| Notification Release Date | 16th April 2025 | 20th November 2025 |
| Application Start Date | 16th April 2025 | 20th November 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | 8th May 2025 | 11th December 2025 |
| Fee Payment Deadline | 9th May 2025 | 12th December 2025 |
| Application Correction Window | 10th – 12th May 2025 | 13th – 14th December 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | 3rd Week of June 2025 | 2nd or 3rd Week of December 2025 |
| Exam Dates | 25 – 29 June 2025 | 3rd – 27th January 2026 |
| Answer Key Release | 1st or 2nd Week of July 2025 | February 2026 |
| Result Declaration | July 2025 | February 2026 |
The UGC NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) is an important exam for candidates aspiring to build a career in the field of higher education and research in India. It primarily serves as a gateway for two important roles:
Candidates can apply for assistant professor positions in Indian colleges and universities after passing the UGC NET exam. Teaching undergraduate and graduate students, supervising research projects, and advancing academic advancement are all part of this role. Candidates who apply for Assistant Professor positions using their UGC NET qualification have no upper age limit.
UGC NET provides research opportunities in addition to teaching. Those who pass the JRF eligibility exam are awarded fellowship grants to fund their research, which typically results in a PhD or other advanced degree. By providing financial support, this fellowship enables scholars to concentrate fully on their research. With exceptions for reserved categories, the maximum age limit for JRF is 30 years old.
The UGC NET exam is a nationally recognized eligibility requirement for hiring assistant professors and for granting junior research fellowships in Indian universities and colleges. The UGC NET qualification has been regarded as an indicator of academic excellence and subject-matter expertise by research organizations and higher education institutions.
Several fulfilling career paths in academia and research throughout India are made possible by passing the University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test or UGC NET. The following are well-known career paths open to UGC NET qualified applicants:
You can work as an assistant professor at universities, colleges, and other educational establishments across India if you pass the UGC NET exam. This position includes mentoring students, developing curriculum, teaching, and participating in the academic community.
Research in their chosen field can be pursued full-time by candidates who meet the requirements for JRF. Scholars can concentrate on their research without financial worries to the fellowship’s financial support for doctoral studies (PhD) or other advanced research projects.
You can work as a Research Associate or Research Scientist in a variety of research organizations, academic institutions, government agencies, and private sector research centers after earning your UGC NET qualification.
UGC NET JRF holders are eligible to apply for prestigious post-doctoral research positions supported by both domestic and foreign organizations, as well as to enroll in PhD programs at top colleges and universities.
Candidates with UGC NET qualifications are needed for research, teaching, and academic administration positions in a number of government agencies, public sector projects, and higher education organizations.
Additionally, qualified candidates can look into opportunities in curriculum design, educational publishing, and content writing, contributing to textbooks, e-learning platforms, and academic materials.
Also Read: Career Options After UGC NET
The CSIR NET and UGC NET are esteemed national eligibility exams conducted in India to determine a candidate’s suitability for research fellowships and lectureships. However, they differ significantly in their scope, subjects, conducting bodies, and eligibility criteria.
| spect | UGC NET | CSIR NET |
| Full Form | University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test | Council of Scientific and Industrial Research – National Eligibility Test |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of UGC | CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) |
| Scope of Subjects | Primarily humanities, social sciences, commerce, management, education, and some science subjects | Science subjects like Physics, Chemistry, Life Sciences, Earth Sciences, and Mathematical Sciences |
| Purpose | To determine eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in universities and colleges across India | To determine eligibility for JRF and Lectureship in scientific research and academic institutions |
| Frequency | Twice a year (June and December sessions) | Usually once a year (typically in June) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Master’s degree in relevant subject with minimum 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) | Master’s degree in science subjects with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories) |
| Exam Pattern | Two papers – Paper I (General Aptitude), Paper II (Subject Specific) | Single paper based on the candidate’s chosen science subject area |
| Career Opportunities | Assistant Professor, JRF, research and teaching roles in arts, commerce, social sciences, education, and science | JRF and Lectureship in scientific research, R&D organizations, universities, and government labs |
Also Read: Difference Between CSIR NET and UGC NET
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 in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates must meet specific eligibility requirements, such as age restrictions and educational requirements, in order to qualify for the UGC NET 2025.
