UGC NET Computer Science and Applications syllabus has been discussed in the article for the UGC NET December session. Candidates can check the exam pattern, preparation tips, and the latest syllabus in the article.
UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus
UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus 2026: National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts UGC NET December session exam across various centres in country. University Grants Commission describes syllabus for UGC NET exams. This article shows syllabus for UGC NET Computer Science and Applications (Subject Code: 85). Candidates should know the full syllabus to make effective study schedule.
Computer Science covers core domains including computer applications, programming languages, databases, computation theory, computer networks, and operating systems. NTA conducts this exam to determine eligibility for award of Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) and appointment as Assistant Professor.
Also Read:
- UGC NET Exam
- UGC NET Computer Science Exam Pattern
- UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus 2026
- UGC NET Computer Science and Applications Paper 2 Syllabus
- How to qualify for UGC NET Computer Science and Applications exam in first Attempt?
- UGC NET Syllabus FAQs
UGC NET Exam
The candidates who are going to appear for the upcoming UGC NET for the December 2026 cycle must go through the highlights table to understand the exam better:
| UGC NET Exam 2025 |
|
|---|---|
| Mode of Exam |
Online |
| Duration of Exam |
3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Paper type |
Subject specific questions |
| Number of Questions |
100 |
| Type of Questions |
Multiple Choice Questions with a single answer. |
| Total marks |
200 |
| Marking scheme |
2 for the right response and 0 for the wrong response. |
| Language of paper |
English and Hindi. |
Also Read: UGC NET History Syllabus
Commonly asked questions
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.
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 |
In the UGC NET exam, two marks are awarded for every correct answer. There is no negative marking in the exam. For every correct answer, two marks are awarded. Scroll down to know the marking scheme.
UGC NET Marking Parameters | Marks Allotted |
|---|---|
Correct answer | +2 |
Incorrect answer | 0 |
Un-attempted question | 0 |
The questions asked in the NTA UGC NET Paper 1 exam are generic and intend to assess the teaching or research aptitude of the candidate. Details are provided below:
UGC NET Paper 1 Sections | No. of Questions | Total Marks |
|---|---|---|
Teaching Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
Research Aptitude | 5 | 10 |
Reading Comprehension | 5 | 10 |
Communication | 5 | 10 |
Reasoning (including Maths) | 5 | 10 |
Logical Reasoning | 5 | 10 |
Data Interpretation | 5 | 10 |
Information & Communication Technology (ICT) | 5 | 10 |
People & Environment | 5 | 10 |
Higher Education System: Governance, Polity & Administration | 5 | 10 |
Total | 50 | 100 |
UGC NET Computer Science Exam Pattern
UGC NET Paper 2 allows candidates to choose from 85 subjects. Another discipline is computer science and applications. The subject code of the UGC NET Computer Science is 85. Paper 2, like Paper 1 comprises multiple choice questions with one correct answer. However, this exam has 100 questions and each question is worth 2 points. So, the total score for this exam is 200. The UGC NET exam pattern has been given below for the December 2026 exam:
| Sections of UGC NET Paper-I |
Number of Questions in UGC NET Paper-I |
Marks per section |
|---|---|---|
| Teaching Aptitude |
5 |
10 |
| Research Aptitude |
5 |
10 |
| Reading Comprehension |
5 |
10 |
| Communication |
5 |
10 |
| Reasoning (including Maths) |
5 |
10 |
| Logical Reasoning |
5 |
10 |
| Data Interpretation |
5 |
10 |
| Information & Communication Technology (ICT) |
5 |
10 |
| People & Environment |
5 |
10 |
| Higher Education System: Governance, Polity & Administration |
5 |
10 |
| Total |
50 |
100 |
UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus 2026
Check out the UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus for Paper 2 below. It's important to review all of the topics below.
- Discrete Structures and Optimization
- Computer System Architecture
- Programming Languages and Computer Graphics
- Database Management Systems
- System Software and Operating System
- Software Engineering
- Data Structures and Algorithms
- Theory of Computation and Compilers
- Data Communication and Computer Networks
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Also Read:
Commonly asked questions
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.
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.
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 Computer Science and Applications Paper 2 Syllabus
Detailed UGC NET Computer Science and Applications syllabus is provided below. The essential topics of Paper 2 are Discrete Structures and Optimization, DBMS, Software Engineering, Computational Theory, and Compilers. The candidates must go through the complete table to know the detailed syllabus for UGC NET Computer Science syllabus:
| UGC NET Computer Science Syllabus |
|
|---|---|
| Unit 1: Discrete Structures and Optimization |
Mathematical Logic |
| Sets and Relations |
|
| Graph Theory |
|
| Optimization |
|
| Counting, Mathematical Induction, and Discrete Probability |
|
| Unit 2: Computer System Architecture |
Digital Logic Circuits and Components |
| Data Representation |
|
| Basic Computer Organization and Design |
|
| Register Transfer and Micro operations |
|
| Microprogrammed Control |
|
| Unit 3: Programming Languages and Computer Graphics |
Language Design and Translation Issues |
| Elementary Data Types |
|
| Object-Oriented Programming |
|
| 2-D Geometrical Transforms and Viewing |
|
| 3-D Object Representation, Geometric Transformations, and Viewing |
|
| Unit 4: Database Management Systems |
Database System Concepts and Architecture |
| SQL |
|
| Data Warehousing and Data Mining |
|
| Normalization for Relational Databases |
|
| NoSQL |
|
| Unit 5: System Software and Operating System |
System Software |
| Basics of Operating Systems |
|
| Threads, CPU Scheduling |
|
| Process Management |
|
| Storage Management |
|
| Unit 6: Software Engineering |
Software Process Models |
| Software Design |
|
| Estimation and Scheduling of Software Projects |
|
| Software Configuration Management |
|
| Software Quality |
|
| Unit 7: Data Structures and Algorithms |
Performance Analysis of Algorithms and Recurrences |
| Data Structures |
|
| Graph Algorithms |
|
| Complexity Theory |
|
| Advanced Algorithms |
|
| Unit 8: Theory of Computation and Compilers |
Theory of Computation |
| Context-Free Language |
|
| Unsolvable Problems and Computational Complexity |
|
| Regular Language Models |
|
| Code Generation and Code Optimization |
|
| Unit 9: Data Communication and Computer Networks |
Data Communication |
| World Wide Web (WWW) |
|
| Functions of OSI and TCP/IP Layers |
|
| Mobile Technology |
|
| Network Security |
|
| Unit 10: Artificial Intelligence (AI) |
Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) |
| Genetic Algorithms (GA) |
|
| Natural Language Processing |
|
| Knowledge Representation |
|
| Multi-Agent Systems |
|
Upcoming Sarkari Exam Dates
7 Oct '26 - 5 Nov '26
1 Nov '26 - 30 Nov '26
27 Dec '26
How to qualify for UGC NET Computer Science and Applications exam in first Attempt?
