CSIR NET Question Paper 2026: Download PDFs With Solutions

Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test 2026 ( CSIR NET )

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CSIR NET 2026 Dec Exam Date

19 Dec '26 - 27 Dec '26

Upasna Choudhry

By Upasna Choudhry, Senior Executive

CSIR UGC NET Question Papers 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) released the CSIR NET Provisional Answer Key along with the Question papers with recorded responses for the June session on the official website at csirnet.nta.nic.in. The CSIR NET Answer Key challenge window was also opened for a limited period of time. Here we have provided the Previous year question papers also. It is important for the candidates to practice the question papers and boost their performance for the NTA CSIR NET exam. 

With the help of previous year papers. candidates can imporve their speed, come to know the topics asked in the exam and the exam pattern. Scroll down to know the benefits of solving the CSIR NET question papers 2026 along with important FAQs.

 

Table of contents
  • CSIR NET Questions Papers 2019
  • CSIR NET Question Papers 2018
  • CSIR NET Previous Year's Question Papers
  • Benefits of Practising CSIR NET Question Papers
  • How to Download CSIR NET Question Papers 2026?
  • CSIR NET Prep Tips 2026
  • CSIR NET Sample Papers FAQs 2026
View Moreaccroadian
Download previous year CSIR NET question papers and sample papers. Use them for practice and improve your speed and accuracy. You can download CSIR NET previous year question papers and the preparation guides for free.

CSIR NET Questions Papers 2019

CSIR NET June 2019 Chemical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-A)
CSIR NET June 2019 Chemical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-B)
CSIR NET June 2019 Chemical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-C)
CSIR NET June 2019 Earth Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-A)
CSIR NET June 2019 Earth Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-B)
CSIR NET June 2019 Earth Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-C)
CSIR NET June 2019 Life Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-A)
CSIR NET June 2019 Life Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-B)
CSIR NET June 2019 Life Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-C)
CSIR NET June 2019 Mathematical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-A)
CSIR NET June 2019 Mathematical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-B)
CSIR NET June 2019 Mathematical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-C)
CSIR NET June 2019 Physical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-A)
CSIR NET June 2019 Physical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-B)
CSIR NET June 2019 Physical Sciences Actual Question Paper (Set-C)

CSIR NET Question Papers 2018

CSIR NET Chemical Science Question Paper 2018 for June Session
CSIR NET Chemical Science Question Paper 2018 for December Session
CSIR NET Earth Science Question Paper 2018 for June Session
CSIR NET Earth Science Question Paper 2018 for December Session
CSIR NET Life Science Question Paper 2018 for June Session
CSIR NET Life Science Question Paper 2018 for December Session
CSIR NET Mathematical Science Question Paper 2018 for June Session
CSIR NET Mathematical Science Question Paper 2018 for December Session
CSIR NET Physical Science Question Paper 2018 for June Session
CSIR NET Physical Science Question Paper 2018 for December Session
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CSIR NET Previous Year's Question Papers

CSIR NET Previous Year's Question Papers help candidates in their preparation for the CSIR NET exam. CSIR NET Previous Year's Question Papers have been provided in this article below in the form of PDF. Candidates can download the Previous Year's Question Papers here. 

CSIR NET 2024 December Question Paper and Answer Key PDF

Candidates can check below the CSIR NET 2024 December Session Question Papers and Answer Key PDFs.

Subject Question Paper PDF Answer Key PDF
Mathematical Sciences Download Here Download Here
Chemical Sciences Download Here Download Here
Physical Sciences Download Here Download Here

Life Sciences 1

Download Here Download Here
Life Sciences 2 Download Here Download Here
Earth, Atmospheric, Ocean and Planetary Sciences  Download Here Download Here
Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Is the CSIR NET 2026 Answer Key OUT?
A: 

Yes, the NTA released the CSIR NET 2026 Answer Key on its official portal. The candidates are required to login with their credentials to download their subject answer key. 

Q:   Should a candidate rely on books or online resources for CSIR NET Preparation 2026?
A: 

Candidates should follow a balanced approach. No doubt books help in conceptual clarity, and a candidate can study in detail. On the other hand, online platforms provide lectures through video, have updated notes, cover current affairs as well, etc. 

Q:   What is the date for CSIR NET December 2026 exam?
A: 

The CSIR NET 2026 December session exam is schedule to be conducted on December 20 and 21. It will be conducted in two shifts. The whole exam schedule will be released by the authority at csirnet.nta.nic.in.  

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Benefits of Practising CSIR NET Question Papers

Previous year question papers are considered to be the most authentic source of information to know about the pattern of questions asked in the examination. Candidates will come to know about the kind of questions asked from various topics, which area is more important to focus, improve speed and also candidate come to know that same type of question is coming every year, etc. Have a look at the benefits of solving CSIR NET question papers below.