Also Read: UGC NET Age Limit
The applicant needs to be a citizen of India. Candidates of other nationalities may, however, participate if they fulfill the requirements established by the organizing body.
The purpose of the UGC NET exam is to evaluate applicants’ suitability for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions in Indian colleges and universities. Effective preparation requires an understanding of the exam pattern. A overview of the UGC NET 2025 Exam Pattern is provided below:
| Exam Pattern Aspect | Details |
| Mode of Exam | Online (Computer-Based Test) |
| Number of Papers | 2 Papers (Paper I & Paper II) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours (No break between Paper I & II) |
| Question Type | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Number of Questions | Paper I: 50 questions
Paper II: 100 questions |
| Marks per Question | 2 marks per question |
| Total Marks | Paper I: 100 marks
Paper II: 200 marks |
| Negative Marking | None |
| Paper I Syllabus | Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Reading Comprehension, Communication, Reasoning, ICT, People & Environment, Higher Education System |
| Paper II Syllabus | Subject-specific based on candidate’s chosen subject (85+ subjects available) |
| Exam Frequency | Twice a Year (June and December sessions) |
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET syllabus 2025 is intended to evaluate candidates’ subject-specific knowledge in addition to their general teaching and research skills. To maintain relevance and alignment with contemporary academic standards, the National Testing Agency (NTA) updates the syllabus on a regular basis. Before starting their preparation, candidates are encouraged to carefully go through the official syllabus that is posted on the UGC NET website and here. There are two papers of the exam:
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025
| Topic | Details |
| Teaching Aptitude | Understanding teaching-learning processes, objectives, methods, and evaluation |
| Research Aptitude | Research methods, steps, ethics, types, and research proposal writing |
| Reading Comprehension | Understanding, analyzing, and interpreting texts |
| Communication | Types, barriers, effective communication, and academic communication |
| Reasoning (Including Mathematical) | Logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, numerical ability, and problem-solving |
| Logical Reasoning | Patterns, sequences, analogies, and critical thinking |
| Data Interpretation | Graphs, tables, charts, and data analysis |
| Information and Communication Technology (ICT) | Basics of computer knowledge, internet, software, and digital resources |
| People and Environment | Environmental awareness, sustainable development, and social issues |
| Higher Education System | Structure, governance, policies, and challenges in Indian higher education |
| Subject Code | Subject | Brief Syllabus |
| 1 | Economics | Micro & Macro Economics, Indian Economy, Public Finance, International Economics |
| 2 | Political Science | Political Theory, Indian Politics, Comparative Politics, International Relations |
| 3 | Sociology | Sociological Theories, Indian Society, Research Methods, Social Change |
| 4 | History | Ancient, Medieval, Modern Indian History, World History, Historiography |
| 5 | Commerce | Accounting, Business Law, Finance, Marketing, Management |
| 6 | Education | Philosophy of Education, Psychology, Curriculum Studies, Educational Technology |
| 7 | English | British Literature, American Literature, Literary Theory, Linguistics |
| 8 | Hindi | Hindi Literature, Grammar, Modern Poetry & Prose, Literary Criticism |
| 9 | Philosophy | Indian & Western Philosophy, Logic, Ethics, Contemporary Indian Thought |
| 10 | Geography | Physical Geography, Human Geography, Geographical Thought, GIS & Remote Sensing |
| 11 | Law | Constitutional Law, Jurisprudence, IPC, International Law, Environmental Law |
| 12 | Psychology | Cognitive Psychology, Social Psychology, Clinical Psychology, Research Methods |
| 13 | Library and Information Science | Information Sources, Services, Management, IT Applications |
| 14 | Management | Organizational Behavior, HRM, Marketing, Finance, Strategic Management |
| 15 | Bengali | Bengali Literature, Language, Grammar, Criticism |
| 16 | Hindi (Second Paper) | Advanced Hindi Language & Literature topics |
| 17 | Anthropology | Physical Anthropology, Social Anthropology, Archaeological Anthropology |
| 18 | Commerce (Second Paper) | Advanced Topics in Commerce & Business Studies |
| 19 | Economics (Second Paper) | Advanced Economics and Applied Economics Topics |
| 20 | History (Second Paper) | Specialization in Indian/World History |
| 21 | Home Science | Food & Nutrition, Human Development, Family Studies, Textile |
| 22 | Kannada | Kannada Literature, Criticism, Grammar |
| 23 | Malayalam | Malayalam Literature, Criticism, Grammar |
| 24 | Odia | Odia Literature, Language, Poetics |
| 25 | Punjabi | Punjabi Literature, Language, Literary Movements |
| 26 | Sanskrit | Vedic Literature, Classical Sanskrit, Grammar, Poetry |
| 27 | Tamil | Tamil Literature, Grammar, Classical & Modern Texts |
| 28 | Telugu | Telugu Literature, Grammar, Poetics |
| 29 | Urdu | Urdu Poetry & Prose, Grammar, Literary History |
| 30 | Arabic | Classical & Modern Arabic, Translation, Grammar |
Candidates can appear in the subject of their post-graduation choice because UGC NET Paper 2 is subject-specific and covers 85 different subjects. Paper 2 evaluates the applicant’s basic knowledge of the theories, concepts, and research skills associated with their field of study. The NTA assigns a distinct subject code to each subject, which candidates must carefully select when completing the application form.
