The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is a significant examination for individuals aspiring to become Assistant Professors or secure Junior Research Fellowships (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. As we approach 2025, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest notifications, eligibility criteria, exam patterns, syllabus, and important dates related to UGC NET Exam 2025.
To apply for UGC NET Exam 2025:
- Registration: Visit the official UGC NET website and complete the registration process.
- Application Form: Visit the official UGC NET website and complete the registration process.
- Upload Documents: Visit the official UGC NET website and complete the registration process.
- Application Fee: Pay the application fee through the available online payment modes.
- Submission: Review the application form and submit it.
Ensure all details are accurate to avoid discrepancies during the application correction window.
Application Fee
| Category | Application Fee |
|---|---|
| General | ₹1100 |
| OBC (Non-Creamy Layer)/EWS | ₹550 |
| SC/ST/PwD/Transgender | ₹275 |
The fee can be paid using a Credit Card, Debit Card, Net Banking, or UPI.
The UGC NET 2025 Application Correction feature enables candidates to rectify any mistakes in their submitted application forms. This facility is available for a short period after the application deadline and can be accessed through the official NTA UGC NET website.
Key Details of the Correction Window:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Availability | Open for a limited duration after form submission |
| Modifiable Details | Personal information, academic qualifications, exam centre, photograph, signature, and category certificates |
| Correction Process | Log in, edit required details, save changes, and submit the updated form |
| Important Notice | Once the correction window closes, no further changes can be made |
| Fee | No additional charges for modifications |
Candidates must carefully review and verify all details before the deadline to avoid discrepancies.
| UGC NET Events | Date (Tentative) |
|---|---|
| Release of UGC NET 2025 Notification | 1st Week of May 2025 |
| Start of Online Application | 1st Week of May 2025 |
| Last Date to Apply | June 2025 |
| Correction Window | June 2025 |
| Admit Card Release | June 2025 |
| UGC NET 2025 Exam Date | June 2025 |
| Answer Key Release | July 2025 |
| Result Declaration | August 2025 |
| Official Website | ugcnet.nta.nic.in |
Note: These dates are tentative and subject to change. Candidates should regularly check the official UGC NET website for updates.
In a significant update, the University Grants Commission (UGC) has revised the eligibility criteria for UGC NET 2025. According to the latest draft notification, candidates holding a Master’s degree in Engineering and Technology (M.E./M.Tech) with a minimum of 55% marks are now eligible for direct appointment as Assistant Professors without the requirement of clearing the UGC NET exam. This change aims to streamline the recruitment process and attract qualified professionals into academia.
For candidates with master’s degrees in other disciplines, such as Humanities, Social Sciences, Computer Science, and Applications, the existing requirement to qualify in the UGC NET exam remains unchanged.
Age Limit:
- Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): Candidates should be below 30 years of age. A relaxation of 5 years is provided for OBC, SC, ST, transgender, and women candidates.
- Assistant Professor: There is no upper age limit for applying for the role of Assistant Professor.
Understanding the eligibility criteria is crucial before applying:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Educational Qualification | Master’s degree with at least 55% marks from a recognized university in Humanities, Social Sciences, Computer Science, and Applications |
| Relaxation for Reserved Categories | 50% marks for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/Transgender candidates |
| JRF Age Limit | Maximum 30 years (Relaxation of 5 years for SC/ST/OBC/PWD/Transgender/Female candidates) |
| Assistant Professor Age Limit | No upper age limit |
| Latest Change | Candidates with M.E./M.Tech degrees are exempted from UGC NET for Assistant Professor positions |
Check the official notification for detailed eligibility conditions based on subject specialization.
The UGC NET 2025 exam comprises two papers, both conducted in a single session:
| Paper | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Mode |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I (General Teaching/Research Aptitude) | 50 | 100 | 1 hour | CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
| Paper II (Subject-Specific) | 100 | 200 | 2 hours | CBT (Computer-Based Test) |
| Total | 150 | 300 | 300 hours | Online |
There is no negative marking in UGC NET and both papers are conducted in Computer Based Test (CBT) mode.
The syllabus for UGC NET 2025 covers a wide range of subjects. Candidates are advised to download the subject-wise syllabus PDFs from the official UGC NET website. It’s essential to stay updated, as any changes or revisions in the syllabus will be officially notified.
The UGC NET syllabus includes Paper I (General Aptitude) and Paper II (Subject-Specific Topics).
| Paper | Subjects Covered |
|---|---|
| Paper I | Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Data Interpretation, Logical Reasoning, ICT, Higher Education System |
| Paper II | Based on the subject chosen (e.g., Commerce, English, Political Science, History, Management, etc.) |
Download the complete syllabus from the official website.
- Is UGC NET mandatory for Assistant Professor positions?
As per the latest draft notification, candidates with a Master’s degree in Engineering and Technology (M.E./M.Tech) are exempted from the NET requirement for Assistant Professor roles. However, for other disciplines, qualifying UGC NET remains mandatory. citeturn0search1
- What is the age limit for applying to the Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)?
The maximum age limit for JRF is 30 years. There is no upper age limit for Assistant Professor positions.
- How often is the UGC NET conducted?
UGC NET is conducted twice a year, typically in June and December.
- Can I apply for UGC NET if I am in the final year of my Master’s program?
Yes, candidates in the final year of their Master’s program can apply. However, they must complete their degree with the required percentage within the stipulated timeframe.
- Where can I find the official syllabus for UGC NET 2025?
The official syllabus can be downloaded from the UGC NET website. It’s advisable to refer to the official site for the most accurate and updated syllabus. citeturn0search16
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