The UGC NET Anthropology 2025 June cycle has garnered attention from aspirants across India, especially with the June 27 (Shift 1) exam now complete. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), this prestigious national-level eligibility test is designed for postgraduate candidates aspiring to qualify for the roles of Assistant Professor or secure the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the field of Anthropology. With its wide-ranging syllabus covering Social, Biological, Archaeological, and Applied Anthropology, the exam not only assesses a candidate’s conceptual clarity but also their aptitude for research and teaching.
The June 27 Shift 1 exam was rated Moderate in difficulty by most students, featuring a balanced mix of factual, conceptual, and application-based questions in both Paper I (General Aptitude) and Paper II (Anthropology). Candidates noted the presence of interdisciplinary elements such as SDGs, technology-based questions, and even culturally-rooted content like films related to historical personalities. This reflects a broader trend in UGC NET—emphasizing real-world relevance alongside academic depth.
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility Criteria 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Cut Off 2025
Download UGC NET Syllabus 2025 in Hindi and English
What is UGC NET Anthropology?
UGC NET Anthropology is a Paper 2 in the UGC NET examination. It examines candidates’ knowledge of Anthropology, encompassing social, biological, archaeological, and applied branches. Clearing this test makes one fit for lectureship posts or research fellowships at Indian universities and colleges.UGC NET Anthropology 2025 Exam Analysis – June 27 (Shift 1)
The UGC NET Anthropology 2025 exam conducted on June 27, Shift 1, was largely rated as Moderate in difficulty by the majority of candidates, with a few describing it as Easy to Moderate. The exam was structured to test both general aptitude (Paper I) and subject-specific knowledge (Paper II), ensuring a balanced evaluation of teaching-research potential and core Anthropology concepts. Paper I featured a blend of reasoning, comprehension, and analytical questions. In the Mathematical and Logical Reasoning section, questions were asked on topics like Ratio, Percentage, and Coding-Decoding (words such as DREAM, LEADER, and CHILD). The Reading Comprehension passage was based on Research Methodology, testing the candidate’s understanding of academic inquiry. The Communication section included practical tools such as WhatsApp and Smartphone as MCQ options, reflecting real-world relevance. A question on Informal Fallacy challenged candidates’ logical reasoning and critical thinking skills. The Data Interpretation (DI) section was found to be easy but lengthy, requiring efficient time management. Additionally, a match-the-following question on films related to Raja Ram Mohan Roy, including classic titles like Sholay and Alam Ara, added a historical-cultural dimension to the paper. Paper II, which assessed subject knowledge in Anthropology, covered a comprehensive range of topics spanning Social Anthropology, Biological Anthropology, Archaeological Anthropology, and Applied Anthropology. Specific questions were seen from Research Series and Methods, emphasizing the importance of research skills. Candidates also encountered items related to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and institutions linked to Film and Anthropology. A few general knowledge-based questions were also asked, such as the full form of HTTP, highlighting interdisciplinary awareness. The subject paper was well-balanced in terms of theory and application, aligning closely with the official UGC NET Anthropology syllabus.UGC NET Anthropology Eligibility Criteria 2025
To apply for the UGC NET Anthropology 2025 examination, applicants have to meet certain educational and age eligibility criteria as determined by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Detailed requirements are mentioned below:- Applicants who are in their final year or waiting for results should ensure they meet the required percentage within two years from the declaration of the UGC NET 2025 results, otherwise, their eligibility will be withdrawn.
