Exams » UGC NET » UGC NET Music 2025, Syllabus, Exam Analysis, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Preparation
UGC NET Music 2025, Syllabus, Exam Analysis, Eligibility, Exam Pattern, Preparation
UGC NET Music 2025 (June) exam was held on June 26 in Shift 1. Check detailed exam analysis for Paper 1 and Paper 2, syllabus, eligibility, marking scheme, previous year papers, and career scope after qualifying for JRF or Assistant Professor roles.
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The UGC NET Music 2025 (June Cycle) exam was successfully conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on June 26, 2025, in Shift 1. The examination is a crucial opportunity for postgraduate candidates aiming to qualify for Assistant Professor positions or secure the prestigious Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in the field of Music. As per the initial student feedback, the overall difficulty level of Paper 1 was moderate, with some finding it easier than expected. Paper 2, focused specifically on Music, was described as moderate to slightly challenging, depending on the candidate’s preparation and area of specialization.
Also Read: UGC NET Cut Off 2025
What is UGC NET Music 2025?
UGC NET Music 2025 is a national-level test carried out by the National Testing Agency (NTA) to determine the eligibility of candidates for the posts of Assistant Professor and for the award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Music. The exam will take place between June 21 to June 30, 2025, in the form of a Computer-Based Test (CBT). The syllabus of Music (Subject Code: 16) consists of Indian classical music (vocal and instrumental), folk traditions, musicology, aesthetics, and research methods. It assesses the candidates on their theoretical understanding, analytical skills, and appreciation of music traditions and pedagogy.
UGC NET Music 2025 has two papers:
Paper 1 (common to all subjects) is teaching & research aptitude.
Paper 2 (specific to Music) has in-depth content from 10 major units, such as history, theory, practical, and innovations in music.
UGC NET Music 2025 Exam Analysis – June 26 (Shift 1) In Shift 1 of the UGC NET Music 2025 exam held on June 26, Paper 1 was rated moderate in difficulty. It included balanced questions from teaching aptitude, research aptitude, reading comprehension, logical reasoning (e.g., syllogism, number series), data interpretation, ICT, environment, and the higher education system. Most candidates found reasoning and comprehension sections to be straightforward, while data interpretation was slightly time-consuming but manageable. The paper was well-structured with no unexpected questions, making it comfortable for well-prepared candidates.
Paper 2 focused on Music (Subject Code 16) and was rated moderate to slightly difficult. It tested a wide range of topics including Indian classical music (Hindustani and Carnatic), folk and tribal music, music aesthetics, gharana traditions, musicology, pedagogy, research methodology, and the use of technology in music. It also featured questions on notation systems and the contributions of legendary composers. Candidates with a deep understanding of theory and historical context found the paper fair but challenging in parts, especially where close-option MCQs required strong conceptual clarity.
UGC NET Music Eligibility Criteria 2025
To appear for the UGC NET Music 2025 examination, candidates have to meet certain educational qualifications and age-related conditions prescribed by the National Testing Agency (NTA). These conditions are such that only eligible individuals can sit for the examination for either Assistant Professorship, Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), or both.
Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025
UGC NET Music Educational Qualification 2025
To be considered for UGC NET Music 2025, applicants should fulfill the prescribed educational qualifications as set by the National Testing Agency (NTA). These qualifications guarantee that candidates have the required academic background to sit for the exam.
Criteria
Details
Required Degree
Master’s degree (M.A./M.Mus./MFA) in Music or related discipline
Minimum Marks (General)
55% aggregate marks in post graduation
Minimum Marks (Reserved)
50% aggregate marks for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/Third gender
Final Year Students
Eligible to apply provisionally; must submit proof of qualification later
Recognized Institutions
Degree must be from a UGC-recognized university or institution
UGC NET Age Limit 2025
Category
JRF Eligibility
Assistant Professor Eligibility
Maximum Age (General)
30 years (as of the exam date)
No upper age limit
Age Relaxation
+5 years for SC/ST/OBC-NCL/PwD/Women
Not applicable
Applicable Until
Age is calculated as of June 1, 2025
N/A
Final Year Candidates
Appearing candidates for their final year/semester of post graduation in Music or waiting for results are also eligible to apply.
Degrees from Foreign Universities
Foreign Master’s degree holders need to have their qualifications certified by the Association of Indian Universities (AIU).