  • Candidates get familiar with the topics which they need to cover for the exam
  • Candidates get to know their strong and weak areas
  • It helps in managing time for answering questions during the exam 
  • Candidates can analyse the already attempted papers to know their mistakes and hence, can work for improvement

Also Read: CSIR NET Syllabus 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   How can I get the CSIR NET exam Syllabus PDF?
A: 

Candidates can download the CSIR NET Syllabus by visiting the official website at csirnet.nta.nic.in or csirhrdg.res.in. Candidates can also visit out Shiksha page to download the syllabus PDF for the CSIR NET exam.

Q:   Can I clear CSIR NET in 3 months?
A: 

Yes. Candidates clear the CSIR UGC NET exam in three months. But to pass the exam proper strategy is required. They make study plans, do revisions, solve question papers, practice tests, etc. If a candidate study properly then nothing is impossible to crack. 

 

Q:   What are CSIR NET subjects?
A: 

The CSIR NET exam consists of five subjects some of them are Maths, Physical Science, Chemical Science, etc. Part A in the exam is common for all candidates and Part B and C is subject-specific. Candidates need to select one subject and prepare well to clear the examination.

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How to Download CSIR NET Question Papers 2026?

The NTA will release the CSIR NET Question Papers along with the provisional answer key and marked responses. Candidates can download the question paper by following manner:

  • Visit csirnet.nta.nic.in
  • Click on the answer key & question paper link
  • Login using the required details
  • Download the question paper PDF

Also Read: CSIR NET Exam Pattern

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   Which section is difficult to prepare in the CSIR NET exam?
A: 

The CSIR NET exam is considered to be Moderate to Difficult in overall difficulty. Generally, Part C of the exam is considered to be difficult. Also, in subjects, Life Science is perceived to be tougher because of the depth of the syllabus and Chemical Science consists of the application-based questions. Mathematical Science is also considered to be the toughest subjects due to the syllabus and questions focused on the analytical problem-solving part.

Q:   Should a candidate rely on books or online resources for CSIR NET Preparation 2026?
A: 

Candidates should follow a balanced approach. No doubt books help in conceptual clarity, and a candidate can study in detail. On the other hand, online platforms provide lectures through video, have updated notes, cover current affairs as well, etc. 

Q:   What is the marking scheme of CSIR NET Chemical Science subject?
A: 

Candidates can calculate the CSIR NET Chemical Sciences scores through the answer key in the following manner.

CSIR NET Chemical Science Paper Parts

Marks Allotted for Each Question 

Marks Deducted for Each Question

A

+2

-0.5

B

+2

-0.5

C

+4

-1

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CSIR NET Prep Tips 2026

Candidates should go through the CSIR NET Syllabus and Exam pattern properly to ace in the preparation. Candidates can check below some of the preparation tips including the topics to revise, focus on revision, formulas, prioritize the areas to revise, focus on concepts, etc. See below preparation tips for CSIR NET:

  • Before starting preparation, solve mock test for CSIR NET.
  • Focus more on topics in which you are weak.
  • First start with basic topics and then move to advanced ones.
  • Create notes to refer during revision
  • Solve previous year papers
One of the most important aspects of CSIR UGC NET preparation is practicing previous years’ question papers and sample papers and attempting mock tests. Practicing CSIR NET question papers not only helps in improving the time management skills of candidates but also helps them analyse their weak areas for the exam. On the other hand, since CSIR UGC NET is conducted by NTA in online mode, attempting mock tests gives the real look and feel of the paper to candidates. This helps them increase their confidence for the exam and avoid making mistakes during the paper. 

Read More:

CSIR NET Exam Dates 

Q&A Icon
Commonly asked questions
Q:   What is a good score in CSIR NET exam?
A: 

Generally, the good score in the CSIR NET exam is considered as 120+ out of 200 for JRF General category candidates and for Lectureship 90 to 110 range. This can vary year to year. 

Q:   What is the full form of CSIR NET?
A: 

The CSIR NET stands for the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research National Eligibility Test. It determines the eligibility of Indian nationals for the 'award of Junior Research Fellowship and appointment as Assistant Professor.' Also, appointment as 'Assistant Professor and admission to Ph.D.' and 'admission to Ph.D. only' in several Indian universities and colleges.

Q:   What information is provided on the CSIR NET answer key?
A: 

The authority released the CSIR NET answer key at csirnet.nta.nic.in. It contains correct answers for all the questions asked in the exam. Check below for more details:

Exam name

Exam date

Exam shift

Exam subject name

Exam subject code

Question IDs

Correct option IDs

-

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CSIR NET Sample Papers FAQs 2026

Candidates can check below CSIR NET Sample Papers FAQs 2026.

Q:   What is the upper age limit to apply for the CSIR NET exam?
A: 

As per the information bulletin, the upper age limit for the CSIR NET exam should not be more than 30 years as on the first day of the month in which the examination is concluded. A relaxation of upto 5 years is provided to the candidates belonging to OBC-NCL (as per the Central list of OBC) /SC/ST/PwD/PwBD/Third gender categories and to women applicants.

