The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 is a prestigious national-level examination conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to determine the eligibility of candidates for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and Assistant Professorship in the field of Defence and Strategic Studies. It evaluates a candidate’s aptitude in topics such as military strategy, international relations, geopolitics, and national security.
Also Read: UGC NET Application Form 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025
Also Read: UGC NET Test Series for Exam Success
What is UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies?
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies is a Paper II subject for those candidates who have a postgraduate degree in Defence Studies, Military Studies, Strategic Studies, or allied subjects. The exam tests a candidate’s knowledge of national and international security, military history, defence technology, war strategy, and ongoing global conflicts.UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Eligibility Criteria 2025
For the purpose of appearing in the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 examination, applicants are required to meet certain educational and age eligibility requirements as determined by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as follows: Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 Exam Analysis Shift 1
The UGC NET 2025 exam held on June 27, Shift 1 (Day 3), was generally perceived as moderate in difficulty, with some candidates describing it as easy to moderate. In Paper 1, the overall difficulty was moderate. The Data Interpretation section, while easy in terms of concept, was somewhat lengthy and required careful time management. Reasoning and Teaching Aptitude questions were of a standard level, testing candidates’ analytical and pedagogical skills effectively. The Research Aptitude portion included several questions focused on research series, challenging candidates’ understanding of research methodologies. Additionally, current affairs questions covered important topics such as Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Film Institutes, and the HTTP full form, alongside general awareness questions that included 3 to 4 questions related to Indian cinema and movies, reflecting a balanced mix of knowledge areas. In Paper 2, which is subject-specific to UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025, the questions mainly revolved around core themes such as the Military History of India, National Security Policies, and Contemporary International Relations. Students observed that questions tested their grasp of defence technology advancements and regional conflicts within South Asia, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of both historical and current strategic issues. This blend of topics in Paper 2 required candidates to have a strong understanding of both theoretical concepts and real-world defence scenarios, making it a focused yet manageable paper for aspirants specializing in this field.UGC NET Educational Qualification 2025
| Category | Minimum Educational Qualification | Minimum Marks Required |
| General / General-EWS | Master’s degree in Defence Studies / Strategic Studies or equivalent from a recognized university | 55% marks |
| OBC (NCL) / SC / ST / PwD / Third Gender | Master’s degree in the same subjects | 50% marks |
| Final Year PG Students | Eligible to apply provisionally | As per category above |
UGC NET Age Limit (as of 1st June 2025)
| For | Maximum Age | Age Relaxation |
| Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) | 30 years | Up to 5 years for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, women, LLM holders, Armed Forces personnel |
| Assistant Professor | No upper age limit | Not applicable |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 test is organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. The test consists of two papers, conducted in a single session without any break in between. Both papers are of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and are compulsory.| Paper | Subject | No. of Questions | Marks | Duration |
| Paper I | General Aptitude (Teaching & Research) | 50 | 100 | 3 hours (combined) |
| Paper II | Defence and Strategic Studies | 100 | 200 |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Marking Scheme
The marking scheme of UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 is clearly determined by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to provide transparency and fairness while evaluating. It is easier for candidates to strategize their exam and enhance precision with the help of the marking system.| Component | Paper I | Paper II | Total |
| Total Questions | 50 | 100 | 150 |
| Marks per Question | 2 | 2 | — |
| Total Marks | 100 | 200 | 300 |
| Correct Answer | +2 marks | +2 marks | — |
| Incorrect Answer | No Negative Marking | No Negative Marking | — |
| Unattempted Questions | 0 marks | 0 marks | — |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Minimum Qualifying Marks 2025
To become eligible for the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 exam, candidates should have the minimum aggregate marks in Paper I and Paper II as specified by the National Testing Agency (NTA). Such minimum qualifying marks vary according to the category of the candidate.| Category | Minimum Qualifying Marks |
| General / Unreserved / General-EWS | 40% |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer) / SC / ST / PwD | 35% |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus 2025
The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus 2025 is framed to assess a candidate’s knowledge of national security, military strategy, international relations, geopolitics, defence technology, and allied subjects. The examination is conducted in two papers –- Paper I – General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude: Paper I is universal for all UGC NET candidates. It examines teaching aptitude, research aptitude, comprehension, reasoning, data interpretation, and general awareness.
- Paper II – Defence and Strategic Studies (Subject Code: 11): Paper II is unique to Defence and Strategic Studies and contains the following broad units:
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Paper II Syllabus – Unit-wise Breakdown
| Unit No. | Unit Name |
| Unit 1 | Evolution of Defence and Strategic Studies |
| Unit 2 | Theories and Concepts of War and Peace |
| Unit 3 | Military History of India |
| Unit 4 | Strategic Thought |
| Unit 5 | Indian National Security: Core Concepts and Challenges |
| Unit 6 | India’s Defence Mechanism: Structure and Functions |
| Unit 7 | Science, Technology, and National Security |
| Unit 8 | Contemporary Issues in International Relations and World Politics |
| Unit 9 | Regional Security and Conflict in South Asia |
| Unit 10 | Arms Control, Disarmament, and Nuclear Policies |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus PDF
You may download the official PDF syllabus from the UGC official website or ask for the PDF in Hindi and English versions as shown below:| Language | Download Link |
| English | Download UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus 2025 (English) |
| हिंदी (Hindi) | डाउनलोड करें: यूजीसी नेट रक्षा और रणनीतिक अध्ययन पाठ्यक्रम 2025 – हिंदी |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Preparation Tips 2025
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 preparation demands strategic planning, conceptual clarity, as well as an awareness of current affairs. Listed below are the expert tips for enhancing preparation:- Know the Syllabus & Exam Pattern – Know what to read and how the exam is organized.
