UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 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.

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 exam for June session will be conducted between June 25 and June 29, 2026.

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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 2026

For the purpose of appearing in the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 examination, applicants are required to meet certain educational and age eligibility requirements as determined by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as follows:

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UGC NET Educational Qualification 2026

UGC NET Age Limit (as of 1st June 2026)

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Exam Pattern 2026 

The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 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.

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UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Marking Scheme 2026

The marking scheme of UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 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.

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Minimum Qualifying Marks 2026

To become eligible for the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 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.

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UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus 2026

The UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Syllabus 2026 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:

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UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Paper II Syllabus – Unit-wise Breakdown

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:

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UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies Preparation Tips 2026

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2026 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 2025 PDF Here

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.

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.

Check Out UGC NET Previous Year Question Papers Here

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.

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies 2025 Exam Analysis 6 Jan 2026, Shift 1

The overall UGC NET Dec 2025 exam (6 January 2026, Shift 1) was easy-moderate in difficulty across Paper 1 and Paper 2 (Defence and Strategic Studies).

The UGC NET Paper 1 exam on 6 January 2026 (Shift 1) was rated easy to moderate in overall difficulty by JRFAdda analysis. Logical Reasoning emerged as the toughest section with 12-15 questions on propositions, syllogisms, fallacies, and Indian logic, while Mathematical Reasoning and Data Interpretation were moderate yet calculative. Good attempts stood at 40-45 out of 50, with no negative marking aiding prepared candidates; the paper stuck closely to syllabus patterns seen in prior Dec 2025 shifts (31 Dec to 5 Jan), emphasizing conceptual and PYQ-style questions across all 10 units.​

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Paper 2 (Defence and Strategic Studies) was rated moderate in difficulty, balancing core themes like Military History of India, National Security Policies, and Contemporary International Relations. Questions tested grasp of defence technology advancements and South Asian regional conflicts, blending historical analysis with current strategic scenarios—making it comprehensive yet approachable for prepared candidates. Good attempts ranged from 65-75 out of 100 questions (200 marks), with high-weightage on theoretical concepts and real-world applications; no negative marking favored strategic thinkers familiar with both foundational texts and recent geopolitical developments.

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UGC NET in Defence and Strategic Studies FAQs

What is UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies?

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.

What are the eligibility criteria for UGC NET 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.

What is the exam pattern for UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies?

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.

What are minimum UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies qualifying marks?

Minimum qualifying marks in Paper I and Paper II are 40% for general candidates and 35% for SC/ST/OBC/PwD candidates.

How frequently is the UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies exam held?

UGC NET Defence and Strategic Studies is held twice a year—typically in June and December—by the National Testing Agency (NTA).