The UGC NET 2026 (University Grants Commission National Eligibility Test) is one of India’s most prestigious examinations for candidates aspiring to become Assistant Professors or to secure Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) positions in universities and colleges. Conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), this exam determines the eligibility of candidates for teaching and research roles across India.
If you are planning to appear in UGC NET 2026, this complete guide will help you understand the notification details, eligibility criteria, syllabus, exam pattern, and important dates for the upcoming exam.
UGC NET 2026 Overview
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Exam Name | UGC NET (University Grants Commission – National Eligibility Test) |
| Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Level of Exam | National |
| Frequency | Twice a year (June & December) |
| Mode of Exam | Online (CBT – Computer-Based Test) |
| Official Website | https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in |
| Purpose | Eligibility for Assistant Professor and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) |
| Exam Duration | 3 Hours |
| Total Papers | Paper I and Paper II |
| Total Marks | 300 Marks |
UGC NET 2026 Notification
The UGC NET 2026 Notification is expected to be released by the National Testing Agency (NTA) in February 2026 for the June Session. The official notification will include complete details such as:
- Application start and end date
- Exam schedule
- Updated syllabus and pattern
- Eligibility conditions
- Guidelines for JRF and Assistant Professor posts
Candidates are advised to keep checking the official NTA UGC NET portal for updates.
UGC NET 2026 Application Form
The UGC NET Application Form 2026 will be available online at ugcnet.nta.nic.in. Candidates must follow these steps to apply:
Step-by-Step Application Process:
- Visit the official NTA UGC NET website.
- Click on the “UGC NET 2026 Registration” link.
- Fill in personal and academic details carefully.
- Upload scanned copies of your photo, signature, and certificates.
- Pay the application fee using debit/credit card, net banking, or UPI.
- Download and print your application confirmation page.
Application Fee (Expected):
| Category | Fee (INR) |
|---|---|
| General / Unreserved | ₹1100 |
| EWS / OBC-NCL | ₹600 |
| SC / ST / PwD / Transgender | ₹325 |
UGC NET 2026 Eligibility Criteria
Before applying for UGC NET 2026, candidates should meet the following eligibility conditions:
Educational Qualification:
- Candidates must hold a Master’s Degree (Postgraduate) or equivalent from a UGC-recognized university.
- Minimum 55% marks (General category) and 50% marks (OBC/SC/ST/PwD).
Age Limit:
- JRF (Junior Research Fellowship): Maximum age – 30 years (Relaxation of 5 years for reserved categories).
- Assistant Professor: No upper age limit.
UGC NET 2026 Exam Pattern
The exam consists of two papers conducted in a single session without any break.
| Paper | Number of Questions | Marks | Duration | Nature of Questions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paper I | 50 | 100 | 3 Hours (Combined) | Teaching and Research Aptitude |
| Paper II | 100 | 200 | Subject-Specific Questions |
✅ Both papers are objective-type (MCQs), and there is no negative marking.
UGC NET 2026 Syllabus
The UGC NET syllabus covers 82 different subjects.
Here’s a quick summary:
- Paper I (General Paper):
Teaching aptitude, research aptitude, comprehension, communication, logical reasoning, data interpretation, ICT, and higher education system. - Paper II (Subject Paper):
Based on the candidate’s chosen subject — such as English, History, Commerce, Political Science, Management, Economics, etc.
You can download the UGC NET 2026 Syllabus PDF from the official website.
🪪 UGC NET 2026 Admit Card
The UGC NET 2026 Admit Card will be released a few days before the examination on the NTA portal. Candidates can download it using their application number and date of birth.
Details Mentioned on Admit Card:
- Candidate’s name and roll number
- Exam date and time
- Examination center details
- Instructions for the test day
👉 Candidates must carry a valid photo ID proof along with the admit card.
UGC NET 2026 Important Dates (Tentative)
| Events | Dates |
|---|---|
| UGC NET Notification 2026 | February 2026 |
| Application Form Start Date | February 2026 |
| Last Date to Apply | March 2026 |
| Admit Card Release | May 2026 |
| UGC NET 2026 Exam Date | June 2026 |
| Result Declaration | July 2026 |
UGC NET 2026 Result and Cut-Off
- The UGC NET 2026 Result will be released online in July 2026.
- The cut-off marks depend on the number of candidates, exam difficulty, and category.
- Candidates scoring above the cut-off will be eligible for Assistant Professor or JRF positions depending on their marks.
Tips to Crack UGC NET 2026
- Start preparation early and follow a daily study schedule.
- Refer to the latest NTA UGC NET syllabus 2026.
- Practice previous years’ question papers.
- Revise important topics regularly.
- Focus on time management during mock tests.
UGC NET 2026 FAQs
Q1. Who conducts the UGC NET 2026 exam?
Ans- The National Testing Agency (NTA) conducts the UGC NET exam.
Q2. How many times is UGC NET held in a year?
Ans- It is conducted twice a year — in June and December.
Q3. What is the mode of the UGC NET exam?
Ans- The exam is conducted online (CBT).
Q4. What is the age limit for JRF?
Ans- Maximum age is 30 years, with relaxation for reserved categories.
Q5. What is the official website for UGC NET 2026?
Ans- Visit https://ugcnet.nta.nic.in for updates.
Final Words
The UGC NET 2026 exam is a golden opportunity for postgraduate candidates to step into the world of academics and research. With proper preparation, the right strategy, and consistent revision, you can easily qualify and begin a rewarding career as an Assistant Professor or JRF scholar in India’s leading universities.