The UGC NET Music exam has two papers, namely Paper I and Paper II, and these are held together in one sitting without a break. Both the papers have objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and are held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
The UGC NET Music examination consists of two papers—Paper I and Paper II—held in a single session without any break. Both papers are made up of objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and are held in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode.
Paper
Subject
Number of Questions
Marks
Question Type
Duration
Negative Marking
Paper I
General Aptitude
50
100
MCQs
3 hours
No
Paper II
Music (Code 16)
100
200
Total
150
300
UGC NET Music Minimum Qualifying Marks 2025
To be eligible for UGC NET Music 2025 exam, the candidates have to score the minimum aggregate marks in Paper I and Paper II as per the National Testing Agency (NTA). The qualifying marks are calculated based on the category of the candidate.
Category
Minimum Qualifying Marks (Aggregate of Paper I & II)
General / Unreserved (UR)
40%
OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)
35%
Scheduled Caste (SC)
35%
Scheduled Tribe (ST)
35%
Persons with Disabilities (PwD)
35%
Economically Weaker Section (EWS)
35%
Third Gender
35%
UGC NET Music Syllabus 2025
The UGC NET Music 2025 syllabus, as specified by the University Grants Commission (UGC) and conducted by NTA, is framed to evaluate a candidate’s overall knowledge in the field of Music — both theoretical and practical.
The syllabus is split into 10 Units. Units I to IV are general for all the candidates, but Units V to X are discipline-wise, depending on the specialization of the candidate like Hindustani Music, Carnatic Music, Percussion, Rabindra Sangeet, etc.
UGC NET Music Paper 2 Unit-wise Syllabus 2025
Unit
Topic
Unit I
Technical terms in Indian Music – Nāda, Shruti, Swara, Rāga, Tāla, Alankar, Gamaka, etc.; Classification of Rāgas and Tālas; Structure and system of Indian classical music
Unit II
Folk music of India – Regional styles, instruments, characteristics, and their role in cultural heritage
Unit III
Rasa theory – concept of Rasa and its application in music; Aesthetics in Indian music
Unit IV
Research Methodology – Objectives, types, tools, data collection; Pedagogical methods in music education; Use of technology in teaching-learning and research
Unit V
Detailed study of Rāgas and Talas prescribed; Characteristics, classification, and performance structure of Rāgas and Talas; Gharana traditions
Unit VI
History and evolution of Indian Music – Ancient to Modern period; Historical texts and treatises like Natya Shastra, Sangeet Ratnakar, Brihaddeshi
Unit VII
Musical forms – Dhrupad, Khayal, Tarana, Thumri, Dadra, Bhajan, Tappa, Folk forms, etc.
Unit VIII
Study of musical instruments – Classification, structure, technique, and acoustics of string, wind, and percussion instruments
Unit IX
Notation systems – Bhatkhande and Vishnu Narayan Bhatkhande systems; Comparative study of notation systems
Unit X
Contribution of great musicians, musicologists, and composers to Indian music and contemporary trends in Indian music
UGC NET Music 2025 Syllabus PDF Download
Aspirants who will be appearing for the June 2025 UGC NET exam in Music must go through the detailed syllabus so that they can prepare accordingly. You can download UGC NET Music Syllabus 2025 in PDF form from the official NTA website or simply click the link below for easy access:
By following these tips and remaining committed, you can enhance your possibilities of qualifying for UGC NET Music 2025 and becoming eligible for Junior Research Fellowship or Assistant Professor. Following are some effective UGC NET Music Preparation Tips 2025 to excel in your exam:
Understand the Syllabus Thoroughly: Begin by referring to the official UGC NET Music syllabus of 2025. Study every topic thoroughly, particularly those with higher marks. Concentrate on both Paper 1 (General Aptitude) and Paper 2 (Subject-specific) of Music.
Follow a Structured Study Plan: Make a timetable that covers the entire syllabus in a methodical manner. Spend more time on tough subjects, but keep revising all topics regularly.
Focus on Paper 2 (Music) Topics: Paper 2 is subject-specific, so ensure you are well-versed in subjects such as Indian Classical Music, Western Music, Musicology, and notable composers. Give special attention to historical developments and notable musicians.