The candidates who are going to appear for the upcoming UGC NET December Cycle between December 14 to December 19, 2026 must go through the suggestions below to qualify for the exam in the first attempt:
Prepare for Paper 1 Efficiently
We know we are discussing tips for passing exams through computer science exams. However, this is the most essential requirement to qualify for the NTA UGC NET 2026. Many students focus only on paper 2 and ignore Paper 1. However, candidates must qualify for both papers to pass the exam. Therefore, disregarding Paper I is strictly prohibited. So, prepare your Paper I as you create your lesson plans.
Also Read: UGC NET Economics Syllabus
Understanding the Syllabus
Moving on to dissertations, the first step is to review and understand the syllabus. Familiarising with the syllabus will help the candidates to avoid unnecessary learning. UGC recently updated the syllabus for each subject. Available on the official website. The syllabus contains topics from the master's course syllabus.
Solve Previous Year's Question Papers
We recommend completing the previous year's survey before continuing to build your timetable. This will help you identify essential topics (Frequently Asked Questions and Top Asked Topics). Popular topics in computer applications include data structures, algorithms, C, operating systems, computer networks, software development, automata (TOC), computer organization, digital electronics, and graph theory.
Other less important topics are Computer Graphics, Soft Computing, Artificial Intelligence, Compilers, Current Trends, and Technologies.
Also Read: UGC NET Geography Syllabus
Make a Timetable
Design the timetable accordingly. Remember to reserve Paper-I time. Take frequent breaks between study sessions to refresh your mind. Follow your schedule with complete dedication, only missing a day of study if you are sick.
Make Notes
Study the topics, take notes on key points related to the topic. Cross-check your notes if you have any doubts. These notes are also useful when making last-minute revisions.
Practice from Books
We don't recommend buying a lot of spare books and stacking them on your desk. Almost all topics in the UGC NET syllabus are taken from the master syllabus. So, study only the subject matter of PG's books. Another option is to get a library membership and buy books to study different subjects.
Solve Sample Papers and Previous Years’ Questions
The candidates must prepare for the Computer Science and Application by solving the sample and previous years’ papers. It will unburden the candidates by 50 per cent. Appear in the UGC NET mock tests to enhance speed, accuracy, and time management. The UGC NET exam is carried out in the CBY mode. So, the mock tests in the exam conditions will help the candidates to get acquainted with the UGC NET exam pattern.
Read More:
UGC NET Syllabus FAQs
Q: Is there any negative marking scheme in the UGC NET exam?
A: No, the UGC NET exam does not have a negative marking scheme. UGC NET 2025 comprises 150 multiple-choice questions, and candidates will have three hours to complete the exam. 50 questions are for Paper 1, and 100 questions for Paper 2. There are no restrictions on going back and forth between papers. All questions are required.
Q: What are the different units of the UGC NET Computer Science and Applications exam?
A: The UGC NET Computer Science and Applications exam comprises 10 units. The list of the units has been given below for the candidates:
- Teaching Aptitude
- Research Aptitude
- Comprehension
- Communication
- Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude
- Logical Reasoning
- Data Interpretation
- Information and Communication Technology
- People, Development and Environment
- Higher Education System
Q: Will there be an interview after NET?
A: After qualifying for the UGC NET exam, the candidate should prepare for the lectureship and JRF interview. Many institutions/universities conduct UGC NET rounds of interviews to recruit suitable candidates for JRF and Assistant Professor positions.
Q: Are 2 months for UGC NET enough?
A: The UGC NET exam is a national-level exam. Although the exam level is high and the preparation period of 2 months is relatively short, students can still take on the challenge. To qualify for the UGC NET exam in 2-3 months, students start by reviewing questionnaires from the last 5-6 years.
Q: Is the UGC NET certificate mandatory to get admission as PhD scholar?
A: Many universities require a UGC NET certificate as an essential requirement for a PhD. Some universities conduct entrance examinations to select doctoral candidates. Universities conducting admissions exams do not require the UGC NET certificate as a mandatory requirement.
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Student Forum
Anything you would want to ask experts?Answered a month ago
UGC NET law require PG in law or similar subjects .
Age limit for JRF is 30 years and for assistant professor there is no age limit.Candidates from reserved categories and specific backgrounds receive an upper age relaxation of up to 5 years, making the maximum age limit 35 years for them.
The paper c
Scholar-Level 16
Answered a month 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 2 months 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 2 months 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
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