
UGC NET Notification 2026: The National Testing Agency (NTA) is expected to release the UGC NET 2026 Notification for the December session on the official website at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Along with the notification, UGC NET application form will also be published. A direct link to download the notification PDF will also be provided below once it is released. The NTA UGC NET exam for December session exam will be conducted from December 14 to 19, 2026.
The notification PDF consists of all the information related to the exam like important dates, application process, pattern, syllabus, eligibility criteria, etc. Candidates can check below in detail about the UGC NET Notification 2026.
- UGC NET Notification 2026: Download PDF
- UGC NET Schedule 2026
- UGC NET Application Form 2026
- UGC NET Exam Pattern 2026
- UGC NET Syllabus 2026
- UGC NET Prep Tips 2026
- UGC NET Notification FAQs 2026
UGC NET Notification 2026: Download PDF
The UGC NET exam is conducted twice a year. For every session or cycle, NTA releases the official notification in the form of PDF which contains the details of the examination including application date, exam dates, application fee, exam duration and more. The method to download the UGC NET notification is provided below:
- Go to ugcnet.nta.nic.in
- Click on UGC NET notification link
- It will appear on screen
- Download NTA UGC NET notification PDF
- Save it
UGC NET 2026 Dec Notification PDF: to be updated here
UGC NET Previous Sessions Cutoff (Subject-wise)
Check category-wise UGC NET previous years/sessions minimum qualifying marks for JRF, Assistant Professor & PhD only.
Commonly asked questions
The NTA is epxcted to soon release the UGC NET notification for the December session. It will be announced in the form of PDF at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. The notification or information brochure consists of the details about the exam including the registration form, exam duration, pattern, etc.
The NTA will release the UGC NET 2026 December session application form along with the notification 2026. It is also advised to the candidates to fill out the correct details with utmost care in the application form. Any request for change in the particulars after the closure of the correction period will not be considered by NTA under any circumstances.
The NTA will release the UGC NET 2026 notification for the December session on the official portal at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. All the important dates related to the exam like application form start date and all is mentioned in the notification. It is advised to the candidates to read the notification carefully before applying for the exam.
UGC NET Schedule 2026
Take a look at the table below for the complete schedule of UGC NET 2026 exam
| Dates | Upcoming Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 14 Dec ' 26 - 19 Dec ' 26 | UGC NET Dec 2026 Exam Date |
| 20 Dec ' 26 - 21 Dec ' 26 | UGC NET Dec 2026 Exam Buffer Date |
| Dates | Past Exam Dates |
|---|---|
| 17 Sep ' 26 | UGC NET June 2026 Re-Exam Result |
| 10 Sep ' 26 | UGC NET June 2026 Re-Exam Provisional Answer Key |
| 10 Sep ' 26 - 13 Sep ' 26 | UGC NET June 2026 Re-Exam Answer Key Challenge Window |
UGC NET Application Form 2026
Candidates need to fill out UGC NET application form in two parts registration and application. Some of important documents that candidates need to keep ready themselves before filling up UGC NET registration and application form include:
- ID card
- Board/university/qualifying degree certificate Category/PwD/EWS certificate (if applicable)
- Scanned images of photo and signature
UGC NET application fee 2026 is INR 1,150 for General category, INR 600 for General-EWS/OBC-NCL category, and INR 325 for C/ST/PwD/Transgender category.
Filling out the UGC NET application is divided into five stages: registration form, application form, image & signature upload, application fee, and confirmation page. The candidates have to fill out the complete application to get the hall ticket for the exam. Candidates must read the eligibility criteria properly before submitting out the application form.
Challenges During Filling UGC NET Application Form
The aspirants can check the challenges that are being faced by the candidates:
- OTP problem: After filling out the personal details candidates are not getting the OTP and automated registration number.
- Automatic Change in the Application Form After Submission: The particulars filled in by the candidates are automatically changed after the submission of the application form.
- Uploading Photograph & Signature: The aspirants are facing problems while uploading their photographs and signatures after multiple attempts.
- Multiple Payments: The candidates are facing while making payments for the UGC NET application.
Commonly asked questions
There is no upper age limit to apply for the Assistant Professor positions. But for the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), the maximum age limit is 30 years as of June 1 of the exam year. There is also an ahe relaxation provided to the candidates from reserved categories including OBC, SC and ST
Candidates can submit their UGC NET application form in an online. No other method is there to fill the form. Without it, candidates will not be able to sit in the examination.
The UGC NET Dec session exam will be conducted online in Computer-Based Test Mode. It will be held in two shifts. Shift 1 from 9 am to 12 pm and shift 2 from 3 pm to 6 pm.