| S. No. | Subject | Subject Code |
| 1 | Adult Education/Continuing Education/Andragogy/Non-Formal Education | 46 |
| 2 | Anthropology | 7 |
| 3 | Arab Culture and Islamic Studies | 49 |
| 4 | Arabic | 29 |
| 5 | Archaeology | 67 |
| 6 | Assamese | 36 |
| 7 | Bengali | 19 |
| 8 | Bodo | 94 |
| 9 | Buddhist, Jaina, Gandhian, and Peace Studies | 60 |
| 10 | Chinese | 32 |
| 11 | Commerce | 8 |
| 12 | Comparative Literature | 72 |
| 13 | Comparative Study of Religions | 62 |
| 14 | Computer Science and Applications | 87 |
| 15 | Criminology | 68 |
| 16 | Defence and Strategic Studies | 11 |
| 17 | Dogri | 33 |
| 18 | Economics / Rural Economics / Co-operation / Demography / Development Planning / Development Studies / Econometrics / Applied Economics / Development Economics / Business Economics | 1 |
| 19 | Education | 9 |
| 20 | Electronic Science | 88 |
| 21 | English | 30 |
| 22 | Environmental Sciences | 89 |
| 23 | Folk Literature | 71 |
| 24 | Forensic Science | 82 |
| 25 | French (French Version) | 39 |
| 26 | Geography | 80 |
| 27 | German | 44 |
| 28 | Gujarati | 37 |
| 29 | Hindi | 20 |
| 30 | Hindu Studies | 102 |
| 31 | History | 6 |
| 32 | Home Science | 12 |
| 33 | Human Rights and Duties | 92 |
| 34 | Indian Culture | 50 |
| 35 | Indian Knowledge System | 103 |
| 36 | Japanese | 45 |
| 37 | Kannada | 21 |
| 38 | Kashmiri | 84 |
| 39 | Konkani | 85 |
| 40 | Labour Welfare / Personnel Management / Industrial Relations/ Labour and Social Welfare / HR Management | 55 |
| 41 | Law | 58 |
| 42 | Library and Information Science | 59 |
| 43 | Linguistics | 31 |
| 44 | Maithili | 18 |
| 45 | Malayalam | 22 |
| 46 | Management (including Business Admin., Marketing, HR, Financial, and Cooperative Management) | 17 |
| 47 | Manipuri | 35 |
| 48 | Marathi | 38 |
| 49 | Mass Communication and Journalism | 63 |
| 50 | Museology & Conservation | 66 |
| 51 | Music | 16 |
| 52 | Nepali | 34 |
| 53 | Oriya | 23 |
| 54 | Pali | 83 |
| 55 | Performing Art – Dance/Drama/Theatre | 65 |
| 56 | Persian | 42 |
| 57 | Philosophy | 3 |
| 58 | Physical Education | 47 |
| 59 | Political Science | 2 |
| 60 | Politics including International Relations/International Studies, Defence/Strategic Studies, Area Studies | 90 |
| 61 | Population Studies | 15 |
| 62 | Prakrit | 91 |
| 63 | Psychology | 4 |
| 64 | Public Administration | 14 |
| 65 | Punjabi | 24 |
| 66 | Rajasthani | 43 |
| 67 | Russian | 41 |
| 68 | Sanskrit | 25 |
| 69 | Sanskrit traditional subjects (including Jyotisha/Sidhanta Jyotish/Navya Vyakarna/Vyakarna/Mimansa) | 73 |
| 70 | Santali | 95 |
| 71 | Sindhi | 101 |
| 72 | Social Medicine & Community Health | 81 |
| 73 | Social Work | 10 |
| 74 | Sociology | 5 |
| 75 | Spanish | 40 |
| 76 | Tamil | 26 |
| 77 | Telugu | 27 |
| 78 | Tourism Administration and Management | 93 |
| 79 | Tribal and Regional Language/Literature | 70 |
| 80 | Urdu | 28 |
| 81 | Visual Art (including Drawing & Painting/Sculpture Graphics/Applied Art/History of Art) | 79 |
| 82 | Women Studies | 74 |
| 83 | Yoga | 100 |
| 84 | Disaster Management | 104 |
| 85 | Ayurveda Biology | 105 |
Also Read: UGC NET Subject List 2025
UGC NET has two papers:
There is no break in between the two papers that make up the UGC NET. These objective-type papers are intended to evaluate the candidate’s research and teaching skills as well as subject-matter expertise.