- Make a Study Plan – Schedule time judiciously for Paper I & II with periodic revisions.
- Refer to Standard Books – Utilize reliable sources such as Barry Buzan, Jasjit Singh, and V.N. Khanna.
- Stay Updated – Read defence news, strategic affairs, and latest international relations.
- Solve PYQs & Mocks – Practice previous papers and timed tests to enhance accuracy.
- Use Online Resources – Watch video lectures, take quizzes, and read summaries.
- Revise Smartly – Prepare short notes and visual aids for easy recall.
- Take Care of Health – Remain calm, sleep well, and avoid burnout.
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Question Paper 2024
The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducted the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2024 exam, which is part of the series of UGC NET exams. This test was held for aspirants who desire to become Assistant Professors or Junior Research Fellows (JRF) in Defence and Strategic Studies.| Exam Name | Shift | Paper | Download Link |
| UGC NET June 2024 | Shift 1 | Paper 2 | Download PDF |
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Previous Year Question Papers
Preparing for the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies exam can be challenging without proper resources. Practicing previous year question papers is one of the best ways to prepare. Not only do these papers familiarize you with the exam pattern, but they also enable you to understand the kind of questions that can be expected in the exam. Through past papers, you can determine key topics and streamline your exam strategy.| Exam Name | Year | Download PDF |
| UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies | 2023 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies | 2022 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies | 2021 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies | 2020 | Download Link |
| UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies | 2018 | Download Link |
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET in Defence and Strategic Studies
Clearing the UGC NET exam in Defence and Strategic Studies opens a wide avenue of career opportunities for anyone aspiring to pursue a career in defence, security, and strategy. The UGC NET is the most reputed exam within the defence domain, testing the intellect and research capability of aspirants regarding Defense and Strategic Studies, thereby granting their eligibility to work as professors, researchers, and policy-makers in the domains of defence, etc. Following are some of the career opportunities after clearing UGC NET in Defence and Strategic Studies:Assistant Professor
- You can teach Defence and Strategic Studies at various universities and colleges, shaping the next generation of scholars and professionals in the field.
Researcher/Research Fellow
- With the enthusiasm to research, you can be employed in defense research organisations or academic institutions, adding new findings in defence strategies and defence policies.
Policy Advisor
- Work as a policy advisor in government organizations, think tanks, or NGOs, with a focus on national security, defense policies, and international relations.
Intelligence Officer
- Become a part of diverse intelligence agencies such as RAW, IB, or other national security agencies, where your experience in defense and strategy would be an asset.
Defense Analyst
- Provide a consultancy analyzing military trends, global conflicts, and international defense policies to defense agencies or private companies.
Military Strategist
- Work with military personnel in developing defense strategies, analyzing security measures, and assisting strategic planning.
Defense and International Relations Consultant
- Offer strategic advice to organizations on defense, foreign policy, and geopolitical issues.
Ph.D. Candidate
- Further pursue academic excellence by carrying out Ph.D. research in strategic studies, improving your academic qualifications and career outlook.
Conclusion
The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies June 2025 exam (Shift 1) was generally perceived as moderate, with some students finding it easy to moderate. Questions ranged from contemporary topics like SDGs and film institutes to research methodologies and basic general knowledge. With no negative marking and a clear syllabus, candidates who strategically prepare by understanding exam patterns, practicing previous year papers, and staying updated on current defence and strategic affairs will enhance their chances of success. Qualifying this prestigious exam opens up diverse career paths in academia, research, policy advisory, intelligence, and strategic consultancy, making it a valuable milestone for aspirants aiming for a career in defence and strategic studies.UGC NET in Defence and Strategic Studies FAQs
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies is an eligibility examination held by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to test the eligibility of candidates for the post of Assistant Professor or Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Defence and Strategic Studies.
Applicants should hold a Master’s degree in Defence and Strategic Studies or a similar discipline, with at least 55% marks for general category students and 50% for reserved categories.
The test is composed of two papers: Paper I (General Aptitude) and Paper II (Defence and Strategic Studies). Paper I contains 50 questions, and Paper II contains 100 questions, all of objective-type. The test is to be completed within a total of 3 hours without any negative marking.
Minimum qualifying marks in Paper I and Paper II are 40% for general candidates and 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates.
UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies is held twice a year—typically in June and December—by the National Testing Agency (NTA).