| Category | Minimum Educational Requirement | Minimum Marks Required |
| General / Unreserved / General-EWS | Master’s degree in Anthropology or related field from a recognized university | 55% |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) / SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender | Same as above | 50% |
| Final Year / Awaiting Results | Eligible to apply, but must complete degree within 2 years of result declaration | Provisional admission |
UGC NET Anthropology Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET Anthropology 2025 exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), takes a systematic format aimed at determining candidates’ subject knowledge and aptitude.| Paper | Subject | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | Teaching & Research Aptitude (General) | 50 | 100 | 3 hours |
| Paper II | Anthropology (Subject-specific) | 100 | 200 | |
| Total | 150 | 300 |
UGC NET Marking Scheme 2025
The UGC NET 2025 examination has a simple marking system for both Paper I and Paper II. The examination is based on multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and there is no provision for a negative marking for wrong answers.| Feature | Details |
| Type of Questions | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Total Papers | 2 (Paper I and Paper II) |
| Total Questions | 150 (50 in Paper I, 100 in Paper II) |
| Total Marks | 300 (100 for Paper I, 200 for Paper II) |
| Marks for Each Question | 2 marks |
| Negative Marking | No negative marking |
| Unattempted Questions | No marks awarded or deducted |
| Language of Question Paper | English and Hindi (bilingual) |
UGC NET Anthropology Minimum Qualifying Marks 2025
In order to clear the UGC NET Anthropology 2025 examination, the candidates need to achieve the minimum aggregate qualifying marks for both Paper I and Paper II. These minimum qualifying marks are determined by the National Testing Agency (NTA) and are different according to the category of the candidate.| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks (%) | Minimum Marks (Out of 300) |
| General (Unreserved) | 40% | 120 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) / SC / ST / PwD / Transgender | 35% | 105 |
UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025
UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025 is designed to evaluate the overall knowledge of candidates regarding Anthropology and its different branches and approaches. The syllabus consists of ten units, and each unit discusses particular topics of the subject.UGC NET Anthropology Unit-wise Syllabus 2025
UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025 consists of 10 extensive units, each dealing with main topics of the subject such as cultural, physical, social, archaeological, and applied aspects of Anthropology. This unit-wise organized framework makes it possible for candidates to strategize their preparation topic-wise, thus making the syllabus easier to deal with and goal-oriented. Whether you want to target JRF or Assistant Professor, it’s essential to excel in every unit since Paper II of the examination is completely subject knowledge-based. You can see the complete unit-wise division in the below given table and download the official syllabus PDF in English as well as Hindi for your reference.| Unit | Title | Key Topics Covered |
| Unit I | Foundations of Anthropology | History, scope, branches, research methods, fieldwork, statistics |
| Unit II | Evolution and Primatology | Evolution theories, primates, fossil records, human evolution, dispersal theories |
| Unit III | Human Genetics and Variation | Mendelian genetics, population genetics, genetic disorders, forensic anthropology |
| Unit IV | Human Growth and Development | Growth stages, anthropometry, growth influencing factors, anomalies |
| Unit V | Ecological Anthropology | Human adaptation, cultural ecology, subsistence strategies, environmental impact |
| Unit VI | Archaeological Anthropology | Prehistoric cultures, tool typology, dating techniques, excavation methods |
| Unit VII | Social Anthropology | Culture, society, kinship, marriage, politics, religion, social change |
| Unit VIII | Indian Anthropology | Ethnic groups, tribes, caste, linguistic diversity, tribal problems |
| Unit IX | Applied Anthropology | Development, medical anthropology, urban issues, forensic anthropology |
| Unit X | Contemporary Issues and Trends | Globalization, migration, gender studies, research ethics |
UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025 PDF Download (English & Hindi)
To simplify your preparation, the official UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025 is downloadable in both English and Hindi. These PDFs contain a comprehensive unit-wise outline, including all the important topics from Evolution and Genetics to Social Anthropology and Applied Fields. It’s strongly advised to have the syllabus PDF handy while making your study plan or reviewing important topics.| Language | Download Link |
| English | Download UGC NET Anthropology Syllabus 2025 (English) |
| हिंदी (Hindi) | डाउनलोड करें यूजीसी नेट मानवशास्त्र पाठ्यक्रम 2025 पीडीएफ (हिंदी |
UGC NET Anthropology Question Paper 2024
The UGC NET Anthropology Question Paper 2024 is a useful resource for the aspirants who are preparing for the June 2025 exam. It makes you aware of the current exam pattern, the nature of questions asked, the level of difficulty, and how the syllabus is implemented in actual exam situations.| Exam Name | Shift | Paper | Download Link |
| UGC NET Anthropology June 2024 | Shift 1 | Paper 2 | Download PDF |
UGC NET Anthropology Previous Year Question Papers
Practice with UGC NET Anthropology Previous Year Question Papers is perhaps one of the most effective methods for achieving success in the preparation process. These papers provide you with real insight into what kind of questions, what subject weightages and what kind of difficulty levels will be provided during the real exam. Solving old-year papers will allow candidates to scrutinize patterns, prioritize subject-wise topics and boost speed and accuracy.| Exam Name | Year | Download PDF |
| UGC NET Anthropology | 2023 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Anthropology | 2022 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Anthropology | 2021 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Anthropology | 2020 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Anthropology | 2018 | Download Link |
UGC NET Anthropology Preparation Tips 2025
Cracking UGC NET Anthropology needs a clever and strategic approach. With a proper plan, even a huge syllabus can be covered effectively. Following are some tried and tested preparation tips to improve your score in UGC NET June 2025:- Understand the Syllabus Well: Divide unit-wise syllabus into small sub-topics. Prepare a checklist and mark topics one by one as you finish them. Concentrate more on your weak areas.