Practice with Mock Tests: Attempting mock tests is a great way to assess your preparation. It helps you keep track of time and get accustomed to the format of the exam. It also points out areas where you need to practice more.
Employ High-Quality Study Material: Invest in good study books, online lectures, and reference materials for both Paper 1 and Paper 2. Utilize recommended UGC NET Music books and study resources for in-depth understanding of topics.
Stay Current with the Newest Trends: The UGC NET exam at times contains current trends in music. Stay current with recent findings and research in musicology.
Re-Read Periodically: Revision is a success. Ensure to revise all the topics several times, particularly those which you struggle with.
Breaks and Consistency: Don’t get burned out by taking periodic breaks. Remain consistent in what you do but also ensure not to overdo things.
Clear Doubts: As soon as you get doubts, do not hold back from approaching your mentors, peers, or online forums for clarification. Doubt clearance in early stages makes sure you’re going in the correct direction.
Remain Positive and Confident: Remain motivated and confident throughout your preparation. Persistent effort and a positive attitude will assist you in overcoming difficulties during your preparation process.
UGC NET Music Question Paper 2024
UGC NET Music Question Paper 2024 is a must-have document for students preparing for the next UGC NET Music 2025 exam. Practicing the 2024 question paper gives students an idea of the kind of questions being asked, the difficulty level, and key topics commonly addressed in Paper 2 (Music). As it aids in enhancing time management and determining weak points, which require revising. The 2024 question papers were held for both the June and December terms. Candidates should download and solve these papers comprehensively as part of their study plan.
UGC NET Music Previous Year Question Papers are a precious resource for aspirants for the upcoming UGC NET Music exam. The papers assist the candidates in knowing the pattern of the exam, the level of difficulty, types of questions, and significant topics covered in exams over the years. The papers facilitate accuracy, time management, and confidence building, all of which are essential for success.
Qualifying UGC NET Music provides a wide array of scholarship, research, and career opportunities in performing arts. It doesn’t matter whether you want to engage in teaching, research, or performance; this qualification makes your skills highly credible and boosts your career status.
Academic & Teaching Opportunities
Assistant Professor: Eligible to apply for Music faculty jobs in colleges and universities across India.
Guest Faculty / Lecturer: Several institutions provide part-time teaching jobs, which are excellent to gain experience.
Music Trainer / Educator: Head music classes at government or private music schools, cultural centers, or online.
Research Opportunities
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): If you are eligible for JRF, you can undertake sponsored research (M.Phil/Ph.D.) in music from prestigious institutions.
Doctoral Studies (Ph.D.): NET qualification is usually required for admission to Ph.D. courses in Indian universities.
Research Projects & Fellowships: Eligible to apply for research grants and fellowships in music from UGC, ICCR, Sangeet Natak Akademi, etc.
Performance & Cultural Roles
Performer or Musicologist: Become a professional performer of classical, folk, or contemporary music.
Cultural Officer / Music Curator: Collaborate with government cultural organizations, museums, or private trusts to conserve and develop music heritage.
Content Creator / Instructor: Open your own YouTube channel, online music lessons, or digital content website.
Other Career Paths
Music Therapist (with certification)
Curriculum Developer for Music Education
Public Service Commissions (such as PSC Lecturer positions)
Publishing & Editing Music Journals or Magazines
Conclusion
The UGC NET Music 2025 (June Cycle) served as a vital stepping stone for aspiring music educators, researchers, and performers. With Paper 1 rated moderate and Paper 2 ranging from moderate to slightly difficult, the exam tested candidates on a wide array of theoretical, practical, and research-oriented musical knowledge. Whether you’re aiming for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) or an Assistant Professor position, this exam validates your expertise and opens doors to esteemed academic and cultural opportunities. Staying committed, following a structured study plan, and analyzing the latest question paper trends will remain key strategies for success in future cycles.
For JRF, the maximum age is 30 years (as of June 1, 2025), and relaxations in this are applicable to reserved categories. No maximum age for eligibility for the post of Assistant Professor.
Aditi Sharma, founder of JRFAdda, is a Computer Science educator with an MCA degree and JRF qualification (99.91 percentile, Dec 2019). Her experience includes roles as an SBI SO (DBA), work at Cognizant, and over 5 years of teaching online and offline. She has also served as a Government Computer Teacher in Rajasthan.
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