Q:   Where is the CSIR NET Syllabus available?
A: 

Officially, the CSIR NET Syllabus is available on the official portal at csirhrdg.res.in. It is available subject-wise in the form of PDF. Candidates can downlaod by visiting the official website. The CSIR NET syllabus is also available on this page itself. 

Q:   What are the important topics covered in CSIR NET Mathematical Science Paper?
A: 

The list of some of the important topics of Mathematical Science paper is mentioned below:

  • Analysis
  • Numerical & Complex Analysis
  • Calculus of Variations
  • Linear Integral Equations
  • Algebra
  • Ordinary Differential Equations (ODEs)
  • Descriptive Statistics, Exploratory Data 
  • Classical Mechanics
Q:   What is the valid period of the qualifying certificate of Assistant Professor?
A: 

As per the information bulletin, there is no end period for the validity of the qualifying certificate of Assistant Professor. 

Q:   Where will the CSIR NET 2026 June session result be released?
A: 

The authority released the CSIR NET 2026 result for the June session at csirnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates required an application number and date of birth to view their scorecard. After the CSIR NET result, the candidates who will be qualified for the exam will be provided with the CSIR NET eligibility certificate and JRF Award Letter.

Q:   How much time is sufficient for CSIR NET exam preparation?
A: 

The preparation for the CSIR NET exam depends upon the candidate to candidate. Generally, it is considered that with the right guidance and structured approach 6 to 12 months are enough for the CSIR NET preparation. Proper dedication and structured approach also plays a crucial role. 

Q:   What are the topics covered in Life Science for CSIR NET exam?
A: 

Topics that are covered in the CSIR NET Life Science exam are listed below:

  • Molecules and their Interaction Relevant to Biology
  • Cellular Organization
  • Cell Communication and Cell Signaling
  • Developmental Biology
  • System Physiology – Plant
  • System Physiology – Animal
  • Fundamental Processes
  • Ecological Principles
  • Evolution and Behavior
  • Inheritance Biology
  • Diversity of Life Forms
  • Applied Biology
  • Methods in Biology, etc.

Q:   Is there a negative marking in the CSIR NET exam?
A: 

CSIR NET Exam Pattern 2026 contains a Negative Marking in the exam. CSIR NET Negative Marking varies for different subjects. Candidates can check CSIR NET exam pattern for more detail: https://www.shiksha.com/sarkari-exams/articles/csir-net-2026-blogId-222056

Q:   Which books are useful for life science preparation?
A: 

Candidates can check below the list of Life Science books that will help in the preparation:

  • Life Science by Ashish Nagesh, Quaisher J. Hossain
  • Life Sciences Books (Vol 1) by Dr. Poonam Sharma
  • Plant Physiology by Taiz and Zeiger
  • CSIR UGC NET Life Sciences by Trueman’s Publication
  • Microbiology by Prescott
  • Life Sciences Fundamentals and Practice Part 1 & 2 by Pranav Kumar
  • Fundamentals of Life Sciences Volume  I and Volume II by Rupendra Singh
Q:   What will be the impact on the CSIR NET 2026 cutoff if the difficulty level of the exam is significantly higher than previous years?
A: 

If the difficulty level of the CSIR NET exam is higher than the last year question papers then there is a chance that the cut off will be decreased. Also, some of the candidates will gain high marks and so to maintain it the authority adjust the cutoff.

 

Q:   How to prepare for CSIR NET Exam?
A: 

Candidates should follow a proper strategy and focused approach for the CSIR NET exam preparation. Some of the tips includes frequent revision, understand the pattern of an exam and syllabus, solve previous year question papers, practice mock test, etc.

Q:   What are the important topics covered in CSIR NET Physical Science Paper?
A: 

The CSIR NET Physical Science Paper consists of the important topics as mentioned below:

  • Mathematical Methods of Physics
  • Classical Mechanics
  • Thermodynamic and Statistical Physics
  • Electromagnetic Theory
  • Quantum Mechanics
  • Electronics and Experimental Methods
Q:   What are the topics to revise in the CSIR NET Chemical Science?
A: 

Some of the topics that a candidate can revise in the CSIR NET Chemical Science subject:

Organic Reactive Intermediates: Carbocation, Carbanions, Free Radicals, Benzynes
Stereochemistry: Stereogenicity, Stereoselectivity, Enantioselectivity
Organic Reaction Mechanisms 
Pericyclic Reactions
Structure Determination of Organic Compounds
Asymmetric Synthesis, Determination of Enantiomeric and Diastereomeric Excess
IUPAC Nomenclature
Concepts in Organic Synthesis
Chemistry of Natural Products, etc.

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CSIR NET Exam

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...

Answered 2 months ago

No. The authority is expected to release the CSIR NET 2026 December session application form tentatively in September or October. It will be released at csirnet.nta.nic.in. 

S

Satyendra Garg

Contributor-Level 7

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