UGC NET Social Work 2025 is a national-level eligibility test conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA) for those applicants who want to become eligible for the posts of Assistant Professor or for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Social Work. The exam tests a candidate’s awareness of fundamental concepts such as social work theories, research techniques, social policy, welfare administration, and intervention practices. Candidates should prepare strategically with an understanding of the UGC NET Social Work syllabus, exam pattern, and last year trends, to crack this competitive exam in the December 2025 session.

Also Read: UGC NET Application Form 2025

UGC NET Social Work 2025 Eligibility Criteria

The aspirants have to ensure they qualify for eligibility, as formulated by the National Testing Agency (NTA), prior to appearing in UGC NET Social Work 2025. The criteria of eligibility include the academic background, age constraints (particularly for JRF) as well as reservation relaxations.

Also Read: UGC NET Eligibility 2025

UGC NET Age Limit (as on 1st June 2025)

The age limit for the UGC NET December 2025 exam for Social Work is as follows:

Also Read: UGC NET Exam 2025

UGC NET Social Work 2025 Exam Pattern & Marking Scheme

UGC NET 2025 examination is held by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in a Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode. The UGC NET Social Work Paper contains objective-type multiple-choice questions (MCQs) and is conducted in a span of 3 Hours without a break. The UGC NET Social Work 2025 exam pattern and marking scheme are as follows:

Also Read: UGC NET Exam Pattern 2025

Minimum Qualifying Marks for UGC NET Social Work 2025

To be eligible for the UGC NET Social Work 2025 examination, candidates should score the minimum aggregate marks in Paper I and Paper II as required by the National Testing Agency (NTA).

Also Read: UGC NET Application Fee Structure 2025

UGC NET Social Work Syllabus 2025

UGC NET Social Work 2025 syllabus is created to evaluate knowledge, conceptual understanding, and clarity of candidates as well as familiarity with different theories, practices, and recent developments in the context of social work. The syllabus is based on two papers:

• Paper I is general in nature for all subjects and checks teaching & research ability, reasoning, comprehension, and general awareness.
• Paper II is subject-wise and contains only those topics pertaining to Social Work.

Also Read: UGC NET Syllabus 2025

UGC NET Social Work Paper II Syllabus Unit Wise (Subject Code – 10)

Below are the ten major units covered in the UGC NET Social Work Paper II Syllabus 2025:

Also Read: UGC NET Law Syllabus 2025

UGC NET Social Work Syllabus PDF Download

You can download the official syllabus from the link provided below. The UGC NET Social Work Syllabus PDF is available in both English and Hindi.

Download UGC NET Full Official Syllabus PDF

UGC NET Social Work Question Papers (2018-2024)

Previous year question papers are a good way to prepare, along with UGC NET Social Work books such as Trueman’s UGC NET Social Work, Arihant UGC NET Social Work. The UGC NET Social Work question papers give an idea of the exam pattern and frequently asked questions, which assist in your level of UGC NET Social Work preparation.

Also Read: UGC NET Question Paper 2

Career Scope After Qualifying UGC NET Social Work 2025

Passing the UGC NET Social Work Paper provides you with a wide range of career choices in different fields, and some of the main career choices you can opt for are as follows:

Assistant Professor in Universities and Colleges

• The most prevalent post after passing UGC NET Social Work is that of becoming an Assistant Professor at universities, colleges, and institutes.
• You may teach Social Work and allied courses, educating the next generation of professionals in the field.

Researcher and Research Fellow

• If you have a passion for research, becoming UGC NET Social Work qualified makes you a candidate for Research Fellowships.
• You can work on research projects related to social issues, policies, or interventions, enriching academic knowledge and practical application in social work.
• You can even opt for Ph.D. studies in Social Work to specialize further in research skills and further advance your career.

Government and NGO Social Worker

• Most UGC NET-qualified individuals are hired by different NGOs and government welfare organizations that are engaged in social welfare, child development, community service, and other social sectors.

Educational Administrator

• Social Work professionals can work in administrative capacities in educational institutions.
• Roles such as Dean, Director, or Principal in social work colleges or institutions can be available for them depending on their qualifications and experience.

Policy Advisor/Consultant

• Social Work professionals can engage as policy advisers or consultants in government departments or think tanks.
• Their function would be to inform policy decisions across social welfare, health, and education.

• Such a function consists of analyzing and formulating policies impacting vulnerable segments, having an enormous impact on societal well-being.

Social Work Educator in Coaching Institutes

• Another feasible option is becoming a Social Work instructor in coaching and training institutes for candidates who are getting ready to take competitive exams such as UGC NET, SSC, or other civil services exams.
• You can assist students in preparing for the Social Work subject and its different aspects.

Social Media Consultant/Content Developer

• As digital platforms have gained popularity, there has also been an increased need for content developers or consultants who can create awareness regarding social issues on social media.
• It is the job of such an individual to produce interesting material, campaign, and raise awareness regarding social causes.

Public Health Expert

• Knowledgeable Social Work experts in public health can work in health areas.
• You could serve the health sector by organizing and managing social health programs or advising on public health policies that benefit vulnerable groups.

Also Read: Career Options After UGC NET December 2025

Conclusion

UGC NET Social Work 2025 is not only an examination but a portal to a meaningful scholarly as well as professional career in the discipline of social work. By planning carefully, keeping track of the syllabus and pattern of examination, and preparing correctly, one can land a job as an Assistant Professor, Research Fellow, or as an important contributor to the social development sector. The topic itself requires sensitivity, critical appreciation, and an earnest desire to benefit society. If you care about making social change, this exam can be your initial step towards the same.

UGC NET Social Work 2025 FAQs

Who conducts the UGC NET Social Work 2025 exam?

The UGC NET Social Work test is administered by the National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC).

What is the eligibility for UGC NET Social Work 2025?

Applicants should have a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW or equivalent) with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved candidates).

Is there any age restriction for UGC NET Social Work 2025?

Yes, for JRF, the maximum age is 30 years (with relaxation for reserved categories). There is no age restriction for Assistant Professorship.

List some of the UGC NET Social Work books to prepare for the December 2025 exam?

Books such as Trueman’s UGC NET Social Work and Arihant UGC NET Social Work are some of the most favoured books for the UGC NET Social Work preparation.

Where do I download the UGC NET Social Work syllabus PDF?

You can download both English and Hindi official syllabus from the NTA or UGC NET official website, or from the direct links given here in this guide.