Ultimate Guide to UGC NET December 2025
Everything You Need to Know to Ace the Exam
The University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test (UGC NET) is one of India’s most prestigious exams for aspiring academicians and researchers. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), UGC NET opens doors to Junior Research Fellowships (JRF), Assistant Professorships and PhD admissions in Indian universities.
The official public notice for the December 2025 cycle has just been released on October 7, 2025, and applications are now open! This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about UGC NET December 2025, from eligibility to preparation tips. Let’s dive in!
What is UGC NET?
UGC NET is a national-level exam that determines eligibility for:
Junior Research Fellowship (JRF): For candidates pursuing research and receiving stipends.
Assistant Professorship: For teaching positions in Indian colleges and universities.
PhD Admission: Many institutions use NET scores for doctoral program admissions.
Conducted twice a year (June and December cycles), the exam tests candidates’ subject knowledge and teaching/research aptitude across 85 subjects, ranging from Economics to Computer Science.
UGC NET December 2025: Key Details
The NTA has officially announced the December 2025 cycle. Here’s what you need to know:
Exam Dates: November 7–27, 2025 (Computer-Based Test mode for 85 subjects).
Conducting Body: National Testing Agency (NTA).
Application Portal: ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
Mode of Exam: Computer-Based Test (CBT).
Last Date for Online Application Submission: October 20, 2025, up to 11:50 PM (IST).
Last Date for Fee Payment: October 21, 2025, up to 11:50 PM (IST).
Correction Window in Particulars of Application Form: November 10–12, 2025 (up to 11:50 PM on November 12).
Download of Admit Card: To be intimated later.
Date of Exam and Shift: To be intimated later.
Display of Recorded Responses and Answer Key(s): To be announced later on the NTA website.
Result Announcement: Typically 1–2 months after the exam.
Note:
Always verify dates and details on the official NTA/UGC NET website to avoid misinformation.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility requirements (as per the latest Information Bulletin):
Educational Qualification:
Master’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognized university.
Minimum marks: 55% for General/Unreserved category; 50% for OBC-NCL, SC, ST, PwD, and Transgender candidates.
Final-year postgraduate students are also eligible, provided they complete their degree within two years.
Age Limit:
JRF: Maximum 30 years (relaxations apply for reserved categories, women, and candidates with research experience—up to 5 years).
Assistant Professorship: No upper age limit.
Subject Eligibility: You must choose the subject of your postgraduate degree or a closely related one (from the 85 available subjects).
Exam Pattern
UGC NET is a single exam with two papers, conducted in one sitting:
Paper 1: Teaching & Research Aptitude (100 marks, 50 questions)Tests general skills like teaching aptitude, research methodology, reasoning, comprehension, data interpretation, and general awareness.
Common for all candidates.
Paper 2: Subject-Specific (200 marks, 100 questions)Based on the subject chosen by the candidate (e.g., English, History, Management).
Questions are objective (MCQs) and test in-depth knowledge.
Key Details:
Total Questions: 150
Total Marks: 300
Duration: 3 hours (no break between papers)
Marking Scheme: +2 for each correct answer, no negative marking
Medium: English or Hindi (subject to availability for Paper 2)
Syllabus Overview
Paper 1 Syllabus:
Teaching Aptitude: Teaching methods, learner characteristics.
Research Aptitude: Types of research, thesis writing, ethics.
Reading Comprehension: Passage-based questions.
Reasoning: Logical, analytical, and mathematical reasoning.
Data Interpretation: Graphs, tables, charts.
Information & Communication Technology (ICT): Basics of computers, internet.
People & Environment: Environmental issues, higher education system.
Paper 2 Syllabus:
Varies by subject. Download the detailed syllabus for your subject from the NTA website.
How to Apply for UGC NET December 2025
Applications are open now! Follow these steps:
Visit the Official Website: Go to ugcnet.nta.ac.in.
Register: Create an account using your email and phone number.
Fill the Application Form: Provide personal, academic, and subject details.
Upload Documents: Scanned copies of your photograph, signature, and category certificate (if applicable).
Pay the Application Fee (non-refundable):
General/Unreserved: ₹1,150/-
General-EWS/OBC-NCL: ₹600/-
SC/ST/PwD/Third Gender: ₹325/-
Payment modes: Debit/credit card, net banking, UPI.
Submit & Download: Save the confirmation page for future reference. Only one application per candidate is allowed.
Pro Tip:
Double-check your subject code and category to avoid errors. The application must be submitted through the "Online" mode only on the NTA website.
Preparation Tips to Ace UGC NET December 2025
With applications open and the exam in November, time is of the essence. Here are expert tips to help you succeed:
Understand the Syllabus: Download the latest syllabus from the NTA website and focus on high-weightage topics.
Create a Study Plan: Dedicate 2–3 hours daily to Paper 1 and 3–4 hours to Paper 2.
Allocate time for revision and mock tests, especially with the tight timeline.
Study Resources:
Paper 1: Books like “Trueman’s UGC NET/SET General Paper 1” or “Arihant’s UGC NET Paper 1.”
Paper 2: Subject-specific books (e.g., R. Gupta’s for Commerce, Upkar’s for English).
Online platforms: YouTube channels for free lectures.
Practice Previous Years’ Papers: Solve at least 5–10 years’ question papers to understand the pattern and difficulty level.
Take Mock Tests: Simulate exam conditions to improve time management and accuracy.
Focus on Weak Areas: Identify gaps through practice tests and work on them.
Stay Updated: For Paper 1, read newspapers or follow current affairs apps for general awareness.
Join Study Groups: Engage with peers on platforms like Telegram or X for tips and updates.
Why UGC NET Matters
Clearing UGC NET is a game-changer for your academic career:
JRF Benefits: Monthly stipend (₹31,000–₹35,000, subject to revision) plus contingency grants for research.
Career Opportunities: Qualify for Assistant Professor roles or secure PhD seats in top universities.
Prestige: A NET certificate enhances your academic credibility.
Common FAQs
Q1: Can I apply for both JRF and Assistant Professorship?
Yes, you can apply for both by selecting the appropriate option in the application form.
Q2: Is there negative marking in UGC NET?
No, there’s no negative marking, so attempt all questions!
Q3: How many attempts are allowed?
There’s no limit on attempts for Assistant Professorship. For JRF, you’re eligible until the age of 30 (with relaxations).
Q4: Can I change my subject after applying?
No, the subject chosen during application cannot be changed. Choose wisely! Use the correction window only for particulars like contact details.
Q5: What if I miss the application deadline?
No extensions are typically granted—apply by October 20, 2025!
Stay Ahead of the Game
To stay updated: Follow NTA’s official website for notifications.
Check X for real-time updates from aspirants and coaching institutes (search #UGCNET or #NTANET).
Join online communities for study materials and peer support.
Ensure your e-mail and mobile number are active, as all communications from NTA will be sent via e-mail or SMS.
Final Tip:
With the application window open until October 20, act fast! Consistency is key. Start your preparation early, stay disciplined, and believe in yourself. You’ve got this!
Disclaimer:
All dates and fees are as per the official Public Notice dated October 7, 2025. Always refer to official NTA/UGC NET websites for accurate information and the full Information Bulletin.