- Adhere to Quality Study Material: Use NCERTs (Class 11 & 12) for basics and standard books such as: Ember & Ember – Anthropology, P. Nath – Physical Anthropology, Nadeem Hasnain – Indian Anthropology
- Prepare Short Notes: Make brief notes for each unit, particularly definitions, theories, thinkers, and case studies. Update them from time to time.
- Solve Previous Year Papers: Practice at least the last 5 years’ question papers to understand crucial trends and expected topics.
- Attempt Mock Tests: Take mock tests online and analyze your performance. Practice to increase your speed, accuracy, and time management.
- Focus on Paper I: Do not neglect Paper I (Teaching & Research Aptitude). Perform well in Paper I to improve your overall score.
- Stay Consistent and Avoid Last-Minute Cramming: Maintain a daily routine. Don’t postpone revision to the last moment—incorporate it into your daily routine.
Career Scope After UGC NET Anthropology 2025
Passing the UGC NET Anthropology 2025 exam leads to a number of challenging and promising career options both in academia and applied realms. Whether you pursue an applied or research-oriented career, Anthropology has varied opportunities within India and internationally.Academic & Research Careers
- Assistant Professor in colleges and universities (eligibility after clearing NET)
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) for fellowship-qualifying candidates, resulting in Ph.D. programs
- Research positions in institutions such as ICSSR, ICHR, ICMR, NIN, and Anthropological Survey of India
Government & Public Sector
- UPSC (Civil Services) or State PSC positions
- Anthropologist or Research Officer in Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Culture, or Environment
- Social development positions in NGOs and Think Tanks
Applied Anthropology & International Opportunities
- Work with UN agencies, World Bank, or international NGOs on human rights, culture, health, and development
- Careers in Forensic Anthropology, Public Health, and Development Consultancy
Alternative Career Pathways
- Corporate sector jobs in market research, user behavior analysis, and cultural consulting
- Museums, archives, and heritage sites as curators, archivists, or documentation specialists
Conclusion
UGC NET Anthropology 2025 (June 27, Shift 1) reflected a moderate difficulty level, integrating both traditional and contemporary questions from Anthropology and general research aptitude. It tested not only theoretical understanding but also practical application, data interpretation, and comprehension abilities. Candidates aiming for success should balance their preparation between Paper I fundamentals and Paper II subject-depth, leveraging previous year papers, mocks, and standard textbooks. The exam serves as a gateway to academic and research excellence in Anthropology, offering vast career avenues in teaching, research, government, and international organizations.UGC NET Anthropology 2025 FAQs
UGC NET Exam date is scheduled from 21 June to 30 June 2025.
Yes, applicants must have a Master’s degree in Anthropology or allied fields with a minimum of 55% marks (50% marks for reserved category candidates).
No, there is no age restriction for Assistant Professor. For JRF, however, the age is 30 years (relaxable in the case of reserved categories).
Yes, the paper is bilingual. You can either opt for English or Hindi.
There are two examinations—Paper I (General Aptitude) and Paper II (Anthropology). Both are held in a single 3-hour exam.
