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UGC NET 2026: Exam Pattern, Eligibility & Study Plan

India · 2 subjects · 14 topics · Updated 2026-04-06

The National Eligibility Test (UGC NET), conducted by NTA, determines eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities/colleges. One of the largest examinations in the world with over 10 lakh candidates per session. Tests teaching and research aptitude.

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Verified 2026-04-24

Year: 2026
Subjects: 2
Topics: 14

Freshness tracked daily from https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in. See 2026 calendar →

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📋 Exam Pattern

Two papers (Paper I: 50 questions on teaching/research aptitude, Paper II: 100 questions in the subject), 300 marks total, 3 hours. No negative marking.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

Master's degree with 55% aggregate (50% for SC/ST/OBC). JRF has additional age limit of 30 years.

Subjects & Topics Covered — 14 topics across 2 subjects

Paper 1 (General)

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9 topics · Teaching Aptitude· Research Aptitude· Communication + more

Subject (UGC NET)

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5 topics · Research Methodology· Subject-Specific Topics· Core Concepts + more

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Frequently Asked Questions — UGC NET

Everything you need to know about UGC NET. Scroll down for the complete study guide.

What is UGC NET and what does it qualify you for?

UGC NET (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is conducted by NTA for candidates seeking admission to Assistant Professor positions or wanting to pursue a PhD in Indian universities. Clearing UGC NET with a valid score makes you eligible to apply for lecturer and assistant professor posts across universities and colleges in India. The exam is conducted twice a year (June and December cycles) in over 80 subjects.

What is the UGC NET exam pattern?

UGC NET consists of three papers conducted in a single session of 3 hours and 20 minutes. Paper 1 (100 questions, 200 marks) tests General Aptitude — teaching/research methodology, reasoning, and divergent thinking. Paper 2 (100 questions, 200 marks) covers the specific subject selected by the candidate. Both papers are objective MCQs. There is no negative marking. The exam is conducted online (CBT) at designated test centres.

What is the qualifying criteria for UGC NET?

To qualify UGC NET, candidates must score at least 40% aggregate marks in both papers for the General category (35% for OBC/SC/ST/PwD). However, qualifying only makes you eligible for the NET certificate — actual recruitment depends on the cutoff set by individual universities and colleges. For a competitive score, aim for 180+ in Paper 1 and 180+ in your subject paper (out of 200 each). A score above 200 in both papers places you in the top tier for university recruitment.

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Exam Name	UGC NET
Country	🇮🇳 India
Subjects	Paper 1 (General), Subject (UGC NET)
Total Topics	14
Official Source	https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in
Last Updated	2026-04-06