UGC NET 2026: The Complete Guide for Aspiring Professors

The National Eligibility Test (NET) is the gateway to academic careers in India. It is conducted twice a year (June & December) by the NTA. Whether you want to act as an Assistant Professor or pursue a fully-funded PhD (JRF), this exam is mandatory.

1. UGC NET 2026 Exam Pattern

The exam consists of two papers conducted in a single 3-hour session. There is NO Negative Marking (which is the best part!).

Paper No. of Questions Marks Content
Paper 1
(General)		 50 100 Teaching Aptitude, Research Aptitude, Reading Comprehension, Reasoning, Data Interpretation, ICT, People & Environment.
Paper 2
(Subject)		 100 200 Deep knowledge of your specific Master’s subject (e.g., History, Commerce, Computer Science).
Total 150 Questions 300 Marks Duration: 3 Hours (No break between papers)

⚠️ Key Rule: Minimum Qualifying Marks

To even be considered for the rank list, you must score at least:

  • General Category: 40% in both papers combined.
  • Reserved Category (SC/ST/OBC/PxD): 35% in both papers combined.

(Note: Qualifying doesn't mean you passed. You still need to clear the specific Cutoff for your subject.)

2. JRF vs Assistant Professor: What's the difference?

A single exam decides two different awards. When you fill out the application form, you have to choose whether you are applying for "Assistant Professor Only" or "Both JRF & Assistant Professor".

Feature Assistant Professor (NET) Junior Research Fellowship (JRF)
Cutoff Lower Cutoff Higher Cutoff (Top 1-2% of candidates)
Benefit Eligibility to teach in colleges. Monthly Stipend of ₹37,000+ (plus HRA) to do PhD.
Validity Lifetime Validity. Only 3 Years (You must join a PhD within 3 years).
Age Limit No Age Limit. Max 30 Years (General). Relaxations apply.

3. Syllabus of Paper 1 (Common for All)

Paper 1 is designed to test if you have the mindset of a teacher/researcher. It has 10 units:

  1. Teaching Aptitude
  2. Research Aptitude
  3. Comprehension
  4. Communication
  5. Mathematical Reasoning and Aptitude
  6. Logical Reasoning
  7. Data Interpretation
  8. Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
  9. People, Development and Environment
  10. Higher Education System