UGC NET Malayalam 2025 exam offers a golden chance to hopeful candidates who desire to get employment opportunities as teacher, researcher, or academic in the subject of Malayalam language and literature. Organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam evaluates applicants’ suitability for Assistant Professor positions and for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian colleges and universities. Here, we present a comprehensive guide to UGC NET Malayalam 2025 including crucial information like exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility, and career opportunities.
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
What is UGC NET Malayalam?
UGC NET Malayalam is the subject-specific test for the UGC National Eligibility Test (NET) in Malayalam. The UGC NET is a national exam carried out by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to ascertain candidates’ eligibility to become Assistant Professors and for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) at Indian universities and colleges. The UGC NET Malayalam exam is specifically designed to examine candidates’ proficiency in the Malayalam language, literature, and allied subjects. It is one of the several subjects included in the general UGC NET exam.
UGC NET Malayalam Eligibility Criteria 2025
The UGC NET Malayalam exam, administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA), determines the suitability of candidates for the position of Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Malayalam language and literature in Indian universities and colleges. To sit for the UGC NET Malayalam exam in 2025, candidates should fulfill certain eligibility criteria in terms of educational qualifications, age restrictions, and other conditions. The following are the detailed eligibility criteria for UGC NET Malayalam 2025:
UGC NET Malayalam Educational Qualification 2025
- Master’s Degree: Applicants should hold a Master’s degree or equivalent qualification in Malayalam or a related subject from a known university or institution. The degree must be obtained from a UGC-recognized university.
- Minimum Marks:
- General/EWS/OBC-NCL/Third Gender: Applicants should have obtained a minimum of 55% aggregate marks in Master’s degree or equivalent.
- SC/ST/PwD: Applicants belonging to these groups need to have a minimum of 50% aggregate marks in their Master’s degree or equivalent.
- Final Year Students: Applicants pursuing the final year of their Master’s program are allowed to apply, given that they attain the minimum percentage requirement at the time of admission or appointment.
UGC NET Age Limit for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
- General Category: The candidate should not be more than 30 years old as of the 1st day of the month in which the examination is conducted.
UGC NET Relaxation
- OBC-NCL: A relaxation of 3 years is granted, and the upper age limit becomes 33 years.
- SC/ST/PwD: A relaxation of 5 years is granted, and the upper age limit becomes 35 years.
- Women Candidates: Women candidates are entitled to a relaxation of 5 years in age for JRF.
UGC NET Age Limit for Assistant Professor
There is no age limit to apply for the post of Assistant Professor via UGC NET. The applicant can seek the post of Assistant Professor at any age as long as they possess the educational qualification.
Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025
UGC NET Malayalam Exam Pattern 2025
The UGC NET Malayalam Exam Pattern 2025 is aimed at testing a candidate’s understanding of the Malayalam language and literature along with their teaching and research skills. Organized by the National Testing Agency (NTA), the exam is conducted in two papers—Paper I and Paper II—both conducted in a single sitting. While Paper I tests general teaching and reasoning skills, Paper II tests subject-specific knowledge in Malayalam only. Understanding the detailed exam structure is crucial for aspirants to plan their preparation effectively and manage time during the exam.
Paper | Subject | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Type of Questions |
Paper I | General Paper on Teaching & Research Aptitude | 50 | 100 | 3 hours (combined) | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Paper II | Malayalam (Subject-Specific) | 100 | 200 | 3 hours (combined) | Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs) |
Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025
UGC NET Malayalam Marking Scheme 2025
The UGC NET Malayalam examination, carried out by the National Testing Agency (NTA), is a standardized marking system for all subjects. Below is a detailed outline:
Paper | Number of Questions | Total Marks | Marks per Question | Duration | Negative Marking |
Paper 1 (General Paper on Teaching & Research Aptitude) | 50 | 100 | 2 | 1 hour | No |
Paper 2 (Malayalam Subject-Specific Paper) | 100 | 200 | 2 | 2 hours | No |
Total | 150 | 300 | – | 3 hours | No |
UGC NET Malayalam Minimum Qualifying Marks 2025
To be eligible for the UGC NET Malayalam exam in 2025, candidates are required to secure the minimum qualifying marks as defined by the National Testing Agency (NTA). These marks remain the same across all subjects, including Malayalam.
Category | Paper I | Paper II | Aggregate (Out of 300) |
General / Unreserved (UR) | 40% | 40% | 120 marks |
OBC-NCL / SC / ST / PwD / Transgender | 35% | 35% | 105 marks |
UGC NET Malayalam Syllabus 2025
UGC NET Malayalam syllabus 2025 aims at testing the in-depth knowledge of Malayalam language, literature, and related studies in the candidates. The syllabus has been framed with ten units each discussing various subject matter areas. An outline of those units follows here:
UGC NET Malayalam Syllabus 2025 – Unit-wise
- Paper 1: General Aptitude
- Paper 2: Subject-Specific – Malayalam
Unit No. | Title | Topics Covered |
1 | History of Malayalam Language | Evolution, linguistic influences, development stages, old & modern grammar |
2 | History of Malayalam Literature | Periodization, literary movements, major authors and their contributions |
3 | Poetry | Classical to contemporary poetry, poetic forms, notable poets and themes |
4 | Prose | Essays, travelogues, biographies, and prose style development |
5 | Drama and Theatre | History of Malayalam drama, major playwrights, performance traditions |
6 | Literary Criticism | Indian and Western literary theories, critical schools and their application |
7 | Literary Theories and Movements | Structuralism, Post-Structuralism, Modernism, Postmodernism, Marxism, Feminism, Dalit literature |
8 | Comparative Literature | Malayalam and other Indian/world literature comparisons; translation studies |
9 | Malayalam Grammar and Linguistics | Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, Semantics, Dialects |
10 | Contemporary Trends in Malayalam Literature | New genres, digital literature, eco-literature, feminist and marginalized narratives |
Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025
UGC NET Malayalam 2025 Syllabus PDF Download
To download the UGC NET Malayalam Syllabus 2025 in PDF, applicants can use the official resources made available by the National Testing Agency (NTA) as well as the University Grants Commission (UGC). The syllabus defines the units and topics that will be addressed in Paper 2 of the UGC NET examination for the subject Malayalam. The link given below to download UGC NET Malayalam Syllabus 2025.