UGC NET Exam Pattern 2026
The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is conducted for two papers – Paper 1 and Paper 2. Candidates have to sit for both papers for a single duration of three hours. UGC NET Paper 1 is common for all candidates. However, UGC NET Paper 2 differs as per the subject chosen by a candidate. The UGC NET exam will be conducted for a total of 87 subjects.
Check out the major UGC NET exam pattern highlights for reference below:
| Particulars |
UGC NET Paper 1 Highlights |
UGC NET Paper 2 Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Exam mode |
Online |
Online |
| Exam duration |
180 minutes |
|
| Type of paper |
Common for all candidates |
Subject-specific questions |
| Total Questions |
50 |
100 |
| Type of questions |
MCQs |
MCQs |
| Total marks |
100 |
200 |
| Marking scheme |
+2 for correct answer 0 for incorrect answer |
+2 for correct answer 0 for incorrect answer |
| Language of paper |
English and Hindi |
English and Hindi |
Commonly asked questions
The NTA UGC NET exam consists of two papers and candidates need to complete it in a duration of three hours. Candidates can check below the exam pattern for both papers.
UGC NET Paper | Number of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
UGC NET Paper 1 | 50 | 100 |
UGC NET Paper 2 | 100 | 200 |
Total | 150 | 300 |
Authority is expected to revise UGC NET syllabus as per NEP 2020. The notification was released for 2026. Syllabus of UGC NET is divided into two sections: Paper 1 and Paper 2. UGC NET Paper 1 syllabus is common for all candidates who are going to take UGC NET. However, UGC NET Paper 2 syllabus varies for different subjects. Paper 2 carries subject-specific questions in which candidates specialise.
There are several books available in the market that consist of the UGC NET practice sets. Also, some standard guidebooks include model test papers for the practicing of the UGC NET exam. Online test series are also available for the candidates who are aspiring to prepare for the UGC NET exam.
UGC NET Syllabus 2026
The syllabus of UGC NET is released every year by the NTA along with the release of the notification. In UGC NET Paper 1, which is, the General Paper on Teaching and Research Aptitude, questions are asked from the following subjects/sections:
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Comprehension
- Communication
- Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude
- Logical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- People, Development and Environment
- Higher Education System
Note: The UGC NET syllabus for Paper 2 differs as per the subject chosen by the candidate.
Commonly asked questions
The UGC NET 2025 English Syllabus is divided into ten unites as mentioned below:
- Drama
- Poetry
- Fiction and Short Story
- Non-Fiction Prose
- Language: Basic Concepts, theories and pedagogy, English in Use
- English in India: history, evolution, and future
- Cultural Studies
- Literary Criticism
- Literary Theory post World War II
- Research Methods and Materials in English
The history syllabus of the UGC NET exam consists of several topics that is, Indian History, Pre-History, Ancient History, Medieval Indian History and Modern India including the National Movement and post independent phase. The history syllabus is divided in to ten units. The topics for the History subject are mentioned below:
- Negotiating the Sources
- From State to Empire
- The Emergence of Regional Kingdoms
- Source of Medieval Indian History
- Administration & Economy
- Society and Culture
- Sources of Modern Indian History
- Colonial Economy
- Rise of Indian Nationalism
- Historical Method, Research, Methodology, and Historiography
Candidates can check the UGC NET syllabus at ugcnetonline.in. It was released along with the notification. The Paper 1 includes topics on teaching aptitude, research, development, environment, and more. Paper 2 is subject-specific. A thorough understanding of the NTA NET syllabus is important for all the candidates aiming to clear the exam. It is important to appear for both papers to qualify for the NET exam.
UGC NET Prep Tips 2026
- Start preparing for the exam on post-graduation days
- Follow the syllabus of central universities
- Go through the UGC NET syllabus and exam pattern to understand the exam better
- Prepare for the exam from books
- Solve questions from previous years' papers
- Practice for accuracy and time management
- Take frequent breaks and calm your brain to perform on the exam day
Also Read: UGC NET Preparation
Commonly asked questions
The UGC NET exam has two papers namely Paper 1 and Paper 2. The duration of an exam is three hours. Paper 1 is common for all the candidates and Paper 2 is subject-specific. In Paper 1, total questions asked are 50 and in Paper 2, total questions asked are 100. Questions asked in the form of MCQs. Paper 1 is of 100 marks and Paper 2 is of 200 marks.
There are several books available in the market that consist of the UGC NET practice sets. Also, some standard guidebooks include model test papers for the practicing of the UGC NET exam. Online test series are also available for the candidates who are aspiring to prepare for the UGC NET exam.
To give mock test is important. It helps them to find out strengths and weaknesses. regular practice also improves speed, gain confidence, reduce the exam pressure, helps to understand the exam pattern, improves speed, etc.