| Paper | Description | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | General Paper on Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 1 Hour |
| Paper II | Subject-Specific Paper (based on selected subject) | 100 | 200 | 2 Hours |
| Total | – | 150 Questions | 300 Marks | 3 Hours (No break) |
Candidates must achieve the minimum qualifying marks established by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in order to be eligible for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or Assistant Professor positions through the UGC NET 2025 exam. These marks are categorized based on the overall performance in both Paper I and Paper II and are grouped according to the candidate’s category.
| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks (Paper I + II) |
| General / Unreserved (UR) | 40% aggregate marks |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) | 35% aggregate marks |
| SC / ST | 35% aggregate marks |
| PwD / Transgender | 35% aggregate marks |
One of the best resources for candidates preparing for the UGC NET 2025 exam is the UGC NET Previous Year Questions. Candidates can better understand the exam format, question types, degree of difficulty, and main areas of focus in various subjects by using these papers.
Also Read: UGC NET Previous Question Papers PDF
The UGC NET Application Process is conducted entirely online through the official website of the National Testing Agency. For both the June and December sessions, the procedure usually starts a few months prior to the exam date. Candidates must carefully follow the application instructions to prevent errors or rejection.
Below are the details to complete the UGC NET application form:
Category |
Fee (₹) |
General |
1,150/- |
OBC-NCL/EWS |
600/- |
SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender |
325/- |
UGC NET 2025 preparation needs the appropriate study material, books, and online study resources for achieving success. Properly planned studies with genuine materials may contribute to the candidate’s success in Paper 1 (Teaching & Research Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Subject-Specific Topics).
Exclusive Resources Available:
Also Read: UGC NET Study Material 2025
Passing the UGC NET/JRF exam gives access to several career prospects in academics, research, and government institutions. It is a distinguished credential that brings professional development and financial security.
Also Read:Benefits of Clearing the UGC NET/JRF Examination
Below are the preparation tips mentioned for UGC NET 2025 Exam:
Also Read: UGC NET Preparation Tips 2025
UGC NET exam is a major entry point for the candidates who want to become lecturers at the university level and researchers in India. Correct information about the pattern of the exam is necessary for correct preparation. Paper 1 tests teaching and research aptitude, common to all the candidates, and Paper 2 tests subject-wise knowledge. Both the papers are computer-based tests with objective type questions to make the assessment uniform and transparent. Correct preparation as per the pattern of the exam, time management, and practice can make you highly eligible for the exam. Stay updated with official notifications and follow routine study to achieve success in the UGC NET 2025 exam.
What is the number of papers in the UGC NET exam?
There are two papers on the UGC NET exam: Paper 1 (Teaching and Research Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Subject-specific).
Does the UGC NET exam have negative marking?
No, neither Paper 1 nor Paper 2 contain any negative marking.
What is the duration of the UGC NET exam?
The duration of the exam lasts 3 hours total, Paper 1 is 1 hour long, and Paper 2 is 2 hours long.
Does every candidate have access to the same Paper 1 syllabus?
Yes, the syllabus for Paper 1 is the same for all applicants and emphasizes research and teaching skills.
Can I choose any subject for Paper 2?
Paper 2 must be selected based on the subject of your Master’s degree.
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