Language | Download Link |
Malayalam |
Download UGC NET Full Official Syllabus PDF
UGC NET Malayalam Question Paper 2024
UGC NET Malayalam Question Paper 2024 is an essential guide for candidates who intend to prepare for future cycles of the National Eligibility Test. The exam was conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA). The test assesses candidates’ in-depth knowledge of the Malayalam language, literature, grammar, and allied literary theories.
Exam Name | Shift | Paper | Download Link |
UGC NET June 2024 | Shift 1 | Paper 2 |
UGC NET Malayalam Previous Year Question Papers
Previous year question papers are a necessary resource for all aspirants who are preparing for the UGC NET Malayalam exam. These papers provide a practical idea about the pattern of the questions, weightage of the topics, and level of difficulty in the real examination. By practicing past papers regularly, a candidate can better prepare and gain confidence.
Exam Name | Year | Download PDF |
UGC NET Malayalam | 2023 | |
UGC NET Malayalam | 2022 | |
UGC NET Malayalam | 2021 | |
UGC NET Malayalam | 2020 | |
UGC NET Malayalam | 2018 |
Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Malayalam
Qualifying the UGC NET Malayalam exam provides a variety of high-profile and gratifying career options in academic and non-academic positions. The successful candidates are eligible for teaching, research, translation, content production, and different government and private sector jobs.
Career Path | Role/Description | Average Salary (₹/Month) |
Academics | Assistant Professor in colleges/universities | ₹50,000 – ₹80,000 |
Lecturer via State PSC (after SET/NET) | ₹40,000 – ₹75,000 | |
Academic Content Developer for Malayalam study material | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 | |
Research | Junior Research Fellow (JRF) with stipend + HRA | ₹31,000 (1st 2 years), ₹35,000+ |
Ph.D. Admission eligibility in Malayalam language/literature | As per fellowship norms | |
Project Fellow in literary/language research projects | ₹20,000 – ₹40,000 | |
Media & Communication | Reporter, Sub-editor, Scriptwriter in Malayalam media houses | ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 |
Translation & Government | Translator in UPSC/SSC/Govt. Depts. | ₹25,000 – ₹50,000 |
Language Officer/Proofreader in state/central services | ₹30,000 – ₹60,000 | |
Publishing & EdTech | Editor/Proofreader/Manuscript reviewer in Malayalam publishing | ₹30,000 – ₹70,000 |
Malayalam content creator for EdTech platforms like BYJU’S, Unacademy | ₹35,000 – ₹80,000 | |
Freelancing & Others | Author, literary critic, private tutor, language consultant | Variable (₹20,000 – ₹1 lakh+) |
Also Read: UGC NET Cutoff 2025
UGC NET Malayalam Preparation Tips 2025
Passing the UGC NET Malayalam examination needs a tactical strategy that combines extensive study of Malayalam literature, consistent practice, and precision in basic concepts. The following are some tips recommended by experts to prepare yourself for the 2025 examination.
- Know Your Syllabus: Read the official syllabus carefully for Paper 1 and Paper 2. Pay special attention to areas such as Malayalam literature (ancient to modern), linguistics, and literary criticism.
- Practice Previous Year Papers: Practice at least 5–10 years of previous year papers. Pay special attention to topics that are most asked and time management.
- Prepare for Paper 1: Paper 1 (Teaching & Research Aptitude) is also very important. Practice questions on reasoning, comprehension, and teaching methodology.
- Create a Study Plan: Spend time on literature and linguistics every week. Add mock tests to your study plan for improved time management.
- Books to Read: Malayala Sahitya Charitram by M. Leelavathy, Literary Criticism by C. S. Venkiteswaran, UGC NET Malayalam guidebooks
- Utilize Online Resources: Watch YouTube classes and join Telegram groups for daily quizzes and notes.
- Remain Consistent: Study 4–6 hours a day, revise regularly, and maintain a positive attitude.
Conclusion
The UGC NET Malayalam 2025 exam is a great chance for candidates who wish to become Junior Research Fellows or Assistant Professors in the Malayalam language and literature field. Candidates can plan their preparation strategically by knowing the exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility criteria, and career prospects. With focused effort, regular practice, and judicious use of available resources, prospective candidates can easily qualify for this esteemed exam. From making a career in academia, research, and media, UGC NET Malayalam provides wide and fulfilling career options.
UGC NET Malayalam 2025 FAQs
The syllabus is available to download from the National Testing Agency (NTA) or the University Grants Commission (UGC) official website or pdf available in the article.
Passing UGC NET Malayalam can provide numerous career prospects in academia, research, media, translation, publishing, and EdTech. Some major roles are Assistant Professor, Junior Research Fellow, Research Associate, Translator, and Content Developer.
Previous year question papers can be downloaded from the official NTA or UGC website or different educational websites offering resources for NET preparation.
No, there is no negative marking for incorrect answers in both Paper 1 and Paper 2.
In order to apply for UGC NET Malayalam, one should hold a Master’s degree in Malayalam or equivalent subject with 55% marks (for General/EWS/OBC-NCL) or 50% marks (for SC/ST/PwD). Even final year students can apply.