UGC NET Notification FAQs 2026
Candidates can check below more FAQs regarding the UGC NET Notification 2026.
The NTA will release the UGC NET notification in the form of PDF at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Along with it, application link will also be activated.
Candiates can check below the steps to download the UGC NET question papers: Visit at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Click on the answer key & question paper link. Login using the required details. Download the question paper PDF
No. Candidate must possess a Master's degree with a minimum of 55% grade score average from a UGC recognised university to apply for the NTA UGC NET exam. Also, if she or he is in the final year of their Master's programme or hold a four year bachelor's degree in specific subjects.
Candidates can check below the important books that can be used for the preparation for UGC NET paper 2 Commerce and English.
Commerce: Some of the books are Trueman's UGC NET Commerce, CB Gupta's Business Organisation, etc.
English: Some of the books are Arihant UGC NET English Literature, History of English Literature by Edward Albert, etc.
The UGC NET City Intimation Slip or City Slip is a document released by the NTA to inform candidates about the city where the exam center is located. Basically, it is not the admit card but provides advance information to help candidates make travel arrangements in advance.
Analysis is important for candidate in NTA NET exam. It helps in preparation, understand paper structure, difficulty level, topics asked or high weightage areas, expected cutoff. By analyzing mock tests and previous years papers students can prepare well.
Candidates can check below the process to apply for the NTA UGC NET application form: Visit at- ugcnet.nta.nic.in, Click on the 'Application form' link, mentioned at the bottom of the home page, Click on the 'New Registration', Enter the required details and complete the registration, Fill out the complete online form, Upload scanned pictures of passport size photo (10-200 kb) and signature (10-50 kb). Both images should be in JPEG format, Pay the application fee (Gen - INR 1150; OBC/EWS - INR 600; SC/ST/PwD/ Transgender - INR 325), Save and submit the form, Download the confirmation page.
The UGC NET Dec session exam will be conducted online in Computer-Based Test Mode. It will be held in two shifts. Shift 1 from 9 am to 12 pm and shift 2 from 3 pm to 6 pm.
Candidates can chech below the methods to downlaod the UGC NET admit card:
- Go to the ugcnet.nta.nic.in
- Click on the hall ticket link for the exam
- Enter the details asked on the login page- application number, date of birth, and security pin
- Click on the submit button
- Download and save it
Authority is expected to revise UGC NET syllabus as per NEP 2020. The notification was released for 2026. Syllabus of UGC NET is divided into two sections: Paper 1 and Paper 2. UGC NET Paper 1 syllabus is common for all candidates who are going to take UGC NET. However, UGC NET Paper 2 syllabus varies for different subjects. Paper 2 carries subject-specific questions in which candidates specialise.
Candidates can crack or clear the UGC NET exam in first attempt with regularity, dedication, hard work, proper study plan, etc. He or she should also solve previous year papers and give mock test.
UGC NET Exam
Student Forum
Answered 2 days ago
With 88.6 percentile, it is better to shortlist PhD colleges based on the subject, research area, faculty, eligibility and entrance or interview process, not only the NET score. LPU can also be considered if its research areas and faculty match the topic you want to work on. Its PhD structure gives
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered a month ago
Yes. The NTA conducted the re-exam for three subjects on September 9 and 10. The UGC NET re-exam schedule is provided below:
English: September 9, 2026 Shift 1 - 9 AM to 12 Noon
Commerce : September 9, 2026 Shift 2 - 3 PM to 6 PM
Sociology : September 10, 2026 Shift 1 - 9 AM to 12 Noon
C
Contributor-Level 7
Answered a month ago
Students can prepare for UGC NET CSIR NET and similar competitive exams while pursuing MA Mathematics at LPU because the course builds a strong base in core subjects such as Algebra Analysis Topology and Differential Equations which are important for these exams. Regular academic guidance library re
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, it is possible. The M.A. Sociology curriculum at LPU is manageable enough for students to prepare for exams like UPSC, UGC NET, and other competitive tests alongside regular studies. Sociology itself is a useful subject for many exams, so class learning also supports preparation. With proper ti
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
Yes, students can prepare for RBI, UPSC, UGC NET, and similar competitive exams while pursuing M.Sc. Economics at LPU. The course builds a strong base in economics, statistics, research, and analytical thinking, which is useful for many exams. With proper time management, regular classes, and self s
S
Beginner-Level 1
Answered 2 months ago
The NTA released the UGC NET 2026 provisional answer key on the official portal at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. To download the answer key, candidates required application number, date of birth or password and security pin. The exam was condcuted from June 22 to June 30, 2026.
K
Contributor-Level 7
I scored 164/300 (88.6 percentile) in UGC NET and am eligible for PhD admission. Can you help me shortlist colleges?