UGC NET Exam Pattern
The UGC NET examination is conducted by NTA to assess candidates’ eligibility for Junior Research Fellowship (JRF), Assistant Professor, and admission to PhD programmes in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates must thoroughly review the UGC NET syllabus and exam pattern to strengthen their preparation.
The exam duration is 3 hours, during which candidates are required to attempt 150 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) in an online mode. The test evaluates a candidate’s teaching and research aptitude, along with subject-specific knowledge.
One of the major advantages of the UGC NET exam is that there is no negative marking. Candidates are free to attempt all questions without the risk of losing marks for incorrect answers. However, random guessing should still be avoided, and candidates should select the most appropriate answer.
UGC NET Exam Pattern Overview
The official information bulletin released by NTA outlines the complete exam pattern and marking scheme. The key highlights of the UGC NET exam pattern are provided below:
| Particulars | Details |
| Exam Conducting Body | National Testing Agency (NTA) |
| Exam Name | UGC NET |
| Purpose | Evaluate the candidate’s eligibility for JRF Assistant Professor and admission to PhD |
| Exam Date | 31 December 2025 to 07 January 2026 |
| Exam Mode | Online |
| Question Type | Objective |
| Nos of Questions | 150 |
| Marking Scheme | No Negative Marking |
UGC NET Exam Pattern Subject-Wise
Candidates should carefully analyse the UGC NET exam pattern before appearing for the examination, as it helps in planning an effective attempt strategy and managing time efficiently. The exam pattern clearly outlines the number of questions, maximum marks, duration, and other key components.
The UGC NET exam consists of two sections, both comprising objective-type multiple-choice questions. There is no break between the two papers. The medium of the question paper is English and Hindi only, except for language subjects.
The detailed paper-wise exam pattern is given below:
| Part | Marks | No. of Questions | Areas | Overall Duration |
| I | 100 | 50 | Part I assess the candidate's teaching/ research aptitude. It is designed to check your reasoning ability, reading comprehension, divergent thinking and general awareness | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| II | 200 | 100 | It is based on the subject opted by the aspirant and will assess domain knowledge. |
UGC NET Marking Scheme
The UGC NET marking scheme is simple and transparent. Understanding it helps candidates calculate their expected scores and confirms that no penalty is applied for incorrect responses. The marking scheme details are as follows:
- Each question carries 2 marks.
- Candidates will be awarded 2 marks for every correct answer.
- There is no negative marking for incorrect answers.
- No marks will be awarded for questions that are unanswered, un- attempted, or marked for review.
If a question has more than one correct option, it will be evaluated in the following manner:
- If more than one option is correct, 2 marks will be awarded to candidates who have selected any one of the correct options.
- If all options are correct, 2 marks will be given to all candidates who attempted the question.
- If none of the options is correct, or if a question is found to be incorrect or dropped, 2 marks will be awarded only to those candidates who attempted the question.
How to Prepare for the UGC NET Exam?
Preparation for the UGC NET exam requires consistency, discipline, and regular practice. During the final phase of preparation, candidates should focus on revision and attempt light mock tests. Below are some effective tips to prepare well for the UGC NET exam:
- Review the UGC NET exam pattern to clearly understand the test structure.
- Analyse the latest UGC NET syllabus to identify important and relevant topics.
- Create a structured study plan that balances learning, practice, and revision.
- Attempt mock tests and previous years’ question papers regularly to improve speed and accuracy.
- Revise all topics periodically to ensure better retention of concepts.